ATLANTA – Joshua Timothy Rex has pleaded guilty to possession of two firearms by a convicted felon after law enforcement officers intercepted him on his way to confront a student on the campus of Reinhardt University.
“Rex is a repeat violent offender who placed the citizens of Cherokee County and the Reinhardt University community at serious risk by bringing guns to campus in anticipation of an encounter with a student,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “We are relieved that local law enforcement intervened before Rex harmed anyone, and we are grateful for the collaborative efforts of our federal and local law enforcement partners who aided this successful prosecution.”
“Rex posed a serious threat to the public,” said Special Agent in Charge Benjamin Gibbons. “Identifying and apprehending Rex shows that ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue to utilize all resources to protect the community.”
According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, Jr., the charges and other information presented in court: Joshua Rex is prohibited by law from possessing firearms due to his record of prior felony drug convictions and a prior conviction of domestic violence. But in spite of his previous criminal history, on July 20, 2024, he drove to the campus of Reinhardt University armed with two fully loaded firearms and extra magazines of ammunition. Law enforcement was alerted to Rex’s apparent violent intentions when they received a 911 call stating that Rex was en route to the school to confront and potentially harm a student.
Officers of the Cherokee County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office and Reinhardt University Department of Public Safety prevented a potentially life-threatening incident when they intercepted Rex just as he entered the campus and arrested him for driving under the influence of alcohol and bringing firearms to the campus. Rex later admitted to federal agents that he had armed himself in anticipation of an encounter with a Reinhardt University student.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before Senior United States District Judge Thomas W. Thrash, Jr.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with valuable assistance provided by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and Reinhardt University Department of Public Safety.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Wylly is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Government response
Statement on organised immigration crime
Statement from the representatives of the governments of Albania, China, Sweden, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam.
We, the representatives of the governments of Albania, China, Sweden, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam, united as an international community in the fight against organised immigration crime (OIC), meeting within the framework of the Border Security Summit hosted by the United Kingdom, hereby affirm our collective responsibility to address the threat posed by organised criminal groups exploiting online platforms for the facilitation of irregular immigration including human trafficking.
Acknowledging the scope of the threat
We recognise the role that online platforms can play in the facilitation of OIC. Organised criminal groups are exploiting these platforms to advertise and facilitate illegal immigration services, generating illegal profits at the expense of vulnerable migrants. Inaccurate information is spread online, with claims to guarantee passage with shared ‘success stories’ of being able to remain in country despite illegal entry.
These stories are shared despite the increasing risk of fatalities from clandestine entry by boats and lorries. As online platforms evolve, criminal networks adapt their methods, making a co-ordinated global response essential. We recognise the harm that irregular migration can cause nations’ citizens.
Commitment to collective action
The fight against OIC requires collaboration across borders, sectors, and jurisdictions to effectively counter the global scale of the threat. No single government can combat this threat alone. We call upon all governments, international organisations, and industry partners to join us in this endeavour to work together to prevent the misuse of online platforms for illegal immigration services.
Disrupting the facilitation of OIC
The online environment should not be permissive for immigration crimes. We call on industry partners to design out from platforms opportunities for exploitation and to prevent the proliferation of glorifying illegal migration. Fatalities as a result of people smuggling are increasing globally and we must ensure those seeking illegal entry are aware of the grave risks.
A collective responsibility to prevent exploitation
We commit to strengthening our collective efforts to prevent, disrupt, and degrade the capacity of organised criminal groups to exploit online platforms for OIC. Online platforms should not enable facilitation of organised crime, and we are committed to working together to prevent this.
International governments, industry partners, and international organisations should join forces in a global effort to stop criminals from exploiting online platforms.
Platforms should invest in strong detection and moderation tools, while governments must back them with effective laws and international cooperation.
Collaborative framework for action
We commit to share trends in use of the online environment by organised criminal groups and the principle approaches for detecting and disrupting the facilitation of OIC online. Following this summit, the UK will provide opportunities for global collaboration, learning from the approach taken to other tech-enabled harms.
Towards a secure digital environment for all
Looking ahead, we recognise that addressing OIC in the digital age requires innovation, prevention, and sustained cooperation. Only through collective action can we prevent criminal groups from exploiting online platforms for irregular immigration. Together, we will work to ensure that online spaces remain secure and safe for everyone and do not provide the opportunity for people smuggling services to be advertised and accessed by vulnerable migrants.
A call to action
In conclusion, we call for ongoing dialogue and swift action to address the challenges posed by OIC online content and the threat it presents to the integrity of our borders. We reaffirm our commitment to a global response that prevents the exploitation of online platforms for criminal purposes.
We call for global action to prevent the spread of OIC content and protect the integrity of online spaces. By acting decisively, we can safeguard vulnerable people and uphold the security of our collective borders.
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 38-year-old woman has entered a guilty plea to smuggling several firearms and magazines hidden in a vehicle’s gas tank, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Mirna Luna traveled from her Canton, Georgia, residence Dec. 15, 2024, and attempted to cross at the Brownsville/Matamoros port of entry into Mexico.
Once there, authorities had referred her to secondary inspection where they discovered 17 firearms and 27 magazines hidden in the gas tank of the Nissan car she was driving.
Luna claimed ownership of the car and admitted she is the only person who drives it. She does not have a license to export firearms and has not applied for one.
U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. accepted the plea and set sentencing for July 8. At that time, Luna faces a maximum of 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 maximum possible fine.
She has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jose Esquivel and Ana Cano prosecuted the case.
Policymakers, researchers, the private sector and other stakeholders are meeting in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, over the next three days to chart a path toward sustainable development and resilience for the world’s Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
The third edition of the LDC Future Forum, which opened on Monday, focusses on how these 44 nations can better withstand systemic shocks, including the adverse effects of climate change and other global crises.
The objective is to develop actionable solutions that will contribute to sustainable development and resilience building in these countries.
Challenges and commitments
The forum aligns with Priority 5 of the Doha Programme of Action (DPoA), a decade-long initiative adopted in 2022 that aims to renew and strengthen commitments between LDCs and their development partners.
Priority 5 concerns addressing climate change, environmental degradation, recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and building resilience against future shocks for risk-informed sustainable development.
LDC countries often grapple with limited domestic resources, hindering their ability to weather economic downturns, natural disasters and health emergencies, according to the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS).
Moreover, accessing international capital markets is difficult due to low creditworthiness and perceived risks.
Women’s voices critical
The forum will feature a High-level Dialogue focusing on the critical need for financing to bolster LDCs’ resilience in the face of various challenges. Special emphasis will be on gender equality as the participation of women and girls in the discussions will be critical to developing holistic and inclusive solutions.
Rabab Fatima, High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, highlighted the significance of the event.
She noted that for the first time the forum is taking place in an LDC, “offering a unique opportunity to galvanize global support for the world’s most vulnerable countries as they navigate the challenges of an ever-changing global landscape.”
The forum was organized by UN-OHRLLS together with the Governments of Finland and Zambia, in collaboration with the UN University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Foundation for Studies and Research on International Development (FERDI).
Private sector participation
Highlights include four thematic sessions addressing key areas: climate-smart agriculture practices to improve food security and ensure sustainable agricultural development, sustainable water and energy solutions to enhance resilience, circular economy and green industrialization to promote diversification and resilience and targeted social protection programs to strengthen resilience to multiple shocks.
A High-level Dialogue will focus on financing strategies to support more resilient economies in LDCs, addressing the critical need for resources to combat economic instability, natural disasters and health emergencies.
Additionally, private sector representatives will participate in a Fireside Chat to examine how businesses can drive the transition toward a circular economy, fostering sustainable development and resilience in LDCs.
Discussions will centre on strategies for transitioning to a circular economy, building local capacity and skills, ensuring supply chain sustainability and promoting women’s participation in corporate sustainability planning.
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced fellow Arkansan, Warren Stephens, at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on his nomination to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
Stephens has led Stephens Inc. — the financial firm founded by his father and uncle — since 1986. The Little Rock businessman and his family have also established a legacy of civic service and philanthropy through his charitable work across central Arkansas.
Boozman and Cotton highlighted Stephens’ background, leadership and reputation while reiterating their support of his nomination.
