NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Care for those with learning disabilities or autistic people

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Care for those with learning disabilities or autistic people

    New guidance published today will provide a boost in the quality of care for people with a learning disability or autistic people

    • New guidance published today to ensure health and care staff have skills to provide care for people with a learning disability and autistic people

    • Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism named after teenager who died in 2016 after having severe reaction to medication given to him against family’s wishes

    • Training will aim to tackle health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability and autistic people, who face poorer health outcomes than general population

    People with a learning disability and autistic people will get safer, more personalised care as the government publishes new guidelines for health and care providers to train staff.

    The Oliver McGowan code of practice on statutory learning disability and autism training aims to ensure staff have the right skills to provide care and boost understanding of the needs of these groups of people.

    It sets out the standards that providers are expected to meet to be compliant with the law and help make sure patients are kept safe.

    Those with a learning disability or autistic people face poorer health outcomes than the general population, and it is crucial that health and social care staff have the right knowledge and skills to tackle these inequalities.

    The training and the Code of Practice are named after Oliver McGowan, an 18-year-old from Bristol with a mild learning disability who died following a severe reaction to medication given to him against his and his family’s strong wishes.

    Under the law, health and care providers registered by the Care Quality Commission have a requirement to ensure staff have the appropriate training.

    Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock said:

    I pay tribute to Paula McGowan OBE and Tom McGowan and their incredible campaign to improve the care of people with a learning disability and autistic people after the tragic death of their son, Oliver.

    Through their work, they have shown admirable dedication, commitment and passion – Oliver’s memory and legacy lives through them.

    This government recognises the appalling health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability and autistic people.

    Everyone deserves to receive high-quality, empathetic and dignified care but this cannot be achieved if staff do not have the right training. The Oliver McGowan Code of Practice published today will be a boost for anyone with a learning disability or autistic people, their families and loved ones.

    Paul and Tom McGowan said:

    The publication of the Code of Practice marks a deeply emotional and significant milestone for us and will ensure Oliver’s legacy will continue to make a difference by safeguarding people with a learning disability and autistic individuals from the same preventable failings that he tragically endured.

    The Code establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the delivery of the training, promoting consistency and a deeper understanding across health and social care services.

    We are profoundly grateful to cross party politicians for their unwavering support and especially to Baroness Sheila Hollins, whose leadership has been pivotal in advancing this important work.

    Our heartfelt thanks extend to everyone within the NHS and social care sectors, to our expert trainers, and to individuals with a learning disability and or autism, along with their families and carers. This is a true example of what meaningful change looks like, giving a voice to those who are not always seen or heard, creating a lasting impact that will continue to transform lives for the better.

    Tom Cahill CBE, National Director, Learning Disability and Autism NHS England said:

    We know that often the quality of care and support for people with a learning disability and autistic people has not been good enough and we are determined to make this better  .

    This code of practice – a result of Paula and Tom McGowan’s tireless dedication – will mean all NHS staff have the training and support they need to reduce inequalities and give people with a learning disability or autistic people the care they deserve.

    Rebecca Bushell-Bauers, Care Quality Commission Director for people with a learning disability and autistic people said:

    Today highlights Paula and Tom McGowan’s tireless campaigning in their son’s name for better care for autistic people and people with a learning disability.

    We are dedicated to advocating for and improving the health and care outcomes for people with learning disabilities and autistic people. The code of practice will further support us in assessing and inspecting whether health and social care providers are training their carers and staff to support autistic people and people with a learning disability appropriately and hold them to account to ensure they are delivering good, informed and safe care.

    Baroness Hollins said:

    I am delighted that, following my amendment to the 2022 Health and Care Act, the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice has now been laid before Parliament. This milestone supports the requirement that health and care staff complete training that equips them to better care for people with a learning disability and autistic people.

    I pay special tribute to Paula and Tom McGowan, whose tireless advocacy in memory of their son, Oliver, has led to lasting change including through the Code and training in his name. This is a vital step towards tackling health inequalities and improving care across health and social care services.

    The training will be backed by funding as part of the Learning and Development Support Scheme for adult social care in Autumn 2025.

    Any adult social care providers who arrange for training for their staff between April 2025 and March 2026 will be reimbursed for the costs.

    The Health and Care Act 2022 set out a legal requirement for CQC health and care providers to ensure staff receive appropriate training in caring for those with a learning disability or autistic people.

    Oliver McGowan was repeatedly prescribed antipsychotic medications despite medical notes highlighting his severe adverse reactions to these drugs and against his and his family’s wishes.

    Healthcare staff consistently failed to understand how autism presented alongside epilepsy and did not make the adjustments needed to accommodate for his needs.

    Oliver died after developing a severe side effect to the medication which caused brain damage, and after life support was withdrawn by his parents, he died on 11 November 2016.

    Oliver’s parents, Paula and Tom McGowan, have campaigned for better training for health and care staff to improve understanding of the needs of people with a learning disability or autistic people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rapist who filmed assault has sentence increased

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Rapist who filmed assault has sentence increased

    A man who raped a woman and shared a video of his assault with other people has had his sentence increased, following intervention by the Solicitor General.

    Gagandeep Gulati (20), from Hounslow, West London, has had his sentence increased by three years after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP, referred the case to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.  

    The Court heard that Gulati found the victim near Jubilee Square in Leicester city centre and coerced her to go to Castle Gardens where he raped and sexually assaulted her.  

    Gulati’s movements were captured by CCTV, which led detectives to an accommodation where he was arrested. 

    During police enquiries, Gulati claimed that he had been raped and assaulted by the victim. However, detectives found that he had filmed his attack on the victim and shared the footage with other people.  

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said: 

    Gagandeep Gulati’s rape of a vulnerable young woman before sharing his awful crimes with other people was sickening.

    I welcome the court’s decision to increase his sentence following my intervention.

    On 28 March 2025, Gagandeep Gulati was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment for rape, assault by penetration, sexual assault, and sharing or threatening to share an intimate photograph or film.   He was also placed on the sex offender register for life.

    On 19 June 2025, judges increased Gulati’s sentence to nine years, while imposing concurrent sentences for the assault by penetration and sexual assault of four years and six months respectively after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for life for drugging and raping 10 women as judge commends Met officers

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A senior judge has praised the Metropolitan Police Service following one of the most challenging and complex investigations conducted by detectives to bring a serial rapist to justice.

    The case demonstrates the Met’s ongoing commitment to keeping women and girls safe and work to eradicate sexual violence, largely at the hands of predatory men.

    Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was convicted of drugging and raping women both in the UK and China in March 2025. A jury found him guilty of 28 offences in total, including counts of voyeurism, possession of an extreme pornographic image, possession of a drug to commit a sexual offence and false imprisonment.

    On Thursday, 19 June, he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to a life sentence. He will have to serve a minimum of 24 years.

    The lengthy sentence reflects justice for the women who are victim-survivors of Zou and is testament to the extraordinary lengths gone to by investigators, who left no stone unturned in their pursuit to take a dangerous sexual predator off the streets.

    Following the sentencing hearing, officers paid tribute to the brave victim-survivors, who have always remained at the very heart of the investigation.

    During the sentencing hearing, the judge commended Met detectives DC Jack Woods and DC Oliver Colville, while paying tribute to the whole prosecution team.

    Commander Kevin Southworth, of the Metropolitan Police Service, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts have always been with the courageous victim-survivors of Zou’s heinous and predatory crimes.

    “Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender has been handed a life sentence. I hope the fact Zou can no longer harm others serves as a small amount of comfort to the women who have suffered immeasurably.

    “I would also like to take this opportunity to stress that our investigation remains open and we continue to appeal to anyone who may think they have been a victim of Zou. Please come forward and speak with our team – we will treat you with empathy, kindness and respect.”

    The investigation

    Before his arrest in January 2024, Zou was a student at University College London (UCL) since 2019 and prior to that studied at Queen’s University Belfast.

    Zou used social media platforms and dating websites to target victim-survivors – all of which are believed to be of Chinese heritage. He lured women to his accommodation under the pretence of having a drink or studying and then plied them with drinks laced with drugs.

    He filmed himself as he raped the woman as they lost consciousness.

    Met investigators watched hundreds of these disturbing videos as they built a case of evidence against Zou. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.

    The prosecution team were unable to identify all of the victim-survivors captured, so relied on this video evidence to present a compelling case during the trial. Officers also meticulously pulled together over 4000 documents to leave no doubt in the jury’s mind about Zou’s guilt.

    Alongside this, they downloaded around six and a half terabytes worth of data from Zou’s phones and laptops, which included around nine million messages. This is the equivalent to 1,664 hours of footage and is one of the biggest cases the Met’s digital forensics lab has ever dealt with.

    Met officers spent months trawling through messages to understand Zou’s pattern of offending, scrupulously translating them into English from Simplified Chinese.

    The appeal

    Following Zou’s conviction, investigators shared that they believed Zou’s offending was much wider than the eleven rapes he was convicted of. They made a direct appeal to unidentified victim-survivors to come forward and seek specialist support.

    Securing justice for the victim-survivors of Zou and putting him behind bars has been at the forefront of detective’s minds since the start of the investigation. To secure a conviction through a fair trial, officers made the decision not to appeal for further victim-survivors ahead of conviction. Sharing specific information relating to his offending may have caused the case to collapse, leaving Zou to offend again. By appealing post-conviction, the Met was able to share the fullest details to support potential victim-survivors coming forward.

    Since the appeal in March 2025, 24 women have made reports to the police. These continue to be investigated thoroughly by a dedicated team of officers. Following the sentencing hearing, the team will continue to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Services around potential future charges.

    Detectives continue to keep an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors but have been keen to speak to women from the Chinese student community – they may have been living in London between 2019-2024 or met Zou while he was living in China.

    So far, investigators have not received any reports from women who met Zou while he was living in Belfast but remain in contact with Police Service Northern Ireland. They continue to encourage any current or former Northern Ireland residents who have concerns to come forward and speak to officers.

    Saira Pike, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Zou is a serial rapist and a danger to women. His life sentence reflects the heinous acts and harm he caused to women and the danger he posed to society.

    “We have always been determined to seek justice for both the unidentified and identified victims in this case. We used an evidence-led approach that relied on the video recordings of Zou to ensure this dangerous predator faced justice.

    “The prosecution team worked with the police for over a year to pick apart an unprecedented amount of footage and web chats showing his meticulous planning and the horrifying execution of his crimes.

    “Following the police appeal, we will continue to review and consider any further charges to ensure that he is held accountable and seek justice for all victims.

    “I’d like to take this opportunity to once again express my heartfelt thanks to the courageous women who came forward to report Zou’s horrific crimes. They have been incredibly strong and brave – there is no doubt that their evidence helped us to secure his conviction, and the life sentence handed to him today.”

    How to contact the police and independent support agencies:

    Reports relating to Zhenhao Zou can be made online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP): https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO1 . The MIPP is also available in Simplified Chinese https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO2, so it is as accessible as possible for potential victim-survivors.

