NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: New vision for a sustainable, crisis-proof food system

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has laid out a bold vision for transforming the EU’s agriculture, fisheries, and food systems to better withstand crises while ensuring sustainability. The opinion “Fostering sustainable and resilient food systems in times of crisis,” requested by the Hungarian presidency, was adopted at the October plenary. By focusing on food security, fair income for producers, environmental resilience, and the next generation of food producers, these proposals offer a clear path for the EU to build a food system that not only survives continuous challenges and crisis but thrives in the long term.

    The EESC envisions a food system that is competitive, crisis-proof, and aligned with EU environmental and social objectives. “Ensuring stable, sustainable incomes for producers is essential, as is fostering a knowledge-based food policy that encourages innovation” said Arnold Puech d’Alissac, President of the World Farmers Organisation and one of the three rapporteurs of the opinion. To support this vision, the EESC calls for a new policy model to strengthen the farming sector’s bargaining position in the food chain when it comes to price negotiations as well as an increase in the budget for adequate financing of EU agriculture and fisheries.

    EESC insists that future trade agreements should incorporate the Green Deal and Farm to Fork standards to ensure fair competition and maintain high food quality, aligning global trade with the EU’s sustainability goals.

    “Ensuring fair income for primary producers is critical,” noted Piroska Kállay, rapporteur from Hungary. ”We need to see farmers as part of the solution and not part of the problem”, she added. Stricter enforcement of unfair trading practices and the standardization of their enforcement at the EU level as well as the introduction of a ban on below-cost selling, are necessary steps to rebalance power in the food supply chain.

    To sustain the food system for future generations, the EESC advocates for policies that promote generational renewal, particularly targeting young people and women. This includes education, training, and support for cooperatives and community-assisted agriculture, which build resilience by distributing economic risks and benefits more equitably among producers.

    The EESC also recommends rewarding carbon sequestration efforts in agriculture, such as sustainable soil management, while implementing policies to prevent carbon leakage. ”These measures would help align food production with the EU’s climate targets and global environmental commitments,” said Joe Healy, rapporteur from Ireland.

    In response to the growing threat of climate-related disasters, the EESC proposes an EU-wide system of public insurance, backed by public investment, to protect producers from natural disasters like floods or crop failures, ensuring continuity in food supply.

    Sustainable management of soil and water is essential for long-term productivity. The EESC urges policies that regenerate and restore soil health, increase water efficiency and reduce water usage, —critical steps in maintaining resilience against climate pressures.

    Additionally, the EESC calls for reducing red tape throughout the food chain to streamline processes and increase transparency. Regulating trade flows and establishing a digitized data center for price and cost tracking will help avoid market disruptions and enhance transparency in food supply chains.

    Finally, the EESC reiterates its previous proposals for establishing a European Food Policy Council (EFPC) to strengthen dialogue on food-related issues. This platform would bring together diverse stakeholders to align food policy with broader social and environmental objectives, ensuring a cohesive approach to the EU’s food systems. The EESC notes with satisfaction the similar proposal in the report of the strategic dialogue on the future of EU agriculture.

    The EESC’s proposals provide a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening the EU’s food systems, making them more resilient, sustainable, and equitable in the face of growing global challenge. (ks)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New tool to make it easier and faster for public to access essential government services online

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    GOV.UK Forms, a new tool for faster, more accessible online government forms, will be rolled out nationwide after successful trials showed major time savings and improved efficiency.

    • GOV.UK Forms to be rolled out across government, making it faster and easier for the public to fill out forms such as applying for emergency travel documents 
    • Tool has already helped over 20,000 armed forces personal apply for veteran badges and victims of the Horizon scandal apply for compensation
    • With 87 forms live and used by over 1,200 civil servants, GOV.UK Forms marks a key step in the UK government’s digital transformation

    People across the country will be able to complete government forms online more quickly and easily, boosting efficiency and speeding up access to support. 

    The new tool, GOV.UK Forms, has already been used to speed up registration for redress for more than 300 sub-postmasters affected by the Horizon IT scandal by removing the need for lengthy paperwork, print-outs and administrative hurdles – with forms taking less than five minutes to complete. 

    It’s also been used by the public to register XL Bully dogs and recruit over 400 new volunteer coastguards, with the tool already saving an estimated two years in processing time. 

    GOV.UK Forms will transform how the public fill out applications and forms on GOV.UK by offering them an online platform to fill in their details instead – meaning they no longer have to rely on clunky PDFs or lengthy paperwork, which is inefficient and less accessible.

    The tool will now be rolled out across all government departments after a successful trial and provide civil servants with a digital platform that allows them to create and manage secure, accessible forms online. 

    Harnessing the power of technology will be crucial to support the government in achieving its mission of making public services work for working people, grow the economy, and make everyone across the country better off.     

    Minister for AI and Digital Government Feryal Clark will unveil the full rollout of GOV.UK Forms at the Digital Nations Ministerial Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark today. 

    Speaking on the platform’s success, Minister Clark said:

    We’re enabling citizens to access essential government services more easily and securely, whether it’s applying for long overdue compensation or to become a volunteer.

    Not only will this modernise how the public interacts with us, but it allows departments to focus resources on improving public services – rather than administrative tasks.

    This early success marks the start of our ongoing mission to refine digital tools, building trust and ensuring government works for everyone, everywhere.

    Following successful private beta and early access phases, GOV.UK Forms will now enter a ‘public beta’ testing phase, which will mean it is applied more widely where citizens need to share information with the government.  

    To date, 87 forms have been published, with over 1,200 government users adopting the platform, saving more than two years in processing time. 

    Christine Bellamy, CEO of the Government Digital Service (GDS) said:  

    GOV.UK Forms enables people running government services to create online forms in minutes, without the need for coding or design skills.

    By enabling teams to replace paper-based forms with digital alternatives that are quicker to process, more secure and more accessible, we’re helping to realise a more modern digital government that helps to give people their time back.

    The platform complies with government standards on accessibility and cyber security, enabling all users, including those with access needs, to use the forms easily and securely. It also meets accessibility standards and regularly tests new features to keep the forms easy to use for everyone.  

    GOV.UK Forms is part of a wide range of initiatives in the government’s digital transformation, enhancing efficiency, security, and accessibility for citizens across the UK. 

    Minister Clark’s announcement at the summit will mark a pivotal step forward for GOV.UK Forms as it becomes an essential tool in modernising public engagement with government services.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Czech national baseball team  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai meets Czech national baseball team  
    2024-11-01

    On the afternoon of November 1, President Lai Ching-te met with the national baseball team of the Czech Republic. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Czech Republic for supporting Taiwan, and noted that the Czech national baseball team had come to Taiwan to take part in two exhibition games, not only for the sake of learning from one another, but also to further cultivate friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic. He also stated that the Czech Republic is an important democratic ally of Taiwan in Europe. He stated that the opening of the Czech Centre Taipei this past June shows that our two countries continue to enhance our partnership, and expressed confidence that even greater advances will be achieved in culture and many other fields moving forward.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    The World Baseball Softball Confederation Premier12 tournament is scheduled to start on November 10, with Group B opening round games to be played in Taiwan. I would like to thank Chinese Professional Baseball League Commissioner Tsai Chi-chang (蔡其昌) for inviting the Czech national baseball team to play two exhibition games in Taiwan, not only for the sake of learning from one another, but also to further cultivate friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic.
    As a long-time baseball fan, I am very pleased to meet with the Czech national baseball team here at the Presidential Office. Many team members are actually part-timers whose principal occupations are in such fields as firefighting, teaching, medicine, financial analysis, and real estate brokerage, to name just a few. Everyone’s passion for the sport has earned the team a ranking of number 15 in the world and placed them among the top three in Europe. Indeed, in last year’s World Baseball Classic (WBC), the team scored a come-from-behind win over China to take the Czech Republic’s first-ever victory in the WBC tournament. It was an admirable win and an exciting game, and Taiwanese fans were thrilled.
    The Czech Republic is an important democratic ally of Taiwan in Europe. Representative of the Czech Economic and Cultural Office David Steinke is here, so I would like to give special thanks to the Czech Republic for supporting Taiwan. Three years ago, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Czech Republic generously donated 30,000 vaccine doses to Taiwan, and when Hualien was hit by a severe earthquake earlier this year, the Czech Republic donated US$150,000 to support reconstruction efforts. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to express our deepest appreciation.
    The opening of the Czech Centre Taipei this past June signifies that our two countries continue to enhance our partnership, and I am confident that even greater advances will be achieved in culture and many other fields moving forward.
    Today is the Czech national baseball team’s second day in Taiwan, so I want to wish everyone a happy and fruitful visit, and I look forward to both teams playing their best in the exhibition games scheduled for tomorrow and the day after.
    Also in attendance was Czech Baseball Association President Petr Ditrich.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Aktsiaselts Infortar Unaudited Consolidated Interim Report for third quarter of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktsiaselts Infortar (Infortar) will organize a webinar for introducing third quarter 2024 results today. Please join the webinar via the following links:

    4. November at 12.00 (EET) Estonian webinar

    4. November at 14.00 (EET) English webinar

    Following the acquisition of a majority stake in Aktsiaselts Tallink Grupp (Tallink), Infortar’s total assets have reached €2.5 billion. For the first nine months of this year, the company’s consolidated revenue amounted to €926 million, net profit reached €187 million, and investments totaled €138 million.

    “We’ve grown into Estonia’s largest investment company in the third quarter—our consolidated asset volume has increased by €1 billion within just nine months. Infortar’s structure and outlook have transformed significantly over a short period; we’re literally fuelled by growth,” remarked Ain Hanschmidt, Chairman of Infortar’s Management Board.