“I have had the privilege of knowing Warren for many years and am confident he will bring his many talents, skills and relationships to bear as our ambassador to the United Kingdom, and I’m thankful to President Trump for choosing him to fill this very crucial diplomatic role,” said Boozman. “His extensive experience and expertise in the private sector, and dedication to enhancing the relationship between our two nations, will serve him well as he represents America’s interests in this critical post.”
“Warren has spent a lifetime building and fostering strong relationships with his family, his clients, and his community,” said Cotton. “I think he is exactly the person America needs to lead our strong, special relationship with the United Kingdom as our next Ambassador of the United States to the Court of St. James’s.”
To view Boozman and Cotton’s full remarks, click here.
The Foreign Relations Committee will take up his nomination at a future date. If approved, it will advance to the full Senate for consideration.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
Moscow was the first in the country to develop and implement a new standard of emergency medical care. In the future, the capital will continue to improve the quality of emergency care and city hospitals. This in his telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin reported.
“A great need for emergency medical care is a daily reality in the largest megacities. Moscow ambulance crews make about four million trips a year,” the Moscow Mayor noted.
Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin
Every day, over a thousand ambulance crews are on duty in Moscow. Over a million emergency patients are admitted to the capital’s hospitals every year – this is 60 percent of all hospitalizations.
The main elements of the new standard of emergency medical care are:
— unified medical algorithms for each health worker for most cases of emergency care, a unified sequence of diagnostic procedures and manipulations;
— professionalism in teamwork: high demands on the competencies of employees and a multidisciplinary approach to providing specialized assistance;
— advanced digital solutions: digital integration with emergency services and city medical organizations, medical documents in electronic form in the unified medical information and analytical system (EMIAS) with round-the-clock access for doctors. Use of the digital triage system, thanks to which patients are distributed into streams depending on the priority of assistance (red, yellow and green);
— a single standard of organization — new technological and logistical solutions: planning of admission departments and location of relevant services in such a way as to minimize the time from the patient’s admission to the start of providing assistance; organization of work on the principle of “doctor to patient”;
— a unified standard for equipment.
The focus is on the person. All processes — both technological and personnel — are built around the patient, medical personnel are focused on fighting for his health, and non-medical functions are performed by employees of public service centers and social coordinators. The new reception departments and flagship centers provide a single standard of customer service: comfortable waiting areas, cloakrooms, open-type counters, water coolers, examination rooms with curtains, lockers for personal belongings and personal hygiene items are equipped.
“Thanks to the creation of new
flagship centers and the transformation of existing admissions departments according to the new standard, all adult multidisciplinary hospitals in Moscow are currently operating,” added Sergei Sobyanin.
Flagship centers have been opened at the V.V. Veresaev City Clinical Hospital, the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Care, the O.M. Filatov City Clinical Hospital, the S.P. Botkin Moscow Multidisciplinary Scientific and Clinical Center, the N.I. Pirogov City Clinical Hospital, and the V.M. Buyanov City Clinical Hospital (the main work is being completed here).
The medical institutions where the flagship centers are located were chosen to minimize travel time for emergency patients from any area. All of them provide assistance around the clock and every day. Almost all hospitals where flagship centers have been created have or will have helicopter pads to receive medical air transport in the near future.
More than 10,000 units of the latest medical equipment were installed in the flagship centers, including expert-class CT, MRI and ultrasound machines, angiographs, hybrid systems for operating rooms, navigation systems, endoscopic and laboratory equipment, equipment for the resuscitation and intensive care department. In addition, about 60 operating rooms were deployed, including high-tech hybrid ones that have no analogues in Russia, for performing complex surgical, neurosurgical, vascular, traumatological and cardiac surgery. The capabilities for performing such operations have increased several times.
Mobile medical equipment, including expert class equipment, for diagnostic rooms (for example, ultrasound and ECG machines), basic heavy medical equipment (including X-ray and CT machines), as well as red zone anti-shock rooms have appeared in the emergency departments of city hospitals.
Since time is of the utmost importance when providing emergency care and delay can cost the patient his life, the Moscow ambulance service was digitalized and integrated with EMIAS, which significantly simplified the work of hospital doctors. As a result, the time from the patient’s admission to the initial examination by a specialist today does not exceed 20 minutes, and in emergency cases, only a few seconds pass between the patient’s admission and the provision of emergency resuscitation or surgical care. Thanks to the digital circuit, hospital doctors can see all the data about the patient and the medications prescribed to him in the system.
Since the beginning of 2025, flagship centers and renovated emergency departments of Moscow hospitals have provided emergency care to more than 230 thousand people. Most patients were admitted in such areas as surgery (acute pancreatitis, appendicitis), neurosurgery (traumatic brain injury), traumatology (fractures) and urology (renal colic).
Stages of emergency medical care
Anyone can call 103 for emergency medical care. The response time to a call is three to four seconds. More than 60 specialists are on duty around the clock in the single city dispatch center, who not only take calls, but can also provide consulting assistance to the patient and determine whether he really needs a team or whether he needs to go to a medical institution on his own. The survey system with elements of artificial intelligence allows you to quickly determine a person’s condition and, if hospitalization is necessary, select the nearest specialized hospital in the shortest possible time.
The provision of emergency medical care begins from the moment the team is dispatched to the call. At this stage, thanks to the connection of the ambulance team’s tablet to the EMIAS, doctors can already familiarize themselves with the patient’s data and plan the necessary actions in advance.
Upon arrival at the scene, doctors examine the person, make a preliminary diagnosis and provide emergency care. If hospital care is required, the patient is taken to the nearest specialized medical facility, where he or she is provided hospital emergency care.
Thanks to the new standard and digital technologies, these stages are now inextricably linked. After examination and emergency care, doctors enter the necessary patient data into the EMIAS via a tablet. In the case of hospitalization, the hospital medical staff, waiting for the team to arrive, sees all the information about the patient, including the examination results and preliminary diagnosis, and, if necessary, prepare the operating room and diagnostic equipment, and gather specialized specialists.
When patients are admitted to the hospital admission department, they are sorted by priority of medical care using the “triage” system. Those who are assigned to the yellow and green streams are sent to diagnostic rooms, where all necessary tests are carried out to establish a diagnosis and determine the treatment tactics. Work in diagnostic rooms is built on the principle of “doctor to patient”. That is, most tests, primarily without the use of heavy equipment, are performed at the patient’s bedside.
Red Stream patients who require emergency resuscitation or surgical care are immediately sent to the operating room or anti-shock room. Due to the fact that the resuscitation room and the angiographic operating room are located in close proximity to the ambulance entry vestibule, only a few seconds pass between the patient’s arrival and the provision of medical care.
Flagship centers and all admission departments operate on the basis of large multidisciplinary hospitals, thanks to which, if necessary, the attending physician can involve surgeons, traumatologists and orthopedists, a gastroenterologist, cardiologist, neurologist, ENT doctor, urologist, gynecologist and other specialists.
Overall, thanks to the introduction of the new standard, over several years the average speed of emergency care has increased by one and a half times, with 70 percent of patients receiving a full examination and diagnosis within two hours of admission.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
Atos appoints Pierre-Yves Jolivet as Head of Eviden and Cyber Business
Paris, France – April 1st, 2025 – Atos Group today announces that Pierre-Yves Jolivet is appointed Executive Vice-President and Head of Eviden. Pierre-Yves will also serve as Head of Cybersecurity business, overseeing both cybersecurity services and products strategy and portfolio.
Pierre-Yves is a recognized tech executive who brings a deep knowledge of the cyber, defense, and public sectors. Previously at Thales, he held positions of growing responsibilities in the Defence and Cyber markets, leading most recently as Vice-President and General Manager the Cyber Digital Business Line at Thales.
Before joining Thales in 2017, he spent 13 years at the Boston Consulting Group, becoming Partner and Managing Director in charge of the Tech and Telecom practice in France, leading consulting assignments for international companies in France, EMEA and the USA.
After graduating from École Polytechnique in 1996, he specialized in telecoms (Télécom Paris) and economics (Université Paris Dauphine). He began his career at Alcatel-Telspace, before spending 5 years in public office at Ministry of Finance, notably at Treasury Department (“Direction Générale du Trésor”), where he oversaw public funding to innovative industries.
Philippe Salle, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Atos Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Pierre-Yves as the new Head of Eviden and of our Cyber business. His broad experience and deep knowledge of the industry makes him a great addition to our leadership team. I am looking forward to working with him to drive profitable growth in both areas and make a decisive contribution to Atos future successes”.