    If you wish to speak to Met detectives or make a report relating to Zou, you can also contact police via email on survivors@met.police.uk

    You can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 2904/04FEB25.

    If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek support from specialist agencies, please contact the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for drugging and raping 10 women as judge commends officers

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A senior judge has praised the Metropolitan Police Service following one of the most challenging and complex investigations conducted by detectives to bring a serial rapist to justice.

    The case demonstrates the Met’s ongoing commitment to keeping women and girls safe and work to eradicate sexual violence, largely at the hands of predatory men.

    Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was convicted of drugging and raping women both in the UK and China in March 2025. A jury found him guilty of 28 offences in total, including counts of voyeurism, possession of an extreme pornographic image, possession of a drug to commit a sexual offence and false imprisonment.

    On Thursday, 19 June, he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to a life sentence. He will have to serve a minimum of 24 years.

    The lengthy sentence reflects justice for the women who are victim-survivors of Zou and is testament to the extraordinary lengths gone to by investigators, who left no stone unturned in their pursuit to take a dangerous sexual predator off the streets.

    Following the sentencing hearing, officers paid tribute to the brave victim-survivors, who have always remained at the very heart of the investigation.

    During the sentencing hearing, the judge commended Met detectives DC Jack Woods and DC Oliver Colville, while paying tribute to the whole prosecution team.

    Commander Kevin Southworth, of the Metropolitan Police Service, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts have always been with the courageous victim-survivors of Zou’s heinous and predatory crimes.

    “Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender has been handed a life sentence. I hope the fact Zou can no longer harm others serves as a small amount of comfort to the women who have suffered immeasurably.

    “I would also like to take this opportunity to stress that our investigation remains open and we continue to appeal to anyone who may think they have been a victim of Zou. Please come forward and speak with our team – we will treat you with empathy, kindness and respect.”

    The investigation

    Before his arrest in January 2024, Zou was a student at University College London (UCL) since 2019 and prior to that studied at Queen’s University Belfast.

    Zou used social media platforms and dating websites to target victim-survivors – all of which are believed to be of Chinese heritage. He lured women to his accommodation under the pretence of having a drink or studying and then plied them with drinks laced with drugs.

    He filmed himself as he raped the woman as they lost consciousness.

    Met investigators watched hundreds of these disturbing videos as they built a case of evidence against Zou. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.

    The prosecution team were unable to identify all of the victim-survivors captured, so relied on this video evidence to present a compelling case during the trial. Officers also meticulously pulled together over 4000 documents to leave no doubt in the jury’s mind about Zou’s guilt.

    Alongside this, they downloaded around six and a half terabytes worth of data from Zou’s phones and laptops, which included around nine million messages. This is the equivalent to 1,664 hours of footage and is one of the biggest cases the Met’s digital forensics lab has ever dealt with.

    Met officers spent months trawling through messages to understand Zou’s pattern of offending, scrupulously translating them into English from Simplified Chinese.

    The appeal

    Following Zou’s conviction, investigators shared that they believed Zou’s offending was much wider than the eleven rapes he was convicted of. They made a direct appeal to unidentified victim-survivors to come forward and seek specialist support.

    Securing justice for the victim-survivors of Zou and putting him behind bars has been at the forefront of detective’s minds since the start of the investigation. To secure a conviction through a fair trial, officers made the decision not to appeal for further victim-survivors ahead of conviction. Sharing specific information relating to his offending may have caused the case to collapse, leaving Zou to offend again. By appealing post-conviction, the Met was able to share the fullest details to support potential victim-survivors coming forward.

    Since the appeal in March 2025, 24 women have made reports to the police. These continue to be investigated thoroughly by a dedicated team of officers. Following the sentencing hearing, the team will continue to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Services around potential future charges.

    Detectives continue to keep an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors but have been keen to speak to women from the Chinese student community – they may have been living in London between 2019-2024 or met Zou while he was living in China.

    So far, investigators have not received any reports from women who met Zou while he was living in Belfast but remain in contact with Police Service Northern Ireland. They continue to encourage any current or former Northern Ireland residents who have concerns to come forward and speak to officers.

    Saira Pike, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Zou is a serial rapist and a danger to women. His life sentence reflects the heinous acts and harm he caused to women and the danger he posed to society.

    “We have always been determined to seek justice for both the unidentified and identified victims in this case. We used an evidence-led approach that relied on the video recordings of Zou to ensure this dangerous predator faced justice.

    “The prosecution team worked with the police for over a year to pick apart an unprecedented amount of footage and web chats showing his meticulous planning and the horrifying execution of his crimes.

    “Following the police appeal, we will continue to review and consider any further charges to ensure that he is held accountable and seek justice for all victims.

    “I’d like to take this opportunity to once again express my heartfelt thanks to the courageous women who came forward to report Zou’s horrific crimes. They have been incredibly strong and brave – there is no doubt that their evidence helped us to secure his conviction, and the life sentence handed to him today.”

    How to contact the police and independent support agencies:

    Reports relating to Zhenhao Zou can be made online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP): https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO1 . The MIPP is also available in Simplified Chinese https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO2, so it is as accessible as possible for potential victim-survivors.

    If you wish to speak to Met detectives or make a report relating to Zou, you can also contact police via email on survivors@met.police.uk

    You can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 2904/04FEB25.

    If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek support from specialist agencies, please contact the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Victoria and Albert Street completion concludes major highway and transport upgrades

    Source: City of Derby

    One of Derby City Centre’s key routes has completed a major overhaul, connecting key city centre sites like Becketwell Live, The Condor apartment complex and Derby Market Hall.

    The transport improvements – which will enhance appearance, improve air quality, and encourage more sustainable journeys – concluded with the resurfacing of Corporation Street, Victoria Street and Albert Street

    Among the improvements are wider footpaths and a new segregated cycle lane, making it much easier for residents and visitors to choose low-emission, active travel options to move through the heart of the city centre.

    Improved bus bays, coupled with the segregated cycle lane and a permanent one-way system will allow for improved traffic flow and lower emissions, benefitting the health of visitors and residents alike. Bus users will also benefit from new street lighting around bus stops, making them a safer, more comfortable place to wait.

    New living roof bus shelters will be installed, making the area more visually appealing and providing food sources and habitats for a wide variety of pollinating insects.

    On top of the green bus shelters, the area will also benefit from an extensive greening programme, with new planters being installed to give a fresh, vibrant feel to this vital city centre route. The public realm enhancements will also complement the proposed improvements on Osnabruck Square.

    A number of benches have been incorporated into these new planters, giving visitors a place to sit and enjoy a greener city centre.

    The completion of this scheme also marks the end of Transforming Cities programme in Derby, after Derby and Nottingham City Councils secured £161m from the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund. This project has seen improvements made to local transport infrastructure around the city. improving sustainable transport, supporting growth and encouraging more low carbon journeys.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said: 

    I’m delighted that work on Corporation Street, Victoria Street and Albert Street is now complete. This has been a very visible scheme for the city and now people will be able to see the benefits.

    A vital element of the Transforming Cities schemes, is creating an environment where we can make the city centre a healthier place for our communities to live, work and enjoy.

    We can also now celebrate the completion of the Transforming Cities programme, which has delivered infrastructure improvements across the city. I’m proud of all that we have achieved throughout this project, but rest assured we will continue to champion sustainable and active travel as we continue to deliver a greener Derby.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict: Joint Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict: Joint Statement to the OSCE

    Acting Ambassador Deirdre Brown delivers a joint statement marking the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

    Thank you, Madam Chair.

    I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Ukraine and my own country the United Kingdom.

    Today, on 19 June, we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. We pay tribute to victims, survivors and those around the world who dedicate their lives to ending conflict-related sexual violence.

    Madam Chair, the global scale and trajectory of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) cases in recent years is deeply concerning. In the OSCE region, we have continued to see evidence of conflict-related sexual violence committed by Russian forces against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, indicating its potential use as a tactic of war. This has been documented by successive Moscow Mechanism reports, ODIHR Interim Reports and other independent monitoring.

    It is vital that we, the international community, take effective action to end impunity for conflict-related sexual violence. Sexual violence in all forms must stop, all perpetrators must be held accountable, and survivors must be supported.

    The UN Security Council’s resolutions on prevention and response to CRSV are important mechanisms in this regard. Multilateral cooperation and international initiatives such as the International Alliance on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict and the OSCE’s mandated work on prevention and accountability for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Armed Conflict highlight the importance of working together towards internationally agreed standards on accountability and support to survivors.

    We strongly support the priorities of Ukraine’s 2025 chairpersonship of the International Alliance, and its specific focus on raising awareness of sexual violence in conflict settings, strengthening international support for survivors, and mobilising global efforts towards justice.

    It is important that conflict-related sexual violence is tackled as part of wider global action to end all forms of gender-based violence, achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity, implement global Women, Peace and Security commitments, empower women’s rights organisations, and promote and defend comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights for all.

    Madam Chair, participating States must continue to work together to promote international action to address and prevent conflict-related sexual violence. We must work to ensure that survivor-centred approaches are at the heart of our collective international response, and that survivors including children born of conflict-related sexual violence receive the support and protection they need.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preventing avoidable deaths in custody

    Source: Scottish Government

    Members of expert group to oversee reforms announced.

    Details of an expert group that will help drive reforms to prevent avoidable deaths in custody have been announced.

    Justice Secretary Angela Constance is leading the Ministerial Accountability Board overseeing the implementation of actions to address the recommendations of Sheriff Collins’ Fatal Accident Inquiry report into the deaths of Katie Allan and William Lindsay (also known as William Brown) at HMP & YOI Polmont. The first meeting of the Board was held on Thursday (19 June).

    Bringing a wealth of experience from third sector, legal, operational, research and health backgrounds, the members of the Board will provide support to mitigate challenges and ensure action is delivered as quickly as possible. Engaging with families will also be a central part of the Board’s role, to ensure lived experience is integral to reform.

    The Board is an interim measure until the National Oversight Mechanism – an independent national oversight body for all deaths in custody, separate from the Government – is established over the coming year. It will take on responsibility for overseeing implementation of the FAI actions along with its other responsibilities.

    Ms Constance said:

    “Action is already being taken to prevent avoidable deaths in custody but it is essential that these reforms are driven at pace to make lasting change.

    “The members of the Ministerial Accountability Board are all leaders in their fields and will bring invaluable expertise and experience across a wide range of sectors to make sure the promise of reform is delivered.

    “Engaging with families will be a vital part of the Boards role to ensure that lived experience remains central to the action taken.”

    Background             

    The Ministerial Accountability Board members are:

    Sam Gluckstein, Head of the UK National Preventive Mechanism.

    Sarah Armstrong, Professor of Criminology at University of Glasgow, SCCJR researcher and co-author of ‘Nothing to See Here’.

    Phil Wheatley, British prison officer, formerly the Director General of the National Offender Management Service and before that, the Director General of HM Prison Service.

    Professor Nancy Loucks OBE, Chief Executive of Families Outside and co-chair of the Independent Review into Deaths in Prison Custody, Chair to the DiPC Family Reference Group.

