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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dounreay awarded Gold status for fourth year by ECITB

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Dounreay awarded Gold status for fourth year by ECITB

    NRS Dounreay has been awarded Gold status for skills and training for the fourth consecutive year by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board.

    Dounreay representatives receiving the award from the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board

    The engineering construction industry values its members, who design, construct, maintain, renew and dismantle the UK’s strategically important industrial infrastructure. Not only is it essential that these individuals are highly skilled and competent, but it is also essential that their competence is properly recognised and validated.

    Dounreay’s P3M Head of Profession, Simon Coles, said:

    For NRS Dounreay, achieving the highest score possible in the assessment showcases the dedication and excellence of the training and development team.

    Training and Development Specialist Rhona Gill and Simon Coles were photographed receiving the award from representatives of Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB).

    ECITB’s Relationship Manager, Sophie Anderson, said:

    I am delighted that NRS Dounreay has been awarded Gold status through the ECITB Skills and Training Charter for the fourth consecutive year.

    Achieving Gold means NRS Dounreay continues to actively engage across the ECITB strategy and reinforces its pledge to train and develop a highly skilled and competent workforce.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ireland’s Competitiveness Confirmed – Minister Peter Burke

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    15th May 2025

    The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, has welcomed the publication of Re-estimating Ireland’s International Competitiveness Performance, the latest bulletin by the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC).

    Minister Burke said:

     “This analysis marks a very welcome contribution by the Council and confirms that the Irish economy is internationally competitive. However, we cannot become complacent, and there remains work to do in many areas. The Council’s findings will make a valuable contribution in the preparation of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity.”

    “Despite our strong international performance, we are also aware that there are challenges, and it is important that we do not take our current strengths for granted. This is reflected in the decision taken by Cabinet to expedite delivery of the Action Plan, which will play a key role in addressing these challenges and safeguarding our competitiveness performance into the future.”

    This Bulletin explores how Ireland’s performance in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2024 is affected when selected indicators are rescaled using Modified Gross National Income (GNI*) in place of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 

    The findings show that Ireland’s competitiveness performance remains strong with this adjustment. In fact, it rises by one position in the ranking, with improvements in three of the four pillars. The analysis explores how Ireland’s competitiveness profile changes when key metrics are recalibrated to better reflect the scale of the domestic economy.

    The IMD World Competitiveness Ranking is a widely used international benchmark, assessing over 60 economies across four key pillars and 20 sub-pillars, and based on 250 individual measures. In the 2024 IMD results, Ireland was ranked 4th overall. The analysis included in this Bulletin involves replicating the IMD methodology from the ground up, in order to facilitate the substitution of GNI* for GDP for Ireland. 

    Key findings from the Bulletin include:

    • Ireland’s competitiveness ranking improves by one place when GDP-based indicators are adjusted using GNI*, with notable gains in Economic Performance (up seven places) and Infrastructure (up two places). Business Efficiency is unchanged, while Government Efficiency declines slightly, reflecting a more constrained fiscal profile when public finance metrics are expressed over a smaller income base.
    • The analysis underscores the importance of context-sensitive benchmarking, especially when using international indices to inform national policy. This Bulletin highlights the need to interpret international indices critically, understanding their underlying assumptions, and where necessary, supplementing them with alternative analyses that better capture national circumstances.

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) was established in 1997 (then the National Competitiveness Council) to report to the Taoiseach, through the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, on key competitiveness issues facing the Irish economy.   In 2019, the NCPC was designated as Ireland’s National Productivity Board. 

     As part of its work, the NCPC makes recommendations on policy actions required to enhance Ireland’s competitive position. The NCPC publishes three main research outputs:

    • The Competitiveness Scorecard benchmarks Ireland against international competitors on areas of competitiveness and productivity. This is published every three years (and was last published in 2024).
    • The Competitiveness Challenge is an annual publication in which the NCPC makes recommendations for Government on key challenges to Ireland’s international competitiveness.
    • NCPC Bulletins are short and focused research notes, examining specific topics within the sphere of competitiveness and productivity. The NCPC releases multiple Bulletins each year. These short pieces often feed into the NCPC’s main Challenges report.

     The members of the Council are:

    Dr. Frances Ruane      Chair, National Competitiveness and Productivity Council

    Dr. Laura Bambrick    Head of Social Policy & Employment Affairs, ICTU

    Edel Clancy                Group Director of Corporate Affairs, Musgrave Group

    Kevin Sherry               Interim Chief Executive, Enterprise Ireland 

    Ciaran Conlon             Director of Public Policy, Microsoft Ireland

    Luiz de Mello             Director of Country Studies, Economics Department, OECD

    Maeve Dineen             Chair of Ireland’s Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman

    Brian McHugh            Chairperson, Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

    Gary Tobin                 Assistant Secretary, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

    Michael Lohan            Chief Executive, IDA Ireland

    Liam Madden             Independent Consultant, Semiconductor Industry

    Neil McDonnell          Chief Executive, ISME 

    Bernadette McGahon  Director of Innovation Services, Industry Research & Development Group 

    Danny McCoy             Chief Executive, IBEC

    Michael Taft               Research Officer, SIPTU

    Representatives from the Departments of An Taoiseach; Agriculture, Food and the Marine; Environment, Climate and Communications; Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science; Social Protection; Finance; Housing, Local Government and Heritage; Justice; Public Expenditure and Reform; Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, and Transport attend Council meetings in an advisory capacity.

    Research, Analysis and Secretariat from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment:

    Dr. Dermot Coates      

    Rory Mulholland                    

    Dr. Keith Fitzgerald

    Pádraig O’Sullivan                 

    Erika Valiukaite

    Jordan O’Donoghue

    Patrick Connolly

    ENDS

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – The future of International Development Cooperation – What role will ODA play – Committee on Development

    Source: European Parliament

    The Committee will have an Exchange of Views with the Chair of the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) since March 2023, Mr. Carsten Staur. Before being elected OECD DAC Chair, Mr. Staur served as a prominent Danish diplomat, holding positions among others as Director and Under Secretary in the field of development cooperation, and as Danish ambassador to the OECD and UNESCO from 2018-2023.

    ODA saw a decrease in 2024 after five years of continuous growth. The Exchange of Views will be an opportunity to discuss how to maintain a strong focus on poverty eradication and on the most vulnerable countries and population groups, in light of declining ODA.