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About Atos
Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 78,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 68 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.
The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) introduced a House Resolution condemning the wave of domestic terrorism attacks targeting Tesla cars and dealerships. Since President Donald Trump tasked Elon Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), there has been a disturbing trend of attacks targeting Tesla cars and dealerships, including multiple attacks on the Loveland, CO Tesla dealership in Colorado’s 4th Congressional District.
Rep. Boebert’s resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19), Rep. Brandon Gill (TX-26), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Rep. Nancy Mace (SC-01), Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01), Rep. Troy Nehls (TX-22), Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05), and Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17).
“The definition of terrorism is the unlawful use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims. That is exactly what has been going on across the country at Tesla dealerships, and it is what innocent Americans who chose Tesla as their preferred vehicle are facing in the wake of violence from Radical Left-Wing domestic terrorists who hate President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
My House Resolution will make clear where all Members of Congress stand: do they condemn domestic terrorism against Tesla, or do they endorse it completely? The American people deserve to know where their representatives stand when it comes to condemning domestic terrorism,” said Congresswoman Boebert.
Full text of Rep. Boebert’s House Resolution can be foundHERE. Additionally, exclusive coverage of the resolution by Fox News can be foundHERE.
Background:
Members of the Democrat Party have made calls for their supporters to incite and engage in domestic terrorism by attacking Tesla vehicles and facilities to protest Elon Musk.
Anti-Tesla incidents have happened in at least 9 States involving arson, gunfire, and vandalism.
At least 80 reported cases of vandalism or arson of Tesla vehicles have taken place throughout the United States and Canada.
At least 10 Tesla dealerships, charging stations, and facilities have been hit by vandals.
On February 11, 2025, in Loveland, Colorado, a man attacked a Tesla dealer on multiple occasions, including throwing Molotov cocktails and spray-painting words on vehicles and windows, including the word ‘‘Nazi.”
On March 2, 2025, in Washington, DC, 2 people defaced Tesla vehicles, twice writing political hate speech on the vehicles before fleeing.
On March 3, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts, 7 Tesla charging stations in a mall outside the Massachusetts capital were set on fire.
On March 6, 2025, in Portland, Oregon, at least 7 gunshots were fired into a Tesla showroom in the middle of the night, windows were shattered, and 3 cars were damaged, and 1 bullet went through an office wall and into a computer monitor.
On March 7, 2025, in North Charleston, South Carolina, a 24-year-old man threw 5 Molotov cocktails at a Tesla charging station, and witnesses reported seeing a man spray-paint an expletive against Trump and ‘‘Long Live Ukraine’’ in red paint in the parking lot.
On March 7, 2025, in Loveland, Colorado, a man ignited an incendiary device and hurled it at a Tesla dealership, which landed between 2 cars and created a fire that put lives at risk, and rocks were also thrown, damaging both the building and multiple vehicles.
On March 18, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, a person dressed in black shot at Tesla cars at a repair shop and ignited 2 of them with Molotov cocktails, and the word ‘‘Resist’’ was spray-painted on the front doors of the shop.
On March 24, 2025, the Austin police discovered multiple incendiary devices that had been placed at a Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas.
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Source: The White House
After four years of foreign policy failures, President Donald J. Trump and his administration have made tremendous progress in restoring safety and security at home and abroad by implementing Peace through Strength. All we really needed was a new president.
After President Trump demanded action, Mexico committed 10,000 of its own troops to our southern border and Canada deployed 10,000 of its own personnel to our northern border to help stem the flow of illegal immigration and illicit fentanyl into our country.
President Trump designated deadly drug cartels and vicious transnational gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, empowering law enforcement to make enormous progress arresting and deporting these violent terrorists.
President Trump forced Colombia, Venezuela, and other countries to accept repatriation flights for their own citizens who were illegally in the U.S.
President Trump’s unprecedented effort to secure the homeland has driven illegal border crossings to historic lows — down 95% over last year.
President Trump provided key intelligence to the Pakistani government, which led to the arrest and extradition of the ISIS terrorist who orchestrated the deadly Abbey Gate bombing.
President Trump increased U.S. counterterrorism activities and eliminated dozens of hardened terrorists — including a high-ranking ISIS attack planner in Somalia.
President Trump reimposed maximum pressure on the Iranian regime to reign in their nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism across the Middle East.
President Trump ordered strikes against Houthi terrorists, which have overwhelmed their leaders and networks and taken away their capabilities — not stopping “until they are no longer a threat to Freedom of Navigation.”
President Trump’s pressure led Panama to exit China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a debt-trap diplomacy scheme the Chinese Communist Party uses to gain influence over developing nations — a massive milestone as the U.S. seeks to secure the Western Hemisphere from Chinese influence.
President Trump’s leadership has secured the release of 39 U.S. citizens detained abroad — compared to just 80 citizens released across Biden’s four years in office.
President Trump brokered a temporary ceasefire in Gaza to ensure the release of hostages, including an American citizen — a deal Biden was unable to secure.
For the first time in three years, President Trump brought both Ukraine and Russia to the negotiating table for serious discussions around a peaceful resolution — engagements that continue in earnest.
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Early this morning, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) delivered floor remarks on the Trump Administration’s national security policies that are leaving our allies abandoned, our adversaries emboldened, and Americans less safe.
President Trump is unlawfully dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), terminating foreign aid programs that save lives and benefit American businesses, and increasingly distancing the U.S. from our neighbors and partners while ceding ground to Russia and China.
Booker took to the Senate floor beginning at 7pm ET last night with the intention of speaking as long as he is physically able to uplift the stories of Americans who are being harmed by the Trump Administration’s reckless actions, attempts to undermine our institutions, and disregard for the rule of law.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Isabel Doverty appointed as the interim Chair of the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments.
Isabel Doverty has been appointed as the interim Chair of the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACoBA).
Isabel Doverty has been appointed as the interim Chair of the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACoBA). Isabel will take up the role on 1 April 2025 and will serve as interim Chair until 31 December 2025.
Isabel was appointed as an independent member of the Committee in January 2021 after an open competition. She was formerly Global Head of Human Resources, Wholesale Banking, at Standard Chartered Bank. She is also an independent member of the State Honours Committee. Throughout her private sector career she has held senior HR roles in the energy and financial services sectors, specialising in employee relations, organisational change, and executive level recruitment. Isabel also served as an independent Civil Service Commissioner from 2015 – 2020.
The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments is an independent advisory Non Departmental Public Body sponsored and funded by the Cabinet Office. It is responsible for providing independent advice on applications submitted under the government’s Business Appointment Rules from former ministers, the most senior civil servants and other Crown servants. In doing so it advises on the conditions that should apply to new appointments or employment after individuals have left public office.
The giant Connecting Worlds mural at ARU’s Chelmsford campus. Photograph by Lawker Media
A stunning piece of artwork has been created in Chelmsford by local residents and street artists to celebrate the world-leading research being carried out by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).
The 36ft wide by 12ft high Connecting Worlds mural has been unveiled on the side of the Marconi building at ARU’s Chelmsford campus facing towards New Street, once home to the world’s first purpose-built radio factory.
The mural was painted by a group of older members of the Chelmsford community, under guidance from street artists Brave Arts. Research has shown that taking part in artistic activities can boost self-esteem and confidence, improve physical health and lead to better social connections.
In the mural, the older adults that took part in the project are represented gazing into the eyes of the child, who will be witness to technologies the older people can only imagine today.
The global perspective illustrates the trade, information and communication routes that criss-cross the world as light beams across its surface.
The artwork was created over the course of five days, and was the first experience of street art for many of the participants, who were also involved in discussions around how the mural should look.
This project has been led by Culture Chelmsford, Chelmsford Creative Collective, Anglia Ruskin University, and Chelmsford Council for Voluntary Services (Chelmsford CVS) via UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) awarded by Chelmsford City Council to strengthen cultural social prescribing, with 18 small grants awarded for community projects.
“The idea for the design is based on both the research being done at ARU, and the connection between the older members of our community and the young. Our older volunteers did an absolutely amazing job in bringing the design to life and I know everyone is really proud of the final mural.”
Founder of the Chelmsford Creative Collective, Candy Joyce
The mural is part of the launch of the Connecting Worlds research hub, which brings together some of the world-leading research being carried out by academics at ARU and is aimed at making it more accessible to the public.
“The mural is a stunning piece of work that represents both the global reach of our research, and also our commitment to our local communities.