    Nicky Brown, Head of Service at Public Defence Solicitors office.

    Dr Sarah Couper, Public Health Scotland, lead consultant for mental health.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leicester set for over £80m in transport improvement funding

    Source: City of Leicester

    AROUND £80 million of Government funding is set to be invested in an ambitious programme of local transport improvements across Leicester over the next five years.

    Leicester City Council has been allocated £59 million of Local Transport Grant funding for the four years from 2026, following the Chancellor’s 2025 Spending Review.

    Although detailed guidelines are yet to be published, the long-term funding will allow the city council to plan and deliver and local transport improvements and services up until 2030.

    City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The recent announcement of Local Transport Grant funding up until 2030 is very welcome. It will provide the funding certainty needed to make long-term and ambitious plans to maintain and improve the city’s transport network for all users.

    “It will allow us to build on the successes of our local Transforming Cities programme and the major investment being made in the city’s bus services in recent years.”

    Additional government grant funding for highways maintenance, as well as specific funding from the Bus Service Improvement Plan and Active Travel England grant schemes, supporting walking and cycling, is expected to be confirmed later this year.

    Meanwhile, the city council has set out the local transport projects that will be delivered over the coming year using a range of Government grants already allocated and totalling almost £22 million.

    Over £9.3 million for the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan grant will support the purchase of up to 48 new electric buses, helping the city move closer to its target of having a fully electric bus network in place by 2030.

    The popular Hop! Bus service – which provides a free to use and fully electric bus shuttle service to key locations around the city centre – will also continue to be funded.

    The remaining £12.6 million of Government grant funding allocation for 2025/26 will be invested in range of highways maintenance and local transport improvement schemes over the next 12 months.

    These include major planned resurfacing and maintenance schemes on Melton Road and Aylestone Road; a rolling programme of pedestrian crossing improvements across the city; and highway access improvements supporting new housing and other developments at key regeneration sites including Ashton Green and the St George’s Cultural Quarter.

    A new maintenance programme to replace street lighting columns and illuminated street signs will also get under way; a neighbourhood improvement fund will be established to support local public realm improvements; and improvements to routes for walkers, wheelers and cyclists will be carried out at Orwell Drive, Newstead Road, Abbey Gate and Knighton Drive.

    The planned transport investment programme for 2025-26 is due to be considered at the next meeting of the council’s Economic Development, Transport and Climate Emergency scrutiny commission on Wednesday 25 June.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Appoints Laura Baker, Former KnowledgeHound CEO, as President of InsightsHub and Communities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro today announced the appointment of Laura Baker to the position of President of Communities and InsightsHub. In her new role, Baker will lead the strategic vision and growth for two of QuestionPro’s cornerstone platforms that enable organizations to streamline research operations and unlock real-time customer insights.

    Vivek Bhaskaran, CEO and Founder of QuestionPro, stated, “We look forward to Laura Baker joining the QuestionPro leadership team. Her exceptional track record in scaling data-focused businesses and her deep understanding of the research landscape make her the ideal leader to spearhead our Communities and Insights Hub divisions.”

    Baker joins QuestionPro with deep experience leading high-performing commercial teams in the SaaS and market research industries. She previously served as CEO of KnowledgeHound, a search-based survey data analysis solution, where she guided the team through significant product and revenue growth. Following KnowledgeHound’s strategic acquisition by YouGov, she served as Chief Commercial Officer, integrating the teams and market offerings. Her earlier career includes building and growing commercial teams for over 14 years at Mintel International. Most recently, she founded Vista Growth Solutions, a boutique consultancy advising companies on strategic growth, team performance, and go-to-market effectiveness.

    “I am incredibly excited to join QuestionPro, a company that is at the forefront of revolutionizing how businesses engage with their customers and leverage insights,” said Laura Baker. “The opportunity to combine InsightsHub’s powerful, centralized intelligence solution with the deep engagement of the Communities platform is incredibly exciting,” said Baker. “I’m looking forward to partnering with the team to help our clients drive more value from their insights and build truly customer-led strategies.”

    About QuestionPro

    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the marketplace. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at www.questionpro.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9cd68657-8166-4c74-91d7-1c6ddfc87c27

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Appoints Laura Baker, Former KnowledgeHound CEO, as President of InsightsHub and Communities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro today announced the appointment of Laura Baker to the position of President of Communities and InsightsHub. In her new role, Baker will lead the strategic vision and growth for two of QuestionPro’s cornerstone platforms that enable organizations to streamline research operations and unlock real-time customer insights.

    Vivek Bhaskaran, CEO and Founder of QuestionPro, stated, “We look forward to Laura Baker joining the QuestionPro leadership team. Her exceptional track record in scaling data-focused businesses and her deep understanding of the research landscape make her the ideal leader to spearhead our Communities and Insights Hub divisions.”

    Baker joins QuestionPro with deep experience leading high-performing commercial teams in the SaaS and market research industries. She previously served as CEO of KnowledgeHound, a search-based survey data analysis solution, where she guided the team through significant product and revenue growth. Following KnowledgeHound’s strategic acquisition by YouGov, she served as Chief Commercial Officer, integrating the teams and market offerings. Her earlier career includes building and growing commercial teams for over 14 years at Mintel International. Most recently, she founded Vista Growth Solutions, a boutique consultancy advising companies on strategic growth, team performance, and go-to-market effectiveness.

    “I am incredibly excited to join QuestionPro, a company that is at the forefront of revolutionizing how businesses engage with their customers and leverage insights,” said Laura Baker. “The opportunity to combine InsightsHub’s powerful, centralized intelligence solution with the deep engagement of the Communities platform is incredibly exciting,” said Baker. “I’m looking forward to partnering with the team to help our clients drive more value from their insights and build truly customer-led strategies.”

    About QuestionPro

    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the marketplace. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at www.questionpro.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9cd68657-8166-4c74-91d7-1c6ddfc87c27

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Get up to $50 Amazon gift cards with NordVPN’s Prime Day deal

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NordVPN, the world’s leading cybersecurity company, has launched a limited-time Amazon gift card giveaway to thank new users for choosing to protect their online privacy.

    This exclusive deal can get people Amazon Gift cards up to $50 with a purchase of any 2-year deal. The deal is available in the US, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia. The promotion aims to celebrate our commitment to making digital security both accessible and rewarding.

    “With this giveaway, we want to go one step further in showing our appreciation to new users,” said Gabrielius Blazys, head of marketing operations. “As more people recognize the importance of cybersecurity, we’re offering an extra incentive to start their journey with us.”

    All gift cards will be sent between 31 and 50 days after subscription purchase. Therefore, customers can’t claim their free voucher and request a refund. However, if people decide NordVPN isn’t suitable for their needs, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    What features do new users get?

    All NordVPN plans protect up to 10 devices and include new post-quantum encryption support, keeping customers safe into the next era of computing. NordVPN Plus plan includes Threat Protection Pro, an ad, tracker, and malware blocker. It identifies malware and protects from scams and online threats. Plus subscribers also get NordPass, helping them to manage their passwords.

    NordVPN Complete plan adds 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage to all Plus features. For total cybersecurity protection, customers from the US can also choose the NordVPN Prime plan, which adds NordProtect. It provides up to $1 million in cyber insurance, up to $100k in cyber extortion protection, credit and dark web monitoring, and a dedicated case manager. NordProtect is also available as a standalone product.

    Outside the US, NordVPN Ultra is the most comprehensive plan available. It includes everything mentioned above except NordProtect and features the Incogni data removal service instead.

    NordVPN Plus plans get customers $20 to spend, NordVPN Complete plans give $40, and Ultra or Prime plans provide a $50 gift card when signing up.

    Full NordVPN price and plan structure can be found here.

    ABOUT NORDVPN

    NordVPN is the world’s most advanced VPN service provider, chosen by millions of internet users worldwide. The service offers features such as dedicated IP, Double VPN, and Onion Over VPN servers, which help to boost your online privacy with zero tracking. One of NordVPN’s key features is Threat Protection Pro™, a tool that blocks malicious websites, trackers, and ads and scans downloads for malware. The latest creation of Nord Security, NordVPN’s parent company, is Saily — a global eSIM service. NordVPN is known for being user friendly and can offer some of the best prices on the market. This VPN provider covers 165 locations across 118 countries. For more information, visit https://nordvpn.com. 

    Contact
    Brigita
    brigita@nordsec.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government still letting NI down on veterinary medicines

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV Leader Jim Allister:

    “Today’s statement by the Secretary of State cannot conceal the lamentable failure of the government to stand up to the EU.

    “It is the EU’s preposterous assertion of sovereignty over Northern Ireland and our agricultural industry which has produced this crisis whereby traditional supplies from GB are being jeopardised. Instead of standing up for Northern Ireland the government has largely rolled over, devoting its energy to encouraging reorientation of our supplies so that they come from the EU, not GB. Diversion of trade is obvious, despite the attempt to dress it up as ‘taking the steps needed’ to continue supplies of veterinary medicines.

    “Downplaying the deficit of available supply of vital medicines to 10-15% is but an attempt to spare their blushes over letting down a sector within their own country – and this because they have ceded authority to a foreign and intransigent power.

    “Past experience of proclaimed internal market protections have invariably proved useless, and so, I fear, will today’s attempt at papering over the cracks.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New data laws will make life easier for British people, cutting life admin, easing traffic and speeding up roadworks

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New data laws will make life easier for British people, cutting life admin, easing traffic and speeding up roadworks

    British people will benefit from new laws which will make their day-to-day lives easier – from slashing grocery bills and cutting traffic jams to speeding up NHS diagnoses – as the government delivers on manifesto commitments.

    The Data Use and Access Bill now has Royal Assent.

    • Data (Use and Access) Bill becomes law – to unleash the power of data to help working people save money and time. 
    • New data regime will reduce time people spend stuck in traffic and give NHS staff more time with patients.  
    • New laws will inject £10 billion into the British economy over ten years, helping the government deliver on its growth mission in the Plan for Change and key manifesto commitments.

    It comes as the Data (Use and Access) Act has today (19th June) received Royal Assent, unleashing the power of data into the British society and economy. 

    The new data regime is set to pump £10 billion into the British economy over the next decade – by cutting NHS and police bureaucracy, speeding up roadworks, and turbocharging innovation in tech and science. 

    Measures in the Act will ensure healthcare information – like a patient’s pre-existing conditions, appointments and tests – can easily be accessed in real time across all NHS trusts, GP surgeries and ambulance services, no matter what IT system they are using. Enabling data sharing across platforms will save NHS staff 140,000 hours a year in admin, giving them more time to care for patients and make better informed decisions for them more quickly – speeding up diagnoses and treatments for the British people.  

    Delivering on a manifesto commitment, the Act boosts the development of technology such as price comparison apps that can provide hyper personalised experiences to people so they can save money and time with bills and food shops. The new laws will broaden the access that third parties, like energy suppliers, have to consumer data.