    The increasing pressures on development finance are of concern to Committee MEPs and underline the need to strengthen aid effectiveness and advancing policy coherence for development, as well as mobilising additional funding. The EU institutions play a key role in this respect, also considering the current process of revising EUs financial framework for development cooperation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission invests €1.25 billion in researchers and invites them to ‘Choose Europe for Science’

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 15 May 2025 Europe is stepping up its ambition to cement the position of a global leader in research. New calls worth over €1.25 billion in 2025 under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) open doors for new talents.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU industrial priorities: will the Commission acknowledge mistakes and take real action to save the European steel sector? – E-001863/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001863/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Piotr Müller (ECR)

    For years, the Commission has stood passively by as Europe has deindustrialised, imposing costly regulations and ignoring the consequences of China’s increasing industrial overproduction and the US’s recent tightening of customs policy aimed at protecting its heavy industry. Now, facing pressures from rising unemployment, dependence on external suppliers and the threat of losing industrial sovereignty, the Commission is trying to save the steel sector, which employs more than 300 000 EU citizens.

    I would therefore like to ask three specific questions, which require equally specific answers:

    • 1.Is the Commission prepared to explicitly acknowledge that its current regulatory approach – lacking any effective mechanisms to protect strategic industry – has contributed to the loss of production capacity and has deepened Europe’s dependence on external economic powers?
    • 2.In light of the facts (mass lay-offs, steelworks closures, falling exports and growing trade deficits), will the Commission acknowledge that maintaining industrial production in the EU must become an absolute priority, even if it means having to adapt the decarbonisation agenda?
    • 3.Will the Commission review the application of the Emissions Trading System (ETS) to the steel industry and consider temporarily suspending or permanently modifying it, given that, as currently designed, the ETS makes it impossible in practice for European steel producers to compete with operators outside the EU?

    Submitted: 8.5.2025

    Last updated: 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission’s assesment of EIOPA findings regarding NOVIS case – E-001855/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001855/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rada Laykova (ESN)

    On 16 May 2022, the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) issued a recommendation requiring Národná banka Slovenska (NBS) to act against a Slovakian insurance company. The Commission, referencing evidence the EIOPA had gathered, subsequently issued a formal opinion requiring the NBS to act in the case.

    Serious questions have been raised about key assumptions that informed the EIOPA’s conclusions regarding an alleged breach of the minimum capital requirement in this case.

    Can the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.Did it base its formal opinion on an independent, Commission-conducted analysis, or did it largely depend on the EIOPA’s analysis?
    • 2.Did it use the EIOPA’s figures on (a) the yearly future cancellation rate of insurance contracts and (b) the costs of servicing insurance contracts in its analysis?
    • 3.Did it independently assess the ‘evidence’ used in the EIOPA’s analysis?

    Submitted: 8.5.2025

    Last updated: 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission decision to disband the Social Economy Unit within DG GROW, which is responsible for industrial policy – E-001858/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001858/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Eero Heinäluoma (S&D)

    The Commission’s decision to disband the Social Economy Unit in DG GROW – which is responsible for industrial policy – as of 1 May 2025 is deeply worrying. As a result of this change, in the area of EU economic and industrial policy at the Commission there will no longer be a separate entity to promote the role of social enterprises and the social economy in the internal market.

    Excluding the social economy from the EU’s industrial strategy is illogical, because the social economy plays an important role in maintaining a welfare state and creating sustainable well-being.

    • 1.How does the Commission justify its short-sighted decision to disband the unit concerned when it has previously recognised the role of the social economy in areas such as the green transition, building local value chains and strengthening democracy?
    • 2.In what way does the decision put into practice the Commission’s previous policy on cooperatives?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to appoint a new high-level official with the resources and remit required for the social economy to be taken into account in the EU’s industrial and internal market policies?

    Submitted: 8.5.2025

    Last updated: 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – DROI ad hoc delegation mission to Geneva – 19-20 May 2025 – Subcommittee on Human Rights

    Source: European Parliament

    United Nations, Geneva © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On 19-20 May, DROI Subcommittee will travel to Geneva for meetings with the United Nations Human Rights Council, other UN bodies active in the field of human rights, relevant Geneva-based international organisations, and civil society organisations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Victims and escalation of urban violence due to the misuse and spread of illegal weapons in European cities – E-001789/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001789/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giuseppe Antoci (The Left)

    The recent shootings in European cities, such as those in Sicily[1], Brussels[2] and elsewhere in the continent, have caused civilian casualties and confirm an upsurge in urban violence linked to the spread of illegal firearms. There are, it is estimated, over 35 million unregistered weapons in circulation in Europe[3]many held by young people and criminal groups.

    The new ‘Protect EU’ strategy cites firearms as a key factor in the rise of violence and commits to proposing common criminal law standards on illicit gun running[4]. The EU Council has also adopted new rules to improve traceability, enhance customs cooperation and make the weapons trade safer³.

    Law enforcement go hand-in -hand with a strategy to promote a cultural shift towards civilian disarmament and combat the subculture of armed violence.

    As part of the Internal Security Fund, the Commission has launched a specific call for projects to combat illicit weapons trafficking[5].

    Can the Commission therefore say:

    • 1.Whether it can it provide updated data on the illegal circulation of firearms in Europe?
    • 2.Whether it plans to allocate new resources to improve preventive measures and law enforcement, particularly in the most vulnerable urban areas[6], by supporting local authorities and law enforcement agencies in disarmament and youth prevention programmes?

    Submitted: 2.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.ansa.it/sito/notizie/cronaca/2025/04/27/sparatoria-a-monreale-tre-morti-fermato-un-19enne_315f73cd-3cab-4fdb-b123-bb84ccc5b403.html.
    • [2] https://www.ansa.it/europa/notizie/rubriche/altrenews/2025/04/17/nuova-sparatoria-a-bruxelles-in-area-segnata-da-guerra-tra-gang_62a9f373-4fbf-4984-be53-ff74a0ae2317.html.
    • [3] These figures are for 2017.
    • [4] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/internal-security/organised-crime-and-human-trafficking/trafficking-firearms_en.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/isf/wp-call/2023-2025/call-fiche_isf-2024-tf2-ag-protect_en.pdf.
    • [6] Siap, the Italian police union, recently stated that there are actual lawless urban ‘no-go zones’ where the availability of weapons is both a symptom and a cause of a deep-rooted social crisis.
    Last updated: 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Continued needs-based humanitarian funding in line with the humanitarian principles – Committee on Development

    Source: European Parliament

    How to make the case for continued needs-based humanitarian funding in line with the humanitarian principles Exchange of views with Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council

    On 20 May the Committee will exchange views with Mr Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council on how to make the case for continued needs-based humanitarian funding in line with the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. This debate takes place in a context where the legitimacy and principled nature of global humanitarian action is increasingly under fire and the humanitarian funding gap is growing due to decreasing donor contributions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – BUDG-CONT-LIBE – Joint hearing on Smart Conditionality – 13.05 – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    Rule of law concept © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    The objective of the joint public hearing was to provide the Members of the BUDG, CONT and LIBE Committees with input from academics and practitioners on how to ensure that final beneficiaries and recipients can continue to receive EU funding where the EU has suspended payments to a Member State due to rule of law breaches by the central government.