“Our new Connecting Worlds research hub highlights that ARU, like many universities in the UK, carries out world-class research that benefits all parts of society.
Professor Yvonne Barnett, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at ARU
“We are passionate about supporting projects which strengthen links between creativity, community, wellbeing, and innovation in Chelmsford. We firmly believe that when communities play an active role in shaping cultural decisions, everyone thrives. This inspiring and thought-provoking work developed between local artists and older people in the community stands as a testament to this vision.”
Alderney Representatives seek assurances on Alderney’s future.
After extensive discussions with Alderney Policy and Finance Committee (P&F) the Alderney Representatives have submitted amendments to the States of Deliberation meeting of 9th April to seek assurances on Alderney’s future. This follows calls from the Policy & Resources Committee for a Bailiwick Commission and development of a solution to Alderney’s ongoing runway issues in the recently released Policy Letter.
The propositions outline a way forward for the Island and will shape relations between Guernsey and Alderney for years to come. However, there are areas that require clarification.
Chairman of P&F, Bill Abel said:
“As the Policy Letter highlights, any further delay to the runway rehabilitation means there is an increased risk of airport closures. This could not only limit the essential services the island needs to survive, but also the long-term sustainability of Alderney’s, and thus the Bailiwick’s economy.
We are therefore seeking a solution to this as soon as possible and the opportunity for Alderney to be a contributing stakeholder and not simply a consulted party.
The Bailiwick Commission is a positive way forward and P&F fully support the establishment of that Commission. Further to this, it has been requested via an amendment that it not only reviews the constitutional and working relationships, but also the economic one as well.”
Ends
States of Alderney media enquiries: publications.alderney@gov.gg
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), briefs the combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL
Back to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)
VICENZA, Italy – Precision, speed and analytical expertise took center stage as geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), competed in a locally planned best mapper competition.
The competition, held at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, challenged Soldiers to demonstrate their proficiency in geospatial analysis, cartography and terrain interpretation, all crucial for military planning and operational success. Designed to recognize the unit’s top geospatial professionals, the event emphasized innovative real-world applications while fostering a competitive spirit within the 517th GPC.
“As geospatial engineers, performing at our best means being comfortable with the pressure of quick turn-around deadlines, briefing high-ranking staff and providing tactical decision aids while under stress,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Jonathan Sanchez, a geospatial engineer sergeant and co-lead coordinator of the competition, 517th GPC, SETAF-AF. “Soldiers competing in the best mapper are tasked with doing all three in a single day, really honing their skills and abilities to contribute to future mission success.”
1 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Corey Herbert, left, and U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), brief their combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army illustration by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), participates in the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Riley Dibble, left, and U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), create a geospatial combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL4 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Luis Vargas, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, creates a geospatial combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL
Competitors started their day in darkness, at 4 a.m, with a physical fitness test consisting of a two-mile run, deadlift, hand release push-ups, pull-ups and a sprint-drag-carry event.
“Including the physical activities was important in challenging the members physically and mentally throughout the day to be able to see how well they can perform different aspects,” said U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th GPC, SETAF-AF, and competitor in the best mapper event
1 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participates in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, left, and Spc. Corey Herbert, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, left, and Spc. Peyton Couch, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL4 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Riley Dibble, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participates in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
Moving from the early morning physical challenge, participants engaged in timed competitions where they created six warfighting function geospatial products and two briefs designed to test their communication skills.
Throughout the daylong event, competitors utilized the latest in innovation to hone their abilities, rapidly and accurately processing geospatial data. The tasks included map creation, terrain analysis and interpretation of satellite imagery.
“In all things, we are soldiers first, so performing at our best means being comfortable with the pressure of quick turn-around deadlines and operating in uncomfortable situations,” said Sanchez. “Physical events test the mental resilience and grit of the competitors as they must transition from physical to technical tasks multiple times throughout the competition.”
1 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, left, and Spc. Corey Herbert, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell, SETAF-AF, best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, left, and Spc. Peyton Couch, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros)U.S. Army geospatial engineers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) participate in ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell, SETAF-AF, best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros)VIEW ORIGINAL
“The competition was beneficial in working as a team and making products to support the warfighting functions, seeing what can be accomplished in a short timeframe and be presented to commanders,” said Wilkins.
As the 517th GPC continues to refine its capabilities, events like the best mapper competition ensure that its engineers remain at the forefront of geospatial innovation.
“I competed and won the first individual best mapper competition in Sept. of 2021, and competed in the first regional best mapper competition at Fort Leonard Wood last year,” concluded Sanchez. “We’re very proud of this year’s results. Competitions like this are an excellent opportunity to hone our skills as geospatial engineers and see how we stack up against the best in our field.”
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has resumed activities in the Nampala region of central Mali, after we had been forced to evacuate our staff on 10 December 2024. This followed violence against our teams and restrictions on our movements, and leaving us no longer able to provide the same support to health facilities. MSF teams are back in the area and are currently working in Nampala health centre, where we plan to expand activities to Nampala’s outskirts to provide free healthcare to the community.
Ximena Andrea Campos Moreno, MSF medical manager, describes the prevailing situation and the challenges faced by the teams in bringing healthcare to people.
What is the general situation in Nampala?
The area has been and remains the scene of fighting between the Malian armed forces, supported by their Russian partners, and non-state armed groups. This situation has resulted in frequent displacements of the community as the fighting continues, particularly from the outskirts to the centre of Nampala, to the Tenenkou and Dioura areas, and into Mauritania. In addition, for several months, Nampala was cut off from supplies of food and basic goods.
The local people were caught in a trap, and it became virtually impossible to carry out daily activities. Faced with these difficulties, some medical staff also left the town. Today, movements are progressively resuming, but the situation remains unstable and volatile.
What are the medical and other health needs?
In a scenario where access to healthcare is limited due to insecurity, the lack of qualified personnel, or the limited availability of essential medicines, medical needs are growing. It is, however, essential that people have access to basic healthcare. Today, it is mainly women and children who need medical assistance, particularly to treat the large number of cases of malaria, which can be fatal for children under five and pregnant women.
But we are also concerned about the urgent need to treat cases of malnutrition, respiratory infections and the many cases of diarrhoea (due to the shortage of clean drinking water), which are the main illnesses MSF teams are seeing.
How can MSF continue to be present in this region?
We are working in a complex area, which requires constant contact with all the players at local, regional, and national level to guarantee the safety of our teams and patients.
Last October, we had to suspend our activities following violence and acts of intimidation against our teams while we were carrying out medical and humanitarian activities for the community. After having held discussions with all the parties involved, we received the necessary guarantees to resume our work at the beginning of November.
By December, movement restrictions, stress and fatigue made it increasingly difficult for the teams to stay on site. In order not to let down the people and the medical staff who had stayed on, we managed to send essential medicines and some basic equipment in January to ensure the continuation of basic healthcare.
MSF teams returned to the area on 17 March, and we are gradually resuming all our activities. At the health centre, we are carrying out general and prenatal consultations in close collaboration with the Nampala community health association, and referring serious cases to Niono if the security situation permits. In a second phase, the teams will be sent to the outskirts of Nampala as soon as the conditions and safety guarantees are in place.
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Source: Republic of France in English The Republic of France has issued the following statement:
Today, April 1, 2025, France assumes the presidency of the United Nations Security Council for one month.
The Security Council’s main responsibility is ensuring international peace and security. As a Permanent Member, France is working with its partners to find answers to current challenges and conflicts.
France succeeds Denmark, which held the UN Security Council presidency last month, and precedes Greece, which will take up this position in May. The French Council presidency is therefore the center of a “European trimester,” enabling us to demonstrate our shared commitment to a multilateral system that functions effectively and abides by the UN Charter and international law.
In light of current challenges, the guiding principle of our presidency will be an emphasis on multilateral dialogue over power relations.
Russia’s war of aggression, which it has waged since February 2022 in contempt of the most fundamental principles of international law, will be central to our efforts. France will continue to strive for a just and lasting peace for Ukraine in accordance with the UN Charter.
The situation in the Middle East will be the topic of a ministerial-level meeting at the end of the month, chaired by the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs. International and regional partners will be invited to attend the meeting. It will reflect France’s commitment to peace in the region and will be part of the preparations for the international conference on the two-State solution jointly organized in New York by France and Saudi Arabia.