    “Infortar actively seeks and invests in growth across various sectors and beyond borders. When we went public last year, we committed to invest €110 million from 2023 to 2025, yet we have already invested €138 million in the current year alone,” said Hanschmidt.

    In the third quarter of 2024, Infortar increased its shareholding in Tallink to 68.5% through a public share offering. Alongside with other investors, Infortar envisions a strong and stable future for Tallink. The voluntary takeover offer attracted those who wished to exit the region for various reasons.

    In the third quarter of 2024, Tallink transported a total of 1,715,496 passengers, with the company’s ships completing 1,840 departures. Compared to the same period last year, Tallink´s unaudited sales revenue decreased by 3.7%, totalling €231.9 million, with a net profit of €36.8 million.

    AS Eesti Gaas, the largest private energy company in the Finnish and Baltic region, increased its sales volume of natural gas and electricity by 27% year-on-year, reaching 13.9 TWh and a market share of 25.7%. Operating under the Elenger brand in foreign markets, the company is focused on expanding its energy business in Poland and Germany and establishing access to the wholesale gas market in the Netherlands and Belgium.

    The construction of Rimi’s logistics centre and the new Pärnu bridge are going according to the schedule. In July, the bridge arch was installed, introducing new engineering solutions to Estonia.

    At the end of the third quarter, Infortar announced plans to acquire Tallinna Raamatutrükikoda, in addition to the printing houses Printon and Vaba Maa. This acquisition aims to enhance synergies and bolster the company’s extensive experience in the printing sector.

    KEY FIGURES

    		 9 months 2024 9 months 2023 Q3 2024 Q3 2023
    Revenue (in thousands of EUR) 925 607 746 892 349 468 186 540
    Gross profit (in thousands of EUR) 93 758 107 238 40 669 18 887
    EBITDA (in thousands of EUR) 117 384 105 865 41 874 19 294
    EBITDA margin % 12,7% 14,2% 12,0% 10,3%
    Operating profit (in thousands of EUR) 83 817 94 661 20 422 14 234
    Net profit (in thousands of EUR) 187 339 269 624 114 322 185 941
    Profit attributable to the owners of the parent company (in thousands of EUR) 184 122 269 546 111 105 185 658
    Earnings per share (EUR)* 9,1 13,3 5,5 9,2
             
    Total equity (in thousands of EUR) 1 223 058 771 700    
    Total liabilities (in thousands of EUR) 961 419 480 816    

    * For the period ending 30.09.2024, earnings per share (EPS) in euros have been calculated using a share count of 21,166,239, with company´s own shares deducted for comparability.

    Revenue

    During the first nine months of 2024, Infortar’s consolidated revenue increased by €178.7 million, reaching €925.6 million, compared to €746.9 million in the same period in 2023. This growth was significantly impacted by the line-by-line consolidation of Tallink results into Infortar’s financial statements.

    EBITDA and Segment Reporting

    The acquisition of a majority stake in Tallink does not significantly impact segment reporting; Infortar’s management continues to monitor business segments using existing principles.

    Energy Segment: Nine-month EBITDA for 2024 was €79.5 million, down from €99.1 million in 2023.

    Maritime transportation segment: nine-month EBITDA for 2024 was €149,5 million, compared to €177.7 million in 2023. Until 31.07.24, Infortar consolidated Tallink results by the equity method according to its ownership percentage, switching to line-by-line reporting as of 01.08.24.

    Real Estate Segment: EBITDA for real estate in the first nine months of 2024 reached €12 million, up from €11 million in the same period of 2023.

    Net Profit

    Consolidated net profit for the first nine months of 2024 was €187.3 million, compared to €269.6 million for the same period in 2023. The previous year’s results included a one-time profit from the AS Gaso acquisition.

    Financing

    Loan and lease obligations totalled €961.4 million for the first nine months of 2024, up from €480.8 million in 2023 due to the consolidation of Tallink liabilities. The net debt-to-EBITDA ratio, considering Tallink’s full-year EBITDA for 2024, stands at 2.4.

    Income statement, in thousands of EUR Q3
    2024    		 Q3
    2023    		 9 months 2024 9 months 2023
    Sales Revenue 349 468 186 540 925 607 746 892
    Cost of Sales -308 803 -169 764 -831 796 -634 815
    Impairment of Receivables 4 2 111 -53 -4 839
    Gross Profit 40 669 18 887 93 758 107 238
    Marketing Expenses -7 789 -394 -8 627 -1 109
    General Administrative Expenses -13 423 -3 975 -27 679 -12 563
    Profit (Loss) from Biological Assets 44 0 17 0
    Loss on Changes in Fair Value of Investment Properties -3 047 0 -2 891 0
    Profit (Loss) from Derivative Instruments 52 380 24 574 1 067
    Other Operating Income 4 368 308 5 449 1 065
    Other Operating Expenses -452 -972 -784 -1 037
    Operating Profit 20 422 14 234 83 817 94 661
    Profit from Investments Accounted for Using the Equity Method 3 243 22 254 22 128 37 701
    Financial Income and Expenses        
    Income from Financial Investments 69 782 -34 72 520 -58
    Interest Expense -11 340 -5 520 -24 466 -14 004
    Interest Income 1 215 467 4 219 2 300
    Profit (Loss) from Foreign Exchange Rate Changes 160 -23 156 -160
    Other Financial Income and Expenses -393 159 216 -395 159 216
    Total Financial Income and Expenses 59 424 154 106 52 034 147 294
    Profit Before Tax 83 089 190 594 157 979 279 656
    Corporate Income Tax 31 233 -4 653 29 360 -10 032
    Profit (Loss) for the Reporting Period 114 322 185 941 187 339 269 624
    Including:        
    Profit (Loss) Attributable to Owners of the Parent Company 111 105 185 658 184 122 269 546
    Profit (Loss) Attributable to Non-controlling Interests 3 217 283 3 217 78
    Other Comprehensive Income for the Reporting Period     -33 463 -60 195
    Total Comprehensive income for the Reporting Period     153 876 209 429
    Including:        
    Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Owners of the Parent Company     150 659 209 351
    Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Non-controlling Interests     3 217 78
    Basic Earnings per Share     9,11 13,20
    Diluted Earnings per Share     8,78 12,80

    * The non-cash revaluations of derivative instruments in comprehensive income do not affect the profitability or cash flow generating ability of AS Eesti Gaas or Infortar’s core business operations.

    Balance sheet, in thousands of EUR

    ASSETS     30.09.24   30.09.23   31.12.2023
    CURRENT ASSETS              
    Cash     95 863   90 456   87 115
    Short-term Financial Investments     1   1   0
    Short-term Derivative Instruments     2 246   21 216   28 728
    Receivables from Realized Derivative Instruments     2 773   1 279   5 958
    Receivables from Customers     115 992   91 071   162 575
    Tax Prepayments     4 161   1 192   925
    Other Receivables and Prepayments     31 098   20 228   20 185
    Prepayments for Inventories     2 885   29 354   3 493
    Inventories     221 174   177 824   146 884
    Biological Assets     420   0   0
    Total Current Assets     476 613   432 621   455 863
    NON-CURRENT ASSETS              
    Investments in Associates     15 756   341 490   346 014
    Long-term Derivative Instruments     1 451   3 485   1 125
    Long-term Loans and Other Receivables     29 668   9 771    
    Investment Properties     67 791   171 046   9 072
    Property, Plant, and Equipment     1 816 338   449 014   176 024
    Intangible Assets     39 276   13 474   446 748
    Right-of-use Assets     47 548   10 421   14 366
    Biological Assets     2 840   0   11 300
                   
    Total non-current assets     2 020 668   998 701   1 004 649
    TOTAL ASSETS     2 497 281   1 431 322   1 460 512
                   
    EQUITY AND LIABILITIES              
    CURRENT LIABILITIES              
    Loan Liabilities     199 247   204 468   184 259
    Lease Liabilities     8 499   956   1 766
    Payables to Suppliers     136 017   60 687   74 751
    Tax Liabilities     35 702   17 341   32 822
    Customer Prepayments     34 741   3 171   3 099
    Realized Derivative Instruments     222   3 395   1 463
    Other Short-term Liabilities     53 351   21 374   10 851
    Short-term Derivative Instruments     11 680   226   3 659
    Total Current Liabilities     479 459   311 618   312 670
    NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES              
    Long-term Provisions     9 208   7 255   8 399
    Deferred Income Tax Liability     2 391   34 920   33 233
    Other Long-term Liabilities     28 612   30 426   30 679
    Long-term Derivative Instruments     880   11   186
    Loan liabilities     713 212   265 805   246 410
    Lease liabilities     40 461   9 587   8 725
    TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES     794 764   348 004   327 632
    TOTAL LIABILITIES     1 274 223   659 622   640 302
    EQUITY              
    Share Capital     2 117   1 985   2 105
    Treasury Shares     -95   -95   -95
    Share Premium     32 484   0   29 344
    Statutory Reserve     212   205   205
    Option Reserve     7 647   3 068   3 864
    Hedging Reserve*     20 725   22 084   24 118
    Unrealized Exchange Differences     1 114   32   -39
    Reserve for Post-employment Benefit Obligations     -44   0   -44
    Retained Earnings     728 559   474 015   466 140
    Profit for the Reporting Period     184 122   269 546   293 778
    Equity Attributable to Owners of the Parent Company     976 841   770 840   819 376
                   
    Non-controlling Interests     246 217   860   834
    TOTAL EQUITY     1 223 058   771 700   820 210
    TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES     2 497 281   1 431 322   1 460 512

    * This represents the change in the accounting hedging position, which affects the comprehensive income result.        