    For example, consumers will be able to share data on their energy usage which will help create more accurate price comparisons, informing what utility provider best suits their needs. This measure will give consumers the ability to compare utility prices, find better deals, and reduce their energy use, as well as foster tech innovation and boost competition, which will ultimately grow the UK economy.   

    Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    For too long, previous governments have been sitting on a goldmine of data, wasting a powerful resource which can be used to help families juggle food costs, slash tedious life admin, and make our NHS and police work smarter.

    These new laws will finally unleash that power for hardworking people – putting cash back in pockets and boosting vital public services, all part of our Plan for Change.

    Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:

    This is a game-changing moment for UK healthcare.

    No longer will patients be left waiting needlessly for treatment as NHS staff battle “computer says no” bureaucracy.

    We’re making it easier for GPs, nurses, and paramedics to access the information they need, when they need it, safely, securely and at speed.

    Only by challenging the status quo and cutting through red tape can we truly deliver our Plan for Change and an NHS Fit for the Future.

    Another key manifesto commitment the Act will deliver on is legislation to help bereaved parents get the answers they deserve when social media activity is linked to the death of their child. The new laws will establish a data preservation process that will require Ofcom, when notified by a coroner, to issue a data preservation notice to social media companies supporting their investigations into the death.

    The data regime will also ease the frustrations of traffic by creating a National Underground Asset Register, a map of the country’s underground pipes and cables, which will allow construction workers to instantly see their exact location – information which currently takes 6 days to access. Slashing the average data-sharing process to 6 seconds, workers in the field will have quick access to a rich view of buried assets, helping them make more informed decisions on how to carry out works safely and efficiently – speeding up roadworks and closures and reducing delays for those on the road.

    By legislating on digital verification services and introducing trusted digital verification tools, people will be able to prove their identity online more easily. This will simplify important tasks such as renting a flat and starting work. The measures will give companies who provide tools for verifying identities the ability to get certified against the government’s stringent trust framework of standards, and receive a ‘trust mark’ to use as a result. As well as increasing trust in the market, these efficiency gains will boost the UK economy by £4.3 billion over the next decade.

    Notes to editors

    Further details on the specific measures can be found here.

    Today we also announce the launch of a recruitment campaign for 7 Non-Executive members to the board of the new Information Commission, which will be established by the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 to replace the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) as the UK’s data regulator. This is an important step in modernising the ICO and ensuring that the regulator has a diversity of skills, experience and perspectives at the top of the organisation. The closing date for applications is Friday 1 August 2025. We encourage applications from talented individuals from all backgrounds and across the whole of the United Kingdom.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The cost of inaction in Ukraine is much greater than the cost of support: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    The cost of inaction in Ukraine is much greater than the cost of support: UK statement to the OSCE

    UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says that our support to Ukraine is not charity – it is a strategic investment in European security. We will continue to stand with Ukraine – today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes.

    Thank you, Madam Chair.

    I would like to start by offering my condolences to Ukraine. Overnight Russia staged horrific air attacks on cities including Kyiv, killing and wounding over a hundred civilians – one of the most devastating airstrikes on Kyiv since this war began.

    Madam Chair, in February 2022, President Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine under the guise of a so-called ‘Special Military Operation.’ He expected a swift and decisive victory. Over three years later, that illusion has been shattered. Russia has suffered over one million military casualties – a grim milestone – and more than twenty times the Soviet losses in Afghanistan. The DPRK has suffered over 6,000 casualties – more than half of the 11,000 troops it initially deployed to support Russia’s illegal war. These losses, largely the result of high-risk, poorly-executed attritional assaults, underscore the tragic human cost of this illegal conflict. Let me be clear, we do not celebrate this statistic. Every life lost is a tragedy. Too many families, on both sides, have had their lives irrevocably change by a war of aggression that should never have been launched.

    Ukraine remains steadfast in the face of Russia’s unrelenting and illegal aggression. Through the extraordinary courage of its Armed Forces, the resilience of its people, and the unwavering support of its international partners, Ukraine has reclaimed, and continues to reclaim, its territory, and is liberating thousands of its citizens. This is not just a military achievement – it is a testament to the unbreakable spirit of a nation fighting for its survival, its sovereignty, and its future.

    At the G7 Summit in Canada yesterday, the United Kingdom and its allies reaffirmed their commitment to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Only increasing pressure on Russia will force Putin to take peace seriously. That is why our Prime Minister announced a new sanctions package to target sectors of the Russian economy critical to its war effort.

    Russia referred to Western Defence spending at last week’s FSC. To clarify – and for transparency – our new Strategic Defence Review does mark a pivotal shift in UK defence policy. It does commit to sustaining £3 billion annually in military support to Ukraine for as long as necessary. It does emphasise the importance of learning from Ukraine’s experience in modern warfare – particularly in drone technology and hybrid conflict – to strengthen NATO’s collective defence. It does signify a landmark change to our deterrence and defence posture: moving to warfighting readiness to deter our adversaries and strengthen security at home and across the Euro-Atlantic area.

    At the 4 June Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting, the UK announced a tenfold increase in drone deliveries to Ukraine – 100,000 units this financial year alone – demonstrating our resolve to provide Ukraine with the tools it needs to defend itself. The UK has also committed an additional £247 million in 2025 to train Ukrainian forces under Operation INTERFLEX and pledged £40 million to NATO’s Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) mission trust fund. These investments are not acts of charity – they are strategic imperatives. Supporting Ukraine is an investment in our collective security, in the rules-based international order, and in the principle that borders cannot be changed by force.

    We recognise that doing more will not be without cost. But the cost of inaction is far greater. If we allow Russia to succeed in Ukraine, we send a dangerous message to authoritarian regimes around the world: that aggression pays, and that international law can be ignored with impunity. We must stand with Ukraine for however long it takes to ensure that its sovereignty is restored, its people are safe, and its future is secure. The international community must send a clear and united message: we will not tolerate the use of force to redraw borders or subjugate free nations.

    Finally, we must pay tribute to the thousands of women serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and to the countless others contributing to humanitarian, political, and security efforts. Their courage and leadership are vital to Ukraine’s defence and to its future. Ukraine continues to stand firmly on the side of peace having committed to an unconditional ceasefire and to making positive progress through diplomatic negotiation. Ukraine has demonstrated resilience and a constructive commitment to international law and human dignity in the face of Russia’s ongoing devastation. We will continue to stand with Ukraine – today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Heat-Health Alerts issued by UKHSA and the Met Office

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Heat-Health Alerts issued by UKHSA and the Met Office

    The latest heat-health alert (HHA) issued by UKHSA and the Met Office for all regions of England.

    Our UKHSA data dashboard provides the latest details on heat-health alerts currently in place and their duration, while our latest blog details how exactly heat impacts the body and what we can do avoid the negative effects.

    Latest

    Thursday 19 June 2025

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued an amber heat-health alert (HHA) for all regions of England.

    The alert is currently in place from 12 noon on Thursday 19 June to 9am on Monday 23 June. The Met Office has forecast temperatures exceeding 30°C.

    Under the Weather-Health Alert system, an amber alert means that weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service. At this level, we may begin to see some health impacts across the wider population. We may also see an increase in risk to health for individuals aged over 65 years or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

    Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said:

    We have already seen warm weather across the week, and temperatures are set to increase in the coming days, exceeding 30°c in many areas.

    Our findings show that heat can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions. It is therefore important to check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable and to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.

    Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Dan Holley, said:

    The highest temperatures from this hot spell are forecast for Saturday, with low 30s Celsius fairly widely across England, and up to 34°C possible in eastern areas. Despite this, the more uncomfortable heat will be in northern and western areas initially, where despite somewhat lower temperatures the air will be more humid.  

    The nights will also be quite warm, with the possibility of temperatures not falling below 20°C in some areas, making it hard to sleep. This is what we term a ‘tropical night’. 

    Temperatures will ease from the west on Sunday as fresher air arrives from the Atlantic, although parts of East Anglia and the far southeast of England could still see 28 to 29°C for a time.

    There are additional ways in which you can keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather, such as:

    • keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
    • if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
    • keeping out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
    • if you are going to do a physical activity (for example, exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening
    • knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them

    Our UKHSA data dashboard provides the latest details on HHAs currently in place and their duration, while our latest blog details how exactly heat impacts the body and what we can do avoid the negative effects.

    Previous

    Tuesday 17 June 2025

    First yellow heat-health alert of 2025 issued for 4 regions

    Today sees the first yellow heat-health alert issued of the year, as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reminds health and social care services to prepare for further alerts through summer as temperatures heat up.

    The alert is currently in place from 9pm on Thursday 12 June to 8am on 15 June and covers the East of England, East Midlands, London and South East regions.

    The Met Office has forecast temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius (ºC) on Friday. Whilst temperatures may not seem too high for the general population for now, data from UKHSA shows that even at these forecasted temperatures, vulnerable groups and health care services can be impacted.

    Under UKHSA and the Met Office’s Weather-Health alerting system, a yellow alert means that any impacts will likely include:

    • increased use of health care services by vulnerable populations
    • an increase in risk to health for individuals aged over 65 years or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases

    Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said:

    “Our findings shows that even moderate heat can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.

    “The forecasted high temperatures are expected to be short-lived but could primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions. If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.’’

    There are additional ways in which you can keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather, such as:

    • keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
    • if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
    • keeping out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
    • if you are going to do a physical activity (for example, exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening
    • knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them

    Our UKHSA data dashboard provides the latest details on HHAs currently in place and their duration, while our latest blog details how exactly heat impacts the body and what we can do avoid the negative effects.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Alain Rhéaume Announces His Retirement as Chair of the Board of Directors of Boralex

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) today announced that the Chair of its Board of Directors, Mr. Alain Rhéaume, has informed the Board that he will step down from his position once a successor has been appointed by the directors, no later than December of this year.

    Mr. Rhéaume is announcing his retirement following the release of Boralex’s 2030 Strategy. The process of selecting a new Chair will be overseen by the Board’s Governance Committee and must be completed no later than December 2025, at the request of Mr. Rhéaume, as he will then reach the 15-year term limit for directors in accordance with the Company’s governance policies.

    “In recent years, Boralex’s Board of Directors has focused on the orderly evolution of the Company, including its leadership, strategic directions, and governance. We have made significant progress on each of these priorities, which are essential to our shareholders and all our stakeholders,” said Mr. Rhéaume.

    Under Mr. Rhéaume’s leadership, Boralex has made substantial progress, including:

    • Drawing on the succession plan implemented under the Board’s supervision, the executive team has been renewed, beginning with the appointment of Patrick Decostre as President and Chief Executive Officer. The team now includes new leaders across several areas of the Company;
    • Over the past 10 months, the Board has welcomed three new directors, enhancing the Board’s broad range of skills and experience, while two others have stepped down;
    • The objectives of the 2025 Strategic Plan have been rigorously pursued and largely achieved. The 2030 Strategy, unveiled on June 17, will ensure the continuation of Boralex’s ambitious growth trajectory.