Given the seriousness of current conflicts, France will pay particular attention to the situation in the Great Lakes region, Sudan and South Sudan, and Haiti.
The French presidency will also initiate meetings devoted to peacekeeping operations and the protection of humanitarian workers – two strong commitments to support men and women on the ground who provide assistance to vulnerable populations. In order for multilateralism to be as effective as possible, France will continue its commitment to reforming the Security Council to improve representation.
Throughout its presidency, France will be guided by its commitment to multilateralism, the UN system, and respect for international law in maintaining international peace and security.
Source: Republic of France in English The Republic of France has issued the following statement:
France strongly condemns the March 28th attack on the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) near the village of Tabane in the Haut-Mbomou prefecture, which killed a Kenyan peacekeeper.
France offers its condolences to the deceased soldier’s loved ones and to the Kenyan authorities. Those responsible for this attack must be identified and held accountable.
France commends MINUSCA’s dedication and reaffirms its full support for the efforts of the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Responsibility for all fire functions moves to MHCLG
Greater clarity and accountability will be brought to fire and building safety from the transfer of Ministerial responsibility from the Home Office to MHCLG
Greater clarity and accountability will be brought to fire and building safety from today (1 April) thanks to the transfer of Ministerial responsibility for all fire functions from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Bringing these responsibilities together will strengthen coordination, improve policy implementation, and reinforce the government’s commitment to making homes, buildings and communities safer.
The change delivers on a key recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report, which advised that fire and building safety should be overseen by a single department.
The Minister for Building Safety and Local Growth who will be taking on responsibility for fire functions Alex Norris said:
“Ensuring the safety of people in their homes and communities is a top priority for this government. By bringing all fire and building safety responsibilities under one department, we are reinforcing accountability, improving coordination, and taking decisive action to protect lives.
“I would like to thank Dame Diana Johnson for her work in this important area. I look forward to working with fire and rescue services and key stakeholders to implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s recommendations and drive forward the reforms needed to keep people safe.
“This is a significant step in delivering meaningful change, making our buildings safer, and strengthening our country’s resilience for the future.”
Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve as Minister for Fire.
“I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the brave firefighters in our fire and rescue services, who selflessly dedicate themselves to protecting the public from fire every day.
“I would also like to thank the government officials and stakeholders from across the sector I have worked with over the past nine months. Their drive to make the sector stronger has been invaluable and I am certain my good friend Alex Norris will also benefit from their advice.”
Following the publication of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report on 4 September 2024, the Prime Minister acknowledged the failings that led to the tragedy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the necessary reforms. This transfer of Ministerial responsibility for all fire functions to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government represents an important part of this work, and the government will continue to drive forward the necessary reforms to make sure a tragedy like Grenfell can never happen again.
Notes to editors:
The Home Office will retain management of the Airwave Service Contract on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and will continue to oversee the Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme and His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)
“We have terrorist organizations coming after the United States everywhere because the Biden administration has done nothing for four years.”
Washington, D.C. –On Sunday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) joined NBC’s Kristen Welker on Meet the Press to discuss the Trump administration’s return to peace through strength, successful Houthi strikes, pending newsanctions on Russia, and the president’s efforts to level the playing field for American workers through reciprocal tariffs. Highlights below.
Sen. Mullin’s full interview can be found here.
On the success of the strikes against the Houthis:
“There was no war plans that The Atlantic put out. What they did was have a very successful attack against the Houthis, who’s a terrorist organization, that’s been harassing our Navy since 2023. They had attacked our Navy 174 times and the Biden Administration did nothing but sit on their hands. But what the Trump administration did was take the fight directly to the Houthis. So what the conversation should be is why didn’t the Biden Administration do something in the last two years instead of us being focused on this Signal chat. Which there was no classified information given out…
“Tell me where the location was at, what part of the region was it at, what part of the world was this at? We have a lot of conflicts, a lot of issues going on around the world, from Africa to anywhere in the Middle East, to even in Asia, or possibly in Europe. This could have been going on any place in the world. There was no specific information except that a target was gonna be hit. We have terrorist organizations coming after the United States everywhere because the Biden administration has done nothing for four years.”
On President Trump standing up to Russia:
“What President Trump is trying to do is negotiate an end to the deal of individuals dying in Ukraine…
“What President Trump has said right now is, if [Putin] continues to play games, he’s going to get tough on Russia just like he did in 2017.”
On our trade partners needing to abide by a two-way street:
“[Canada] needs us more than we need them. The fact is we have been subsidizing their economy by the tunes of billions of dollars every single year, and they know that. What President Trump is saying is that enough is enough. If you’re gonna have a relationship with the United States, it’s gonna be an even playing field, a two-way street. We want reciprocal tariffs; we want to be treated the same. We want to have access to your economy like you have access to us.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Correspondence
Secretary of State letter to the First Minister of Wales
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, has written to the First Minister of Wales regarding welfare reform and its impact in Wales.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, has written to the First Minister of Wales regarding welfare reform and its impact in Wales.
(COLUMBIA, S.C.)–Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a coalition of 25 state attorneys general asking the Trump administration to close a loophole used by adversaries and drug traffickers to flood deadly fentanyl into the United States. In a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem and Acting Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Pete Flores, the attorneys general call for greater scrutiny of an import pilot program called Entry Type 86, which allows small packages to enter the U.S. with minimal customs screening.
“Fentanyl is killing our family members, friends, and neighbors, and we can’t afford to leave the door open for drug traffickers to exploit weak spots in our system,” said Attorney General Wilson. “The Entry Type 86 program has become a Trojan horse, allowing deadly drugs to flood into our communities with minimal oversight. I’m proud to stand with my fellow attorneys general and President Trump’s administration to demand immediate action to close this loophole and protect American lives. South Carolina will not sit back while drug cartels poison our families.”
In just a 10-year period, imports under the Entry Type 86 program skyrocketed from 153 million packages in 2015 to over 1.2 billion in 2024. Any surge of this magnitude requires further study because of serious concerns about the amount of fentanyl and other deadly drugs that could be coming into the country. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid narcotic up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. As little as two milligrams of fentanyl – smaller than the tip of a pencil – can be lethal.
In addition, some shippers use the Entry Type 86 program to dodge regulations and avoid paying required duties, raising concerns about security risks, illegal trade, and weaknesses in our supply chain.
Attorney General Wilson joined Kentucky, which led the letter, alongside attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming.
VILNIUS, Lithuania, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCC, the world’s longest-serving crypto exchange, proudly partnered again with the Red Eagle Foundation for a successful Kent Construction Golf Cup on March 27, 2025 at the prestigious London Golf Club. As a headline sponsor, BTCC helped raise £30,000 after costs to support disabled, disadvantaged, and terminally ill children across the UK.
Now in its second collaboration with the Red Eagle Foundation, BTCC continues to give back and support causes that make a difference. The Kent Construction Golf Cup brought together 28 teams from across the industry for an exciting day of competition and fundraising on the Heritage course at the London Golf Club.
Highlights included lively entertainment by comedian Aaron James, a Q&A session with sports television pundit Scott Minto and Premier League legend Matt Le Tissier, and an exciting competition featuring former European Tour player Steven Tiley. AIMIS took home the top prize, with Clean Slate Demolition securing second place.
Aaryn Ling, Head of Branding at BTCC, shared her appreciation for Matt Le Tissier’s involvement in the event. “Partnering with the Red Eagle Foundation for the second time is our way of giving back,” said Aaryn. “Matt Le Tissier’s support was phenomenal — his presence helped drive both energy and donations.”
BTCC’s ongoing partnership with the Red Eagle Foundation will continue, with more charitable initiatives already in the works to support disadvantaged children.
As a token of appreciation for its loyal community, BTCC will also be launching a giveaway featuring a signed shirt by Matt Le Tissier. Fans and supporters are encouraged to stay tuned for more details on the exchange’s X (Twitter).
About BTCC
Founded in 2011, BTCC is a leading cryptocurrency exchange committed to making crypto trading reliable and accessible. With a decade-long track record, BTCC offers a secure platform for crypto trading with its community-driven campaigns.
Société Générale Bank & Trust S.A., as (the “Fiscal Agent and Principal Paying Agent’’);
Société Générale., as (the “Paris Paying Agent and Calculation Agent’’);
The Noteholders of the below mentioned Notes;
Luxembourg Stock Exchange.