    Although the Rule of law Conditionality Regulation explicitly requires Member States whose EU funds have been (partially) suspended due to rule of law breaches to respect their obligations towards final recipients and beneficiaries, in practice, the latter are often deprived of EU funding. The concept of ‘smart conditionality’ should ensure that final recipients and beneficiaries, including local and regional authorities, NGOs, students and other stakeholders, are not punished for the rule of law violations by the central government. The public hearing should feed into Parliament’s forthcoming implementation report on the Rule of law conditionality Regulation and the political discussions on the EU’s post-2027 multiannual financial framework by gathering input on how smart conditionality can be implemented in practice. This includes in particular the necessary legislative changes, if any, to implement the concept.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB and the Luxembourg Space Agency join forces to enhance solutions for European Space for Finance

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB and Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) to support expanded use of satellite information in the financial domain
    • The new Research and Development Pilot programme will be led by the LSA with the support of the EIB
    • The partnership aims at bolstering European strategic autonomy of space data related to financial transactions

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) announced today a collaboration to enhance the integration of European space applications in the financial sector, ultimately benefitting industries such as investment banking and insurance. Leveraging Europe’s strengths in Earth Observation and navigation applications, the Space for Finance initiative aims to improve financial services’ reporting and sustainability efforts through innovative satellite-based solutions. For example, satellites can regularly collect data about the environment and climate, helping companies track how their sites are performing, predict and manage risks, and easily compare results across different locations and businesses.

    As part of this collaboration, the R&D Pilot Programme will explore the full potential of using satellite imagery and other space data for project monitoring and impact assessment using concrete pilot projects. This will pave the way for launching a call for projects aimed at industry players. This initiative, signed today in Luxembourg, aims to enhance the integration of satellite data into financial practices, ultimately benefiting sectors such as investment banking and insurance.

    EIB Vice President Robert de Groot stated, “Space is no longer just about exploration, it is increasingly about innovation that drives real-world solutions. Our partnership with the Luxembourg Space Agency allows us to use the power of satellite data to enhance financial monitoring and drive sustainable development.  Together, we will explore and redefine how space applications can enhance the European strategic autonomy and support the financial sector in creating a more resilient and forward-thinking economy.”

    Through this collaboration, the EIB reinforces its ongoing efforts to bolster the competitiveness of the European space sector, with a specific emphasis on Luxembourg’s growing role in the commercial space arena. LSA has been instrumental in promoting the space industry in Luxembourg, providing support to new and existing businesses, developing human resources, and facilitating access to financial solutions. Working closely with financial intermediaries, such as the EIB, could accelerate the development of Space for Finance solutions, facilitating their market uptake.

    “The space sector drives innovation and economic growth in Luxembourg and across Europe, and it’s also key to our security in a fast-changing world. By working with the European Investment Bank, we are showing our commitment to using space technologies to benefit society and the financial sector. This partnership reflects our goal to support innovation and ensure that space activities in Europe are sustainable, secure, and competitive—for the good of everyone.” emphasizes Lex Delles, Minister of the Economy, SME, Energy and Tourism.

    Moreover, this collaboration underscores the importance of setting security standards and protocols for space data in the domain of finance. Both parties recognize that safeguarding the strategic autonomy of European financial transactions is crucial as they advance their efforts in utilizing space for finance technologies.

    The partnership will facilitate the development of new services driven by satellite data. By working together, the EIB and LSA aim to set new practices in the utilization of space technologies, driving growth and ensuring that Europe continues to lead in the development of space applications for finance.

    Background information   

    EIB Group

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, the EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and the bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.    

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the EIB Group’s headquarters for media use are available here. 

    About LSA

    Established in 2018 by the Ministry of the Economy, and placed under its authority, with the goal of developing the national space sector, the Luxembourg Space Agency fosters new and existing companies, develops human resources, facilitates access to funding and provides support for academic research. The agency implements the national space economic development strategy, manages national space research and development programs, and leads the SpaceResources.lu initiative. The LSA also represents Luxembourg within the European Space Agency, as well as the space related programs of the European Union and the United Nations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – DROI mission to Geneva, 19-20 May 2025 – 19-05-2025 – Subcommittee on Human Rights

    Source: European Parliament

    On 19-20 May, DROI Subcommittee will travel to Geneva for meetings with the United Nations Human Rights Council, other UN bodies active in the field of human rights, relevant Geneva-based international organisations, and civil society organisations.

    Location : Geneva

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: ICF, EIB and CEB join forces to mobilise up to €400 million investment in social infrastructure in Catalonia

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • Institut Català de Finances (ICF) has signed a €100 million loan with the European Investment Bank (EIB) and a €50 million loan with the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB).
    • The loans will support projects to develop care homes, day centres and assisted living facilities for the elderly, people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in the region.
    • These agreements will allow ICF to finance non-profit social organisations, foundations, local administrations, public and private companies, unlocking up to €400 million in investment for social infrastructure projects.
    • The EIB loan is backed by InvestEU, an EU flagship programme to mobilise public and private sector investment to support EU policy goals.

    ICF, the public development bank of the Government of Catalonia, has signed a €100 million loan with the EIB to promote the construction and rehabilitation of social infrastructures in Catalonia, Spain. This is the first tranche of a loan approved for a total value of €150 million. ICF has also signed a €50 million loan with the CEB with the same aim. These agreements will allow ICF to finance non-profit social organisations, foundations, local administrations, public and private companies, unlocking up to €400 million investment for social infrastructure projects in the region.

    The loans will support the construction, refurbishment and improvement of care homes, day centres and assisted living facilities supporting the elderly, people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups across Catalonia. The financing provided by the three financial institutions is expected to support the creation of approximately 7.500 new residential care places in Catalonia. All funded projects must meet European sustainable building standards, specifically nearly-zero energy building (NZEB) requirements.