    Cash flow statement, in thousands of EUR 9
    months
    2024    		   9
    months 2023    		   2023
    Cash Flows from Operating Activities          
    Profit for the Reporting Period 187 339   269 624   293 830
    Adjustments          
    Depreciation and Impairment of Fixed Assets 30 676   11 204   15 581
    Change in Value of Investment Properties 2 891   0   4 074
    Profit/Loss from Equity Investments -156 017   -37 701   -39 639
    Change in Value of Derivative Instruments 26 156   59 284   54 122
    Other Financial Income/Expenses -66   -161 433   -161 965
    Accrued Interest Expenses 24 466   14 004   22 573
    Profit/Loss from Disposal of Fixed Assets -301   -76   -91
    Income from Targeted Financing Recognized in Revenue -319   -347   784
    Accrued Income Tax Expense -29 360   10 032   8 610
    Income Tax Paid -1 482   0   -267
    Change in Receivables and Prepayments Related to Operating Activities 79 126   130 325   54 540
    Change in Inventories -22 986   -118 715   -61 914
    Change in Liabilities Related to Operating Activities 35 968   -24 650   -406
    Change in Biological Assets 112   0   0
    Total Cash Flows from Operating Activities 176 203   151 551   189 832
               
    Cash Flows from investing activities          
    Payments for Purchase of Associates 0   -7 728   -10 314
    Payments for Purchase of Subsidiaries -67 810*   -103 410   -103 414
    Dividends paid 20 862   0   0
    Repayments of Loans Granted 2 057   5 966   6 652
    Interest Received 4 019   2 301   2 691
    Payments for Acquisition of Investment Properties -10 566   -10 506   -18 304
    Payments for Acquisition of Property, Plant and other assets -17 042   -13 972   -18 143
    Proceeds from Sale of Investment Properties and Fixed Assets 707   78   -252
    Total cash Flows from investing activities -67 773   -127 271   -141 084
    Cash Flows from Financing Activities          
    Change in Overdraft -30 457   30 546   14 348
    Loans Received 106 303   148 955   287 606
    Repayments of Loans Received -114 706   -150 790   -312 846
    Repayments of Principal Portion of Lease Liabilities -8 674   -1 562   -2 233
    Interest Paid -24 968   -13 100   -22 224
    Dividends Paid -30 332   -7 875   -15 750
    Proceeds from Issuance of Shares 3 152   0   29 464
    Total Cash Flows from Financing Activities -99 682   6 174   -21 635
               
    Total cash flows 8 748   30 454   27 113
               
    Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period 87 115   60 002   60 002
    Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period 95 863   90 456   87 115
    Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents 8 748   30 454   27 113

    Aktsiaselts Infortar operates in seven countries, the company’s main fields of activity are maritime transport, energy and real estate. Aktsiaselts Infortar owns a 68.47% stake in Aktsiaselts Tallink Grupp, a 100% stake in AS Eesti Gaas and a versatile and modern real estate portfolio of approx. 116,000 m2. In addition to the three main areas of activity, Aktsiaselts Infortar also operates in construction and mineral resources, agriculture, printing, taxi business and other areas. A total of 105 companies belong to the Aktsiaselts Infortar group: 96 subsidiaries, 4 affiliated companies and 5 subsidiaries of affiliated companies. Excluding affiliates, Aktsiaselts Infortar employs 6,108 people.

    Additional information:
    Kadri Laanvee
    Investor Relations Manager
    Phone: +372 5156662
    e-mail: kadri.laanvee@infortar.ee
    www.infortar.ee/en/investor

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos Sustainable Workplace research finds device lifespan can double while still delighting users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                    Press Release

    Atos Sustainable Workplace research finds device lifespan can double while still delighting users

    Research unveils data-driven, condition-based device refresh approach, supported by remanufacturing, can achieve an 8-10 year lifespan versus a standard 3-5 year device lifespan on a fixed refresh cycle without compromising user experience

    Research also demonstrates employees’ engagement: 75% are happy to keep their device for longer if they understand the environmental benefits of doing so

    Paris, France – November 4, 2024 – Atos today releases its research on digital workplace sustainability, providing valuable insights to help organizations enhance their IT decision-making and corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. The report, “Increasing digital workplace sustainability: Data-driven strategy to accelerate progress together,” highlights high levels of waste endemic across the IT industry and also identifies a series of actions all can take to turn this around.

    Since 79% of a laptop’s carbon footprint is produced during manufacturing, with each new device creating roughly 338kg CO2eq of carbon before use, life cycle extension can have a huge impact. The report initially points out that device lifecycles can be extended without compromising user satisfaction. For instance, by doing nothing but adjusting the standard refresh cycle from three to four years, enterprises can gain a 25% reduction in related emissions without downgrading device performance or user experience. Further, data-driven, condition-based device refresh combined with remanufacturing can achieve an 8-10 year lifespan.

    Atos research reveals that 76% of large organizations’ laptops can be remanufactured. The remaining 24% of devices could be refurbished or recycled to contribute to the circular economy.

    Atos’ study showcases the key role employees could play in IT sustainability. 75% of employees indicated they would be willing to keep their devices longer if they were aware of the environmental benefits. Nonetheless, 16% of devices are left running continuously without being turned off, emphasizing the need for better employee awareness on energy-saving practices. Additionally, carbon intensity can fluctuate up to 2.3 times during the day, indicating that informing users about the best times to use the electrical grid and switching to battery power could improve energy efficiency.

    Data indicate that 57% of the ICT sector’s carbon emissions originate from devices and workplace environments. Atos, as a global leader in digital workplace, was able to analyze 28.5 million devices used by medium to large organizations, with the help of its partners Nexthink, Tier1 and Circular Computing, to offer crucial recommendations for boosting IT sustainability.

    Leon Gilbert, Senior Vice President Digital Workplace, Atos said: “We wanted to leverage the vast quantities of data available to Atos and our partners to challenge convention and pinpoint new opportunities for enterprises and their IT service providers. Some findings surprised even our experts. We can now see how the financial, environmental and social value of every device can be increased while still delighting users”.

    David Welling, IT Sustainability Governance Lead, National Grid said: “Within our own organization, we are looking at using the data from this study to drive strategic changes in behavior. Today, very few of us would consider using our laptops to impact the demand variability of the grid. Yet nobody would think twice about charging their electric vehicle overnight when demand is lower and energy is greener. If we can connect that kind of demand flexibility with ICT, we have a real opportunity to fundamentally change the greenhouse gas emissions of entire energy systems for entire countries”.

    In summary, Atos research highlights that implementing sustainable management, processes and practices in the workplace doesn’t have to be lengthy or costly. Conversely, organizations may experience swift benefits from the insights provided in the study. Additionally, Atos asserts that “what we can measure, we can change” – which underlines the importance of comprehensive and real-time data to progress toward environmental objectives.

    Atos teams provide end-to-end employee experience solutions through digital collaboration and productivity tools, as well as intelligent customer care services. Atos’ sustainable digital workplace suite includes more than 20 “Tech for Good” services and solutions, encompassing social value and accessibility criteria as well as data analytics and user interfaces. In March 2024, Gartner positioned Atos as a Leader in its 2024 Magic Quadrant for Outsourced Digital Workplace Services (ODWS) for the eighth consecutive year.

    ***

    About Tech Foundations

    Tech Foundations is the Atos Group business line leading in managed services, focusing on hybrid cloud infrastructure, employee experience and technology services, through decarbonized, automated and AI-enabled solutions. Its 41,000 employees advance what matters to the world’s businesses, institutions and communities. It is present in 69 countries, with an annual revenue of c. € 5 billion.

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 82,000 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 69 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.

    Press contact

    Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Festive week: National Unity Day at the State University of Management

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The beginning of November in our country has been celebrated in an atmosphere of national unity for many centuries. The famous events of 1612 in Tsarist Russia were remembered on the day of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, in the USSR the anniversary of the Great October Revolution was celebrated during these days, and since 2004 the new Russia has returned to celebrating the end of the Time of Troubles and the restoration of firm state power.

    Today this holiday is extremely relevant. The state and the people are uniting again in the face of external threats, moving together to achieve technological sovereignty and leadership, defending their own traditional values and showing other countries an example of a fair social order.

    The State University of Management congratulates all Russians on National Unity Day and wishes to live in harmony and mutual understanding, support each other regardless of nationality and religion, remember not only the glorious pages of our country’s history, but also the dark times that strengthened us and brought us to a new stage of development.

    This year, the State University of Management celebrates National Unity Day the entire work week after the holiday. As part of the Friendship Without Borders project, we will host the following events: — November 5 — Interethnic Sports Games in the Sports Complex (starts at 10:30); — November 6 — the Improvisation show in the atrium of the Information Technology Center (starts at 14:00); — November 7 — a discussion called Our Values in the Information Technology Center (room 211, starts at 15:00); — November 8 — Interuniversity Interethnic Game Guess the Melody in the atrium of the Information Technology Center (starts at 14:00).

    Students from Moscow universities are invited to participate in the events. Up-to-date information on registration for the events is posted on the project’s Telegram channel: https://t.me/drujbaguu.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 11/4/2024

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s commerce minister urges active role from France in reaching EV trade solution

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao has called on France, as a key European Union (EU) member, to play an active role in pushing the European Commission to show sincerity and meet the Chinese side halfway to secure a solution concerning the EU’s anti-subsidy probe into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs).

    Wang made the remarks during a meeting with French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Sophie Primas, in Shanghai on Sunday, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Wang and Primas met ahead of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE), which starts this week.

    The EU’s anti-subsidy probe into China-made EVs has severely hindered cooperation between EU and Chinese auto industries, currently a critical concern for industries on both sides, Wang said, noting that technical teams from China and the EU are presently engaged in a second round of consultations.

    Wang reiterated China’s commitment to addressing China-EU trade friction through dialogue and consultation — based on respect for facts and compliance with WTO rules.