Dear Sirs,
Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel € 150,000,000 Deeply Subordinated Fixed to Floating Rate Notes ((originally issued by Caisse Fédérale du Crédit Mutuel Nord Europe)(the“Notes”))
(ISIN Code: FR0010128835)
Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel is the issuer (the “Issuer’’) of the Notes.
In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Notes (the ‘’Conditions’’), the Issuer hereby gives notice that it is exercising in whole its right to call the Notes pursuant to the Issuer General Call Option under Conditions 6.2 (a) of the Prospectus (“Issuer Call Option”) of the Notes.
We, the Issuer, instruct you as Fiscal Agent, to authorise the Central Securities Depository to cancel the Notes redeemed on 18 May, 2025 (“Optional Redemption Date”).
For the purposes of the Issuer Call:
(i) the Issuer Call Date will be 18 May, 2025; and (ii) the Optional Redemption Amount(s) or Early Redemption Amount: EUR 1,000 per Denomination.
Unless otherwise defined in this notice, capitalised terms used in this notice shall have the meaning given to them in the Prospectus dated 16 November, 2004, as applicable, relating to the Notes.
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Article L. 233-8 II of the French Commercial code and article 223-16 of the AMF General Regulation
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The Burren region of County Clare, Ireland, is famous for its distinctive limestone habitat, coastal landscape, rich wildlife and unusual archaeology. Several hundred farmers also manage livestock on this land.
Our findings show that giving farmers greater opportunities to draw on their knowledge and experiences encourages better environmental results than conventional farming incentives.
Many environmental campaigners, including author and Guardian columnist George Monbiot, don’t see farming as a way to help solve the biodiversity crisis.
But one EU-funded initiative, the BurrenLife project, has revolutionised how farmers and scientists collaborate by tackling reluctance or wariness and shifting mindsets through the practice of “conservation farming”. This developed into an “agri-environment” (nature-friendly farming) initiative called the Burren Life programme which incentivises farmers in Ireland to prioritise nature by boosting endangered bird populations or restoring specific habitats.
Most (70%) of UK land is used for agriculture. Therefore success in tackling the biodiversity crisis depends on the active involvement of farmers.
From the 1980s successive UK governments have paid farmers to restore nature and mitigate the effects of climate change in the form of voluntary agri-environment schemes. These schemes, such as Countryside Stewardship and the Sustainable Farming Incentive, provide financial incentives for farmers to help restore biodiversity by, for example, planting flower-rich hay meadows.
But despite the billions of pounds invested and significant uptake by farmers, biodiversity continues to decline and more work needs to be done to improve farmers’ participation.
Research suggests that the lack of effectiveness of those schemes is influenced by their limited capacity to inspire long-term changes in farming practices.
The clash between local knowledge and scientific expertise concerns us. Existing agri-environment schemes are prescriptive with limited options for farmers. This, combined with polarisation between farmers and conservationists about rewilding for example, means that local knowledge of farmers tends to be excluded from environmental decisions.
While conservation scientists hold essential knowledge for tackling the biodiversity crisis, farmers know their land best. Often this knowledge has been passed down from generation to generation. Historically, however, agri-environmental management in the UK has operated on the basis of prescriptions informed by scientific expertise that don’t consider the land characteristics or specific context of particular farms.
Wildflower strips along the edges of field provide valuable habitat for pollinators such as bees. yanikap/Shutterstock
By joining an agri-environment scheme, farmers are expected to take actions such as planting crops that can manage soil erosion and improve soil health, or managing hedgerows, which can act as wildlife highways. While farmers can choose which actions to take, such payment-by-action schemes don’t offer much scope to adapt environmental solutions to their knowledge of the land.
Crucially, the lack of consistent monitoring provides farmers with few opportunities to report back on the success or failure of actions they have taken to recover nature. According to our research, farmers often feel their valuable on-the-ground knowledge is being ignored.
Unusually, the Burren Life programme relies on environmental targets that are co-designed by scientists and farmers. The co-design process involves farmer and adviser jointly walking the farm. Farmers explain what they’d willingly do to improve the condition of the land. The adviser then maps the activities they think will bring environmental benefits and devises an environmental plan accordingly.
Every year, farmers are given the opportunity to decide what they’d like to do. The presence of a local office of advisers means that support for management decisions is always available and feedback aimed at improving their environmental plan is consistently encouraged. Farmers are also involved in the monitoring of other farmers’ actions.
Secrets of success
Our research undertaken as part of the Renew project, which aims to develop solutions for biodiversity renewal in the UK, shows a strong appetite in the English uplands for the kind of flexible, farmer-centred, results-based approach promoted by the Burren Life programme.
It incentivised farmers to take ownership of their actions for nature conservation and restoration. They were encouraged to share their local knowledge through farm visits, annual programme reviews, feedback opportunities and monitoring exercises. That local knowledge could then be considered alongside scientific expertise by people making management decisions. The Burren Life programme effectively reconciled the farming perspective with the scientific one, in the form of conservation farming.
It has delivered impressive value for money. The total amount spent on the Burren Life programme totalled €12.3 million (£10.3 million). Over ten years, this has resulted in habitat and landscape improvements worth €32.8 million.
Despite its success, several Burren farmers still regard environmental programmes as antithetical to farming so co-creation is a key step in inspiring people to get involved in projects like these. And replicating conservation farming beyond the Burren will require a tailored approach that considers the environmental and cultural characteristics of each countryside community.
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Charles Masquelier receives funding from the government-funded body know as UKRI. This funding is for the RENEW project, which adopts a ‘people-in-nature’ approach to biodiversity renewal across the UK.
Carolyn Petersen receives UKRI funding as part of the RENEW project, which adopts a ‘people-in-nature’ approach to biodiversity renewal across the UK. She is also involved in a Defra-funded evaluation of Local Nature Recovery Strategies in England.
Matt Lobley receives UKRI funding as part of the RENEW project and us involved in evaluations of Defra Environmental Land Management schemes
Approximately 170,000 people die every day around the world – that’s around 62 million deaths in 2024 alone. The cumulative effect of this has led to what has been termed a “burial crisis”, with most urban areas where burial remains the norm expected to run out of interment space by the 2050s, some much earlier – as in, now.
Major cities, including London and Sydney anticipate severe space shortages within the next decade. Smaller community cemeteries, such as Nuneaton cemetery in Warwickshire have already reached full capacity and begun directing families elsewhere. Finding culturally acceptable yet ethically responsible, accessible and sustainable ways of laying to rest, mourning and honouring our loved ones has become an urgent global issue.
However, the cemetery sector has only recently begun to seriously consider the environmental consequences of how we handle our bodies after death. The sense of urgency coincides with a significant cultural shift, as cremation increasingly replaces traditional burial methods. This is due to societal secularisation, shifts in religious doctrines (including Catholicism lifting past bans) and its affordability compared to burial.
In the UK, the percentage of cremations has risen from 9% of total burials in 1946 to 80.64% in 2023.
Yet, cremation is far from a sustainable alternative to burial. It releases substantial amounts of pollutants, notably carbon dioxide and mercury emissions, so regulation is necessary. Technologically advanced techniques, such as water cremation – a process that uses an alkali-water-based solution to reduce a body to bones – have only recently begun to emerge as possible alternatives and remain niche.
For several years, we have been studying cemeteries in Italy and the UK. Despite the deeply different burial traditions in these two countries (unlike the UK, Italy remains a burial culture) both face the same environmental challenges.
A tale of two cemeteries
A few sites do offer environmentally conscious alternatives to traditional burial. One is in Liguria, a densely populated region in northwestern Italy that has suffered significant losses due to climate change, particularly from soil erosion caused by decades of reckless coastal construction.
Here, a group of environmentally conscious volunteers transformed a woodland called Boschi Vivi (the name means living woods) into a cemetery, creating Italy’s first forest cemetery. Though it involves cremation, this initiative is particularly groundbreaking in a country where cemeteries have historically been conceived as monumental or architectural structures.
Often, they are heavily reliant on marble, a traditional hallmark of Italian craftsmanship, significantly reducing green spaces in urban areas. The mining of marble also creates huge greenhouse gas emissions and loss of biodiversity.
In contrast, the cimitero bosco (forest cemetery) of Boschi Vivi follows a different philosophy. Instead of traditional tombstones, only a small plaque is placed near each tree where ashes have been scattered, marking the final resting place of the deceased.