    María Serrano, EIB’s Head of Division Public Sector in Spain, remarked, “The EIB continues to strengthen its commitment to social infrastructure to meet the most pressing needs of Europe’s people. This financing agreement with the ICF will help to strengthen and expand the range of care facilities for elderly and dependent individuals in line with the highest standards of quality and sustainability, for the benefit of all”.

    As emphasised by Maria Sigüenza, the CEB’s Country Manager for Spain, “We are pleased to expand our ongoing partnership with ICF. This new loan reflects the CEB’s strong commitment to social inclusion and the reduction of inequality in Spain. Moreover, it exemplifies the importance of cooperation and joint action among multilateral development banks, such as the CEB and EIB, in building stronger communities and delivering high-impact social projects.”

    Vanessa Servera, CEO of the ICF, described the agreement as “a new success story in public-private cooperation,” emphasising that “the EIB and the CEB are providing the financial resources, we are taking on the management and financial risk, and it will be public entities and other actors that will launch the projects and investments the Catalan social services network needs to meet today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.”

    The agreement with ICF contributes to the EIB Group’s strategic priority of reinforcing Europe’s social infrastructure. This is one of the Group’s eight priorities set out in its Strategic Roadmap for the years 2024-2027.

    The EIB loan is guaranteed by InvestEU, the flagship EU programme to mobilise over €372 billion of additional public and private sector investment to support EU policy goals from 2021 to 2027.

    As the social development bank for Europe, investing in social infrastructure is the CEB’s main mission, as emphasised by its Strategic Framework 2023-2027. By signing the agreement with ICF, the CEB continues to respond flexibly to evolving social development and inclusion challenges in Spain.

    Background information

    ICF

    ICF has been the public promotional bank in Catalonia for 40 years, and in that period it has financed 37,000 clients for a total of €16 billion. Its main mission is to promote the financing of companies and entities in order to contribute to the growth, innovation and sustainability of the Catalan economy. ICF acts as a complement to the private sector, offering a wide range of financing solutions focused on loans, guarantees and investment in venture capital. Since 2014 it has been a member of the European Association of Public Banks (EAPB), which brings together a large number of the public promotional banks and financial entities operating in Europe.

    EIB

    The ElB is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. Built around eight core priorities, it finances investments that pursue EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund, signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Agreement, as pledged in the group’s Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects that contribute directly to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed €12.3 billion of new financing for more than 100 high-impact projects in 2024, helping power the country’s green and digital transition and promote economic growth, competitiveness and better services for inhabitants.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    InvestEU

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investment for EU policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments available to support investment in the European Union, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is implemented through financial partners that invest in projects, leveraging on the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increasing their risk-bearing capacity and mobilising at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    CEB

    The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is a multilateral development bank, whose unique mission is to promote social cohesion in its 43 member states across Europe. The CEB finances investment in social sectors, including education, health and affordable housing, with a focus on the needs of vulnerable people. Borrowers include governments, local and regional authorities, public and private banks, non-profit organisations and others. As a multilateral bank with an excellent credit rating, the CEB funds itself on the international capital markets. It approves projects according to strict social, environmental and governance criteria, and provides technical assistance. In addition, the CEB receives funds from donors to complement its activities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Promoting democracy and observing elections – 14-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Supporting democracy worldwide is a priority for the European Union. Democracy remains the only system of governance in which people can fully realise their human rights, and is a determining factor for development and long-term stability. As the only directly elected EU institution, the European Parliament is particularly committed to promoting democracy.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – The common agricultural policy – instruments and reforms – 14-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The common agricultural policy (CAP) has undergone six major reforms, the most recent of which were in 2013 (for the 2014-2020 financial period) and 2021 (for the 2023-2027 financial period). The latest reform and new legislation came into force in January 2023.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Financial assistance to EU Member States – 14-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    European financial assistance mechanisms are intended to preserve the financial stability of the EU and the euro area, as financial distress in one Member State can have a substantial impact on macro-financial stability in other Member States. Financial assistance is linked to macroeconomic conditionality (it is a loan rather than a fiscal transfer), to ensure that Member States receiving such assistance implement the necessary fiscal, economic, structural and supervisory reforms. The reforms are agreed and set out in specific documents (memoranda of understanding) published on the Commission website and, when relevant, on the European Stability Mechanism website. As part of the EU response to the COVID-19 crisis, a number of additional financial instruments were put forward to help the Member States recover and make their economies more resilient to shocks.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Sustainable consumption and production – 14-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Sustainable growth is one of the main objectives of the European Union (EU). In a period of rapid climate change and growing demand for energy and resources, the EU has introduced a range of policies and initiatives aimed at sustainable consumption and production. Under the European Green Deal and, in particular, the circular economy action plan, a sustainable product policy legislative initiative was announced to make products fit for a climate-neutral, resource-efficient and circular economy.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Financing of the CAP: facts and figures – 14-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    For many years, the common agricultural policy (CAP) was financed from a single fund, the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF), which on 1 January 2007 was replaced by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). The CAP 2023-2027 regulation introduces a new delivery model (strategic plan) for all CAP expenditure.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Rail transport – 14-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    EU rail transport policy is geared towards the creation of a single European railway area. Three packages and a recast were adopted in the space of 10 years following the opening-up of the railway sector to competition in 2001. A fourth package, designed to complete the single European railway area, was adopted in April 2016 (the technical pillar) and in December 2016 (the market pillar).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Impacts of cuts in development aid on health programmes – Committee on Development

    Source: European Parliament

    The exchange of views will be on the ‘Impacts of cuts in development aid on sexual and reproductive health programmes, as well as on other health programmes for vulnerable groups, including children and persons with disabilities’, from 14:30 to 15:30. This discussion will take place against the backdrop of a global trend of declining official development assistance (ODA), further aggravated by the recent US decision to terminate 83% of USAID programmes, creating a funding gap of USD 60 billion.

    The health sector has been severely affected, putting the lives and rights of millions of people at serious risk. These cuts disproportionately impact those already on the margins in developing countries, particularly women and girls, children, and persons with disabilities.