    Wang said that unlike the EU’s anti-subsidy probe initiated without industry applications, China’s trade remedy investigations targeting certain EU goods, such as brandy, pork and dairy products, were launched at the request of domestic industries in full compliance with WTO rules and Chinese laws and regulations.

    He stressed that China would continue to handle these investigations in accordance with laws and regulations, safeguard the legal rights of enterprises from EU member states, including France, and base its rulings on evidence and facts.

    China is ready to work with the European Commission to seek a proper solution in this respect, Wang added.

    Noting that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-France diplomatic relations, with France featuring as a guest country of honor at the CIIE again, Wang said that over 100 French companies are set to participate in the expo this year — the highest number among EU countries, highlighting French companies’ strong interest in the Chinese market.

    Primas affirmed France’s firm commitment to deepening economic and trade relations with China and expressed her pleasure at France’s role as a guest country of honor at the expo again this year.

    With agricultural and food products being vital elements of France’s trade with China, she conveyed France’s significant concern over China’s investigations aimed at EU products, including brandy.

    France does not wish to see further escalation of current EU-China trade tensions and hopes both sides will resolve trade disputes through consultation, Primas said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal following fatal collision in Enfield

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for witnesses following a fatal collision in Enfield.

    Police were called at about 14:05hrs on Monday, 28 October to reports of a collision involving a white Ford box van and a blue motorbike on Meridian Way close to the junction with Morson Road.

    Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended. Despite the efforts of emergency services, sadly the rider, aged in his late 20s, died at the scene.

    His next of kin has been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    Detectives from the Roads and Transport Policing Command are investigating. They would like to speak with anyone who witnessed the collision or captured it on dash cam.

    Anyone with information is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 020 8246 9820 or via 101 reference CAD 4097/28Oct.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: 18th Global Citizenship Conference to be held in Singapore

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — More than 400 delegates from over 50 countries are expected to attend the 18th annual Global Citizenship Conference, which takes place 27–29 November in Singapore.

    Hosted by world-leading international citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners, this annual event has become the world’s largest and most significant conference on investment migration, bringing together presidents and prime ministers, other senior government ministers and officials, and leading academics, as well as top-tier private client advisors and wealth management professionals, and financial and business media.

    The 2024 conference program features sophisticated content on the dynamics shaping the mobility options of wealthy families today. The conference will explore legal and economic developments and their implications, societal impacts relevant to global citizens, and trends in investment and wealth migration, along with regulatory and tax changes and the evolving concept of citizenship. Delegates will have the opportunity to engage with some of the world’s finest minds and latest ideas around global citizenship and interconnectivity and discover how to harness the power of global mobility.

    Dr. Christian H. Kalin, Group Chairman of Henley & Partners, emphasizes the timely relevance of connecting across borders as global citizens. “The Great Wealth Migration, as we call it, reflects a global trend fueled by geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, the climate crisis, and technological disruption. Wealthy individuals are increasingly recognizing that, in an interconnected world, relying solely on any one nation as a place of residence or citizenship — even a prosperous, democratic one — can be a risk they are no longer willing to take. As they consider their options, however, there is a crucial opportunity to reflect on the broader implications of their decisions. How can wealth be used not only for personal advantage but also to create positive social impact? Global citizenship, at its core, is the belief that we have responsibilities that extend beyond our own borders — to our communities and to the world as a whole. This conference seeks to broaden our perspectives through shared global learning, empowering us to drive meaningful change on both a local and a global scale.”

    Notable key speakers at the conference include the Hon. Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, and the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis. The Hon. Mohamed Nasheed, former President of the Maldives and current Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, will also share his insights along with senior government officials from Indonesia, Montenegro, and the South Pacific.

    Legendary global investor and best-selling author, Jim Rogers, will offer his perspective on global financial trends. Other distinguished speakers include Dr. Parag Khanna, Founder and CEO of Climate Alpha, Prof. Mehari Taddele Maru of the European University Institute and John Hopkins University, Irene Mia, Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, and Balaji Srinivasan, American tech entrepreneur, investor, and author of The Network State.

    A conference highlight will be the 2024 Global Citizen Award Dinner on 28 November, where a remarkable individual working to advance one of the global challenges affecting humanity today, will be honored. This year’s laureate will be announced at the gala event hosted in collaboration with the Swiss non-profit humanitarian organization Andan Foundation, which focuses on promoting the self-reliance of refugees through education, entrepreneurship, and employment, and to which the net proceeds of the evening will be donated.

    For further information and media accreditation to attend the 18th annual Global Residence and Citizenship Conference, please contact:

    Sarah Nicklin
    Group Head of Public Relations
    sarah.nicklin@henleyglobal.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 4BIO Capital Strengthens Investment Team

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    LONDON, 4 November 2024 – 4BIO Capital (“4BIO” or “the Group”), an international venture capital firm focused solely on the advanced and emerging therapies sector, announces today the appointments of Dr. Therese (Thera) Liechtenstein as an Investment Director based in Munich and Tay Salimullah as a Venture Partner based in Chicago.

    Dmitry Kuzmin, Managing Partner at 4BIO Capital, said: “Thera and Tay’s extensive experience and innovative perspectives will be invaluable to 4BIO as we continue to drive forward our mission of investing in transformative therapies. We are always keen on the diversity of thought and expertise that strengthens 4BIO’s unique edge as the leading advanced and emerging therapies investor. We are very excited to see where their thesis and experience take them and look forward to their contribution to our portfolio and investments.

    Thera Liechtenstein, newly appointed Investment Director commented: “I am thrilled to join 4BIO Capital and contribute to the firm’s mission of fostering advanced and emerging therapies. I look forward to playing a role in bringing transformative treatments to patients with significant unmet needs.”

    Tay Salimullah, newly appointed Venture Partner added: “This is a remarkable opportunity to work with a team dedicated to advancing transformative therapies. I look forward to leveraging my experience to support innovative companies that are poised to make a significant impact on healthcare and patient outcomes.”

    Thera Liechtenstein joins 4BIO Capital from M Ventures, the corporate venture arm of Merck KGaA, where she was a Senior Investment Director in the Biotechnology team. At M Ventures, Thera led company creations, new investments in Seed and Series A rounds, as well as follow-on investments in companies across Europe and North America, and supported these companies as a member of the board of directors. Previously Thera managed strategic projects for the Healthcare business of Merck. Prior to Merck, Thera was a client relationship manager in the field of wealth preservation, at Industrie- & Finanzkontor Ets. She has a strong academic background having received her PhD in Immuno-Oncology from University College London, an MSc in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Amsterdam, and a BA in Biology and Business studies from New York University.

    Tay Salimullah has over 20 years of leadership experience in the rare disease and MedTech sectors, with a proven track record in incubating and scaling innovative, high-value technologies, including cell and gene therapies. He spent over a decade at Novartis in a series of leadership roles. As an Executive Committee member at Novartis Gene Therapies, Tay executed a new commercial model for Zolgensma® and Kymriah®, securing approvals in more than 55 countries, helping to treat over 4,000 patients, and generating more than $5 billion in revenue. Prior to his roles at Novartis, Tay spent over ten years working in a variety of investment and healthcare roles, including a decade at Pfizer where he held several strategic and commercial roles. His expertise spans drug development, pricing science, market access, and operational excellence in high-value healthcare solutions. Tay holds a BSc in Management Sciences from the University of Brunel, London. 

    – Ends –

    Contacts

                                                    

    About 4BIO Capital

    4BIO Capital (‘4BIO’) is an international venture capital firm headquartered in London, focused solely on the advanced and emerging therapies sector. The 4BIO team, which has an unrivalled network within the advanced therapy sector, comprises leading advanced therapy scientists and experienced life science investors.

    The firm maintains a global footprint across the US, Europe and Asia with an objective to create, invest in, support, and grow early-stage companies. Its ultimate goal is ensuring access to potentially curative therapies for all patients, with a specific focus on viable, high-quality opportunities in cell and gene therapy, RNA-based therapy, targeted therapies, and the microbiome.

    4BIO is currently investing out of its Fund III, having secured support from prominent global institutional investors, including the Children’s Minnesota, UPMC, Development Bank of Japan, Kyowa Kirin, Exor, and many other endowments and foundations. For more information, connect with us on LinkedIn and X (@4biocapital) and visit www.4biocapital.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues EUR 20 million notes under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    4 November 2024 at 10:00 am (EET)

    Municipality Finance issues EUR 20 million notes under its MTN programme

    Municipality Finance Plc issues EUR 20 million notes on 5 November 2024. The maturity date of the notes is 5 November 2035. MuniFin has a right, but no obligation, to redeem the notes early on 5 November 2025. The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.87% per annum until 5 November 2025, after which the interest is paid at 3.00% per annum, unless MuniFin redeems the notes early.

    The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 5 November 2024.

    UBS Europe SE acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The company is owned by Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the Republic of Finland.
    The Group’s balance sheet totals over EUR 50 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia signs 5G deal extension with Taiwan Mobile

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia signs 5G deal extension with Taiwan Mobile

    • Nokia to modernize Taiwan Mobile’s 5G network and upgrade existing 4G infrastructure with equipment from industry-leading AirScale portfolio.
    • Deal to enhance experience for customers in both urban and rural environments with premium capacity and coverage.
    • Taiwan Mobile targeting sustainability goals with Nokia’s energy-efficient portfolio.

    4 November 2024
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia has signed a one-year 5G contract extension with Taiwan Mobile to boost the performance and capacity of Taiwan Mobile’s 5G network as well as upgrade its 4G/LTE network. This will add capacity and coverage and provide a better end-user experience for TWM’s customer base of approximately 10 million including in rural areas. The move comes following the merger of Taiwan Mobile and Taiwan Star last year and will help prepare Taiwan Mobile’s network for the 5G-Advanced era.