    “This key milestone in Boralex’s evolution, culminating in the presentation of its new 2030 Strategy, has required significant effort from both the Board and senior management. The implementation of the Company’s new strategic directions will benefit from the appointment of a new Chair who can guide it over the medium term,” said Mr. Rhéaume.

    “The turbulence and uncertainty of global economies present challenges that companies must adapt to, but the strong growth in energy demand and the ongoing energy transition offer significant opportunities for Boralex, which is well positioned to continue asserting itself as a leader in renewable energy,” he added.

    “We express our deep gratitude for Alain Rhéaume’s 15 years of service on Boralex’s Board of Directors, including eight years as Chair. Alain combines sharp business acumen with unmatched governance expertise. Always available, attentive, and insightful, he consistently balances risk and opportunity with a human approach and a commitment to the greater good. On behalf of the entire Boralex team, I thank him sincerely.”

    “I have greatly appreciated working with the highly dedicated and high-performing teams at Boralex, both on the Board, within management and across the organization. Together, we have helped advance this small company, born from the vision of its founder Bernard Lemaire, to a stage of development he would be proud of,” concluded Mr. Rhéaume.

    For more information on the Board of Directors and its governance practices, please visit the Boralex website.

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements  

    Some of the statements contained in this press release, including, without limitation, those relating to the process of selecting a replacement for the position of Chair of the Board, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, within the meaning of securities legislation. Boralex would like to point out that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties such that its results or the measure it adopts could differ materially from those indicated by or underlying these statements, or could have an impact on the degree of realization of a particular forward-looking statement. Unless otherwise specified by the Company, the forward-looking statements do not take into account the possible impact on its activities, transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after the statements are made. There can be no assurance as to the materialization of the results, performance, or achievements as expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Unless required to do so under applicable securities legislation, Boralex management does not assume any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or other changes. 

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has increased by more than 50% to 3.2 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, discipline, expertise and diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

    For more information

    MEDIA INVESTOR RELATIONS
    Camille Laventure
    Senior Advisor, Public Affairs and External Communications

    Boralex Inc.

    438 883-8580
    camille.laventure@boralex.com

    		 Stéphane Milot
    Vice President, Investor Relations and Financial Planning and Analysis

    Boralex Inc.

    514 213-1045
    stephane.milot@boralex.com
       

    Source: Boralex inc.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alain Rhéaume Announces His Retirement as Chair of the Board of Directors of Boralex

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) today announced that the Chair of its Board of Directors, Mr. Alain Rhéaume, has informed the Board that he will step down from his position once a successor has been appointed by the directors, no later than December of this year.

    Mr. Rhéaume is announcing his retirement following the release of Boralex’s 2030 Strategy. The process of selecting a new Chair will be overseen by the Board’s Governance Committee and must be completed no later than December 2025, at the request of Mr. Rhéaume, as he will then reach the 15-year term limit for directors in accordance with the Company’s governance policies.

    “In recent years, Boralex’s Board of Directors has focused on the orderly evolution of the Company, including its leadership, strategic directions, and governance. We have made significant progress on each of these priorities, which are essential to our shareholders and all our stakeholders,” said Mr. Rhéaume.

    Under Mr. Rhéaume’s leadership, Boralex has made substantial progress, including:

    • Drawing on the succession plan implemented under the Board’s supervision, the executive team has been renewed, beginning with the appointment of Patrick Decostre as President and Chief Executive Officer. The team now includes new leaders across several areas of the Company;
    • Over the past 10 months, the Board has welcomed three new directors, enhancing the Board’s broad range of skills and experience, while two others have stepped down;
    • The objectives of the 2025 Strategic Plan have been rigorously pursued and largely achieved. The 2030 Strategy, unveiled on June 17, will ensure the continuation of Boralex’s ambitious growth trajectory.

    “This key milestone in Boralex’s evolution, culminating in the presentation of its new 2030 Strategy, has required significant effort from both the Board and senior management. The implementation of the Company’s new strategic directions will benefit from the appointment of a new Chair who can guide it over the medium term,” said Mr. Rhéaume.

    “The turbulence and uncertainty of global economies present challenges that companies must adapt to, but the strong growth in energy demand and the ongoing energy transition offer significant opportunities for Boralex, which is well positioned to continue asserting itself as a leader in renewable energy,” he added.

    “We express our deep gratitude for Alain Rhéaume’s 15 years of service on Boralex’s Board of Directors, including eight years as Chair. Alain combines sharp business acumen with unmatched governance expertise. Always available, attentive, and insightful, he consistently balances risk and opportunity with a human approach and a commitment to the greater good. On behalf of the entire Boralex team, I thank him sincerely.”

    “I have greatly appreciated working with the highly dedicated and high-performing teams at Boralex, both on the Board, within management and across the organization. Together, we have helped advance this small company, born from the vision of its founder Bernard Lemaire, to a stage of development he would be proud of,” concluded Mr. Rhéaume.

    For more information on the Board of Directors and its governance practices, please visit the Boralex website.

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements  

    Some of the statements contained in this press release, including, without limitation, those relating to the process of selecting a replacement for the position of Chair of the Board, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, within the meaning of securities legislation. Boralex would like to point out that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties such that its results or the measure it adopts could differ materially from those indicated by or underlying these statements, or could have an impact on the degree of realization of a particular forward-looking statement. Unless otherwise specified by the Company, the forward-looking statements do not take into account the possible impact on its activities, transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after the statements are made. There can be no assurance as to the materialization of the results, performance, or achievements as expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Unless required to do so under applicable securities legislation, Boralex management does not assume any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or other changes. 

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has increased by more than 50% to 3.2 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, discipline, expertise and diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

    For more information

    MEDIA INVESTOR RELATIONS
    Camille Laventure
    Senior Advisor, Public Affairs and External Communications

    Boralex Inc.

    438 883-8580
    camille.laventure@boralex.com

    		 Stéphane Milot
    Vice President, Investor Relations and Financial Planning and Analysis

    Boralex Inc.

    514 213-1045
    stephane.milot@boralex.com
       

    Source: Boralex inc.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Dire warning on 1.5°C goal must spark urgent climate action

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Bonn, Germany, New data indicating there may be just three years left to keep the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal alive must urgently galvanise accelerated global emissions cuts and enhanced climate action.

    Data from scientists revealed that the available carbon budget is rapidly shrinking and that at the current rate of emissions the remaining carbon budget to limit global warming to 1.5°C goal could be surpassed in three years.[1]

    Shiva Gounden, Head of Pacific, Greenpeace Australia Pacific said: “This message is a matter of survival for us in the Pacific and all small island developing states. The message is clear – we need to end climate and nature destruction and act with the urgency required. The answer is simple: end the production and burning of coal, oil and gas and defend our future.” 

    “We continue to hope and act, but where is the urgency from the major emitters? It’s time to genuinely stand in solidarity with the people on the frontlines of this crisis. The climate is on fire and our way of life is on the line. This is the greatest existential threat for our Pacific to live as Pasifika people.”

    Tracy Carty, Climate Politics Expert, Greenpeace International said: “This is yet another dire warning that must spark a response. Talk must turn into action. But here in Bonn that urgency seems to be lacking. Our backs are against the wall and governments need to step up.”

    “That means unveiling bold and ambitious 2035 climate action plans that rapidly push ahead with the phase out of coal, oil and gas – especially in rich developed countries who need to move the fastest.” 

    “As emissions continue and monthly temperature records stack up, it’s getting harder and harder to achieve the 1.5°C goal, but now is not the time to give up! Every fraction of a degree matters and more action is needed. What matters now is what we do today and tomorrow.”

    An Lambrechts, Biodiversity Politics Expert, Greenpeace International said: “The 1.5°C goal is also hugely reliant on ending deforestation and that’s why governments must agree at COP30 on an action plan to implement existing commitments to end deforestation and forest degradation by 2030. As COP30 heads to the Amazon under Brazil’s presidency, we must seize this significant opportunity to accelerate protection and restoration of critical ecosystems.”

    ENDS

    Notes:
    [1]Scientists find three years left of remaining carbon budget for 1.5°C

    Greenpeace Bonn Climate Change Conference media briefing

    Contacts:
    Aaron Gray-Block, Climate Politics Communications Manager, Greenpeace International, [email protected]

    Gaby Flores, Communications Coordinator, Greenpeace International, +1 214 454 3871, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    Join the Greenpeace UNFCCC WhatsApp Update Group

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FMQs: Greens condemn lack of action since anti far-right summit 

    Source: Scottish Greens

    19 Jun 2025 Climate Human Rights

    Warm words are not enough when people and planet are suffering.

    More in Climate

    Promises made to defend democracy and oppose the far-right at a summit hosted by First Minister John Swinney must be turned into actions, says Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP.

    Patrick used his last slot at First Minister’s Questions in his position as co-leader to challenge John Swinney on the lack of action from the Scottish Government since the summit in April, and to condemn the policy drift from the Scottish Government since John Swinney became First Minister.

    In his first question, Patrick asked:

    “Nearly 2 months ago, the First Minister hosted a summit about opposing the far right and defending democracy. 

    “There was a clear message from many people in the room – governments need to act to address people’s concerns – restore the public services we all rely on, give local communities more power, tackle extreme wealth, and tax the big polluters who are profiteering from climate breakdown so we can invest in our communities.

    “It was obvious that without clear action, this would be just another talking shop. But what changes have we really seen since then?

    “What exactly has the Scottish Government done differently in practical terms, since that meeting to turn promises into action?”

    The First Minister responded claiming that his government had taken action to eradicate child poverty, but pointed to actions which are yet to be taken. He also referred to the publication of the Scottish Government’s carbon budgets this morning, which the Scottish Greens slammed as “deeply concerning” earlier today after advice from the UK Climate Change Committee was rejected.

    Responding to the First Minister, Patrick asked: 

    “There is a clear sense of drift from the First Minister; he came into this job saying he wanted to “build the best future for our country”.

    “But since then he has watered down rent controls. He has stalled plans to help get people off expensive fossil fuels. 

    “He’s abandoned progress on human rights and equalities laws. He has ditched environmental actions like a new National Park.

    “And just today, he has rejected advice from his independent climate experts.

    “And in place of the progressive Green policies that the First Minister has walked away from… what? I struggle to think of a single, signature policy showing ambition or leadership that he has actually delivered in his year in the job.

    “In the face of the threat from the far right, this “steady as she goes” approach is a course to disaster.

    “Does the FM understand that people need to see real progress toward a fairer, greener Scotland, and that failure to tackle inequality and injustice will only benefit the snake oil sellers on the far right?”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement with the Working Group on Transnational Corporations and other business enterprises

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement with the Working Group on Transnational Corporations and other business enterprises

    UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Working Group on Transnational Corporations and other business enterprises. Delivered at the 59th HRC in Geneva.

    Thank you, Mr President,

    We thank the Working Group for their report on ensuring the procurement and deployment of AI is aligned with the UN Guiding Principles.

    The use of AI presents significant opportunities for human rights, as well as risks. The UK advocates for human rights considerations to be incorporated into the design, development and use of AI. We expect all businesses to carry out human rights due diligence in line with the UN Guiding Principles to this effect.