    Birgit Van Hout, Director of the UNFPA Office to the EU; Bertrand Bainvel, UNICEF Representative to EU Institutions; and Alessandra Aresu, Director of the Health and Protection Division at Humanity & Inclusion – Handicap International Federation, representing the International Disability and Development Consortium (IDDC), will participate in this exchange of views. It will provide an opportunity to take stock of the current situation, assess the impacts of the aid cuts on beneficiaries and major actors in their respective fields of competence, and discuss how the EU can help to address this situation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New energy upgrades for public buildings to save taxpayers money

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New energy upgrades for public buildings to save taxpayers money

    Schools, community centres and care homes receive new awards to upgrade their buildings and save money off bills in the long term.

    • Local community buildings will benefit from cheaper energy bills in the years to come, thanks to funding allocated by the government
    • schools, community centres and care homes will benefit from upgrades, contributing to an estimated £650 million in savings for taxpayers per year on average to 2037

    Pupils at schools, residents at care homes, and users of community centres will all be given a boost today, as the government allocates funding to help cut energy bills for public buildings in the years to come. 

    The social institutions that allow local communities to thrive, such as schools, hospitals, and care homes, will be given extra help to make energy saving upgrades and tackle costs, allowing more money to be spent on the services that people care about. 

    More than £630 million has been awarded for measures including heat pumps, solar panels, insulation and double glazing, helping to make Britain energy secure as part of the Plan for Change while contributing to an estimated £650 million in savings for taxpayers per year on average over the next 12 years.

    The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has been awarded over £30 million to install heat pumps at Queens Park Leisure Centre, Birkenhead Central Library and Chase Heys Home for the Elderly, while the Northumbria NHS Foundation Trust will receive more than £14 million to replace fossil fuel heating at two sites, helping power these pillars of the local community with cleaner, homegrown energy. 

    The Royal Air Force Museum Midlands will benefit from £1 million to install heat pumps and solar panels at one of its aircraft hangars, and Worcester City Council will receive £90,000 to upgrade the King George V Community Centre, which is used for employability training and youth activities, with new heat pumps, solar panels and double glazing. 

    The University of York has been awarded £35 million to capture energy from beneath the Earth’s surface to help deliver low-carbon heat to buildings on campus, while the National Portrait Gallery has been awarded over £5 million to switch to heat pumps in its main public gallery and Orange Street building, which houses the historic archives of the library.

    Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said:  

    Today we are providing even more support for Britain’s buildings – from schools to museums and galleries – helping to rebuild vital public services as part of the Plan for Change. 

    This investment will see local communities benefit from our sprint to clean power, with warm public buildings, run more affordably.

    An extra £102 million from the Green Heat Network Fund will help to develop new and existing heat networks in England, including the Hemiko South Westminster Area Network (SWAN), which could help to decarbonise iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament using waste heat from the River Thames.  

    This follows Great British Energy’s first major project to put solar panels on around 200 schools and 200 NHS sites, helping them to reinvest savings on their energy bills in teaching and healthcare.  

    Vice-Chancellor Professor at the University of York Charlie Jeffery said: 

    Our geothermal project will be a powerful catalyst in our journey towards net zero, offering a significant reduction in carbon emissions and a greener future. 

    Beyond its crucial environmental impact, the site will serve as a living laboratory that will drive research, educate our students and bring benefits beyond our campus. 

    The support from the government is a vital catalyst for this transformative endeavour, which we believe will empower the next generation of sustainability leaders and deepen community understanding of renewable energy technologies.

    Policy Manager at Energy UK Louise Shooter said: 

    High energy bills have been a big headache for schools, hospitals, leisure centres and other community facilities in recent years – so it’s great to see them being helped to install energy saving measures and other green technology that will cut energy costs permanently while also enabling them to do their bit to reduce emissions. Energy UK’s members have been helping schools and hospitals across the country do the same and save money which means more funding for the essential services they provide. It’s a very tangible example of the benefits that come from investing in the switch to cleaner energy.

    Head of External Affairs at ADE: Heat Networks Pablo John said: 

    Today’s investment in heat networks like the University of York’s geothermal project is a blueprint for Britain’s clean heat revolution. These networks capture every kilowatt of renewable energy and waste heat we produce, turning it into affordable warmth for consumers. York’s 78% cut in fossil fuels proves that when we back heat networks now – even outside of zones – we secure energy independence for good. Let’s build on this momentum by supporting heat network innovation everywhere and stop wasting the heat under our feet.

    Director of Content and Programmes at the RAF Museum Karen Whitting said:  

    Warm thanks to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for their investment through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. This will enable us to introduce new, low/no-carbon technologies to a historic 1938 Type-C aircraft hangar as part of our Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme. The re-developed hangar will be used as a Learning Centre and exhibition gallery which will welcome and inspire around 500,000 visitors a year, sharing the nationally important Royal Air Force story. The project will make a major contribution to the RAF Museum’s Strategy including our commitment to achieving Carbon Net Zero.

    Notes to editors

    Decarbonising the public sector with low carbon heating and energy efficiency measures will save the public sector an estimated £650 million per year on average to 2037. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is contributing towards delivering these savings for public sector organisations. 

    Applications for Phase 4 of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme opened in October 2024. Funding for this phase is worth approximately £940 million and will run until financial year 2027/2028. Some remaining funding awards will be issued in the coming weeks. 

    As of May 2025, the regional breakdown for Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme Phase 4 funding is as follows:  

    • North East: £65,191,456 
    • Yorkshire and the Humber: £81,262,778 
    • North West: £116,815,617 
    • East Midlands: £73,405,602 
    • West Midlands: £84,306,700 
    • East of England: £29,149,553 
    • South East: £35,720,404 
    • South West: £30,002,246 
    • Greater London: £113,914,685 
    • Wales: £2,500,000 
    • Across Regions: £1,325,000 

    The Green Heat Network Fund supports new and existing heat networks in England to adopt low carbon technologies such as heat pumps, recovered heat, geothermal and energy from waste. A total of over £484 million in awards to 40 projects has been made public since the launch of the scheme in 2022.  

    The projects included in this announcement, which have been awarded a total of over £102 million in grant funding are:  

    • Derby Energy Network (Derby Energy Ltd): £23,240,000  
    • Bristol City Centre (Bristol Heat Networks/Vattenfall): £21,300,000 
    • SWAN (Hemiko): £21,000,000  
    • Lincoln (Hemiko): £15,508,000  
    • East London Energy (Bring Energy): £8,813,120 
    • Trafford Civic Quarter Heat Networks (Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council): £5,750,000   
    • West Bromwich Heat Network (Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council): £4,939,421  
    • Mersey Biochar Heat Network (Severn Wye Energy Agency Ltd): £1,728,890

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TRA recommendation for new duties on Chinese excavators accepted

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    TRA recommendation for new duties on Chinese excavators accepted

    The Government has accepted the TRA’s recommendation to impose new anti-dumping and countervailing measures on imports of excavators from China to the UK.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade has accepted the TRA’s recommendation to impose new anti-dumping and countervailing measures on imports of excavators from China to the UK.