    Under the deal, Nokia will supply equipment from its industry-leading 5G AirScale portfolio for the first time in Taiwan. This includes Nokia’s next-generation, modular, high-capacity AirScale baseband solutions, Habrok 32 and Osprey 32 Massive MIMO radios and Remote Radio Head products. These are all powered by its energy-efficient ReefShark System-on-Chip technology and combine to provide superior coverage and capacity. The project will see thousands of existing LTE sites modernized for better energy efficiency supporting Taiwan Mobile’s sustainability targets. Taiwan Mobile will also install Nokia’s IPAA+ solution helping them to add additional antennas in constricted urban environments.

    Additionally, Taiwan Mobile will implement Nokia’s industry-leading Carrier Aggregation technology to its network. This combines radio spectrum to significantly boost the data rates offering customers better throughput, capacity, and performance.

    Nokia has partnered with Taiwan Mobile for over 20 years and has previously provided 2G, 3G, and 4G mobile networks covering RAN, mobile core, and voice core. Nokia has most recently supported Taiwan Mobile in the deployment of its nationwide 5G infrastructure including over 3,000 new cell sites.

    Jamie Lin, President at Taiwan Mobile, said: “This expanded partnership with Nokia marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing our 10 million customers with the best possible 5G experience, while also supporting the growing needs of over 1 million IoT devices across our network. By leveraging Nokia’s cutting-edge AirScale portfolio, we are not only enhancing network performance and capacity but also reinforcing our dedication to sustainability and advancing our Telco+Tech strategies. This collaboration will enable us to deliver superior connectivity to both urban and rural areas, ensuring that all our customers can enjoy the full benefits of the 5G era.”

    Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said: “Nokia is partnering with Taiwan Mobile to modernize their 5G and 4G networks to deliver enhanced performance and coverage and better customer experience. We are deploying the latest equipment from our energy-efficient AirScale portfolio, which will enable a greener network with reduced environmental impact, contributing to the operator’s sustainability goals.”

    Resources and additional information
    Webpage: Nokia 5G
    Product page: AirScale Radio Access
    Product page: MantaRay Network Management
    Webpage: Nokia 5G Core
    Webpage: Nokia Voice Core

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More pop up clinics arranged for winter vaccinations

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Similar to last year, those eligible for a free Covid-19 and flu vaccination include all adults aged 65 years and over, people who live in a care home for older adults, people aged 6 months to 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable, frontline health and social care staff including those working in care homes for older adults, and pregnant women.

    Eligible people can get one or both vaccinations and are invited to book an appointment via the NHS website, on the NHS app or by calling 119.

    Alternatively, they can get their vaccinations at one of a number of community pop up clinics offering both vaccines without an appointment which are taking place across the city over the coming weeks, including:

    • Phoenix Park, Dudley Road, today (Monday 4 November) and Monday 18 November from 9am to 3pm
    • SMI Steps to Health, Showell Circus, tomorrow (Tuesday 5 November) from 9am to 3pm
    • Sainsburys Wolverhampton, Raglan Street, on Thursday (7 November) and Thursday 21 November from 9am to 3pm
    • Queen Square, Wolverhampton, on Friday (8 November) and Friday 22 November from 9am to 3pm
    • Sainsburys Wednesfield, Bentley Bridge, on Thursdays 14 and 28 November from 11am to 6pm.

    Anyone not eligible for a free flu vaccination is reminded that they can get it for a small charge at participating pharmacists.

    Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “It’s vital that everyone prepares for potential winter illnesses, especially those who are at higher risk.

    “It can be easy to become complacent, however it’s important for those who are eligible to top up their protection, even if they have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or Covid-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year.”

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “Getting vaccinated will help you get winter strong so, I would encourage anyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a free flu or Covid-19 vaccination, or both.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott to Attend Lockheed’s C-5M Rollout Ceremony

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Congressman David Scott (GA-13) will attend Lockheed Martin’s ceremony to rollout the C-5M Super Galaxy. Media interested in attending the ceremony should contact Chandra Harris at 770-210-5073 or Peter Simmons of Lockheed at 770-494-6208 for more information.

    WHEN: TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2006 10:00 A.M.

    WHERE: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company 86 South Cobb Drive Marietta, Georgia 30063

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New SEND Local Offer website launched

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The website has been created in partnership with children, young people and their families and includes:

    • what to do if you’re new to SEND  
    • local support such as where you can find helpful advice, fun activities or services  
    • educational settings in Wolverhampton or nearby such as early years, primary, secondary, sixth form, colleges, further education and higher education
    • travel assistance arrangements for children or young people attending schools, colleges or an early years setting 
    • how to get advice for young adults with SEND, like housing and employment support.

    The new website has been developed in response to the Local Area SEND Inspection in 2021, which found that many parents and carers were not aware of the Local Offer and some of those that were found it difficult to access information on the site.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The Local Offer website brings together a wide range of information about the education, health and social care support available in Wolverhampton and the surrounding area for children and young people with SEND, and their families.

    “User acceptance testing is still being carried out on the new site and further development will be undertaken in response to feedback received. We are keen to hear your views to help us continue updating the website to meet your needs, so please take a look and if you have any comments, let us know via the feedback function on the website.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Long-term public-private partnership to deliver thousands of affordable homes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Pension Insurance Corporation, Muse and Homes England form £54 million joint venture, named HABIKO, a development vehicle to bring forward 3,000 low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes for rent

    A significant long-term public-private partnership, focused on affordable housing delivery, has been announced by Pension Insurance Corporation, a major investor in UK housing and infrastructure, nationwide place maker, Muse, and Homes England, the Government’s housing and regeneration agency. 

    The new public-private partnership, named Habiko, is a joint venture that plans to deliver 3,000 low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes for the rental market, unlocking institutional investment. Habiko will become self-funding over its 12-year lifespan and aims to diversify the supply chain for future efficient housing developments. 

    Habiko is targeting up to 100% affordable homes for rent for those whose needs are not met by the market, with rents set at 20% below the local market rent. During the 12-year lifespan of the partnership, PIC will have the ability to continue to forward fund the development of the affordable homes and will ultimately own the homes and places they have helped to create through its investment and long-term stewardship approach. 

    The homes will be built across England in areas of high demand for this type of housing. The developments aim to create social value for these communities, including boosting the local economy through job creation and new skills to drive green innovation. The homes will be in accessible locations, close to employment opportunities and be designed to help residents save money on their energy bills. 

    Tracy Blackwell, CEO of PIC, said:

    Meeting the UK’s affordable housing needs is a challenge that is best met through effective collaboration between Government, developers, and private investors. Habiko is a great example of public-private partnership, which brings forward thousands of low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes.

    PIC has invested around £4 billion in social and affordable housing to date, helping provide the secure, long-dated, inflation linked cashflows to back the pensions of its policyholders over coming decades, creating considerable social value.

    Phil Mayall, Managing Director at Muse, said:

    The Government has set out a bold and ambitious challenge to deliver a significant number of new affordable homes over the next five years. Working together with PIC and Homes England, we can bring together our collective resources and unique experience to deliver thousands of low carbon and low energy homes which, by working alongside our local partners, meet the needs of communities across the country.” 

    Peter Denton, Chief Executive of Homes England, said: 

    Attracting institutional investment into the housing sector is critical to build the new homes the country needs. 

    This partnership supports our partners’ objective to deliver low carbon, low energy, affordable homes, bringing together the technical expertise and capability of Muse with the financial capacity of one of the UK’s largest pension fund insurers, cementing PIC as a significant force in delivering affordable housing.

    Notes to Editors

    For more information about Habiko please visit www.habiko.uk  

    About Homes England 

    Homes England is the government’s housing and regeneration agency. We believe that affordable, quality homes in well-designed places are key to improving people’s lives. We make this happen by using our powers, expertise, land, capital and influence to both – bring investment to communities and get more quality homes built. 

    https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/homes-england 

    About PIC 

    The purpose of PIC is to pay the pensions of its current and future policyholders. At half year 2024 PIC had insured 348,600 pension scheme members and had assets of £47.7 billion, accumulated through the provision of tailored pension insurance buyouts and buy-ins to the trustees and sponsors of UK defined benefit pension schemes. PIC has made pension payments of more than £15 billion to its policyholders, with a customer satisfaction rating of 99%, and has invested more than £13 billion in the UK infrastructure and housing, including in urban regeneration projects, social housing, and renewable energy, creating considerable social value. Clients include FTSE 100 companies, multinationals and the public sector. PIC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority (FRN 454345). For further information please visit www.pensioncorporation.com 

    About Muse – the nationwide placemaker 

    The nationwide placemaker, Muse, has 40 years of experience creating mixed-use communities across the UK.  

    Our track record of leading complex, mixed-use regeneration gives us the experience to deliver successful places, with the emphasis on sustainability, community and quality. We’re working with partners across the UK with more than 2000 new homes and over 600,000 sq ft of commercial space under construction over the past 12 months, with a gross development value of £877m.  

    We combine local insight with the resources and capabilities of a nationwide organisation. Our regional teams are based in Manchester, Leeds, London and Birmingham.  

    As part of Morgan Sindall Group, we have the financial strength of a leading UK construction and regeneration group with an annual revenue of £2.2bn  

    Our focus is on strong partnerships in the many places we work across the UK and our national strategic joint ventures, ECF – with Legal & General and Homes England – and Waterside Places with the Canal & River Trust.  

    We’re building a brighter future, together.  

    www.museplaces.com

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Music Service offers qualification for learners with support needs

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The Awards and Certificates in Musical Development are industry first, innovative qualifications which set a new standard for fully accessible, inclusive music assessments. They enable children and young people with learning difficulties to achieve a fully regulated qualification in any music making context.