    We recognise the need for transparency raised in the report. The UK has introduced an Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard, which requires public sector organisations to publish clear information on how and why they are using algorithmic tools, delivering meaningful transparency through a tiered approach. This is mandatory for central government, when such tools have a significant influence on decision-making processes which effect the public.

    The UK recognises that international cooperation through multilateral fora is vital to safeguard and mitigate against human rights risks associated with AI.

    Members of the Working Group,  

    How can meaningful stakeholder consultation, including with affected populations, be integrated into the development of common standards and interoperable frameworks, to ensure responsible adoption of AI?

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New guidance issued for environmental impact assessments

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New guidance issued for environmental impact assessments

    Guidance offers greater clarity to offshore oil and gas developers.

    • New guidance provides clarity on how the global environmental impacts of proposed oil and gas projects in licensed fields should be assessed, following Supreme Court ruling.

    • Offshore developers will now be able to submit their applications for consent to develop already-licensed oil and gas fields.

    • Follows the Spending Review announcement of £9.4 billion for carbon capture and storage projects, including Acorn in Aberdeenshire, in a major step forward for the government’s plan to put the North Sea at the heart of Britain’s clean energy future.

    Offshore oil and gas developers to benefit from greater clarity and stability, as new guidance responds to last year’s landmark Supreme Court ruling for the North Sea.   

    The government has acted decisively to respond to the independent Supreme Court, which ruled before this government took office that the global environmental effects of burning oil and gas are an inevitable consequence of extraction projects. This ruling means that North Sea operators for the first time are required to consider the impact of burning the extracted oil and gas in environmental impact assessments. 

    The new guidance, published today (19 June), will ensure the full effects of fossil fuel extraction on the environment are recognised in consenting decisions. It sets out how environmental impacts of oil and gas should be assessed, providing a clear way forward for the industry. 

    Offshore developers will now be able to submit their applications for consent to extract oil and gas in already-licensed fields, a process which has been on pause since the Finch Supreme Court judgment. When deciding on an application, the Energy Secretary will consider the significance of a project’s environmental impact, while taking into account and balancing relevant factors on a case-by-case basis – such as the potential economic impact and other implications of the project. 

    The publication brings greater clarity for Britain’s oil and gas sector, as the government continues its work with the industry to build a clean energy future for the North Sea. It comes as last week’s Spending Review confirmed £9.4 billion for carbon capture and storage projects – marking a major step forward in the government’s mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower that will drive economic growth, create jobs and deliver the government’s Plan for Change. 

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: 

    This new guidance offers clarity on the way forward for the North Sea oil and gas industry, following last year’s Supreme Court ruling.  

    It marks a step forward in ensuring the full implications of oil and gas extraction are considered for potential projects and that we ensure a managed, prosperous, and orderly transition to the North Sea’s clean energy future, in line with the science.  

    We are working with industry, trade unions, local communities and environmental groups to ensure the North Sea and its workers are at the heart of Britain’s clean energy future for decades to come – supporting well-paid, skilled jobs, driving growth and boosting our energy security.

    The new guidance is aimed at applications for projects in North Sea oil and gas fields that are already licensed. 

    Today’s publication follows decisive action from the government to consult on the required changes – hearing from the industry, NGOs, trade unions, academia and members of the public – in light of the Court’s ruling a year ago this week.  

    The update follows news last week that the government will provide around £200 million to progress the Acorn project in Aberdeenshire, subject to business case, as part of the £9.4 billion commitment in the Spending Review for carbon capture and storage projects across the UK. Industry predicts the Acorn project will support approximately 15,000 jobs at peak construction – bolstering the region’s proud energy history and delivering on the Plan for Change.    

    The investment is just one part of the government’s plan to bring growth, jobs and investment to the North Sea. Later this year, the government will respond to its consultation on how to support a successful clean energy transition for the North Sea and its workers – and on the commitment not to issue new licences to explore new oil and gas fields. 

    Support to help oil and gas workers maximise the opportunities of the clean energy transition is already underway. Earlier this year, the government confirmed Aberdeen as one of four key growth regions for clean energy – alongside Cheshire, Lincolnshire and Pembrokeshire – and launched pilots to help workers in these areas access jobs in new clean energy industries. 

    Oil and gas workers will also get help to move into these sectors, thanks to a new energy ‘skills passport’ launched this year – led by Offshore Energies UK and RenewableUK, and backed by UK and Scottish Governments. This tool will support workers into careers in offshore wind initially, before being expanded to other renewables roles later this year.    

    Notes to editors:  

    • The guidance published today on assessing effects of downstream scope 3 emissions on climate is supplementary to existing guidance on Environmental Impact Assessments for oil and gas extraction projects.  

    • This guidance is intended to assist developers in understanding the Environmental Impact Assessment process. It is not intended to provide a definitive statement of the law or to constitute legal advice.   

    • Developers remain responsible for ensuring that their environmental statements are prepared by competent experts and should seek technical and legal advice as necessary. 

    • The government’s response to the consultation on the guidance for assessing effects of downstream scope 3 emissions on climate has also been published on gov.uk. 

    • Offshore developers will now be able to submit their applications for consent to extract oil and gas in already-licensed fields. There is no change to the legislation and the process remains the same. Environmental statements are subject to public notice requirements for 30 days. The Energy Secretary may request further information if required in order for a decision to be reached and such further information may be subject to a further public notice period. The Energy Secretary will then make a decision on whether or not to agree to the grant of consent, once all the relevant information has been provided. This means the government does not anticipate taking any decisions until Autumn at the earliest, on applications received following the new guidance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Logistics deal cleared with remedies to help keep supermarket warehousing costs low

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Logistics deal cleared with remedies to help keep supermarket warehousing costs low

    CMA has cleared GXO’s acquisition of Wincanton following the business’s offer to sell Wincanton’s dedicated grocery warehousing business.

    iStock

    The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has cleared the merger between contract logistics services providers, GXO and Wincanton – subject to the sale of Wincanton’s dedicated grocery warehousing business to a CMA-approved buyer.  

    In its final report, the independent inquiry group leading the CMA’s investigation found that GXO’s purchase of Wincanton would reduce competition in the supply of dedicated warehousing services to grocery customers in the UK.  

    The loss of competition would likely lead to higher costs for grocers which, in turn, could be passed onto shoppers across the UK and lead to more expensive products at the checkout. The loss of competition resulting from the deal could hamper innovation and reduce service levels in the market – impacting the efficiency of goods reaching supermarket shelves.  

    As a result, GXO has agreed to sell Wincanton’s dedicated grocery warehousing business to a CMA-approved buyer. The inquiry group is satisfied that this remedy sufficiently addresses its competition concerns and is therefore clearing the deal.  

    Logistics, including warehousing, is essential to the operation of supermarkets and many other businesses in the UK. Efficient logistics systems help to lower costs for both businesses and consumers and ensure that products are available in stores when needed.   

    Richard Feasey, Chair of the independent inquiry group, said:    

    Warehousing services play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless movement of goods across the UK, allowing our supermarkets to maintain well-stocked shelves with thousands of items we buy every day.   

    Healthy competition in this market is key to managing costs for supermarkets and grocers and improving their performance – ultimately ensuring consumers pay the best possible prices for products in stores. We are pleased to approve this deal, having worked with GXO and Wincanton to secure the necessary changes to the deal which resolve our concerns.

    For more information, visit the GXO / Wincanton case page. 

    Notes to Editors:  

    1. Alongside publishing the final report, the CMA has also issued an interim order to permit GXO and Wincanton to begin integration once Wincanton’s dedicated grocery warehousing business has been appropriately ringfenced, pending its sale to a suitable CMA-approved buyer.  

    2. The independent inquiry group’s final report will be published on the GXO / Wincanton case page in due course.  

    3. Contract logistics services (CLS) encompass a range of B2B and B2C supply chain-related services, which enable businesses to supply goods to customers and consumers. These services include transport and distribution, warehousing and additional value-added services. 

    4. All media enquiries should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Lucinity and PwC Collaborate to Simplify AI Integration for Compliance Teams

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REYKJAVIK, Iceland, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lucinity, a leader in AI-powered financial crime prevention, is working with PwC Denmark to streamline AI adoption for compliance teams. This collaboration embeds AI-driven solutions into financial crime workflows, boosting efficiency, automating manual tasks, and enhancing decision-making for financial institutions.

    Financial institutions face mounting regulatory scrutiny over money laundering, fraud, and sanctions violations. Lucinity’s AI-powered platform accelerates investigations, transforms user experience, and strengthens compliance, while PwC’s integration expertise ensures seamless AI deployment.

    Lucinity’s platform features a centralized Case Manager for financial crime investigations and the Luci AI Agent for intelligent automation, streamlining compliance workflows. Financial institutions can configure their AI-driven processes to align with their unique requirements through Lucinity’s self-serve interface. Built with security and explainability at its core, the platform ensures transparency and provides clear AI-driven insights that can be easily explained to regulators. Lucinity has helped various banks, fintechs, and payment providers, including Visa, Trustly, Finshark, Kroo Bank, Arion Bank, and Kvika Bank, enhance financial crime compliance.

    PwC brings deep expertise in financial services, regulatory compliance, and technology integration. Its strengths include aligning AI with business processes, managing smooth deployments, and providing change management and workforce training to facilitate AI adoption. This ensures financial institutions can implement AI-driven compliance solutions efficiently while maintaining regulatory alignment.

    A key innovation in this collaboration is Luci Skills—AI-powered automations for compliance tasks like negative news search, money flow analysis, case summaries, and transaction analysis. Financial institutions can also build custom AI capabilities within Lucinity’s framework, supported by PwC.

    “PwC Denmark’s reputation as a trusted leader in financial services makes them an ideal collaborator,” said Gudmundur Kristjansson, CEO of Lucinity. “Their expertise in compliance and technology integration, combined with our AI-driven solutions, simplifies AI adoption for financial institutions.”

    Lucinity’s AI technology plays a key role in supporting efforts to enhance compliance and risk management. By working closely with customers to develop innovative solutions, this collaboration represents a meaningful step toward meeting their evolving needs.

    Lucinity and PwC Denmark are launching joint Proof of Concepts (PoCs) to drive AI innovation in financial crime compliance.

    To learn more about the collaboration or to contact Lucinity’s experts, visit https://lucinity.com/

    About Lucinity

    ​​Lucinity is an AI software company for financial crime operations, designed to accelerate compliance teams. Lucinity enhances intelligence gathering, analysis, and decision-making, allowing institutions to streamline operations and reduce costs. As an open, configurable, no-code platform, Lucinity offers a seamless integration of data, automated workflows, and a modern user interface, making it a crucial tool for enhancing productivity and operational efficiency in the financial sector.

    About PwC

    At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into competitive advantage. We’re a tech-forward, people-empowered network with more than 370,000 people in 149 countries (2,800 people in Denmark). Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting we help build, accelerate and sustain momentum. Find out more at www.pwc.dk.

    Contact
    celina@lucinity.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: TUI Hotels & Resorts contributes to growth in Africa with strong leisure hotel brands

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    • TUI Blue and TUI Suneo extend their portfolio in North Africa
    • New openings planned in The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire
    • New luxury brand The Mora celebrates its first anniversary

    TUI Group (www.TUIGroup.com) continues to expand its hotel business worldwide and pursues ambitious plans to support the African hospitality industry. With its 12 leisure hotel brands, TUI offers unique experiences for holidaymakers and invites them to enjoy the respective region with its culinary delights, natural beauty and cultural heritage. A few weeks ago, the brands TUI Blue and TUI Suneo expanded their portfolio in Africa. In Egypt, TUI Blue Samaya with 143 rooms and an aqua park has been added to the premium brand’s portfolio. The hotel is located in the growing destination of Marsa Alam. For holidaymakers looking for value for money, TUI Suneo Palm Beach Skanes in Tunisia has also opened its doors. With 294 rooms and a large garden area, the hotel is offering an attractive all-inclusive package with a wide range of sports and entertainment options.

    “Together with our long-standing JV partners, we have more than 20 hotels in our pipeline that will open in Africa in the coming months and years”, says Artur Gerber, Managing Director TUI Hotels & Resorts, at the Future Hospitality Summit Africa. “We already have a strong presence in North Africa, the Cape Verde Islands and Zanzibar, but we are convinced that other destinations can also benefit from our strong leisure hotel brands.” For example, the lifestyle brand TUI Blue is planning its first hotel in The Gambia, which will open at the end of this year. The resort features 140 rooms and a unique location along Kotu Beach. “With our expertise, along with management and franchise agreements, we are also attracting hotel partners in entirely new destinations. One example is Côte d’Ivoire, where the construction of a new TUI Blue hotel has just started and is scheduled to open in 2027”, adds Wesam Okasha, Head of Global Development TUI Blue.

    Last year, TUI launched a new brand targeting the upscale market and selected Tanzania as its inaugural destination. The Mora Zanzibar has just celebrated its first anniversary, offering laid-back, contemporary luxury with highly personalized and flexible service. “Our guest reviews show that The Mora is resonating strongly with this new audience and delivering an exceptional experience. We are very proud of this achievement and look forward to introducing more carefully selected The Mora hotels across Africa,” says Artur Gerber.

    TUI Hotels & Resorts’ current portfolio in Africa comprises a total of 97 hotels with over 30,000 rooms across eight countries.

    – on behalf of TUI Blue Hotels.

    TUI Group – Group Corporate & External Affairs:
    Natascha Kreye
    Corporate Communications
    Phone: +49 (0) 511 566 6029
    natascha.kreye@tui.com

    group.communications@tui.com
    www.TUIGroup.com

    About TUI Group:
    The TUI Group is one of the world’s leading tourism groups and operates worldwide. The Group is headquartered in Germany. TUI shares are listed in the MDAX index of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and in the regulated market of the Lower Saxony Stock Exchange in Hanover. TUI Group offers its over 20 million customers integrated services from a single source and forms the entire tourism value chain under one roof. The Group owns over 400 hotels and resorts with premium brands such as RIU, TUI Blue and Robinson and 18 cruise ships, ranging from the MS Europa and MS Europa 2 in the luxury class and expedition ships in the HANSEATIC class to the Mein Schiff fleet of TUI Cruises and cruise ships operated by Marella Cruises in the UK. The Group also includes Europe’s leading tour operator brands and online marketing platforms, for example for hotel-only or flight-only offers, five airlines with 125 modern medium- and long-haul aircraft and around 1,200 travel agencies. In addition to expanding its core business with hotels and cruises via successful joint ventures and activities in vacation destinations, TUI is increasingly focusing on the expansion of digital platforms. The Group is transforming itself into a global tourism platform company.  

    Global responsibility for sustainable economic, environmental and social action is at the heart of our corporate culture. With projects in 25 countries, the TUI Care Foundation initiated by TUI focuses on the positive effects of tourism, on education and training and on strengthening environmental and social standards. In this way, it supports the development of vacation destinations. The globally active TUI Care Foundation initiates projects that create new opportunities for the next generation.  

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Decade long Infrastructure Strategy to deliver stability, investment and national renewal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Decade long Infrastructure Strategy to deliver stability, investment and national renewal

    10 Year Infrastructure Strategy published today (19 June) will deliver on the Government’s growth mission, as part of the Plan for Change, transforming how infrastructure projects are planned and delivered.

    • Safer hospitals, modernised schools, and renovated courts to replace crumbling public sector buildings, as Strategy pledges at least £9 billion per year over next decade for renewal of Health, Education and Justice estates
    • New approach to infrastructure will include vital reforms to ensure planning and delivery is joined up, backed by £725 billion in long-term funding for maintenance and major projects.

    The soaring maintenance backlog which has left our schools, colleges, hospitals and courts in a state of disrepair will be turned around as part of the government’s landmark 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy published today (19 June).  

    The Strategy sets out a long-term plan for how the government will invest in infrastructure and ensure that funding is spent effectively and efficiently, marking a new approach to how projects are planned and delivered.  

    This government is committed to doing things differently to deliver infrastructure and fix the failures of the past, having accepted all of the James Stewart Review’s recommendations on HS2. The Strategy provides the certainty and stability needed to attract investment, boosting British supply chains and jobs, and takes a joined-up view to improve planning and delivery across all types of infrastructure.  

    It will also encourage inward investment by providing a long-term vision that gives investors the confidence and certainty they need to truly commit funding to projects, creating job opportunities and boosting living standards for people across the country, delivering on the Plan for Change. 

    These plans are backed by at least £725 billion of government funding over the coming decade, from which at least £9 billion will be allocated in 2025-26 to address the critical maintenance needs of health, education and justice estates, rising to over £10 billion per year by 2034-35.  

    This will increase access to quality, modern public services, following years of underinvestment, and deliver significant real-world benefits for patients, students, staff, and communities.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    Infrastructure is crucial to unlocking growth across the country, but for too long investment has been squeezed. Crumbling public buildings are a sign of the decay that has seeped into our everyday lives because of a total failure to plan and invest.

    We’re not just fixing buildings – we’re enhancing public services, improving lives and creating the conditions for sustainable economic growth in communities throughout the UK.

    This will deliver the decade of national renewal we promised Britain, and fulfil our Plan for Change goals to kickstart economic growth, and build an NHS fit for the future.

    The 10-year maintenance investment will deliver tangible improvements for people across the country:

    • Health: Over £6 billion per year will create safer hospital environments across England with reduced waiting times, improved patient outcomes, and better working conditions for NHS staff. By eliminating RAAC concrete and addressing critical infrastructure risks, patients will receive care in modern facilities that support rather than hinder their treatment and recovery.
    • Education: Investment in school and college maintenance will rise to almost £3 billion annually, transforming learning environments across England and providing safe and high-quality spaces for children and young people, improving educational outcomes and breaking down barriers to opportunity.
    • Justice: At least £600 million investment each year will improve safety and security in prisons across England and Wales, reducing incidents and creating environments more conducive to rehabilitation. Enhanced court facilities will help reduce backlogs and improve access to justice.

    This strategic investment approach will help break the cycle of deterioration and emergency repairs that has characterised public infrastructure maintenance for decades. By adopting a preventative approach, services will face fewer disruptive closures, operate more efficiently, and deliver better value for taxpayers in the long term. 

    The programme directly supports the government’s mission to build an NHS fit for the future, with healthcare facilities that enable earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. It also advances the mission to break down barriers to opportunity by ensuring all children have access to quality learning environments, regardless of where they live. 

    To support delivery of this strategy, the government is funding at least £725 billion for the country’s infrastructure over the next decade, ensuring that public infrastructure capital funding continues to grow in line with inflation after the current Spending Review period. This funding certainty will help government and industry plan further ahead, allowing for more efficient delivery of UK wide infrastructure. 

    The National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), established by the government this year, will work with partners across government and industry to effectively implement the strategy across the whole of the UK. NISTA will periodically review the progress made and work with devolved governments to ensure that infrastructure strategy across the UK is joined up.

    Becky Wood, Chief Executive Officer of NISTA, said:

    This investment is a welcome part of the 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy and will help us to address some of the challenges that our key public services have faced over recent years.   

    Strategic preventative maintenance based on longer-term plans is a more effective approach than making decisions in the absence of certainty about the future – and will ensure our vital public services remain resilient and fit for purpose. 

    By approaching replacement and maintenance of our infrastructure in an informed and systematic way, we can target interventions effectively and plan properly for the future.

    More information

    The 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy outlines the government’s comprehensive approach to infrastructure investment across all sectors.

    This funding commitment follows recommendations from the National Audit Office on the need for long-term, sustainable maintenance funding.

    The funding in the 10YIS includes:   

    • £1 billion to carry out maintenance on key transport infrastructure, including crumbling bridges, flyovers and crossing.  

    • £590 million to start work on the Lower Thames Crossing. 

    • £16 billion of new public investment will help build over 500,000 new homes, which will also unlock over £53bn of private investment.

    Tracy Blackwell, Chief Executive Officer, Pension Insurance Corporation said:

    The government’s 10-year infrastructure strategy is a good step in the right direction – providing clarity, ambition, and commitment to long-term investors in UK infrastructure, like Pension Insurance Corporation. We welcome the clearer pipeline of projects and a renewed focus on social value, something that is of real importance for local people. The Government’s wider efforts on planning reform, transparent delivery bodies, and reducing the regulatory burden will supplement this new strategy – offering a much more investable environment across the UK.

    Lord O’Neill of Gatley said:

    The Strategy set out today is a serious plan for addressing the long-running challenges that have prohibited investment for years. The government needs to be transparent in how it selects its infrastructure investments to drive growth and this Strategy is a big step forward in doing that. I look forward to further detail on the government’s plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail.

    Keith Lawson, Executive Vice President, Jacobs said:

    Jacobs welcomes the 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy as a testament to the Government’s commitment to driving economic growth, empowering communities, and providing market certainty. We are excited about the potential for this ambitious strategy to attract new talent to our sector, embrace new technologies, and promote the UK’s ability to compete globally.

    By investing in public services, transport, and clean energy, we are not only addressing today’s needs but also laying the foundation for a resilient future. The combined efforts of the Spending Review, NISTA, and the 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy provide the stability, coordination, and long-term vision necessary for efficient infrastructure delivery.

    At Jacobs, we are committed to partnering with the Government to deliver these vital projects, creating lasting positive impacts across the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New law to ensure fairness for all in court

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New law to ensure fairness for all in court

    Sentencing guidelines which risked differential treatment for different races and religions blocked as Sentencing Guidelines (Pre-sentence Reports) Act receives Royal Assent

    • Sentencing Guidelines (Pre-sentence Reports) Act receives Royal Assent
    • Law prevents guidelines on pre-sentence reports which reference personal characteristics – such as race or ethnicity coming into effect
    • Law will ensure everyone is treated equally by the courts, part of mission to create Safer Streets through the Plan for Change

    Sentencing guidelines which risked differential treatment for different races and religions, in terms of access to pre-sentence reports, will be blocked under new legislation which has become law today (Thursday 19 June).