    The anti-dumping duties range from 18.81% for a sampled exporter to 40.08% for the residual rate; while the countervailing duties range from 0% to 2.98%. The TRA has estimated that the measures could benefit UK excavator producers by up to £26 million per year.

    The measures will be imposed on imports of excavators from China weighing 11 tonnes or more, but less than 80 tonnes as the TRA found that there is no UK industry for the production of excavators weighing 80 tonnes or above. The TRA has therefore determined that the UK industry would not be injured by these products.

    The TRA opened its investigation in November 2023 in response to an application from JCB, a Staffordshire-based multinational business. It found that Chinese exporters were able to use reduced production costs to price their exports below UK competitors who did not benefit from an artificially low-cost base.

    In February, Caterpillar (Xuzhou) Ltd. (CXL) launched a judicial review against the TRA and the Department of Business and Trade’s decision to impose provisional anti-dumping measures on imports of Chinese excavators.

    The judgment in the judicial review was handed down on 9 May, with the claims against both the TRA and Secretary of State for Business and Trade ruled as unarguable. The judge in the case concluded that the TRA, in its decisions surrounding the provisional anti-dumping measures, had acted lawfully, rationally and in a procedurally fair manner. The judgement did not affect the decision to apply definitive anti-dumping or countervailing measures.

    Background information:

    • The periods of investigation for both the anti-dumping and countervailing cases were 1 July 2022 – 30 June 2023.
    • The TRA is the UK body that investigates whether trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair trading practices and unforeseen surges of imports.
    • Anti-dumping duties allow a country or union to act against goods which are being sold at less than their normal value – this is defined as the price for ‘like goods’ sold in the exporter’s home market.
    • Countervailing duties are designed to counteract government subsidies that cause material injury to domestic industries.
    • The judgement in the judicial review can be read in full here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight Council set to build new homes for veterans 15 May 2025 Isle of Wight Council set to build new homes for veterans

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight Council is set to build its own housing for the first time in many years, thanks to a £500,000 grant from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.

    The funding, awarded under the trust’s Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund, will increase the availability of affordable or social rented housing for veterans in the Island’s county town.

    The grant will be used to construct four one-bedroom flats on New Street, a site already under council ownership.

    This location is strategically located on a residential street with convenient access to local amenities, bus routes, and the bus station.

    The land has been prepared for development under the Brownfield Land Release Fund, and positive discussions have been held with planners regarding consent for homes, in advance of a planning application being submitted.

    The initiative represents a pivotal effort to alleviate the housing challenges faced by veterans on the Isle of Wight.

    With a notable increase in housing applications from veterans between 2022 and 2024, the necessity for dedicated housing solutions has become increasingly apparent.

    This project will offer long-term secure tenancies at affordable rents, providing veterans with a stable and dignified living environment.

    Monthly Veterans’ Outreach Support meetings and regular social drop-ins, which already take place on the Island, will further enhance community integration, fostering a sense of camaraderie among residents.

    Councillor Ian Stephens, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for housing, said: “This project transcends mere construction; it is about forging futures.

    “By providing secure, affordable housing, veterans will gain the stability necessary to thrive, reconnect, and feel valued within their community.

    “The project underscores the council’s dedication to supporting those who have served, offering them the dignity and respect they rightfully deserve.”

    Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, the local ward member, added: “This site is being put to great use by helping house our veterans.

    “Tucked away in the centre of the county town, they will be welcomed into our central Newport community and have easy access to all the fabulous local amenities we have. Definitely a project to celebrate, this is a brilliant example of partnership working.”

    The council is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, which pledges to support all those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Were you at the Brighter Beginnings fun day event at Eden Court?

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Image of Child Protection Committee logo

    We need your feedback.

    Highland Council is seeking feedback from the hundreds of families who attended a highly successful fun day at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness on Monday 3 March 2025.

    Parents and carers who attended the Brighter Beginnings Family Fun Day are invited to answer 6 short and simple questions in an online form at: https://forms.office.com/e/wx9APAHaFR.

    Cllr David Fraser, Chair of Highland Council’s Health Social Care and Wellbeing Committee explains: “Following a very high turnout of families at the Early Year Fun Day event, the Integrated Children’s Service Planning Board would like to build on this success by welcoming children under 12 to Eden Court on the of 11th August this year as part of Vision 26.

    “To help shape the format of this year’s Vision 26, we need to hear what families thought of the Brighter Beginnings Event and what they would like to see in future events.”

    If you attended the Brighter Beginnings Family Fun Day at Eden Court on 3rd March 2025 and you were one of the many families who turned out to take part in the free activities including messy play, scavenger hunt, outdoor play and puppet shows; or you enjoyed the police car and play bus, we want to hear from you what that experience was like.

    The Council would like to hear your viewpoint by completing the online form at: https://forms.office.com/e/wx9APAHaFR. All Feedback will be anonymous and will help planning for future events based on the responses.

    15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Covid fraud investigations to be led by Insolvency Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Covid fraud investigations to be led by Insolvency Service

    Insolvency Service to take over NATIS’s ongoing covid fraud investigations

    DBT – COVID FRAUD INVESTIGATIONS TO BE LED BY INSOLVENCY SERVICE

    • Insolvency Service to take over NATIS’s ongoing covid fraud investigations
    • Decision comes after review of previous government contracts proved taxpayers’ money was not being spent efficiently
    • Government focussed on reducing waste in the public sector and recovering public money lost through pandemic-related fraud

    The Insolvency Service will take over NATIS’s viable investigation cases of Covid-19 financial support fraud in a bid to recoup taxpayers’ money lost to fraudsters.

    Following a review of National Investigation Service (NATIS) performance to ensure the state works for people – it showed that public money was not being spent effectively – which is why all ongoing viable cases will be transferred from the organisation to the Insolvency Service over the coming months.

    This is the latest move as part of the government’s Plan for Change to reduce waste in the public sector and reform institutions so they protect taxpayers money, and make the public sector more efficient and effective.

    The decision to appoint NATIS – an agency based in Thurrock Council – was taken under the previous government and has cost the taxpayer approximately £38.5 million. Despite this, NATIS has only secured 14 convictions with the overall amount recovered by NATIS remaining unclear.