    Daryl Pardesi, Hub Development Lead for Inclusion and Partnerships at Wolverhampton Music Service, said: “This is a much needed new inclusion opportunity for pupils in SEND settings to gain accreditation, just as their peers have done for a long time in primary and secondary settings.

    “These innovative qualifications celebrate every learner’s journey, recognising musical achievements across all abilities and backgrounds.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “These are ground breaking, fully accessible, regulated music qualifications open to all learners – from those with profound learning difficulties to those on the autism spectrum.

    “These qualifications enable everyone to have their musical achievements and progress formally recognised, and I am delighted that we are able to offer them through Wolverhampton Music Service.”

    Although geared towards learners with SEND or additional support needs, the Awards and Certificates of Musical Development are designed to recognise how everyone engages with music and is open to all learners working with the Sounds of Intent Framework, with no age restrictions or other limitations.

    Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra.

    Last year, it delivered around 500 hours of tuition to nearly 7,000 children in 82 schools across the city every week, and runs 15 free ensembles enjoyed by over 500 children and young people on a weekly basis.

    To find out more visit Wolverhampton Music Service.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Amherd to travel to Budapest for fifth European Political Community Summit

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    The fifth European Political Community (EPC) Summit will take place in Budapest on Thursday, 7 November. President Amherd will represent Switzerland at the meeting, which will be attended by representatives from around 45 European states, the institutions of the European Union (EU) and other organisations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Intricate model sheds a little light on iconic Smeaton designs

    Source: City of Leeds

    An impressive, brick-by-brick recreation of John Smeaton’s famous Eddystone Lighthouse has gone on display in Leeds alongside the 230-year-old designs which inspired it.

    Civil Engineer and railway enthusiast Mark Calvert designed the model and then printed each part on a 3D printer, after an illuminating study into the famed Leeds-born engineer’s original masterwork.

    Now his model has taken pride of place in an exhibition at Leeds Industrial Museum next to a stunning first edition book, penned by Smeaton himself, detailing his pioneering plans for the towering full-sized structure.

    Coloured in the iconic red and white stripes which have become synonymous with the British seaside, the metre-high model is made up of scores of interlocking bricks, which mimic the huge granite blocks and dovetail joints of the full-sized version.

    Mark, a former chair of the Yorkshire branch of the Institution of Civil Engineers, became fascinated by the intricacy of Smeaton’s plans, which were themselves inspired by the strong, sweeping appearance of an oak tree.

    He said: “Smeaton’s lighthouse designs have always been fascinating, but it isn’t until you look at them in detail that you fully marvel at the incredible thought process which much have gone into their actual construction.

    “Each individual block had to correspond exactly to the ones around, allowing them to interlock and make the lighthouse so strong and resilient against vast forces of the sea that had swept away the lighthouses that stood before Smeaton’s attempt.

    “It was such a challenge to recreate these designs and a really proud moment to see my model on display alongside the designs which came from the mind of Smeaton himself.”

    Born in Whitkirk, Leeds in 1724, self-taught engineer Smeaton was tasked with building a lighthouse to guide ships through the notoriously perilous passage through the Eddystone Rocks off the coast of Devon in around 1756.

    Inspired by the tapered trunk of an oak tree and the kerbstones of London’s pavements, the completed lighthouse stood 59 feet high, and was first lit on October 16, 1759.

    On loan from Leeds Central Library, the book of his designs itself took 35 years to complete and was dedicated by the author to King George III.

    Both the book and Mark’s model are on display as part of Engineery: Building Better Futures, an exhibition exploring the story of civil engineering and the huge impact it has had on the world.

    The exhibition is a collaboration between Leeds Museums and Galleries and Smeaton 300, a programme designed by local arts organisation Foxglove to mark Smeaton’s 300th birthday. Mark worked alongside Foxglove, who consulted him as an expert engineer as part of the programme.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “It’s incredible to see Smeaton’s designs are still encouraging creativity and innovation in Leeds centuries after he was born.

    “There can be no more fitting tribute to his life and legacy than for his work to be on display today in his home city alongside modern day creations made by those he has inspired.”

    For more information on Smeaton 300, visit: The Project – Smeaton300

    For more details about Engineery, which is on now at Leeds Industrial Museum, please visit: Engineery – Leeds Museums & Galleries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Sydbank share buyback programme: transactions in week 44

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company Announcement No 52/2024

    		 Peberlyk 4
    6200 Aabenraa
    Denmark

    Tel +45 74 37 37 37
    Fax +45 74 37 35 36

    Sydbank A/S
    CVR No DK 12626509, Aabenraa
    sydbank.dk
    4 November 2024  

    Dear Sirs

    Sydbank share buyback programme: transactions in week 44
    On 28 February 2024 Sydbank announced a share buyback programme of DKK 1,200m. The share buyback programme commenced on 4 March 2024 and will be completed by 31 January 2025.

    The purpose of the share buyback programme is to reduce the share capital of Sydbank and the programme is executed in compliance with the provisions of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016, collectively referred to as the Safe Harbour rules.

    The following transactions have been made under the share buyback programme:

      Number of shares VWAP Gross value (DKK)
    Accumulated, most recent
    Announcement

    2,570,000

    		  

    907,853,910.00
    28 October 2024
    29 October 2024
    30 October 2024
    31 October 2024
    01 November 2024    		 17,000
    18,000
    18,000
    18,000
    16,000    		 328.44
    319.15
    314.67
    324.97
    329.67    		 5,583,480.00
    5,744,700.00
    5,664,060.00
    5,849,460.00
    5,274,720.00
    Total over week 44 87,000   28,116,420.00
    Total accumulated during the
    share buyback programme

    2,657,000

    		  

    935,970,330.00

    All transactions were made under ISIN DK 0010311471 and effected by Danske Bank A/S on behalf of Sydbank A/S.

    Further information about the transactions, cf Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on market abuse and Commission delegated regulation, is available in the attachment.

    Following the above transactions, Sydbank holds a total of 2,657,135 own shares, equal to 4.86% of the Bank’s share capital.

    Yours sincerely
            
    Mark Luscombe        Jørn Adam Møller
    CEO        Deputy Group Chief Executive

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City to turn Orange and say ‘no’ to interpersonal violence

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The annual Orange Wolverhampton campaign, which begins on Monday 25 November, aims to raise awareness of the city’s continuing drive to end domestic abuse, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, so-called honour-based violence, sexual violence and stalking and harassment.

    At the same time, it highlights the advice and support that is available to victims from local and national organisations such as The Haven Wolverhampton, St George’s Hub, Karma Nirvana and the City of Wolverhampton Council.

    The campaign runs from 25 November, the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, until 10 December, UN Human Rights Day, and supports the UN Orange the World campaign to end violence against women and girls. In Wolverhampton, there is a strong focus on ending interpersonal violence against all individuals, whether they are female or male.

    This year’s campaign includes a variety of online and in person events to enable as many people as possible to get involved, and will begin with a flag raising ceremony outside the Civic Centre on 25 November at 11am. All are welcome.

    There will be an Orange Wolverhampton information point at the Mander Centre on Monday and Tuesday, 2 and 3 December, between 10.30am and 4.30pm, raising awareness and handing out ribbons.

    There are also craft workshops with Changing Lives, a series of virtual Lunch and Learn sessions with The Haven Wolverhampton, ROSHNI, Black Country Women’s Aid, DORCAS and Changing Lives, virtual Spotlight Sessions on domestic violence with Sikh Women’s Aid and drop in session with Wolverhampton Homes, DORCAS and ROSHNI.

    A Round Table Event for male survivors and professionals will be hosted by St George’s Hub, which is also holding a workshop to help identify the hidden male victims of honour-based violence.

    Wolverhampton’s Domestic Abuse Champions will be at Wednesfield Library on Friday 29 November to talk to people about any concerns they may have in confidence, and Orange Wolverhampton runners will be taking part in the parkruns at West Park and East Park during the 16 days of activism.

    The programme ends with an Orange Walk led by ROSHNI on Tuesday 10 December through the city. Full details of the events will be added to the Orange Wolverhampton website, shortly.

    Scores of organisations across Wolverhampton are set to support this year’s campaign in a range of ways, from holding ‘wear orange’ days, wearing orange pin badges, turning their websites and social media channels orange, lighting their buildings orange, flying orange flags, sharing key messages about the campaign with staff, customers and service users, and much more.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “The Orange Wolverhampton campaign is a great way for us to all say ‘no’ to interpersonal violence and help raise awareness of the advice and support available to victims and survivors in Wolverhampton.

    “We’re hoping that thousands of people will get involved again this year, perhaps by holding or joining one of the many events that will be taking place across the city, or visiting the Orange Wolverhampton information stand in the Mander Centre on 2 and 3 December.”

    The Orange Wolverhampton campaign is co-ordinated by Wolverhampton Safeguarding Together, the Safer Wolverhampton Partnership, Wolverhampton Voluntary and Community Action, and the council.

    For more information and to sign up to this year’s campaign, please visit the Orange Wolverhampton website to find details of events and resources, and to add any events you or your organisation is planning.

    Anyone suffering from domestic violence, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, so-called ‘honour-based’ violence or sexual violence, or knows someone who is, should call the relevant helpline:

    • The Haven Wolverhampton 24 hour helpline for women – 08000 194400
    • St George’s Hub support for male victims – 01902 421904
    • Karma Nirvana helpline for victims of so-called ‘honour-based’ violence and forced marriage – 0800 5999 247
    • Wolverhampton Adult Social Care – 01902 551199
    • Wolverhampton Children’s Social Care – 01902 555392
    • West Midlands Forced Marriage and Honour-Based Violence Helpline – 0800 953 9777
    • National Domestic Violence helpline for women – 0808 2000 247
    • National Domestic Violence helpline for men – 0808 8010327
    • NSPCC Female Genital Mutilation helpline – 0800 028 3550
    • In an emergency, always call police on 999.