A tree tomb in the woodland of Boschi Vivi, Liguria, Italy. Daniela Pianezzi, CC BY-NC-ND
Currently, this remains a grassroots initiative that’s starting to emerge in the US and Canada too. Hopefully, more Italian public administrations will adopt this model as traditional cemeteries become increasingly financially and environmentally unsustainable.
For three decades, Oakfield burial ground in Wrabness, Essex, UK has adopted a similar approach. Oakfield wood is a seven-acre natural woodland burial site along the banks of the river Stour in north Essex, managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust. Instead of headstones or conventional memorials, a native broadleaf tree is planted for each burial, accompanied by a simple wooden plaque at its base. The site forms part of a larger nature reserve, fostering a rich habitat for wildlife.
Unlike municipal cemeteries or other burial sites, which are often subject to redevelopment or reuse, Oakfield enjoys long-term protection under the Essex Wildlife Trust. This means that burials here are conducted in perpetuity, ensuring that the site remains undisturbed. The trust plans to manage Oakfield solely as a nature reserve once it reaches full capacity, although this will not be for many decades to come.
Despite these promising initiatives, sites such as Boschi Vivi and Oakwood risk remaining isolated cases unless a radical rethinking of burial takes place. Whether cemeteries are perceived as eerie, macabre spaces (like in Shakespeare’s Hamlet) or as places of peace and reconciliation, as in the final scene of Forrest Gump, they are still dominated by the idea that graves should be organised as a series of permanent markers of individual lives.
Our research shows that it’s only by considering human beings as part of nature that the growing burial crisis might be averted. That fundamentally involves moving from a human-centred or “ego-logical” ethos to an ecological one.
The most viable response to the environmental challenges facing not just Nuneaton cemetery, but burial sites across the world, might be simply a new awareness. One that recognises both life and death as integral parts of nature. So, remembrance is not preserved through permanence, but rather through a return to the natural cycle of life.
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The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
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The first phase of the review of the CNB’s monetary policy analytical and modelling framework has been completed successfully. The CNB brought this phase to a close today with an international workshop attended by top foreign economists led by Claudio Borio, the former Head of the Monetary and Economic Department at the Bank for International Settlements. In the next step, the central bank will develop a new forecasting model to supplement its existing tools. It will also put into practice other recommendations made by domestic and foreign experts who have evaluated the CNB’s past monetary policy. The aim is to enhance the CNB’s analytical and modelling framework so that, among other things, it can better withstand the current environment of unexpected economic shocks.
The CNB is now entering the second phase of its monetary policy review. This will build on the first phase, which the CNB began by having its analytical and modelling framework assessed independently for the first time ever. Based on the experts’ recommendations, it then strengthened the role of research in the Research and Statistics Department and made other organisational changes to prepare the CNB for the key period ahead. At an international workshop in Prague today, CNB representatives presented the steps taken so far and the outlook for the future. They also discussed the way forward with leading foreign economists with experience of monetary policy reviews in other countries.
“Looking ahead, the toughest challenges for monetary policy regimes may well be still to come. For one, the political environment is becoming less conducive to a stability-oriented monetary policy. Over time, a dangerous expectations gap has been developing between what monetary policy can deliver and what it is expected to deliver. But inflation targeting regimes cannot afford to stay still,” said Claudio Borio, the former Head of the Monetary and Economic Department at the Bank for International Settlements, who also attended the CNB workshop.
In the second phase, the CNB will put into practice the recommendations contained in the assessments prepared by expert teams led by Professor John Muellbauer from the University of Oxford, Roman Šustek from Queen Mary University of London and Professor Martin Mandel and Associate Professor Karel Brůna from the Prague University of Economics and Business. These assessments identified deficiencies in the CNB’s current modelling framework and emphasised the need to strengthen the role of economic research at the central bank and to increase the emphasis on the use of available data sources. “Theories and models are valuable to a central bank only to the extent that they facilitate an informed and sufficiently comprehensive debate – one that helps us understand the evolving economic story in the short, medium and long run,” said CNB Deputy Governor Jan Frait. In his opinion, the reviews have shown that the CNB’s current tools cannot fulfil this role to the full.
“We need analyses that are not only technically accurate, but also sensitive to economic, social and political realities – analyses that reflect emotions as well as facts and figures. To achieve this, we should be open to different points of view, be prepared to reassess our positions when major changes occur, and invest in people who are able to come up with new approaches and ideas based on knowledge of cutting-edge economic research,” added Deputy Governor Frait.
The main innovation will be an alternative macroeconomic forecasting model to be developed by the Research and Statistics Department at the CNB. The Department was established on 1 January 2025 through the merger of the Economic Research Division of the Monetary Department and the Financial Research Division of the Financial Stability Department with the then Statistics and Data Support Department. “The CNB is currently an outlier internationally. Most other central banks rely on two or more models for monetary policy purposes, whereas we currently use only one central DSGE model. Where a central bank does have a single model, with few exceptions, it is not a DSGE one,” said CNB Deputy Governor Eva Zamrazilová, giving one of the reasons for supplementing the central DSGE model with another powerful forecasting tool.
The Czech National Bank expects the initial results of the development of the alternative model to emerge before the end of this year. However, according to Eva Zamrazilová, it could take two to three years to complete the entire process, including testing and validation of the proper functioning of the new tool. “We don’t want to rush anything. We will put the emphasis on top quality, not speed, because this is a major step as regards Czech monetary policy,” added Deputy Governor Zamrazilová.
In addition to the development of an alternative model, the monetary policy review will be reflected in practice on other levels, such as research. According to Bank Board member Jan Kubíček, the expert assessments have not only identified problem areas in the existing modelling framework, but are also an illuminating source of inspiration for the future development of the CNB. “Major advancements have been made around the world in the field of analytical instruments. The monetary policy review gives us an opportunity to take them and use them to our advantage,” said Jan Kubíček, adding that via the CNB, all individuals and companies in the Czech Republic stand to benefit from the results of the monetary policy review in the future.
Jakub Holas Director, Communications Division
Programme
9.00
Opening Remarks Aleš Michl, Governor, Czech National Bank
9.05
Keynote Speech: Adjusting Inflation Targeting Frameworks Claudio Borio, former Head of Monetary and Economic Department, Bank for International Settlements
10.05
Panel Discussion: Analytical and Forecasting Frameworks for Inflation Targeting: Lessons Learned Chair: Eva Zamrazilová, Deputy Governor, Czech National Bank Panellists: Óscar Arce, Director General Economics, European Central Bank Huw Pill, Chief Economist, Bank of England Jan Kubíček, Board Member, Czech National Bank
11.45
Panel Discussion: Chair: Jan Frait, Deputy Governor, Czech National Bank Panellists: John Muellbauer, Nuffield College, Oxford University & INET, Oxford Roman Šustek, Queen Mary University of London & Centre for Macroeconomics (LSE) Jakub Matějů, Deputy Executive Director, Monetary Department, Czech National Bank
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Car industry settles competition law case
Car manufacturers and industry bodies have reached a settlement with the CMA after admitting to breaking competition law in relation to vehicle recycling, and related advertising claims.
Ten manufacturers – BMW, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Peugeot Citroen, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Toyota, Vauxhall and Volkswagen – and 2 trade bodies have been fined a total of £77,688,917
These manufacturers illegally agreed not to compete against one another when advertising what percentage of their cars can be recycled
The manufacturers also illegally colluded to avoid paying third parties to recycle their customers’ scrap cars
Following an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), 10 manufacturers and 2 trade bodies have admitted their involvement in the illegal behaviour and agreed to pay fines totalling over £77 million.
Mercedes-Benz, which was also involved in these agreements, is exempt from paying a financial penalty as it alerted the CMA to its participation via the authority’s leniency policy.
The European Commission (EC) launched a parallel probe alongside the CMA in March 2022. The EC has today issued its own decision imposing fines for breaches of EU law.
Advertising claims
Amongst other sustainability information, manufacturers are legally required to include details on recyclability in their advertising materials, so customers can take this into account when considering a vehicle’s green credentials before buying.
In this case, the CMA found that all manufacturers illegally agreed that they would not advertise if their vehicles went above the minimum recyclability requirement of 85% (even if the actual percentage was higher). With the exception of Renault, the manufacturers also agreed not to share information with their customers about the percentage of recycled material used in their vehicles.
Failing to compete against one another in this way is illegal. It also meant customers buying a car from one of these manufactures were unable to fully compare the green credentials of vehicles when buying, which could have affected their choice. This kind of behaviour may also lower the incentive for companies to invest in green initiatives.
Most manufacturers took part in this practice from May 2002 to September 2017, with Jaguar Land Rover joining in September 2008. The agreement was set out in a document called the ‘ELV Charta’ – sometimes referred to as a “gentleman’s agreement” – and sought to “avoid a competitive race” amongst the manufacturers in relation to advertising claims of this kind. This agreement was referenced in emails, internal documents and meeting minutes, and certain manufacturers challenged others when they breached this agreement.
Buyers’ cartel
Vehicle manufactures must offer their customers a free service for recycling their old or written-off vehicles having no or negative market value (known in the industry as ‘end-of-life vehicles’ or ELVs), and this service is regularly outsourced to third parties.
The CMA’s investigation revealed that certain manufacturers were involved in what is known as a ‘buyers’ cartel’ in relation to this service.
From April 2004 to May 2018, 8 manufacturers – BMW, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot Citroen, Renault, Toyota, Vauxhall and Volkswagen – agreed amongst themselves that they would not pay companies to handle the recycling of their customers’ ELVs. This effectively meant the companies providing this service were unable to negotiate a price with manufacturers.
While companies supplying this recycling service can often make money from ELVs, for example, by retrieving and selling the used parts and raw materials, how profitable it is can vary depending on the price of scrap metal at any given time.
Other companies and bodies later joined the unlawful agreement, including the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), Nissan and Mitsubishi in 2006, and Jaguar Land Rover in 2016.
Colluding to agree prices in this manner is illegal. It can impact the incentives for other companies to invest – for example, in better and greener technologies.
Trade association involvement
Two trade associations, ACEA and the SMMT, were involved in both illegal agreements.
The manufacturers used ACEA meetings to facilitate these arrangements, with the association itself chairing meetings and intervening when manufacturers acted outside of the terms.
The SMMT also attended these meetings and likewise became involved by settling a handful of disputes.
Lucilia Falsarella Pereira, Senior Director of Competition Enforcement at the CMA, said:
Agreeing with competitors the prices you’ll pay for a service or colluding to restrict competition is illegal and this can extend to how you advertise your products. This kind of collusion can limit consumers’ ability to make informed choices and lower the incentive for companies to invest in new initiatives.
Today’s fines show our commitment to taking action when competition law is broken. In accordance with our leniency policy, we’ve given discounts to those who came forward with information and co-operated at an early stage, which helps to get the swiftest outcomes.
We recognise that competing businesses may want to work together to help the environment – in those cases our door is open to help them do so.
Settlement and fines
All of the car makers and industry bodies, except for Mercedes-Benz (which has been granted immunity from penalties), have now settled with the CMA – meaning they have admitted to taking part in illegal behaviour and agreed to pay fines totalling £77,688,917.
Following the launch of the CMA’s investigation, the SMMT, Stellantis (the current owner of Peugeot Citroen, Vauxhall and Opel) and Mitsubishi approached the CMA for leniency and, as a result, have received a percentage reduction to their fines.
The fines for each company/industry body are:
Car manufacturer / Industry body
Fine for advertising infringement
Fine for buyers’ cartel infringement
Total (including any % reductions for leniency and/or settlement)
BMW
£10,660,781
£400,144
£11,060,925 (20% settlement reduction)
Ford
£12,949,433
£5,592,496
£18,541,929 (20% settlement reduction)
Jaguar Land Rover
£4,575,812
£50,592
£4,626,404 (20% settlement reduction)
Peugeot Citroen (and owner Stellantis)
£2,952,867
£2,237,080
£5,189,948 (45% leniency reduction and 20% settlement reduction)
Mitsubishi
£746,465
£152,066
£898,531 (25% leniency reduction and 20% settlement reduction)
Nissan and Renault (formerly the same business group)
£6,348,132 (shared fine); £2,800,646 (sole liability for Nissan)
£3,631,695 (shared fine)
£9,979,826 (shared total) and £2,800,646 (sole liability for Nissan) (20% settlement reduction)
Toyota
£3,941,996
£560,764
£4,502,760 (20% settlement reduction)
Vauxhall and Opel
£1,510,715
£670,412
£2,181,127 (45% leniency reduction and 20% settlement reduction)
Vauxhall and Opel (and former owner General Motors) (GM is fined only as owner of both firms during part of the infringement)
£1,829,904
£1,037,145
£2,867,049 (45% leniency reduction and 20% settlement reduction)
Vauxhall and Opel (and owner Stellantis) (Stellantis is fined only as owner of both firms during part of the infringement)
£22,704
£100,369
£123,072 (45% leniency reduction and 20% settlement reduction)
Volkswagen
£13,472,404
£1,283,496
£14,755,900 (20% settlement reduction)
ACEA
£91,200
£22,800
£114,000 (20% settlement reduction)
SMMT
£31,200
£15,600
£46,800 (35% leniency reduction and 20% settlement reduction)
TOTAL
£77,688,917
The manufacturers and industry bodies have until 2 June 2025 to pay their fines.
Notes to editors
In its decision, the CMA has found a single and continuous ‘by object’ infringement of section 2(1) of the Competition Act 1998 (i.e. that the conduct had, as its object, the restriction or distortion of competition within the UK). The CMA has not made any finding as to whether the conduct at issue had the effect of preventing, restricting or distorting competition, or any effect on customers.
The CMA’s decision concerns the restriction of competition in the UK, whereas the EC’s decision is concerned with the restriction of competition in the EU (excluding the UK). The EC’s investigation focused on the same parties as the CMA, but did not include the SMMT.
Under the CMA’s leniency policy, a business that has been involved in cartel activity may be granted immunity from penalties or a reduction in penalty in return for reporting the cartel activity and assisting the CMA with its investigation.
When deciding the financial penalties, the CMA took into account a number of factors, including the seriousness of the illegal behaviour, its duration and each manufacturer’s size and UK turnover in the relevant market. Importantly, differences in fines should not be taken to indicate relative culpability.
A buyers’ cartel is where members of a cartel – or companies buying a service or product – agree amongst themselves how they will individually interact with suppliers. In this case, the manufacturers involved mutually agreed the price that they would each individually pay for recycling services (zero), thereby preventing the providers of recycling services from negotiating a higher price.
During the period of the agreements, Renault and Nissan formed part of the same business group. Since 8 November 2023, they no longer form part of the same business group. They are therefore jointly and severally liable for part of the fine, with Nissan being solely liable for an additional amount (in relation to the advertising infringement).
The CMA has created guidance on how competing businesses can collaborate within the law, specifically when it comes to green agreements: Green Agreements Guidance.
Anyone who has information about a cartel is encouraged to call the CMA cartels hotline on 020 3738 6888 or email cartelshotline@cma.gov.uk.
All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.
All enquiries from the general public should be directed to the CMA’s General Enquiries team on general.enquiries@cma.gov.uk or 020 3738 6000.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Introduction of escape fee threshold for welfare benefits work
Changes are being made to the remuneration of welfare benefits controlled work to introduce an escape fee threshold
Amendments are being made to Part 1, Schedule 1 of the Civil Legal Aid (Remuneration) Regulations 2013 (“the Regulations”) to introduce an escape fee threshold for the remuneration of controlled work in the welfare benefits category of law.
Currently, welfare benefits providers under the 2024 Standard Civil Contract are paid a standard fixed fee of £208 (with no escape fee threshold) per case.
Table 1, Part 1, Schedule 1 of the Regulations is being amended to include the existing welfare benefits fee of £208 and introduce an escape fee threshold of three times the standard fixed fee (i.e. £624) for controlled work matters being claimed in this category of law. Table 7 (Welfare Benefits Standard fixed fee), Part 1, Schedule 1 of the Regulations will be removed.
These amendments to the remuneration of welfare benefits work are set out in the following Statutory Instrument (SI): The Civil Legal Aid (Remuneration) (Amendment) Regulations 2025. The SI will come into force on Thursday 1 May 2025 and these changes will not apply to cases where the application for civil legal service is made before this date.
Changes have been made to the Controlled Work and Administration (CWA) reporting system to support the introduction of the escape fee threshold in the welfare benefits category of law and will be in place for a Thursday 1 May 2025 go-live date.