    Within months of coming to power, this Government kicked off a review into their performance, to ensure public money is spent properly and not wasted. This investigation has revealed problems with NATIS governance and how recoveries are reported. As a result the government has asked The Government Internal Audit Agency (GIAA) to conduct an additional audit of NATIS to determine and report accurate recovery figures.

    Following this review, the department has taken decisive action to transfer cases to the Insolvency Service – who have a proven track record of effectively tackling fraud – giving taxpayers’ money the best possible value.

    Whilst over £46bn has been issued by lenders to support businesses, there have been over 100,000 cases of loss to fraud and error. This measure will ensure the continuation of ongoing investigations and expedite the recovery of millions estimated to be lost due to covid-era fraud.

    Business and Trade Minister Gareth Thomas said:

    Since coming to office, we have been clear that this government will protect taxpayers’ cash and remove unnecessary waste and inefficiency within the public sector.

    Today’s decision to transfer cases to the Insolvency Service will ensure lost funds from covid-era fraud are recovered more quickly and effectively, so they can be reinvested back into the economy and our public services, as part of our Plan for Change.

    The Insolvency Service will be taking responsibility for NATIS casework, helping to conclude investigations to continue the important work to claw back money for the public. 

    The Insolvency Service has a proven track record tackling fraud and misconduct connected to covid support schemes since 2020 using its powers to investigate trading companies, prosecute criminal offences, disqualify directors and impose bankruptcy restrictions. 

    By the end of March 2025, they had secured more than 2,000 director disqualifications as well as 62 criminal convictions, helping to secure more than £6 million in compensation related to COVID-19 financial support scheme abuse.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency starts sampling Devon and Cornwall’s beaches

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Environment Agency starts sampling Devon and Cornwall’s beaches

    Environment Agency sampling of Devon and Cornwall’s 155 monitored beaches has started and will run through until the end of September. 

    An Environment Agency officer with a fresh sample taken, ready to be sent to the lab for testing

    A beach or river on England’s list of designated bathing waters means water quality is routinely tested. Water samples will be taken at consistent points at these locations and sent to the lab for testing. Scientists will look for elevated levels of E. Coli and intestinal enterococci – bad bacteria found in sewage and other waste.  

    The results of these samples will inform a dedicated group of scientists and officers who are on standby 24/7 to respond to any reports of problems found at beaches and other bathing waters. The results will also be catalogued on the Swimfo website which also contains a lot more information about each bathing water – its history, a description of the surrounding area as well as several years of results.  

    The results, taken over four years, give the Environment Agency great confidence when deciding upon what classification a beach will be given later in the year. Any classification from ‘Sufficient’ and above means the water quality is safe to swim in. Out of 155 monitored bathing waters, there are only 2 beaches in Devon and Cornwall – Coastguards Beach on the Erme Estuary and Porthluney – with results tipping them into the ‘Poor’ classification. This doesn’t mean they are dirty. A ‘Poor’ classification means that very high standards are not consistently met, and the Environment Agency is actively investigating why.  

    Bruce Newport of the Environment Agency said:

    Over a third of England’s bathing waters can be found in Devon and Cornwall and over 98 per cent of them meet the very high levels of water quality expected for safe swimming. 

    We also publish a daily water quality forecast on many of our beaches which can be found on our Swimfo website. This service is a great asset, especially after heavy rainfall which can temporarily cause a dip in water quality.

    Throughout the season, which runs from 15 May until the end of September, the Environment Agency will be taking more than 7000 samples at 451 designated bathing waters across England.    

    Today also marks the re-opening of applications for new bathing waters which have been closed since October 2023. Since then, the government has announced significant reforms to the Bathing Water Regulations to better reflect public use of iconic swimming spots. Successful sites will be announced next year.  

    Background

    • Bathing waters are officially designated outdoor swimming sites. England has 451 designated bathing waters, which are monitored and classified by the Environment Agency.   

    • Applicants are encouraged to use the bathing water season to gather evidence for their applications. Prospective sites will be assessed for their suitability as a designated bathing water. Applications for the 2026 season will close on 31 October 2025.   

    • The Environment Agency has driven £2.5 billion of investment and facilitated partnerships to dramatically improve our bathing waters.   

    • Last year, nearly 92% of bathing waters in England met the minimum water quality standards. More information on 2024 bathing water classifications is available here.  

    • The UK Health Security Agency and Environment Agency also offer advice in their ‘swim healthy’ guidance, which is available to read before making any decision on swimming.  

    • Bathing waters are stretches of water throughout England which we monitor for two types of bacteria: E.coli and intestinal enterococci. We monitor for these two bacteria because they indicate that there are germs in the water which can make you ill.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Certainty for businesses and choice for consumers as UK maintains IP rights regime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Certainty for businesses and choice for consumers as UK maintains IP rights regime

    Government confirms UK+ exhaustion of rights regime.

    The main developments are that:

    • no legislative changes means businesses can continue operating under the existing exhaustion of intellectual property rights regime without any new requirements

    • the UK+ regime protects creators and innovators, while ensuring fair competition in the marketplace and greater choice for British consumers – growing the economy and supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    UK businesses will avoid additional red tape and consumers will continue to benefit from a choice of goods from across Europe, as the government confirms it will maintain the UK’s current exhaustion of intellectual property (IP) rights regime, known as “UK+”.

    Today’s news – a result of extensive consultation with stakeholders – means the UK can keep buying genuine goods from across the European Economic Area (EEA) and resell them in the UK without any extra permissions.

    A balanced, innovation-friendly IP framework will support the government’s delivery of its Plan for Change. It will encourage stable and competitive markets, and ensure consumers can continue to benefit from a wide range of products and goods.

    Our exhaustion regime governs our parallel importation laws, which regulates the importing of genuine goods that are lawfully sold in other countries before coming into the UK for resale. Parallel importation occurs in many sectors, from medicines to automotive parts to fast-moving consumer goods – all vital areas of growth for the UK economy.

    In general terms, today’s decision means that once a product protected by an IP right (for example, biscuits, books or toiletries) has been legitimately sold in either the UK or European Economic Area (EEA), the IP owner may not subsequently prevent it from being re-sold in the UK.  This means that businesses can buy genuine goods from EEA suppliers and sell them in the UK without needing permission from the IP owner, giving consumers continued, ready access to these products.

    The decision clarifies the law in this area, providing certainty and stability for UK businesses that undertake parallel trade in these markets, while ensuring competition in the marketplace and fair access to IP-protected goods. By providing long-term certainty to everyone who interacts with our world-leading IP framework, the UK+ regime incentivises innovation, creativity, and helps unlock economic growth.

    Minister for AI and Digital Government, Feryal Clark, said:

    This is an important step in maintaining the strength of our world-leading intellectual property framework.​ The decision we’ve taken not only gives businesses the certainty they’ve been calling for, but ensures consumers have choice and fair access to a wide range of goods.​

    This is our Plan for Change in action – driving long-term growth through a fairer, more innovative economy for all.

    Dan Guthrie, Director General of the Alliance for Intellectual Property, said:

    We wholeheartedly welcome today’s announcement from the government in relation to the UK’s exhaustion regime. The decision provides the stability needed to ensure IP-rich businesses can continue to invest, grow their exports, provide the public with the products and content they love and contribute to UK economic growth. The decision will be welcomed by creators, designers, and businesses in every region of the UK.

    The government has published its full response to the consultation today, detailing the extensive analysis and stakeholder engagement that informed this decision. A majority of consultation respondents reported the UK+ regime is working well, whereas there was not robust quantitative evidence to support changing to any of the alternative options.

    The decision to maintain the current UK+ regime is effective immediately. It confirms the current law, and no further legislation is required for it to come into force.

    Additional information

    1. The UK’s exhaustion regime affects various intellectual property rights including patents, trade marks, designs and copyright.

    2. The UK+ (plus) regime is a well-understood exhaustion regime that offers stability for Britain’s IP-rich businesses to continue operating their business practices. This is demonstrated by submissions to the consultation, which showed significant support for the UK+ regime.

    3. There has been little change to the UK+ regime since the consultation was launched. A statutory instrument in 2023 (‘The Intellectual Property (Exhaustion of Rights) (Amendment) Regulations 2023’) ensured the continued operation of the UK+ exhaustion regime without making substantive policy changes. This meant that businesses, investors, and IP rights holders could continue to operate on the basis of the UK’s current parallel importation rules.

    4. the full Government response to the consultation on the UK’s future exhaustion of intellectual property rights regime.

    5. The Intellectual Property Office has produced a video explaining exhaustion of rights and parallel trade, aimed at businesses who trade in parallel goods across borders:

    Exhaustion of IP rights and parallel trade – explained – YouTube

    (This video was first published at the consultation’s launch in 2021).

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insolvency Service to take on the work of the National Investigation Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Insolvency Service to take on the work of the National Investigation Service

    Move will see transfer of casework relating to COVID-19 loan fraud

    Today the Department for Business and Trade has announced its intention to conclude its contract with the National Investigation Service (NATIS) and transfer existing casework, relating to COVID-19 Bounce Back Loan fraud, to the Insolvency Service.

    In response, Alec Pybus, Interim Chief Executive of the Insolvency Service said:  

    We welcome this decision by the Department of Business and Trade.  

    The Insolvency Service is well placed to take on these investigations as part of our ongoing and successful work tackling fraudulent use of COVID-19 loans. 

    We are working with our colleagues at the Department of Business and Trade and at Thurrock Council to deliver a smooth and swift transition of ongoing cases, and any potential transfer of staff.

    To date, the Insolvency Service has obtained disqualifications against 2,167 directors, bankruptcy restrictions against 343 individuals and successfully prosecuted 54 individuals in respect of COVID-19 financial support scheme misconduct.  

    The Agency has also helped to secure more than £6 million in compensation related to COVID-19 financial support scheme abuse. 

    The Agency already has plans to deliver further enforcement outcomes and financial recoveries in 2025/26, and will now work at pace to take on viable casework from NATIS in support of the UK Government’s drive to hold to account those who fraudulently claimed support during the pandemic.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New 2,000 km “deep precision strike” weapon to be developed by UK and Germany as Trinity House Agreement delivers first major milestones

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New 2,000 km “deep precision strike” weapon to be developed by UK and Germany as Trinity House Agreement delivers first major milestones

    The UK and Germany will confirm for the first time that they will work together to develop a new long-range strike capability with a range of over 2,000 km

    The United Kingdom and Germany will today (Thursday 15th May) confirm for the first time that they will work together to develop a new long-range strike capability with a range of over 2,000 km, as both countries step up on European security and drive economic growth at home.

    This comes following the signing of the landmark Trinity House Agreement on Defence Co-operation in October in London – the first-of-its-kind bilateral defence agreement between the UK and Germany.

    German Federal Minister of Defence, Boris Pistorius, will host his counterpart Defence Secretary John Healey MP in the first Trinity House Defence Ministerial Council today in Berlin, where they will discuss how the agreement is already delivering real benefits, from deterring threats on NATO’s eastern flank, to creating skilled jobs and driving investment at home.

    The new 2,000 km precision deep strike capability will be among the most advanced systems ever designed by the UK, to safeguard the British public and reinforce NATO deterrence, while boosting the UK and European defence sectors.

    Discussions will focus on a joint procurement programme for Sting Ray torpedoes for P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, enhancing the UK and Germany’s ability to counter the latest underwater threats, boosting national security for both nations.

    A new commitment will also see Germany procure advanced British military bridges, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change by supporting jobs in the North-west.

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:

    The UK and Germany have never been closer, and the Trinity House Agreement is already making a positive impact on our security and economy. This partnership is helping us make defence an engine for growth – creating jobs, boosting skills, and driving investment across the UK and Germany.

    In a more dangerous world, NATO and European allies stand united. Together with Germany, we’re leading the way in supporting Ukraine, defending NATO’s eastern flank, and jointly investing in next-generation capabilities.

    It follows the Prime Minister’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, recognising the critical importance of military readiness in an era of heightened global uncertainty.  

    Since the Trinity House Agreement was signed in October, German crews have joined RAF personnel in two flights on UK P-8 Poseidon aircraft. The UK’s Poseidon fleet play a crucial role tracking Russian vessels near UK waters.

    The Defence Ministers will meet again tomorrow (Friday 16th May) alongside their Polish, Italian and French counterparts in a meeting of the European Group of Five (E5) Defence ministers in Rome.

    The UK and Germany will meet again in June alongside more than 50 nations and partners, when they jointly host the next meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Since the UK took the chair, nearly £23bn has been pledged in military support for Ukraine. 

    The Trinity House Agreement is delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change by stepping up national security whilst strengthening our industrial base and boosting skilled jobs at home.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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