    For more information about the work of Wolverhampton Safeguarding Together, please visit Wolverhampton Safeguarding Together.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City getting digi with it

    Source: City of Norwich

    Refurbishment work is moving at pace to create a new Digital Hub at Townshend House in Norwich city centre.

    The hub, which will be operated by HQ, part of International Workplace Group, the world’s largest provider of hybrid working solutions, is due to open its doors in the Spring, is set help make the city a digital powerhouse.

    It is one of eight key projects in the £25m Town Deal programme which is funded by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (MHCLG)’s Levelling Up Fund following a successful bid by Norwich City Council as part of its drive to deliver regeneration, new skills, infrastructure and jobs in the city.

    And to see how works were shaping up this week was Cllr Mike Stonard, Leader of Norwich City Council.

    Cllr Stonard said: “Things are really shaping up here and I am really looking forward to seeing the new Townshend House become the City’s Digital Hub – it really will be a major milestone in our mission to make Norwich a digital and creative powerhouse. It’s all part of our plans to make a more prosperous Norwich and fit for the future.”

    Mark Dixon, CEO & Founder of International Workplace Group PLC, commented: “With a growing digital community, Norwich is a fantastic place for us to boost our expansion plans across Norfolk and the East of England. The need for high-quality flexible workspaces continues to soar across the world as hybrid working becomes the new normal. We are very pleased to work with the council to open our latest state-of-the-art workspaces to support the thriving digital industry in Norwich.”

    The former ITV Anglia HQ, which is owned by Norwich City Council, will provide new and additional workspaces for digital businesses in Norwich. 

    Set to open in Spring 2025, The Digital Hub will provide space for established firms and start-ups across a range of industries including digital, creative and media, while International Workplace Group’s Design Your Own Office service allows companies to tailor their space entirely to their requirements. The new HQ workspace location will include facilities including private offices, meeting rooms, co-working and creative spaces.

    Local Growth Minister, Alex Norris, said: “It’s fantastic to hear work is under way to create a new Digital Hub in Norwich, another step forward in making the city centre a destination for the tech and creative industry is the economic growth we want to see across all towns and cities. It is vital our communities keep creating innovative flexible new spaces like this to attract new startups and investors to the area and help local people to fully embrace the jobs of the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal for witnesses to serious collision in Hammersmith

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating a serious road traffic incident in Hammersmith are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage or CCTV footage to come forward.

    Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 12:50hrs on Wednesday, 30 October to reports of a collision involving a delivery van and a woman on a service road outside The Ark on Talgarth Road, W6.

    Emergency services attended and provided first aid. The woman was taken to hospital where she remains due to her serious injuries.

    The van driver who stopped at the scene was not arrested. They are co-operating with police officers and the investigation.

    Detectives from the Roads and Transport Policing Command are leading the investigation.

    Anyone who witnessed this incident or has information or footage should contact the witness line on 020 8543 5157 or call police on 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting 3378/30Oct.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MedSafetyWeek 2025: Preventing side effects 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The ninth annual #MedSafetyWeek takes place this week, with regulators from 94 countries and 107 organisations taking part across the globe. 

    #MedSafetyWeek forms part of international efforts to raise awareness about the importance of reporting suspected side effects to national medicines regulatory authorities such as the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).  

    This year’s campaign, which runs from 4 to 10 November, focuses on the importance of using medicines correctly to prevent side effects. 

    This means taking the right medicines, at the right time, in the right way and at the right dose, and carefully following instructions for use of medical devices. Following these steps can drastically reduce the risk of some side effects and safety issues.  

    When side effects do arise, this MedSafetyWeek, we ask that they are reported directly to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme and local reporting systems as soon as possible. Anyone can make a report: patients, parents, carers and healthcare professionals.  

    Reporting to the scheme allows the MHRA to not only identify new adverse effects but also gain more information about known adverse effects. This helps to improve the safety of medicines and healthcare products for all patients. 

    Safety concerns about medical devices, blood factor and immunoglobulin products, e-cigarettes and defective, low-quality or fake healthcare products should also be reported on the Yellow Card website. 

    This year’s MedSafetyWeek theme of ‘preventing side effects’ aligns with the third World Health Organization (WHO) Global Patient Safety Challenge: Medication Without Harm.  

    Preventable side effects contribute significantly to an increasing burden on patients and healthcare services, with studies consistently showing that between one third and a half may be potentially preventable.  

    Anticipating and managing side effects is key to reducing this burden and protecting patients from avoidable harm.  

    Please support #MedSafetyWeek by sharing, liking and reposting our social media posts: 

    Yellow Card scheme 

    In the UK, the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme is a critical source of information for us as the regulator to monitor the safety of healthcare products once they are on the market.   

    Importantly, Yellow Card reports can help to identify previously unknown side effects – or adverse drug reactions (ADRs) – and provide new safety knowledge to ensure risk is minimised.  

    Examples include a report of a three-month-old baby who was prescribed Gaviscon Infant to manage reflux and two days later had severe constipation. 

    MHRA experts investigated the report and found six other reports of constipation with Gaviscon Infant in children. The ages of the patients varied between two weeks and nine months, except for one child who was a one-year-old.  

    As the medicine is indicated for children aged one to two years, it appeared that in the vast majority of these cases the product had been prescribed by a healthcare professional in an unapproved patient age group. 

    It was decided that regulatory action was needed to make the product information clearer with the relevant warnings and precautions. 

    Yellow Card Biobank 

    The Yellow Card Biobank is an MHRA and Genomics England pilot project with the goal of increasing understanding of how a patients’ genetic makeup may increase their risk of side effects from prescribed medications.  

    The MHRA is currently looking for patients who have experienced severe skin reactions when taking allopurinol or severe bleeding when taking direct oral anticoagulants to join the study, before mid-January 2025. 

    If you or your patient have experienced a side effect to either of these drugs please complete a Yellow Card report. If you have any questions on the Biobank study, please email Yellowcardbiobank@mhra.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: St Austell angler fined for not having a rod licence

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    It would have been cheaper for an angler to have bought a rod licence after he was caught and fined.

    Money raised from the sale of rod licences supports the sport, fish stock and pays for improvements

    William Greaves, 39, from Moorland Road, St Austell, pleaded guilty to fishing without a rod licence at Bilberry Lake, St Austell. He was fined £40 and ordered to pay a £16 victim surcharge at Swindon Magistrates Court on 29 October 2024.  

    Benjamin Pessl, Environment Agency fisheries enforcement officer, said: 

    Money from rod licence sales is put back where it came from to improve the experience of anglers and fisheries. Not doing that cheats everyone. 

    Buying a rod licence is not expensive. Always check your licence is in date before you go out fishing

    Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence. A 1-day licence costs from just £6 and an annual licence costs from just £30 (concessions available). Junior licences are free for 13 – 16-year-olds. Licences are available from www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. 

    The Environment Agency carries out enforcement work all year round and is supported by partners including the police and the Angling Trust. Fisheries enforcement work is intelligence-led, targeting known hot-spots and where illegal fishing is reported. 

    Anyone with information about illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency incident hotline 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

    Background

    William Greaves was charged with: 

    On 21 April 2024 at Bilberry Lake, St Austell, in a place where fishing is regulated fished for freshwater fish or eels by means of an unlicensed fishing instrument, namely rod and line, contrary to Section 27(1)(a) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Bishop of Coventry: 4 November 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Sophie Jelley, Suffragan Bishop of Doncaster to be appointed as Bishop of Coventry.

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Sophie Jelley, Suffragan Bishop of Doncaster to be appointed as Bishop of Coventry, in succession to The Right Reverend Dr Christopher Cocksworth following his appointment as Dean of Windsor.

    Background

    Sophie was educated at the Universities of Leeds and Oxford and trained for ordination at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. She served her title at St Peter’s, Shipley, in the former Diocese of Bradford (now in the Diocese of Leeds) and was ordained priest in 1998.

    She took up the role of Mission Partner with the Church Mission Society in 2000, serving at Uganda Christian University in Mukono, before returning to the UK in 2003 to take up the role of Resident Minister of St John the Evangelist, Churt with Rushmoor, in the Diocese of Guildford. In 2010, Sophie was appointed Vicar of St Andrew’s, Burgess Hill, in the Diocese of Chichester, and from 2013 was additionally Assistant Diocesan Director of Ordinands. In 2015, Sophie was appointed Canon Missioner of Durham Cathedral and Diocesan Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry, in the Diocese of Durham.

    In 2020, Sophie took up her current role as Suffragan Bishop of Doncaster, in the Diocese of Sheffield

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nature’s role in economy

    Source: Scottish Government

    Jobs and sectors dependent on sustainable natural world.

    Scotland’s natural assets contribute more than £40 billion to the economy and support around 260,000 jobs, according to new research. 

    The Importance of Natural Capital to the Scottish Economy report highlights the vital economic contribution the natural world makes to Scotland and highlights the value of the ecosystems and the services they provide. 

    Important industries such as agriculture, fishing and aquaculture, forestry, water, food and drink and renewables all rely upon the continued availability of high-quality natural resources.

    The research investigates the economic impact of natural capital, which is defined as “the renewable and non-renewable stocks of natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water and plants and animals that combine to yield a flow of benefits to people.” 

    The Scottish Government conducted the research to provide the most up-to-date reflection of the true value of nature to the Scottish economy, as it is often undervalued or not included in economic assessments. The study demonstrates the link between the threats to Scotland’s economic performance, and the economic opportunity associated with increasing nature dependent sectors.

    The Scottish Government’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET) makes clear that working with and investing in nature is a top priority of Scotland’s wellbeing economy. 