    Pre-sentence reports can play a valuable role in supporting judges when making decisions on sentencing. The reports provide an assessment of the nature and causes of an offender’s behaviour, the risk they pose, as well as an independent recommendation of the sentencing options available to the court. However, the changes proposed by the Sentencing Council earlier this year risked a two-tier justice system with offenders treated differently based on their religion or the colour of their skin.

    The new law prevents sentencing guidelines from singling out specific cohorts for differential treatment based on their personal characteristics, when it comes to ordering pre-sentence reports – maintaining fairness and equality under the law.  

    This Act will not restrict courts from requesting pre-sentence reports on a case-by-case basis, such as for pregnant women or those involving young people, or domestic abuse. 

    The Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood said:  

    Equality before the law is the backbone of public confidence in our justice system and today’s change to the law ensure fairness for all in our courts.  

    I am grateful to the Council and its officials for their constructive work on this, I will continue to ensure no one is treated differently just because of their skin colour or religion under the law.

    Background information

    • The Government supports the use of PSRs but the guidance included in the Sentencing Council’s revised Imposition of community and custodial sentences guideline – specifically stating a PSR would normally be considered necessary for offenders based on their personal characteristics, such as religion or ethnicity – risked differential treatment before the law. 
    • The measures will apply to England and Wales.  
    • This Act follows formal objections raised by the Lord Chancellor to the Sentencing Council regarding sections of the revised Imposition guideline, which was published on 5 March 2025 and originally due to come into effect on 1 April 2025. 
    • Courts are under a statutory obligation to request PSRs in all cases (under section 30 of the Sentencing Code), unless they consider it unnecessary in the circumstances of the case. This Act does not impact this statutory obligation. 
    • The Act also does not prevent the Sentencing Council from advising, in general terms, that PSRs are sought in cases where the court would benefit from an assessment of an offender’s personal circumstances. 
    • The Act also does not affect Court of Appeal case law about the types of cases where PSRs are necessary or desirable, including the recent case of Thompson in which the Court of Appeal said it would be desirable to obtain a PSR in cases of pregnant or post-natal women.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Early works to start as contractor appointed for Wednesfield High Street transformation

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Taylor Woodrow will next week begin investigatory works to progress the design of the new scheme ahead of main construction works starting later in the year.

    Underground service surveys, drainage surveys and trial holes, are scheduled to take place between Monday 23 June and Friday 27 June with further investigatory works to follow. Dates are subject to change.

    The improvements will increase the vibrancy of the High Street by delivering environmental enhancements to the public realm and markets to encourage increased footfall, linked trips and dwell time to support businesses and boost the local economy.

    It follows the council securing UK Government funding for the scheme and extensive consultation and engagement with the public and traders, with the final works set to include:

    • Improved paving, lighting, greening and seating in High Street to attract more footfall and investment and support the established markets offer
    • Improved pedestrian crossings in the High Street
    • More attractive pedestrian access in the south from Bentley Bridge and from the north, linking the High Street with Lichfield Road and the new Wednesfield Technology Primary School
    • Improved access and signage from car parks, especially through Bealeys Fold where improved paving, landscaping, lighting and wayfinding will help draw people into the heart of the High Street
    • Creation of a new events and activity space to encourage further activation of the High Street

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said: “I am delighted we have appointed Taylor Woodrow to carry out these important regeneration works in Wednesfield.

    “With the contractor now in place we can complete the investigatory works in the coming weeks and finalise the designs ahead of main works starting.

    “The finished scheme will bring the vibrancy back to Wednesfield High Street and surrounding areas, make it a more welcoming place for all and will boost the local economy.”

    Ninder Johal, Chair of Wolverhampton’s City Investment Board, said: “As a board we fought hard to secure funding to support improvements in district centres like Wednesfield and Bilston.

    “This scheme will make a major difference to Wednesfield High Street and the town centre as a whole, creating a better experience for businesses, residents and visitors.”

    Barriers and signs will be in place on street to create space for the survey works. Traffic flows and pedestrian routes will be maintained throughout with minimal disruption expected.

    Hours of work will be from 7.30am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday. Some weekend and night works maybe required but advanced notice will be given.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU’s fashion students enjoy a ‘sails bonanza’

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    ARU students learning about sail fabrics with Holly Manvell founder of Clean Sailors (pictured right)

    Students at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) are making waves with their innovative, eco-friendly fashion creations made from end-of-life sails.

    As part of the Fashion Design degree course, students examine the social, cultural and environmental issues within fashion, and ARU’s Cambridge School of Art has teamed up with not-for-profit organisation Clean Sailors for the course’s Sustainable Design and Innovation Practice module.

    The first-year module focuses on subjects such as minimal waste and upcycling to tackle environmental concerns within the industry, and students were tasked with producing zero-waste clothes made from recycled, end-of-life fabrics.

    Clean Sailors runs a global upcycling and recycling scheme called ReSail by Clean Sailors to give a new life to old sails and this year provided a 30-year-old mainsail and a large spinnaker for ARU students to recreate into garments.

    After months of hard work in ARU’s fashion studios, Asmeet Kaur Wadhwa has been named the winner of a prize awarded by Clean Sailors, for the most inspiring and innovative use of the sail, for her cagoule jacket.

    “Whilst spent sails may no longer be any good for sailing, they retain inherent value as a textile. This partnership is really poignant for me, personally, as the mainsail was my grandfather’s – it had taken him across the Bay of Biscay, Azores and down to Cape Town before losing its integrity as a mainsail.

    “Protest through fashion has a powerful history. I spent my late teens in fashion industry and at the time designers such as Henry Holland and Katharine Hamnett were using slogans across garments to raise awareness of political issues, a movement of which Vivienne Westwood was really the queen of.

    “So, it’s a beautiful full-circle moment whereby a family mainsail has been used by students in the renowned Cambridge School of Art to explore sailcloth as a textile and through zero-waste patterns. It’s been so exciting seeing what these budding fashion designers have created.”

    Holly Manvell, founder of Clean Sailors

    “Fashion is a trillion-dollar market globally, with a host of environmental challenges of its own. In this course we provide students with sustainable creative practices, for example zero-waste design techniques, and through our use of seemingly ‘waste’ textiles, we aim to encourage an innovative way of thinking about the future of fashion design.

    “Having previously worked with recycling tents into clothing, we were looking for a new perspective on sustainable fashion and textiles. Sail fabric as a textile resource is even more hard wearing than the fabrics we have previously worked with, and we were interested to see how this versatile and underused fabric could feed into our student’s sustainable practice and make clothes more durable.

    “We reached out to Clean Sailors after seeing their ReSail platform and how they were connecting the sailing community with project partners to upcycle sails into a range of lifestyle products. We were delighted when Holly replied with such enthusiasm and support for our project.”

    Sarah Graham, Lecturer in Fashion Design at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Marine Resources and Planning Services win at RTPI South West Awards18 June 2025 ​The Infrastructure and Environment Department was successful in winning two awards at the Royal Town Planning Institute, RTPI, South West Awards for Planning Excellence. Marine Resources received… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    25 June 2025

    The Infrastructure and Environment Department was successful in winning two awards at the Royal Town Planning Institute, RTPI, South West Awards for Planning Excellence.

    Marine Resources received the ‘Best Plan’ award for its work on Jersey’s Marine Spatial Plan. In particular, the plan’s visions to create a thriving marine environment and provide environmental, economic, cultural, and social benefits. 

    RTPI Judges’ comments: “In selecting this entry to win this award, the judges felt that this was a very well-crafted submission, with an excellent balance of aspiration, practical application and evidence of cross-transferability and innovation. The wide-ranging scope of the study, inter-relationship with international objectives and links to the Island Bridging Plan is impressive. 

    “Unanimous political support and evidence of exemplary recognition from well-respected organisations cannot be overlooked, neither can its relevance and inspiration in the formation of plans in Scotland and the Red Sea. Judges consider it a worthy winner of the category as an ‘excellent’ and innovative example of evidenced-based and collaborative plan making.” 

    Francis Binney, Head of Marine Resources, said: “We are really chuffed that the Jersey Marine Spatial Plan won ‘Best Plan’ at the South West RTPI awards. Building the Marine Spatial Plan was a huge collaborative effort between Government, industry, and Islanders with an interest in the sea. This is a great endorsement of how we are managing and planning to manage Jersey’s territorial seas.” 

    Andrew Marx, Head of Development and Land in Regulation ,received the ‘Unsung Planning Hero’ award. He was recognised for delivering transformational leadership in the face of considerable scrutiny and challenge, and overseeing a comprehensive reform of Jersey’s Planning Service in response to an independent review. 

    RTPI Judges’ comments: “The nomination set out Andrew’s positive and proactive planning reform, resulting in wider improvements for the planning service. The introduction of an industry partnership board for collaborative working enabled greater transparency in terms of performance. Leading reform and taking the team with you whilst increasing visibility of planning performance and stakeholder engagement is really challenging, and to be nominated in the successful delivery of this speaks so highly of how this has been approached.”

    Andrew Marx said: “I was honoured and humbled to be nominated for the award, and I wish to share the recognition with our Group Director Kelly Whitehead, all our planners and the technical support and regulatory improvement officers that have worked tirelessly to improve our planning services for the benefit of all Islanders. I wish to thank the Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, for his trust and support, and the Members of the Industry Partnership Board for their guidance and positive engagement with our planning reform programme.” 

    Additionally, Tracey Ingle, Principal Planning Officer, was commended for the ‘Unsung Planning Hero’ award. The judges commented: “The nomination highlighted Tracey’s collaborative ways of working and through the six-month secondment to reform Development Management, processes and procedures were sympathetically managed and changed to support colleagues to work more efficiently and increase quality of decisions.” 

    For more information, visit: RTPI South West Awards for Planning Excellence.​

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spring Booster reminder19 June 2025 ​Eligible Islanders have just under two weeks to get their COVID-19 spring booster vaccine. The vaccines are free of charge and are available at GP surgeries until Monday 30 June. Islanders need to… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    19 June 2025

    Eligible Islanders have just under two weeks to get their COVID-19 spring booster vaccine. The vaccines are free of charge and are available at GP surgeries until Monday 30 June. Islanders need to contact their GP surgeries to make an appointment. 

    Islanders who are eligible for the vaccine include: 

    • those aged 75 and over 
    • those aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed 
    • residents in care homes for older people. 

    Residents in care homes are being vaccinated where they reside. Visit gov.je/SpringBooster for more information. 

    Primary Care Representative, Bryony Perchard, said: “It’s important that the eligible Islanders take up the offer before the end of June as they are at a higher risk of developing serious illness and being hospitalised. COVID-19 is not a seasonal illness so can affect anyone at any time. Vaccination not only reduces the chances of getting ill but also makes any infection less unpleasant.”​

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