    Speaking while visiting Blackthorn Salt in Ayrshire, which produces salt through filtering sea water, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:  

    “This research reinforces the vital role of our natural capital in supporting many of our vital industries – a connection that is often under-represented when we look at economic performance. Blackthorn Salt is an excellent example of a business that is dependent on natural capital, using sustainable, traditional methods to produce an exceptional products that provides jobs and can be found in kitchens across the country and beyond.

    “The twin crises of climate change and nature loss are inextricably linked, nature offers some of the best ways to protect us from the worst impacts of climate change, so it is essential that we work with partners across the public sector and private investors to protect biodiversity and reduce our emissions as we support sustainable businesses utilising our incredible landscapes and ecosystems.”

    NatureScot Chief Executive, Francesca Osowska said:

    “Nature is vital for our quality of life and that of future generations. In Scotland we are fortunate to have rich and varied landscapes and habitats, with individuals and businesses willing to step up to the challenge of stopping nature loss with hard work and investment.

    “NatureScot is responding to this urgent need with leadership of vital programmes such as the £250m Peatland ACTION fund, the £65m Nature Restoration Fund and the innovative new Facility for Investment Ready Nature Scotland (FIRNS) which aims to both restore nature and benefit communities. “

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Appointment of Bishop of Coventry: 4 November 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Sophie Jelley, Suffragan Bishop of Doncaster to be appointed as Bishop of Coventry.

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Sophie Jelley, Suffragan Bishop of Doncaster to be appointed as Bishop of Coventry, in succession to The Right Reverend Dr Christopher Cocksworth following his appointment as Dean of Windsor.

    Background

    Sophie was educated at the Universities of Leeds and Oxford and trained for ordination at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. She served her title at St Peter’s, Shipley, in the former Diocese of Bradford (now in the Diocese of Leeds) and was ordained priest in 1998.

    She took up the role of Mission Partner with the Church Mission Society in 2000, serving at Uganda Christian University in Mukono, before returning to the UK in 2003 to take up the role of Resident Minister of St John the Evangelist, Churt with Rushmoor, in the Diocese of Guildford. In 2010, Sophie was appointed Vicar of St Andrew’s, Burgess Hill, in the Diocese of Chichester, and from 2013 was additionally Assistant Diocesan Director of Ordinands. In 2015, Sophie was appointed Canon Missioner of Durham Cathedral and Diocesan Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry, in the Diocese of Durham.

    In 2020, Sophie took up her current role as Suffragan Bishop of Doncaster, in the Diocese of Sheffield

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Election called for Leicester’s next Young People’s Council

    Source: City of Leicester

    SCHOOLS and community groups have this week begun the process of selecting and electing candidates for Leicester’s next Young People’s Council.

    The Young People’s Council aims to provide a voice for young people in the city by ensuring their views are represented in the local decision-making processes that affect them.

    Young people, who must be living or attending school in Leicester, can stand for election with their school, college, youth group or community group where they will need to campaign for votes to win a seat on the Young People’s Council.

    Voting will take place in the participating schools and community groups over the coming weeks with all elected candidates due to attend a swearing-in ceremony at the Town Hall Council Chambers early in the new year.

    Deputy city mayor Cllr Sarah Russell said: “Leicester’s Young People’s Council is a fantastic opportunity for young people. It gives them the space and opportunity to influence decision-makers, voice their opinions to a wide range of audiences and know that their contributions are being valued and heard.

    “Being a member of the Young People’s Council is also a great way to build confidence, meet friends and learn new skills.

    “Perhaps most importantly though, the Young People’s Council provides a valuable perspective on the issues and plans that we need to consider as a council, particularly around services for children and young people.”

    Sera Shortland, head of citizenship at new College Leicester, said: “As a school we have taken part in the YPC elections for many years. Young people have a lot to offer democracy, being the future of the country. They bring fresh perspectives, energy, and ideas and want to get involved in decision-making and so it’s important that their voices are heard in shaping the policies that will affect them.

    “When young people have access to decision-makers and are offered opportunities through such a brilliant initiative, it has the potential to change lives. Hopefully, this will have a ripple effect on other young people, who will go out and vote in the future.”  

    The Young People’s Council meets monthly at City Hall to discuss issues affecting young people and discuss actions to tackle them. Members will also be invited to sit at agreed scrutiny committees and work with local councillors to offer young people’s surgeries and attend some community meetings.

    Candidates must be aged between 11 and 19 years old, or up to 25 years old for young people with special education needs and disabilities (SEND).

    Young People’s Council members can hold their seats for up to two years.

    The selection and election process for the next Young People’s Council launched today (Monday 4 Nov) with about 35 local schools and community groups already signed up to participate.

    Leicester’s Young People’s Council is organised by the city council rights and participation service. This aims to support and empower young people to be involved in and shape decisions that affect their lives, including how the council plans, delivers and evaluates services for children, young people and parents.

    Sam Merry, rights and participation service manager at Leicester City Council added: “The Young Peoples Council is a well-established and highly regarded forum within the city council. Its reach within the local authority helps to demonstrate to young people that they do have a right to be heard and to influence decisions that affect them.

    “We’re very excited to launch the election period the next Young People’s Council.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business “ready to support” UK with £500m investment following Chancellor’s first budget

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    US firm confirms £500m investment in biomedical research, supporting government’s plan to attract private investment and grow the UK economy.

    • New biomedical hubs will create over 2000 new jobs and boost scientific discoveries which will save lives
    • Expansion of world-leading research laboratories in Cambridge set to inject millions of pounds into British economy every year

    A US firm has announced a £500 million investment into a UK research campus following the Chancellor’s first budget, supporting government plans to attract private investment and its industrial strategy.

    The investment from San Francisco-based developer Prologis will create thousands of jobs, spearhead lifesaving biomedical breakthroughs and generate millions of pounds for the British economy every year. It comes just two days after the Budget pledged to unleash private investment to kickstart economic growth.

    The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has welcomed the vote of confidence from business, which will expand a centre of excellence for medical research in Cambridge.

    The Prologis investment funds a 115,000 square ft expansion to Cambridge Biomedical Campus – a world-leading biomedical cluster which currently generates £4.2 billion each year for the UK economy.

    The new development will house high-tech labs, supporting clinical trials and diagnostic services. It will inject millions into the British economy every year and create over 2,120 highly-skilled jobs – in roles from research to diagnostic.

    The Cambridge Biomedical Campus is a world-leading life sciences cluster for biomedical research, healthcare, and education, which combines collaborations among academia, industry, and healthcare.

    Research conducted at Cambridge Biomedical Campus addresses the most pressing global healthcare challenges, including developing techniques for spotting cancer early and understanding dementia – while contributing significantly to the economy and currently employing over 22,000 staff, many of whom are in highly-skilled roles.

    Today’s announcement from Prologis also builds on the £63 billion worth of investments secured at government’s record breaking International Investment Summit last month – creating 38,000 jobs in the UK.

    Securing investment is central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    This investment from Prologis – just two days after this government’s first Budget – is a vote of confidence in our plan for the UK economy.

    After also attracting £63bn at the International Investment Summit, it’s clear Britain is back in business. Economic growth is my number one mission, and unleashing private investment will play a major role in kickstarting it.

    Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK, said:

    There is a lot riding on this pivotal first Budget and strong support from the private sector to follow through on investment pledges will be critical. The government’s commitment to unlock Foreign Direct Investment matches our own focus on partnering with public and private stakeholders to invest and deliver the infrastructure needed for sustainable, long-term growth. 

    Steps already taken through the launch of the National Planning Policy Framework and the Green Paper for the Industrial Strategy are paving the way for a stronger, more resilient industrial base. These initiatives will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of industrial innovation and Prologis are ready to support the government’s ambitions, providing the spaces that can unlock growth and development.   

    We look forward to furthering our collaboration and investment activity, ensuring the UK continues to lead on a global stage.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle said:

    The UK’s life sciences sector is central to our ambitions for the UK – from driving economic growth through to saving and improving lives through better treatments. 

    Major investments like this from Prologis, bringing the sector’s largest global companies under one roof in Cambridge, is another vote of confidence in the UK’s approach to long-term growth.

    Coming just days after the Chancellor raised public funding for R&D to record levels, this underlines how this Government is in lockstep with business in our joint ambition to make sure everyone in the UK benefits from advances in science and technology.

    The government is delivering its growth mission by prioritising stability, investment, and reform to drive prosperity across the UK. The Budget takes the difficult decisions to put the public finances on a sustainable path to create the conditions for growth, and to create a stable economic environment for businesses to invest.

    Supported by the new fiscal framework, the Budget increases public investment by more than £100 billion over the next five years to boost growth and help crowd in private investment in the long run. This includes investing in transport, kickstarting the delivery of 1.5 million homes, supporting new industries and job creation, and protecting record R&D funding through a record £20.4 billion investment.

    The government will also work in partnership with the private sector to further increase investment. The government has created the National Wealth Fund to catalyse over £70 billion of private investment, set out plans for a modern Industrial Strategy to support investment in growth-driving sectors.

    The government has also published a Corporate Tax Roadmap to provide businesses the certainty they have called for. This confirms our commitment to cap the rate of Corporation Tax at 25% – the lowest in the G7 – for the duration of this parliament while maintaining full expensing and the £1 million Annual Investment Allowance and keeping the current rates of research and development reliefs, to drive innovation. 

    The Chancellor also set out how this government will transform the way it delivers infrastructure, including publishing a 10-year infrastructure strategy, establishing the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority, delivering ambitious planning reform. 

    At last month’s investment summit, the Prime Minister also committed to get rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment and to upgrade the UK’s regulatory regime to make it fit for the modern age and ensure it’s not acting as a barrier for growth.

    The Budget has set out a clear plan to fix the foundations of the economy and begin a decade of national renewal by protecting working people, fixing the NHS, and boosting investment to deliver growth and prosperity for all parts of the country.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –