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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: Resolutions of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of Aktsiaselts Infortar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktsiaselts Infortar (registry code 10139414, seat and address Liivalaia 9, 10118 Tallinn), held its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (hereinafter the General Meeting) on June 4, 2025 at 11:00 (Estonian time) at the conference centre of Tallink SPA & Conference Hotel at Sadama 11a, Tallinn.

    45 shareholders were registered as attending at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, who owned 17,562,509 votes/shares (the amount of represented share capital 1,756,250.90 EUR), forming 85,91% of Aktsiaselts Infortar share capital.

    1. Approval of the 2024 Annual Report
    Approve the 2024 Annual Report of Aktsiaselts Infortar submitted by the Management Board.

    In favour of the resolution voted 100% of the votes represented at the meeting (17,561,838 votes).

    2.    Deciding on the distribution of profit
    Approve the following proposal for the distribution of profit submitted by the Management Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar:
    2.1. Approve the net profit for 2024 in the amount 193,670 thousand euros;
    2.2. Pay the Shareholders dividend 3 euros per share. Dividend shall be paid in two parts as follows:
    2.2.1. 1.5 euros per share shall be paid to the Shareholders who have been entered in the list of Shareholders on 4 July 2025 at the end of the business day of the settlement system of the securities registrar (record-date). Consequently, the day of change of the rights related to the shares (ex-date) is 3 July 2025. Dividend shall be paid to the Shareholders on 15 July 2025 by transfer to the bank account of the Shareholder;
    2.2.2. 1.5 euros per share shall be paid to the Shareholders who have been entered in the list of Shareholders on 4 December 2025 at the end of the business day of the settlement system of the securities registrar (record-date). Consequently, the day of change of the rights related to the shares (ex-date) is 3 December 2025. Dividend shall be paid to the Shareholders on 15 December 2025 by transfer to the bank account of the Shareholder.

    In favour of the resolution voted 99,99% of the votes represented at the meeting (17,561,561 votes).

    3. Appointment of an auditor for the 2025 financial year and determination of the procedure of remuneration of an auditor
    Appoint the company of auditors KPMG Baltics OÜ to conduct the audit of Aktsiaselts Infortar in the financial year 2025 and to remunerate the work according to the audit contract to be concluded with the auditor.

    In favour of the resolution voted 99,99% of the votes represented at the meeting (17,561,388 votes).

    4.    Deciding on conduction of the Option Plan
    Terminate the share option plan of Aktsiaselts Infortar approved by resolution no. 6 of the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders held on 15 June 2021 and the conclusion of option agreements under this plan prematurely as of 30 June 2025. To approve the implementation of a new share option plan of Aktsiaselts Infortar and to grant the Supervisory Board the right to establish the new share option plan under the following principles (“Option Plan”):
    4.1. The purpose of the Option Plan is to motivate the management and employees of Aktsiaselts Infortar by involving them as Shareholders, thereby enabling them to benefit from the increase in the value of the shares as a result of their work. The Option Plan applies to Aktsiaselts Infortar and its group entities in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, and Poland. The Supervisory Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar may decide to extend the Option Plan to group entities in other countries.
    4.2. The term of the Option Plan is four (4) years, and options (“Options”) may be granted and option agreements concluded under the Option Plan from 1 July 2025 until 1 July 2029. Should an Entitled Person (as defined below) fail to conclude an option agreement within the aforementioned period, they shall lose the right to acquire the Options made available to them.
    4.3. Under the Option Plan, Aktsiaselts Infortar shall have the right to issue up to 400,000 Options for the acquisition of 400,000 shares, representing up to 1,89% of the share capital of Aktsiaselts Infortar.
    4.4. Entitled Persons under the Option Plan (“Entitled Persons”) shall be:
    (a) Members of the Supervisory Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar, whereby the granting of Options and the number of Options to be granted to specific members of the Supervisory Board shall be determined annually by the General Meeting by a separate resolution, provided that no Supervisory Board member shall acquire more than 4000 Options per year during the term of the Option Plan;
    (b) Members of the Management Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar appointed by the Supervisory Board, whereby the number of Options to be granted to each Management Board member shall be determined annually by the Supervisory Board by a separate resolution, provided that no Management Board member shall acquire more than 4000 Options per year during the term of the Option Plan;
    (c) Employees of Aktsiaselts Infortar and members of management bodies and employees of group companies, as designated by the Supervisory Board, or by the Management Board if so delegated by the Supervisory Board, whereby the number of Options to be granted to each such person shall be determined annually by the Supervisory Board or the Management Board (in case of delegation) by a separate resolution, provided that no such Entitled Person shall acquire more than 4000 Options per year during the term of the Option Plan.
    4.5. Generally, Options issued under the Option Plan cannot be exercised, and the underlying shares cannot be acquired, before the 3-year vesting period has passed from the grant of the Option. A prerequisite for exercising the Option is that the Entitled Person remains a member of a management body or an employee of Aktsiaselts Infortar or any of its subsidiaries at the time of exercising the Option.
    4.6. Each Option granted under the Option Plan entitles the Entitled Person to acquire one (1) share of Aktsiaselts Infortar upon fulfilment of the preconditions for exercising the Option. In the event of a change in the nominal value of shares, the number of shares granted under each Option shall be adjusted accordingly. The price payable for the shares upon exercising the Options shall be determined annually by decision of the Supervisory Board before the issuance of Options and the conclusion of option agreements for the respective year, provided that the price of the share option must be at least 26 euros per share and represent at least 50% of the weighted average stock exchange price of the  share option over the six-month period preceding 1 June of the calendar year in which the option agreement is concluded. In the case of Options being granted to members of the Supervisory Board, the price per share shall be determined by the General Meeting based on the same principles.
    4.7. The implementation and administration of the Option Plan shall be managed by the Supervisory Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar which shall establish the terms and conditions of the Option Plan by its resolution, following the principles approved by this resolution. The Supervisory Board may delegate decision-making and actions related to the implementation of the Option Plan to the Management Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar. 
    4.8. For the fulfilment of the Option Plan and the acquisition of shares to be transferred to Entitled Persons upon exercise of Options:
    (a) New shares may be issued under the authorisation granted to the Supervisory Board by resolution no. 5 of the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders, which shall be issued to the Entitled Persons; or
    (b) Own shares held by Aktsiaselts Infortar may be used, including own shares acquired by Aktsiaselts Infortar under the authorisation granted by resolution no. 6 of the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders.

    In favour of the resolution voted 99,99% of the votes represented at the meeting (17,561,331 votes).

    5.    Amendment of the Articles of Association and exclusion of the pre-emptive subscription right of the Shareholders
    Decide to grant the Supervisory Board the right to increase the share capital for the purpose of issuing new shares necessary to fulfil the conditions of the Option Plan approved by resolution no. 4 of the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders and to amend the Articles of Association accordingly and to exclude the pre-emptive subscription right of Shareholders upon each increase of the share capital if the Supervisory Board increases the share capital of Aktsiaselts Infortar under the authorisation given by the Articles of Association for the implementation of the Option Plan:
    5.1. Amend clause 2.1.2 of the Articles of Association with the following wording:
    „The supervisory board of the company has the right, within three (3) years from 1 July 2025, to increase the share capital through contributions by up to 500,000 euros in accordance with the procedure set out by law.“
    5.2. Shareholders shall exclude their pre-emptive subscription right in respect of shares issued by the Supervisory Board pursuant to the authorisation granted in clause 5.1 of this resolution, in accordance with § 345 (1) of the Commercial Code, and the right to subscribe for shares shall be granted to the Entitled Persons to the share option under the Option Plan approved by resolution no. 4 of the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders for the purpose of ensuring the implementation of the Option Plan.

    In favour of the resolution voted 99,99% of the votes represented at the meeting (17,561,357 votes).

    6.    Deciding on the acquisition of own shares
    Grant Aktsiaselts Infortar the right to acquire its own shares under the following conditions:
    6.1. Aktsiaselts Infortar shall have the right to acquire its own shares within five (5) years from the adoption of this resolution under a buy-back programme as defined in Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (Market Abuse Regulation) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 2016/1052, by purchasing the shares through Nasdaq Tallinn Stock Exchange. The acquired shares may be used for fulfilling obligations arising from the Option Plan approved by resolution no. 4 of the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders;
    6.2. The maximum number of shares to be repurchased shall be 250,000 shares, the total nominal value of which corresponds to 1,18% of the share capital of Aktsiaselts Infortar;
    6.3. The minimum price per share to be paid by Aktsiaselts Infortar shall be no less than 0 euros and the maximum price shall not exceed the average stock exchange price of the share of Aktsiaselts Infortar of the last 30 trading days preceding the relevant buy-back transaction by more than fifty percent (50%); and
    6.4. The acquisition of own shares by Aktsiaselts Infortar must not cause the net assets to become less than the total of share capital and reserves which pursuant to law or the Articles of Association shall not be paid out to shareholders.
    6.5. To authorise the Management Board to decide and execute share buy-backs in accordance with this resolution and applicable laws, to determine the buy-back price, procedure and other conditions, and to carry out all necessary actions.

    In favour of the resolution voted 99,99% of the votes represented at the meeting (17,561,308 votes).

    Infortar operates in seven countries, the company’s main fields of activity are maritime transport, energy and real estate. Infortar owns a 68.47% stake in Tallink Grupp, a 100% stake in Elenger Grupp and a versatile and modern real estate portfolio of approx. 141,000 m2. In addition to the three main areas of activity, Infortar also operates in construction and mineral resources, agriculture, printing, and other areas. A total of 110 companies belong to the Infortar group: 101 subsidiaries, 4 affiliated companies and 5 subsidiaries of affiliated companies. Excluding affiliates, Infortar employs 6,296 people.

    Additional information:

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DIAGNOS Welcomes Former White House Economic Adviser Dr. Tomas J. Philipson to its Advisory Board for the US Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROSSARD, Quebec, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diagnos Inc. (“DIAGNOS” or the “Corporation”) (TSX Venture: ADK, OTCQB: DGNOF, FWB: 4D4A), a pioneer in early detection of critical health issues using advanced technology based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), is thrilled to announce that Dr. Tomas J. Philipson has joined the Corporation’s Advisory Board.

    Dr. Tomas J. Philipson is considered an expert in US economic policy, particularly health care policy and appears often on major media outlets, including Forbes, The Economist, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, CNN, BBC, CBS, ABC, CNBC, Fox News, Fox Business, Newsmax, Yahoo Finance, American Voice, Bloomberg, and CSPAN.

    He currently serves as Managing Partner of the VC firm MEDA Ventures, serves on several corporate boards, and has co-founded several companies, including Precision Health Economics LLC, with an exit in 2015 (currently owned by Blackstone).

    His government service includes a full-time position as vice chairman and acting chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers 2017-20. He previously served as a senior economic adviser to the head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and a senior economic advisor to the head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Dr. Philipson was appointed to the Key Indicator Commission by the Speaker of the House of Representatives in 2012. He was a scientific advisor to the House of Representatives initiative 21st Century Cures in 2015 and The Biden Cancer Initiative in 2017. He served as a healthcare advisor to Senator John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign.

    He received numerous worldwide research awards while he was a chaired professor at the University of Chicago. He is a two-time winner of the Arrow Award of The International Health Economics Association, the highest honor in health economics. Other awards include the Garfield Award for Economic Research, the Prêmio Haralambos Simeonidis from the Brazilian Economic Association, and the Milken Institute’s Distinguished Economic Research Award.

    He received a B.A. in mathematics from Uppsala University in Sweden, an MA in Mathematics from Claremont Graduate School, and an MA and Ph.D. in Economics from the Wharton School and the University of Pennsylvania.

    “We are honored to welcome Dr. Philipson to our Advisor Board,” said André Larente, President and CEO of DIAGNOS. “His extensive experience at the highest levels of government and business savvy brings a vital perspective to today’s policy challenges, from healthcare innovation to long-term economic competitiveness.”

    Mr. Larente added, “DIAGNOS has built an AI platform to analyze retina images, these images are taken by thousands of optometrists worldwide. According to the VisionWatch data, the US saw approximately 111 million routine eye exams and 60 million medical eye exams in 2020. DIAGNOS, along with its partners, can address this growing market.” DIAGNOS recently opened its US office in south Florida to support its prospects and clients.

    About DIAGNOS
    DIAGNOS is a publicly traded Canadian corporation dedicated to early detection of critical eye-related health problems. By leveraging Artificial Intelligence, DIAGNOS aims to provide more information to healthcare clinicians to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline workflows, and improve patient outcomes on a global scale.

    Additional information is available at www.diagnos.com and www.sedarplus.com.

    This news release contains forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these statements. DIAGNOS disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: High Life Highland progress report to Education Committee

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Today (Wednesday 4 June) at The Highland Council’s meeting of the Education Committee, High Life Highland Chief Executive, Steve Walsh will provide a progress report on performance during the operating period to 31 March 2025, including information on HLH’s contributions to The Highland Council Corporate Plan 2022-27 and other achievements and accolades received throughout 2024/25 with a focus on the delivery of the music tuition service.

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “High Life Highland contribute an integral part in ‘making life better’ for the communities it serves, supporting people of all ages across the Highlands through delivery of services including leisure facilities, libraries, archives, community centres, sport, outdoor activities, adult learning, music tuition, visitor attractions and youth work.

    “We always looking forward to bringing performance reports to the Education Committee and are heartened to see from the report that in-person customer visits to HLH services in 2024/25 were almost 5 million, a 9% increase on the previous year and the report on the music tuition service and the wonderful contributions that music brings to both children and adults across Highland.

    “It has never been more important for communities to be part of recreational pursuits and the work of the dedicated High Life Highland team to continue to pivot operating models and positively engage more and more people to get involved in activities that promote self-esteem and improve wellbeing is fantastic, and I thank all the team for the important role that each and everyone plays in keeping Highland a happier, healthier, musically talented and more inviting place for both residents and visitors to enjoy.”

    The full report can be found here (Item13) and be viewed live on Wednesday 4 June by clicking this link.

    4 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Millburn Academy receives positive Education Scotland inspection report

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council welcomes the positive Education Scotland report following an inspection visit to Millburn Academy, Inverness.

    Following the inspection, Millburn Academy received the following quality indicators:

    • Leadership of change – Good
    • Learning, teaching and assessment – Good
    • Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion – Good
    • Raising attainment and achievement – Good

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “The recent inspection at Millburn Academy from Education Scotland received a very positive report, reflecting the professionalism, dedication and commitment of the caring staff at the setting to create an inclusive, safe and nurturing ethos for all pupils attending.

    “The report found significant strengths in aspects of the staff and young peoples’ positive relationships. This is a strength of the school and impacts positively on the experiences of young people. Staff have worked very effectively to ensure a safe and respectful climate for learning, with supportive and highly skilled leadership that enable the school to deliver high quality education supported to meet pupils’ individual needs.  

    “I’d like to congratulate the staff at Millburn Academy for their continued dedication and very good inspection report.”

    Key messages from the report:

    • The headteacher’s strategic well focussed leadership. She is guiding the school community through change sensitively and effectively.
    • Staff are working together very well to drive developments in learning and teaching, which is improving classroom experiences for learners. Young people are benefiting from classroom routines and learning in positive, welcoming learning environments.
    • The wide variety of rich achievements. Young people appreciate the range of ways in which they can demonstrate important skills and knowledge and are now able to celebrate and record these regularly. 
    • Young people are enthusiastic about the motivating range of experiences that enhance their learning of Gaelic. This is resulting in young people achieving strong outcomes in Gaelic.
    • Ensure that Gaelic is integrated into the school’s strategic planning leading to year-on-year improvements and the possibility of an increasing number of Gaelic speakers.

    4 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free swimming sessions for the whole family at Big Splash Weekend

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 4 June 2025

    Oxford’s leisure centres are offering two days of free swimming lessons, family fun swims and inflatable sessions during a Big Splash Weekend, taking place on 7th and 8th June 2025.

    The weekend of free activities will be hosted at: 

    • Hinksey Outdoor Pool 

    • Ferry Leisure Centre 

    • Barton Leisure Centre

    A key feature of the Big Splash event is a programme of free taster swimming lessons delivered by the centres’ fully-trained teaching team. These sessions are a great way for people of all ages to try swimming before signing up to a course. 

    To book a session at the Big Splash Weekend, please visit Oxford City Leisure.

    “Learning to swim is such a vital life skill, and as we head into the summer months, more people will be heading out on holidays, involving a trip to the beach or a swim in a hotel pool. It’s vital that anyone entering any body of water is armed with the skills needed to stay safe. Our taster sessions are the perfect ‘try before you buy’ option for new learners of all ages. 

    We’re also offering free family swim sessions in the pool on Saturday and Sunday, plus a chance to try our super-fun inflatable obstacle course. Check out the centres’ websites for booking details, and get ready to enjoy the Big Splash Weekend!” 

    – Rob Jennings, Contract Manager for the centres

    “Swimming isn’t just a fantastic way to stay active and healthy – it’s an important life skill, especially as we head into the summer. While under 17s can swim for free all year round (in designated sessions), the Big Splash Weekend is a great opportunity for Oxford families to try out the swimming lessons for free, enjoy the facilities and build confidence in the water. I encourage everyone to make the most of it!” 

    – Cllr Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford and Small Business Champion

    Hinksey Outdoor Pool, Ferry Leisure Centre, Leys Pools & Leisure Centre, Barton Leisure Centre and Oxford Ice Rink are operated by More Leisure Community Trust in partnership with Serco Leisure, on behalf of Oxford City Council.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Helping bring phage medicines to UK patients – guidance for industry

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Helping bring phage medicines to UK patients – guidance for industry

    Bacteriophages – viruses that selectively fight bacteria – may offer new hope in fighting infections and tackling antimicrobial resistance.

    Bacteriophages attaching to bacterium.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today (4 June) published the UK’s first official guidance to support the safe development and use of phage therapies – treatments that use viruses to target and destroy harmful bacteria.

    The guidance aims to help researchers and companies develop phage-based medicines that meet UK safety, quality and efficacy standards, so they can be made available to patients who need them most.

    It covers both combined phage products designed for common infections and circulating strains, as well as personalised phage therapies that are tailored for individual patients with rare or highly resistant infections.

    For patients, this could mean access to phage treatment when standard-of care-antibiotics fail or cannot be given, for example due to allergies. While some patients in the UK have already received phage therapy under compassionate use – with phages imported from abroad – there are currently no licensed phage medicines on the UK market.

    Lawrence Tallon, MHRA Chief Executive, said:

    “Some infections are becoming harder to treat when antibiotics are ineffective against them – and patients urgently need new options.

    “Phage therapy is one of several promising approaches. This guidance brings together relevant standards to provide clarity for researchers and companies, so they can develop these treatments safely and bring them to the people who need them.

    “We’re committed to working with industry to support innovation in this space – without compromising on the robust safety and quality standards that patients rightly expect.

    “It’s part of our wider mission to support innovation and make the UK a world leader in life sciences.”

    Phage therapies use bacterial viruses – called bacteriophages – that attack specific bacteria without harming human cells. They have received increased interest in recent years as a potential way to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, with over 60,000 serious antibiotic-resistant infections estimated annually in the UK and growing.

    The MHRA’s publication sets out how existing UK and international regulatory frameworks apply to phage treatments – from early research through to use in patients. It provides clear, practical advice on what’s needed at each stage of development – whether the goal is a fully licensed product or a treatment used under a clinician’s responsibility for an individual case.

    Further detail in the guidance includes: – What evidence is needed to support clinical trials and market authorisation – How to meet standards on quality, safety and manufacturing, including the application of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) – How personalised treatments can be developed and supplied – When and how unlicensed phage treatments can be used for individual patients

    The 28-page document brings together UK and international regulatory standards in one place, helping innovators clearly understand what’s required – and avoid unnecessary delays.

    Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

    “Developers have told us they need clarity on how phage therapies fit into the UK’s regulatory system. This helps signpost relevant requirements, providing that clarity. We continue to support innovation by working closely with industry and researchers while making sure patients are protected every step of the way.”

    The publication supports the UK’s antimicrobial resistance (AMR) strategy and the MHRA’s wider role in enabling innovative, science-led regulation that meets public health need while maintaining high standards for quality and safety.

    Dr Colin Brown, deputy director at the UK Health Security Agency, responsible for AMR, said:

    “MHRA’s new guidance helps lay the foundations for phage therapy opportunities in the UK. It provides much-needed direction for scientists and researchers working to make this treatment a reality for patients.

    “Phage therapy truly has the potential to transform the way we treat bacterial infections, especially as resistance to antibiotics grows. At UKHSA, we’re developing new ways to help increase phage therapy use and research, including a bacteriophage collection where scientists can both access and deposit phages. In time, we hope solutions like phage therapy can become a first-line treatment option.”

    The MHRA developed the guidance with input from the Phage Innovation Network, a cross-sector group supported by Innovate UK, and from industry, clinicians and academic researchers.

    Frederique Vieville, BEAM Alliance Phage ACT Lead, a European group supporting antimicrobial therapy development, and 5QBD-Biotech Chief Executive, a biotech company focused on bacteriophage therapies, said:

    “As difficult-to-treat infections continue to rise, phage therapy is becoming an important complement to existing treatments. Recent steps have been taken by European regulators to outline the regulatory framework for phage-based medicinal products, but developers still need support to navigate it effectively. Clarity about the pathway – tailored to the unique characteristics of phages – is vital to help meet quality, non-clinical, and clinical requirements, and ultimately bring phage-based treatments to patients more efficiently.”

    Dr Jason Clark, NexaBiome Director and Chief Scientific Officer, a company developing commercial phage therapies in the UK, said:

    “There is an urgent and increasing need for new ways to treat antimicrobial resistant infections, with bacteriophage being at the forefront of recent developments. This new guidance from the MHRA is incredibly forward-thinking and puts the UK in pole position to fully realise the healthcare and commercial benefits of this exiting technology.

    “As a Company developing bacteriophage products for human use, this guidance helps us to decrease perceived risks and gives clarity to the regulatory landscape, ultimately enabling us to more readily bring investment into the UK.”

    Companies interested in developing bacteriophage treatments can access scientific advice from the MHRA at any stage of development.

    Notes to editors

    • For more information, access Regulatory considerations for therapeutic use of bacteriophages in the UK on the MHRA website.
    • Bacteriophages are naturally occurring viruses that infect specific bacteria. Unlike antibiotics, which can harm helpful bacteria too, phages typically target only one species or strain of bacteria. They work by attaching to the bacteria, injecting their genetic material, and destroying it. In medicine, phages can be tailored to attack the bacteria causing an infection, with less impact on the body’s healthy bacteria.
    • Antibiotic resistant infections continue to rise – GOV.UK
    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Red Route installation incoming

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 4th June 2025

    Installation work will start on a new red route in the city early next month.

    Installation work will start on a new red route in the city early next month.

    The red route will be installed on Broad Street, Hanley between Potteries Way and Victoria Square from Monday, June 9.

    The work will take three days to complete and will include the removal of double yellow lines and the installation of new signage, double red markings and cameras.

    The installation follows a public consultation in 2024 which outlined the proposed restrictions on the corridor, in relation to concerns about illegal parking in the area. The aim of the scheme is to help with traffic flow across the city, support the economy, improve air quality, address road safety concerns.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, regeneration and infrastructure at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Day after day, drivers have been ignoring the double yellow lines here, causing disruption and putting pedestrians at risk. 
     

    “Our enforcement teams have been out to the location multiple times a day, but enough is enough.
     

    “This red route will put some order back on our streets and make it clear that parking restrictions aren’t optional. They’re there for the safety of all road users, and often, to ensure traffic—especially buses—can flow freely.
     

    “If you park where you shouldn’t, there will be consequences.”
     

    City Council parking officers have visited this particular site 1,333 times in the last 12 months to tackle incessant parking issues.

    The Red Route penalty is £70, discounted to £35 if paid within 14 days.
     

    The project is funded by the city council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and forms part of the wider network of strategic red routes being introduced across the city to help make bus journey times more reliable.
     

    While the work is being carried out, disruption will be kept to a minimum.

    Works will be carried out between 9am and 3.30pm each day. The red route will be enforceable from Monday 16 June.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greater Oxford: One council. Local decisions. A better place to live.

    Source: City of Oxford

    A Greater Oxford Council would bring decisions closer to the people they affect and enable improved services, more affordable homes, better transport connections, protected green spaces, and new, secure jobs. 

    The government has asked councils across England for proposals on simplifying the structure of local government in their regions. 

    In March, Oxford City Council put forward outline proposals that would see Oxfordshire’s six councils abolished and replaced with three new councils: 

    • Greater Oxford Council – covering Oxford and its Green Belt 
    • Northern Oxfordshire Council – covering most of the existing Cherwell and West Oxfordshire districts 
    • Ridgeway Council – covering most of the existing South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts combined with existing West Berkshire unitary (based on the proposals being developed by those councils, but with those villages within the Green Belt closest to the city becoming part of Greater Oxford) 

    All three councils would have natural geographic and demographic connections, local accountability to residents, and would be viable under the government’s plans. 

    Today, Oxford City Council has announced new details of its proposals, including a new boundary map for Oxfordshire, ahead of public engagement on the plans in June and July. 

    The last time local government was reorganised in Oxfordshire was in 1974. 

    For more information about the Greater Oxford proposals, visit greateroxford.org. 

    Greater Oxford boundaries 

    A Greater Oxford Council would cover Oxford and the communities within its Green Belt that are naturally linked to the city by work, transport and leisure. 

    View an interactive map showing the proposed Greater Oxford Council and the Green Belt. 

    Greater Oxford would cover a region with a population of about 240,000 people today, rising to about 345,000 by 2040. 

    The Greater Oxford boundary closely follows the line of Oxford’s Green Belt. 

    Currently, almost all of Oxford’s Green Belt – which was created in 1975 – sits outside the city’s administrative boundaries. 

    The Greater Oxford proposals would give local residents control of the Green Belt for the first time. 

    The government has been clear that some of the ‘Grey Belt’ – defined as “poor quality” areas of the Green Belt – in England should be developed to help deliver 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. 

    This will be a big change for Oxfordshire. 

    Rather than incrementally building around every town and village across the county, as is currently the case, Greater Oxford can ensure that high-quality, suitably dense and sustainable developments are built near to existing jobs and community facilities, with good public transport. 

    Benefits to Greater Oxford 

    New homes 

    Oxford is one of the least affordable places to live in the country. Average house prices are 13 times average salaries, and 3,500 households are on the waiting list for council homes. It’s little different in the villages around the city, where house prices are linked to the Oxford housing market and 100s of households also wait for affordable social housing. 

    The city’s current administrative boundaries are tightly drawn around existing homes and businesses, meaning there is little space to deliver the number of homes needed. 

    Greater Oxford would enable genuinely affordable homes, including new council homes, to be built at appropriate densities near to existing jobs and community facilities that have good public transport. 

    It would also mean that Oxford could tackle the housing crisis without the need to build homes in neighboring authorities, giving the Northern Oxfordshire and Ridgeway councils full control of their own housing needs. 

    The proposals would see over 40,000 new homes built within Greater Oxford by 2040. 

    If the new council follows Oxford City Council’s current planning policies, 40% of these new homes – over 16,000 homes – would be required to be new council homes. 

    Economic growth 

    Oxford has one of the fastest growing and most successful local economies in the UK.  

    Oxford is a net contributor to the UK’s economy – generating £7.6bn annually – has been ranked on of country’s top performing cities by PwC, including attraction of overseas investment, for many years. 

    The city has huge unmet demand for labs, innovation space, offices and hotels, but the current administrative boundaries – which are tightly drawn around existing homes and businesses – means Oxford’s economy is being artificially restricted. 

    The Greater Oxford proposals would see the creation of 5.9m–9.6m sq ft of research and development space and 2.1m–3.2m sq ft of other commercial space. This would create between 17,900 and 29,100 new jobs in Greater Oxford, which would generate up to £2bn a year for the UK’s economy. 

    The Greater Oxford proposals would also bring decision-making on apprenticeships and skills training back to the local level. The new council would look to increase apprenticeship and training opportunities in Greater Oxford, so local people have a proper share in the area’s growing success. 

    Transport 

    The transport system in the Greater Oxford region is in crisis.  

    There is chronic congestion in and around Oxford, which is impacting the financial sustainability of the city’s bus companies. 

    Greater Oxford would give local residents full control over Oxford’s transport for the first time in 50 years. The transport network has been run by Oxfordshire County Council since 1974. 

    The proposals would provide additional bus services to villages around the city by extending existing routes. 

    Having one council for Greater Oxford would also mean planning and transport could be properly integrated. Currently, the services are run by separate councils. 

    Environment  

    The Thames and Cherwell rivers and their tributaries flow through the heart of Greater Oxford, surrounded by vast green spaces and natural beauty. It is key that we protect and enhance these spaces. 

    The creation of a Greater Oxford Council would strengthen the control that Oxford and the main population centres around it have over the Green Belt. We would work to strengthen protection for valuable green spaces, proposals that would help wildlife to flourish, enhance biodiversity, improve the quality of our air and water, and help mitigate the impacts of climate change.  This will build on the successes of the Zero Carbon Oxford Partnership, recently expanded to Oxfordshire, which came out of the pioneering Citizen’s Assembly on Climate Change. 

    Our proposal would see the creation of a more resilient, more connected, network of nature and wildlife corridors, as well as continued support of the vital conservation and nature recovery initiatives – such as those in the Bernwood-Otmoor-Ray area at Bernwood Forest, the River Ray, and the Otmoor Basin.  

    It would also facilitate wider ecosystem benefits, including flood regulation, nature recovery and carbon storage, which are essential in protecting our homes and environment from the increasing impacts of climate change. 

    Green spaces are also just as important as urban spaces in fostering healthy communities and improving well-being. The Greater Oxford proposals would also give residents improved access to nature and the landscapes of our region, ensuring they can be enjoyed by everyone. 

    Communities 

    At the moment, only city residents can take advantage of Oxford City Council’s community services offer, which includes: 

    • Free swimming for under 17s in Oxford’s swimming pools – Barton Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, and Hinksey Outdoor Pool 

    • Free youth clubs and activities, including summer holiday activities, as part of the Oxford Youth Ambition programme 

    • Heavily discounted leisure centre membership for people on qualifying benefits, including those on carer’s allowance, foster carers and those on disability allowance 

    Under the proposals, all Greater Oxford residents – including residents of Berinsfield, Botley, Kennington, Kidlington and Wheatley – will be able to take advantage of the offer. 

    The aim would also be to extend the offer to Abbey Sports Centre in Berinsfield, Kidlington and Gosford Leisure Centre, and Park Sports Centre in Wheatley. 

    Next steps 

    Oxford City Council will carry out public engagement on its Greater Oxford proposals in June-July, including public events in Berinsfield, Botley, Kennington, Kidlington and Wheatley. 

    Following the public engagement, Oxford City Council will draw up its final Greater Oxford proposals, which will be submitted to the Government in November. 

    The final decision on local government reorganisation across England, including in Oxford and Oxfordshire, will be made by the Government in 2026. 

    New councils are expected to be created in 2028. 

    Oxford City Council carried out an initial survey on its proposals in February, which found 82% think the current two-tier local government arrangements could be improved, and 67% think councils should not be too large, so they can better meet the needs of local residents. 

    Comment 

    “Oxford’s council services are currently split between Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council. This is confusing for residents and means decisions affecting the Greater Oxford area can be made by councillors from Chipping Norton or Henley. 

    “Greater Oxford will bring local decisions under one roof and closer to the people they affect – helping us build more affordable homes, provide new bus connections, protect green spaces and enhance biodiversity, and create new, secure jobs for our children and grandchildren. 

    “Our proposals will bring better services and help make Greater Oxford a fairer place to live, work and visit.” 

    Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader welcomes major Government transport funding announcement

    Source: City of Manchester

    Council Leader Bev Craig reacts to news today that the Greater Manchester region will receive £2.5bn in new funding to create the UK’s first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport network.

    The funding will also unlock proposals for a new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst that will support ongoing investment in the community and drive future phases of regeneration in the north Manchester neighbourhood.  

    Cllr Craig said:  

    “Today’s £2.5bn zero-emissions transport funding announcement is transformative news for Manchester and the city region. Manchester has campaigned for many years to see investment in our transport system. In a settlement that was better than we predicted and will make a real difference right across the city.

    “We have already seen the success of bringing the buses under public control and this will be a much-needed boost to improve capacity for years to come.  

    “This investment will also help create new homes and new jobs – and it is a clear show of support from this government towards our sustainable growth agenda. 

    “Crucially for Manchester, this funding will help deliver the brand new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst and unlock the ambitious future phases of regeneration in this community that will see more than 2,500 new homes – including significant Council and social housing – and new shops alongside education and medical facilities.  

    “This is a major driver for the future investment in Collyhurst as part of the once-in-a-generation Victoria North regeneration programme that will deliver more than 15,000 new homes in the next decade across seven neighbourhoods, each connected by quality green space.  

    “But this is only one element of the ambitious plans for North Manchester. We look forward to working closely with this Government in the coming months to realise the wider potential of this part of our city through the North Manchester General Hospital programme, continued investment into our high streets and district centres, and a raft of new home building that puts North Manchester as a priority for our future growth plans.” 

    The first phase of development in Collyhurst is nearly complete, where 274 new homes are under construction, including 130 homes for social rent alongside a new community park.  

    Find out more about the regeneration of Collyhurst 

    Find out more about the Victoria North regeneration programme 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proposed revision of the national policy statement for ports

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Written statement to Parliament

    Proposed revision of the national policy statement for ports

    Respondents have until 29 July 2025 to submit their views on the draft revised national policy statement for ports.

    Today (4 June 2025), I am laying before Parliament the draft amended national policy statement for ports (NPSP).

    The extant NPSP was designated in 2012. It sets out the need for development of ports in England and at reserved trust ports in Wales, currently Milford Haven. The NPSP provides guidance for applicants in preparing and for the Secretary of State in determining applications for development consent orders (DCOs) for sea port applications.

    The previous government announced a review of the current NPSP in a written ministerial statement in March 2023. In light of our missions and priorities, this government has continued that review and has decided to amend the document.

    Today, I have launched a public consultation on a draft revised NPSP, along with an appraisal of sustainability (AoS) and habitats regulations assessment (HRA). These are subject to a public consultation period of 8 weeks and to Parliamentary scrutiny in parallel. My department is also publishing port freight demand forecasts for the United Kingdom as a whole, to which the draft NPSP refers. The documents are available on GOV.UK.

    I will place copies of the public consultation document, the appraisal of sustainability, and the habitats regulation assessment in the libraries of the House. The public consultation will close on 29 July 2025. The relevant period for parliamentary scrutiny will be from 4 June to 14 November 2025.

    The review of the NPSP is proceeding in parallel with our wider programme of planning reforms, including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill currently before this House, designed to expedite and facilitate decision-making and stimulate growth and green energy transformation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Young Architects Are Changing the Face of Moscow” — Hussam Shakuf on New Principles in Organizing the Urban Environment

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Monumentality, modern technologies and movement into the future – this is how British architect and urban designer Hussam Shakuf sees Moscow. He visited the capital in 2021, and when he returned four years later, he did not recognize it at first – and does not hide his delight at the changes.

    Hussam Shakuf visited the 6th Moscow Interior and Design Week, which took place in the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall. There he gave a lecture entitled “Beyond Borders: Creating Inspiring Interiors and Public Spaces”. And in an interview with a correspondent from the mos.ru portal, the architect talked about what he likes about the Russian capital, whether new buildings should be combined with cultural heritage monuments, and what his vision of a smart city is.

    From old to new

    Hussam Shaqouf is best known for the projects he worked on with the renowned British firm Zaha Hadid Architects for 17 years. Among others, he designed an asymmetrical diamond-shaped shell in North Africa and the ellipsoidal headquarters of a major smartphone manufacturer in Shenzhen. Hussam Shaqouf also participated in the design of a business center in the southeast of Moscow, consisting of flat squares stacked on top of each other.

    The specialist highly praised the changes that have taken place in the capital’s architecture in recent years.

    “In Moscow, there are more buildings created by young architects who use parametrics in their design – computer modeling based on mathematical algorithms. These buildings feel dynamic, moving into the future,” the architect believes.

    From his point of view, there is also dynamism in the proximity of cultural heritage sites to modern buildings – this is a hint at the transition from the past to the present and future.

    “On the one hand, it is important when the city has buildings that are reminiscent of past eras. In those distant times, they were also a symbol of progress, and, of course, they need to be restored and maintained. On the other hand, when planning new objects, we always look ahead, asking ourselves: how will they fit into the metropolis in five years? Is it worth building retro-style buildings now just so as not to violate the concept of the street? I admit, I am for contrast. Let old mansions and avant-garde towers stand next to modern houses. After all, the future belongs to the new. Of the old that I see in Moscow now, Stalinist architecture is closest to me: these houses, although built in the middle of the 20th century, seem to be a foundation, a model for creating ultra-modern buildings, they have a sense of monumentality,” says Hussam Shakuf.

    He calls himself a bearer of the avant-garde DNA. At the same time, the architect admits that even in postmodernist projects it is important to take into account the cultural characteristics of the country and the city and organically integrate them into fantastic ideas and new technologies. Such is, for example, the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, created by Zaha Hadid Architects: the outlines of its roof reflect the waves of the Caspian Sea, and the swaying flames, referring to the ancient cult of fire that existed in Azerbaijan, and geometric figures – a triangle, a rectangle, a trapezoid.

    A city built with intelligence

    According to Hussam Shakuf, a modern city should be comfortable to live in. However, despite the architect’s commitment to everything modern, he is against a metropolis consisting entirely of roads and cars.

    “It’s healthier to walk. If you walk for 35 minutes, you’ll quickly relieve stress, which means you’ll be happier and more productive. I’d also install smart traffic lights everywhere, which would reduce car traffic,” says our interlocutor.

    Another thing is that the size of Moscow and other world capitals hardly allows for walking. But Hussam Shakuf knows how to solve this problem.

    “Large cities need large multifunctional complexes where people can live, study, work, and have fun, then they won’t have to go anywhere, and the economy of the area where such a complex is built will develop. And this is exactly the concept I call a smart city,” the architect notes.

    He also does not support the widespread launch of air taxis, as is planned in some cities in the future. “This means that passengers will land on roofs and enter buildings from above. What is the point of having a ground floor then? If this is the method of moving around the city that wins in the future, we will have to design buildings completely differently,” says Hussam Shakuf.

    Places for communication

    According to Hussam Shaqouf, the interior structure of a building is what connects architecture with man.

    “I recently worked on a project for a business center for a Chinese smartphone manufacturer in Shenzhen. First of all, I tried to put myself in the shoes of the company’s employees and understand what could inspire them when they come to work. Firstly, it is a view of the city and the Shenzhen Bay, so the walls are glass. Secondly, convenient passages from one tower to another, and you can get into the buildings both from the street and from the interior. Thirdly, spacious rooms where people communicate with each other and drink coffee,” the architect says.

    In his opinion, the most important thing in the interior is accessible and at the same time isolated public spaces. In particular, he would like to build houses in Moscow where the courtyard is at the level of the second floor and is a podium: so residents could walk with their children and talk to each other without being distracted by passers-by and what is happening on the streets.

    “We currently discuss business and personal interests mainly on social networks. But is it really possible to really get to know a person this way? If every home or office had a place to meet with neighbors and colleagues, there would be no need for online correspondence,” Hussam Shakuf sums up.

    More than 50 applications have already been submitted for the competition “Best Implemented Project in the Field of Construction”A Round Kindergarten, a Ribbon Roof, and a “Flying” Metro. The Laureates of the City’s Architectural Prize in Different Years — in DetailFrom Denmark with Love. Urbanist and Architect Jan Gehl Shares His Impressions of MoscowFirm determination. French urbanist Nicolas Bouchaud on changes in Moscow, similarities with Paris, and climate strategyDavid Adjaye’s Utopia and Zaha Hadid’s Curves: Architecture of the Future in Moscow

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154800073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE study identifies pathways for digital and green energy transition in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The transition to clean energy in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of power systems, with investment needs estimated at $150 billion by 2030. However, by embracing digitalization across all sectors – from generation and transmission to distribution and end-use – and integration with renewable energy, these countries could reduce their carbon emissions by up to 70% and energy costs by as much as 80%, subject to system-wide optimization, outlines the UNECE study “Integrating twin transition with legacy energy systems”   

    The study analyses opportunities and challenges for a digital transformation of energy systems in Albania, Belarus, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, North Macedonia, Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine, where about 60% of the total energy mix today comes from natural gas and coal.   

    The study underscores that digital solutions and innovations such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Digital Twins, and Virtual Power Plants, offer significant opportunities in managing and integrating distributed, often variable renewable energy-based resources. It also highlights potential to optimize legacy systems and enhance both cybersecurity and grid resilience. 

    This will require robust policy measures and initiatives to boost investments in advanced, resilient grids. It will also necessitate increased support for innovation and research, strategic planning and massive professional training.   

    Overcoming challenges 

    The study identifies key challenges to be addressed in the region’s largely outdated energy systems: 

    • Ageing energy infrastructure, much of which was built during the Soviet era. For example, in Belarus, over 60% of the thermal power plants are over 30 years old, resulting in high maintenance costs; in Georgia, the average age of electricity transmission lines exceeds 30 years, resulting in transmission losses estimated at 12%.  

    • Energy security risks due to dependence on fossil fuel imports. For example, the Republic of Moldova imports approximately 70% of its electricity, primarily from Romania and Ukraine; in Belarus, about 50% of energy needs are met through natural gas imports from the Russian Federation. 

    • Limited financial resources to invest in modernizing energy systems. For instance, Albania has struggled to secure funding for proposed solar and wind projects totalling approximately $300 million; in Belarus only about 5% of the necessary investments have been secured for planned RE installations; financial constraints limit modernization of ageing hydropower infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. 

    • Lack of skilled workforce. For example, in Georgia, around 30% of energy sector professionals lack formal training in RE technologies.  

    • Climate and health impacts. For instance, Belarus emits approximately 8 million tonnes of CO2 annually from its energy sector alone, with coal-fired plants being significant contributors. North Macedonia’s reliance on coal contributes to air pollution levels among the highest in Europe.  

    Key strategies identified in the study include: 

    • Cross-border infrastructure projects, such as Trans-Caspian high-voltage direct current lines, are vital for enhancing regional energy trade and digital connectivity; 

    The report identifies three priority action areas: (1) scaling energy efficiency through retrofitting that embraces digital technologies; (2) promoting hybrid energy models that combine gas with hydrogen; and (3) advancing smart grids, standardization, and regional integration. 

    Importantly, the study promotes a human-centered approach to digitalization that  balances innovation with ethical considerations and prioritizes equity, social considerations, and long-term sustainability for a just transition. 

    From research to action 

    The study was showcased during a workshop “Assessing the readiness of the energy sector to implement smart digital energy-efficient technologies in Belarus in view of climate change mitigation” held in Minsk, Belarus, and online on 22 May 2025. The hybrid workshop, organized by UNECE in cooperation with UNDP Belarus and the Department of Energy Efficiency of the State Committee for Standardization of the Republic of Belarus, brought together over 100 participants including government officials, energy sector representatives, and international experts, to explore how smart digital tools can support energy efficiency, clean mobility, and climate action in Belarus.  

    For more information about UNECE work on Energy Efficiency, please visit: https://unece.org/sustainable-energy/energy-efficiency 

     Photo credit: Adobe Stock Images by Sergii.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with a delegation of the “National Italian American Foundation”

    Source: The Holy See

    Audience with a delegation of the “National Italian American Foundation”, 04.06.2025
    This morning, in the study of the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience a delegation of the “National Italian American Foundation”.
    The following are the words of greeting addressed to those present by the Holy Father:

    Greeting of the Holy Father
    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. [Amen.]
    Peace be with you. [And with your Spirit.]
    Welcome to all of you, please be seated.
    Again, good morning, I am happy to meet with you. I apologize to have kept you waiting. The Vatican scheduling system puts four audiences all at the same time. That way, unfortunately, you have to wait for me and not vice versa. I will give a brief formal statement, and then will be happy to greet you all individually. Then I have the General Audience in Piazza San Pietro following this meeting.
     
    Dear brothers and sisters,
    I am pleased to greet you, the members of the Board of Directors of the National Italian American Foundation as your organization celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. As you well know, tens of millions of Americans proudly claim their Italian heritage, even if their ancestors arrived in the United States of America generations ago. Your work to continue to educate young people regarding Italian culture and history, as well as providing scholarships and other charitable assistance in both countries, helps to maintain a mutually beneficial and concrete connection between the two nations.
    A hallmark of many who immigrated to the United States from Italy was their Catholic faith, with its rich traditions of popular piety and devotions that they continued to practice in their new nation. This faith sustained them in difficult moments, even as they arrived with a sense of hope for a prosperous future in their new country.  Your visit to the Vatican occurs during the Jubilee Year, which is focused on hope, which “dwells as the desire and expectation of good things to come, despite our not knowing what the future may bring” (Spes Non Confundit, 1).  In an age beset by many challenges, may your time here, in a city marked by the tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul as well as many saints who strengthened the Church throughout difficult periods of history, may this renew your sense of hope and trust in the future.  I pray that each of you and your families will always cherish the rich spiritual and cultural legacy that you have inherited from those who have gone before you.
    With these sentiments, I gladly impart to you my Apostolic Blessing, which I willingly extend to your families, to all your loved ones. Thank you.
    The blessing is written in Latin, but I think we can do it in English.
    The Lord be with you. [And with your Spirit.]
    May the blessing of Almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come upon you all and remain with you forever. Amen.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK From debate to law: A bills journey through the House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    In the Lords, proposed new laws, known as bills, go through several stages of debate. From their introduction in the House and detailed scrutiny by Lords members, to votes and ‘ping pong’ with the House of Commons, follow the journey of a bill as it makes its way through the Lords.

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eao0CMk124Y

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unlocking billions in private capital to tackle climate change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Unlocking billions in private capital to tackle climate change

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) mobilises billions in public and private funding for clean energy projects in developing countries.

    UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks at the Climate Investment Funds roundtable at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Picture by Simon Dawson, No 10 Downing Street.

    Public finance alone is not going to fund the global energy transition. That’s why we need innovative solutions to mobilise private investment to tackle climate change.

    The Climate Investment Funds’ Capital Market Mechanism (CCMM) demonstrates how the UK is playing a leading role in mobilising the necessary finance to support developing countries in their efforts to cut carbon emissions, build renewables and adapt to climate change.

    Launched by the UK Prime Minister at COP29, the mechanism is designed to unlock billions in climate finance by leveraging future loan repayments from previous investments. It could mobilise up to $75 billion in public and private funding for new clean energy projects in developing countries and reduce global emissions.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Protecting mangroves in Madagascar and Indonesia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Protecting mangroves in Madagascar and Indonesia

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) supports mangrove conservation to reduce the impacts of climate change, protect biodiversity and boost livelihoods.

    Mangrove monitoring in Madagascar for the Blue Forest Initiative. Source: Leah Glass, Blue Ventures.

    Mangrove forests, found in tropical and sub-tropical coastal areas, are a vital home for endangered species such as the white breasted sea eagle and olive ridley turtles. They also support coastal communities that depend on them for their livelihoods.

    Crucially, mangroves play a key role in tackling climate change, with the ability to store up to 4 times more carbon than rainforests.

    However, mangrove forests have been in severe decline for decades. To address this, the UK government is funding the Blue Forest Initiatives programme, led by the UK non-profit Blue Ventures, to protect, restore and sustainably manage mangrove forests in Madagascar and Indonesia.

    The community-led programme is working to prevent deforestation and overfishing while supporting the livelihoods of up to 70,000 people.

    With a goal of protecting approximately 80,000 hectares of mangrove forests – an area larger than the size of 100,000 football pitches, the programme is expected to save 1.7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released.

    By securing the future of these critical ecosystems, the UK is not only combatting climate change but also safeguarding biodiversity and tackling extreme poverty.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA letter to NatWest about breaching Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Order

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    CMA letter to NatWest about breaching Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Order

    Letter to NatWest Group plc, after the Competition and Markets Authority found it breached Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017.

    Documents

    CMA letter to NatWest about breaching Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Order

    PDF, 129 KB, 4 pages

    Details

    Part 7 of the Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017 (the Order) requires banks to set a Monthly Maximum Charge (MMC) in relation to unarranged overdraft charges. Providers cannot charge customers more than the MMC in any given month. Providers must say what their MMC is each time they mention unarranged overdraft charges in product literature.

    Part 8 of the Order requires banks to disclose the representative cost in Equivalent Annual Rate (EAR) terms of their overdrafts and in Annual Percentage Rate (APR) terms for their loans in the way set out in the Order.

    Part 9 of the Order requires that banks offer a price and eligibility tool which will enable SMEs to obtain an indicative price quote and indication of their eligibility for unsecured loans and standard tariff unsecured business overdrafts.

    NatWest breached the Order by failing to:

    • either provide the MMC, or to provide the correct MMC to around 104,800 customers in three separate breaches (Part 7). The longest breach lasted from 16 June 2023 to 2 April 2024.

    • include the Representative EAR in letters to 66,765 SME customers which included an offer to renew an overdraft between May 2021 and February 2024 (Part 8)

    • continuously offer the price and eligibility tool defined in the Order on four occasions (Part 9). The longest breach was between at least 1 May 2023 until 5 July 2024 and affected around 200 SMEs per month

    This letter sets out our concerns and what NatWest did to put things right.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Helping communities adapt to storms in Bangladesh

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Helping communities adapt to storms in Bangladesh

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) supports AI-based forecasting to boost extreme weather preparedness in Bangladesh.

    UK International Climate Finance supports AI-based forecasting to increase extreme weather preparedness in Bangladesh.

    Extreme weather events such as storms are getting more frequent and intense all over the world due to a more unstable climate. For many Bangladeshi coastal communities, tidal surges can be devastating for people’s livelihoods.

    CLARE (Climate, Adaptation and Resilience), a research programme on climate adaptation and resilience jointly run by the UK and Canada, is piloting an innovative AI-based forecasting system to provide early warnings and help with long-term planning against storms.

    When Cyclone Remal hit in 2024, displacing over 120,000 people, the project was able to provide timely information by identifying 30 at-risk embankment points. This allowed local people to effectively mobilise resources in real-time and strengthen embankments to limit damage.

    Once completed, the AI model is set to be adopted by government and humanitarian groups across the country.

    The project shows how we’re providing value for money by helping communities adapt to the impacts of climate change. Using data from tide stations and drone surveys, the project will aim to provide highly accurate forecasts for tidal surges.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting farmers to go green in Zambia

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Supporting farmers to go green in Zambia

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) backs sustainable farming and eco-tourism in Zambia to cut emissions and create jobs.

    People working on Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    Since 2018, the UK has been supporting the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project (ZIFL Programme) to support rural communities in the Eastern Province of Zambia, one of the poorest regions of Africa.

    In June 2024, Zambia signed an ERPA (Emission Reductions Purchase Agreements). This agreement will ensure local people receive payments in exchange for reducing emissions.

    With a goal to cut emissions by 30 million tonnes, equivalent to the UK’s annual emissions from livestock farming, the project has already trained over 100,000 farmers in sustainable techniques like crop rotation and agroforestry.

    As well as cutting carbon, the project is also working with the Luambe and Lukusuzi National Parks to help build roads and campsites, creating rural jobs through eco-tourism and ensuring the protection of wildlife.

    UK International Climate Finance supports the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    People working on Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India Wins Presidency of International Institute of Administrative Sciences

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India won the Presidency of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) on Tuesday, 3 June 2025. The International Institute of Administrative Sciences, a notable global institution, is a federation of 31 member countries, 20 national sections, and 15 academic research centres jointly collaborating on scientific research in public administration.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi had nominated the Indian candidate, Secretary DARPG (Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances), Shri V. Srinivas, for the 2025-2028 Presidency of IIAS in November 2024. Following Presidency hearings in February 2025, the candidacies of India, South Africa, and Austria were forwarded to the IIAS General Body. Subsequently, South Africa withdrew its candidacy in favour of India in May 2025.

    The election between India and Austria was held on 3 June 2025, in which 141 votes were polled. India secured 87 votes (61.7 per cent of the vote), while Austria received 54 votes (38.3 per cent of the vote). India’s candidacy received widespread support from across the membership.

    This election marks two significant firsts in the 100-year history of IIAS: it was the first time the President was elected by a ballot process, and it is the first time India has secured this historic mandate.

    The Indian Presidency of the institution will seek to bridge the North-South Divide with a focus on unity and inclusivity. It will also take forward Prime Minister Modi’s vision for “Maximum Governance – Minimum Government,” documenting next-generation administrative reforms with a focus on the digital empowerment of citizens and the digital transformation of institutions.

    India has been a member of IIAS since 1998. Other key members of IIAS include Japan, China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Mexico, Spain, Qatar, Morocco, and Indonesia.

    While the IIAS is not a formally affiliated body of the United Nations, it actively engages with the UN’s work in public administration through the UN’s Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) and the UN Public Administration Network (UNPAN).

  • US-backed Gaza aid group halts distribution, UN to vote on ceasefire demand

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation will not give out any aid on Wednesday as it presses Israel to boost civilian safety beyond the perimeter of its distribution sites, a day after dozens of Palestinians seeking aid were killed.

    The GHF said it has asked the Israeli military to “guide foot traffic in a way that minimizes confusion or escalation risks” near military perimeters; develop clearer guidance for civilians; and enhance training to support civilian safety.

    “Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” said a GHF spokesperson. An Israeli military spokesperson warned civilians against moving in areas leading to GHF sites on Wednesday, deeming them “combat zones”.

    The Israeli military said on Tuesday that it opened fire on a group of people it viewed as a threat near a GHF food aid distribution site. The International Committee of the Red Cross said at least 27 people were killed and dozens injured. The GHF said the incident was “well beyond” its site.

    Palestinians who collected food GHF boxes on Tuesday described scenes of pandemonium, with no-one overseeing the handover of supplies or checking IDs, as crowds jostled for aid.

    The U.N. Security Council is also set to vote on Wednesday on a demand for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas and humanitarian access across Gaza, where aid has trickled amid chaos and bloodshed after Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on the enclave where famine looms.

    “It is unacceptable. Civilians are risking – and in several instances losing – their lives just trying to get food,” U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday, adding that the aid distribution model backed by the U.S. and Israel was “all a recipe for disaster, which is exactly what is going on.”

    That model is run by the newly created GHF, which started operations in the enclave a week ago and said on Tuesday that it has given out more than seven million meals from three so-called secure distribution sites. GHF Interim Executive Director John Acree urged humanitarians in Gaza: “Work with us and we will get your aid delivered to those who are depending on it.”

    U.S. VETO?

    The U.N. and other aid groups have refused to work with the GHF because they say it is not neutral and the distribution model militarizes aid. GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics companies to get aid to the distribution sites.

    It is the latest in a string of efforts to get more aid into the enclave, where experts say the entire population of some 2.1 million people is at risk of famine. Jordan last year spearheaded humanitarian air drops, while the U.S. briefly installed a floating aid pier, but it was beset by challenges.

    The U.N. has long-blamed Israel and lawlessness in the enclave for hindering the delivery of aid into Gaza and its distribution throughout the war zone. Israel accuses Hamas of stealing aid, which the group denies.

    Israel said on Tuesday that three of its soldiers had been killed in fighting in northern Gaza. Gaza health officials said at least 18 more Palestinians were killed in other military strikes in the territory on Tuesday. Reuters could not independently verify the reports in northern and southern Gaza.

    The 10 elected members of the U.N. Security Council have asked for the 15-member body to vote on Wednesday on a draft resolution that demands “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.”

    The draft text, seen by Reuters, also demands the release of all hostages held by Hamas and others, and the immediate lifting of all restrictions on the entry of aid and its safe and unhindered distribution, including by the U.N., throughout Gaza.

    “The time to act has already passed,” Slovenia’s U.N. Ambassador Samuel Zbogar told Reuters. “It is our historical responsibility not to remain silent.”

    As U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration tries to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, it was not immediately clear if Washington would veto the draft text. A spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the U.N. said: “We cannot preview our actions currently under consideration.”

    A resolution needs nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the permanent members – the United States, Russia, China, Britain or France – to pass.

    The war in Gaza has raged since 2023 after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in Israel in an October 7 attack and took some 250 hostages back to the enclave, according to Israeli tallies.

    Israel responded with a military campaign that has killed over 54,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, which do not distinguish between fighters and non-combatants.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATED: Fourth man arrested in connection with arsons in north London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A fourth man has been arrested as part of an investigation into a series of fires in north London.

    A 48-year-old man [D] was arrested on Monday, 2 June at London Stansted Airport. He was initially stopped by officers under schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, 2000, before being arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    The arrest is connected to an investigation into a vehicle fire in NW5 on Thursday, 8 May, a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on Sunday, 11 May and a fire at a residential address in NW5 in the early hours of Monday, 12 May.

    The man [D] has been taken to a London police station, before being released on bail to a date in July.

    The Crown Prosecution Service previously authorised charged against three other men:

    • Roman Lavrynovych 21 (06.02.04), of Sydenham, a Ukrainian national [A] was charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life.
    • Stanislav Carpiuc, 26 (15.07.98) of Romford, a Romanian national, [B] was charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
    • Petro Pochynok 34 (25.07.90) of north London, a Ukrainian national [C] was charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    The three men [A-C] have been remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Friday, 6 June.

    The investigation is being led by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command due to the fires all having connections to a high-profile public figure. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May. Enquiries remain ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DASA-Funded Tech ‘DUCHESS’ Takes the Crown in AI Interviewing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    DASA-Funded Tech ‘DUCHESS’ Takes the Crown in AI Interviewing

    DASA funding helped DIEM Analytics develop a robust tool for interviewing military personnel at scale

    • DUCHESS was developed before the generative AI boom, giving DIEM Analytics strategic advantage in the evolving AI landscape
    • Through multiple DASA and Dstl funded projects, the innovation evolved from an automated feedback collection tool to a sophisticated interviewing system
    • DIEM Analytics has successfully transitioned from defence consulting to creating cutting-edge AI solutions with international impact

    From Interview Challenge to AI Innovation

    Obtaining lessons learned and feedback is a vital aspect of any military activity. However, this can be a time-consuming process if done through traditional one-on-one in-person interviews.

    For instance, when naval vessels return from a deployment, only senior officers might be interviewed about lessons learned, leaving hundreds of valuable perspectives lost. But what if there was a way to capture insights from everyone on board, without the resource burden of conducting hundreds of individual interviews?

    DIEM Analytics’ DUCHESS system, developed with DASA funding, can do just that, transforming how defence organisations learn from experience.

    DASA’s Early Investment in DIEM Analytics

    Founded in 2011 as a consulting company by former Ministry of Defence staff, DIEM Analytics set out to explore whether AI could conduct the kind of dynamic interviews that normally required human expertise. Not just static surveys, but conversations that could listen to responses and generate intelligent follow-up questions and gather rich insights at scale.

    Through DASA’s “People in Defence” Themed Competition in 2019, DIEM Analytics secured their first round of funding to develop the first iteration of DUCHESS, an automated interviewing tool – years before ChatGPT and the generative AI boom.

    “We were a bit ahead of our time,” notes Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “When we first started, talking to AI was quite an unusual experience. Now people are more used to talking to a device, and there’s a bit more understanding in the market that these things are actually really useful.”

    How DUCHESS Works

    DUCHESS uses natural language processing (NLP) technology and carefully designed defence-based interview methodology. The system begins with a set of initial open-ended questions tailored to the specific feedback scenario – whether its lessons learned from a deployment or insights during organisational transformation.

    What sets DUCHESS apart from simple surveys is its ability to analyse responses in real-time and generate relevant follow-up questions, mimicking the natural flow of a human interview.  The dynamic follow-on questions have been proven to generate an average of 63% more data than just using a static question set.

    DUCHESS in action

    Evolution Through Testing and Adaptation

    DUCHESS’ journey wasn’t straightforward. Phase 1 funding enabled the team to test their concept at scale with Royal Navy sailors returning from deployment. The positive response from this project led to phase 2 funding, where the system was deployed in a headquarters undergoing transformation.

    “For phase 2, we improved the questioning, and we enhanced the visualisations as well,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “How we display interview data is really important, and the different use cases mean that the visual analysis is unique for each of these.”

    The system can identify key themes, sentiment patterns, and causal relationships between interview answers. These insights are then presented through customisable visualisations, allowing decision-makers to quickly grasp complex feedback from hundreds of interviews.

    Further Development and International Adoption

    When COVID-19 hit in 2020, just as phase 2 concluded, the team faced a critical barrier; their system relied on people physically sitting in front of a laptop to conduct the interview. However, with defence personnel at the time working remotely, they needed a new approach.

    “We made the decision to privately fund a cloud-hosted version,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. The team invested approximately £50,000 of their own money and significant effort to adapt their technology to the new reality.

    The investment paid off. Despite being a micro-SME with just four core team members, DIEM Analytics began securing international contracts.

    “The first commercial user was the NATO Joint Analysis Lesson Learnt Centre,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “After, we secured a contract with the Canadian Air Warfare Centre which became a regular user of DUCHESS.”

    Other users included the Royal Navy, the National Physical Laboratory, and the UK’s Naval Engineering Science and Technology Centre (NEST). The Maritime Warfare Centre also requested a version for offline usage, broadening its applications further.

    In recognition of their innovation, the Royal Navy nominated DIEM for AI Innovation of the Year with Digital Leaders for two consecutive years, with the company placing in the top three in the second year (2021). 

    Embracing the AI Revolution

    When OpenAI and ChatGPT transformed the AI landscape in 2022, DIEM Analytics was perfectly positioned to capitalise on the breakthrough. Having already developed their own interview technology, they understood both the potential and limitations of these new tools.

    “We built our Version 2 of DUCHESS on OpenAI,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “Version 2 is more conversational and engaging for users, and slicker in its work.”

    The team designed their system to be compatible with other large language models (LLMs) giving them flexibility for future AI developments. “We have built the system so you could switch in other LLMs, so we’re not completely wedded to OpenAI,” notes Dr. Jaya-Ratnam.

    Beyond Duchess: A Portfolio of Innovation

    DASA’s support for DIEM Analytics extends beyond DUCHESS. MaLFIE (Machine Learning Fuzzy-logic Integration for Explainability) was developed to address a Navy challenge from a 2018 hackathon, to not only detect anomalies at sea but explain and prioritise them. With DASA funding, MaLFIE went from concept to implementation at the National Maritime Information Centre within two years.

    Another innovation, Red Mirror, submitted through a Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) competition Intelligent Ship, received three rounds of funding. This technology predicts what an enemy asset will do next, using low-shot learning (when algorithms learn to make accurate predictions with limited training data) to rapidly build a mirror of adversary AI. To support this development, DIEM Analytics created their own drone simulation system called DR SO.

    “We have developed a sophisticated app that is similar to a commercial game,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam of DR SO. This technology recently secured a contract with a major prime contractor.

    A third DASA-funded innovation, Red’s Shoes, is an algorithm originally developed for the hedge fund industry that has been adapted to predict adversary commander behaviour. After proving the concept in a NATO exercise, it has been deployed with NATO’s SHAPE Team.

    The Future: Scaling Innovation

    Today, DIEM Analytics is positioning itself for broader commercial success. “We are working out how we will push DUCHESS as a commercial offering at scale,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “We want to make it a purely SaaS offering.”

    The team is conducting market testing to identify the most promising sectors, including construction health and safety, venture capital interview processes, and pharmaceuticals.

    With DASA’s initial investment serving as the foundation supporting several innovative technologies, DIEM Analytics has transformed from a defence consultancy into a unique AI company with international reach. Their story demonstrates how targeted government support for early-stage technologies can position UK companies for success in the rapidly evolving AI landscape before that landscape was fully visible.

    “DASA funding gave us the ability to establish reference use-cases and mature the underlying technology. This became a solid foundation on which to invest our own money to create a commercial application that UK and international defence organisations, as well as commercial organisations, have used. We now have DUCHESS version 2.0 and are moving into sectors such as commercial maritime and wellbeing. Thanks to COVID our growth was slower than we wanted, but DASA gave us the leg up we needed.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 113th International Labour Conference. UK Statement on Myanmar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    113th International Labour Conference. UK Statement on Myanmar

    Joint Statement on Myanmar at the General Affairs Committee at ILC 113. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

    Chair, I have the honour of speaking on behalf of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and my own country, the United Kingdom.

    We would firstly like to thank the ILO Office for their work on this issue, and the work of the ILO Liaison Office and its staff in Yangon who continue to work under extremely difficult circumstances.

    We also wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Myanmar, who have suffered yet more hardship as a result of the terrible earthquake in March, which has seen large-scale destruction of homes, businesses and places of worship, and most sadly, the tragic loss of lives.

    Chair, at this International Labour Conference, we meet to discuss the Myanmar military regime’s ongoing intransigence in observing Convention 87 on the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise, and Convention 29 on Forced Labour. Since the Commission of Inquiry for Myanmar was established in 2023, we have heard grave reports of continued repression of trade unions and labour rights, including through active suppression of unionization efforts, and the surveillance, harassment and dismissal of those engaging in union activities.

    Trade Unionists continue to be imprisoned, including the General Secretary of the Myanmar Industries Craft and Services Trade Union Federation, Thet Hnin Aung, whom we and the ILO Office have continued to call for the release of.

    We are also concerned by reports of continued systematic exploitation of civilians for different types of forced labour, including as porters, guides, and human shields, as well as for the cultivation, construction and maintenance of military camps, or for the provision of transport, accommodation, food and domestic work.

    Despite our calls for the Myanmar military regime to urgently address these issues, the regime has failed to address the Commission’s recommendations and continues to engage in far-reaching violations and abuses of labour laws and abuses of human rights, as laid out in ILO reporting and other UN-body findings.

    Back in March at the Governing Body we agreed, by consensus, to adopt measures in line with Article 33 of the ILO Constitution, against Myanmar. We continue to support these measures, including the establishment of a monitoring mechanism to ensure Myanmar’s compliance with the Commission’s recommendations. It is important the ILO continues to closely monitor developments in Myanmar, including the impact of recent events on workers’ incomes and livelihoods.

    Chair, we continue to believe that such measures should not exacerbate the dire humanitarian and economic situation in Myanmar, only made worse by the recent earthquake. Nor should Article 33 measures impact workers in Myanmar, who continue to suffer much hardship. International trade and business have a key role to play; businesses currently operating in Myanmar should be able to continue whilst respecting responsible business practices and human rights.

    The UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand are committed to working with the ILO and its constituents to secure compliance by the Myanmar regime with the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations. We call on all constituents to support the adoption of the draft resolution and ensure that the military regime urgently addresses the grave issues as laid out.

    Chair, we support the draft resolution.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting small food and drink businesses

    Source: Scottish Government

    Funding to promote local and regional products.

    Food and drink festivals, farmers markets and culinary masterclasses are just some of the projects from across Scotland set to benefit from grants of up to £5,000.

    The latest round of the Regional Food Fund will support 15 local and collaborative projects helping small food businesses to thrive while promoting local produce. 

    Scotland Food & Drink manages the fund aimed at elevating the food and drink industry, enhancing food tourism and showcasing the best the country has to offer. 

    Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:  

    “Scotland’s food and drink industry is worth £15 billion to the economy; it is one of the country’s largest employers and is already well-recognised and established across the world.   

    “Engaging with regional markets is vital in achieving our industry strategy and growth ambitions for the next ten years. That’s why, through initiatives like the Regional Food Fund, we are providing much-needed support to small projects to showcase the best products that their regions have to offer.  

    “A wonderful range of projects will be supported through this round, including foraging experiences and masterclasses at Isle of Bute food and drink festival, learning about the turnip being a climate-friendly crop in Fife, or improving their culinary skills at Huntly Hairst’s celebration of local food and drink. I look forward to hearing how each of these exciting projects develops.” 

    Scotland Food & Drink Head of Regional Food Fiona Richmond said: 

    “We are pleased to be able to support 15 more collaborative food and drink projects around the country with the latest round of the Regional Food Fund.

    “Our judging panel were impressed with the level of commitment and creativity shown by the successful applicants, who represent the true passion that makes our vibrant food and drink industry so special.

    “We know that local food and drink initiatives play a vital role in the continued growth of Scotland’s food, drink, and tourism sectors. Congratulations to this year’s recipients – we can’t wait to see the projects we have supported come to life.”

    Background 

    Regional Food Fund | Scotland Food & Drink (foodanddrink.scot) 

    Since 2021, the Scottish Government has provided over £500,000 to the Fund, which has supported 104 collaborative projects, varying from creative artwork to increase customer numbers, new equipment and regional marketing campaigns. 

    The successful applicants in this round are: 

    Huntly Hairst, Aberdeenshire. Celebration of local food and drink  £2,975   

    Established 2012, this year will be a collaboration’ theme, producers will prepare meal plans and menus to guide visitors around the stalls, gathering fresh ingredients, listening to masterclasses and demonstrations. Funding will support production of campaign materials and promotion.  

    Angus Farmers Market, Angus. Appetite for Angus                                £3,000  

    The project aims to rescue and revitalise the farmers’ markets in Forfar, Carnoustie and Montrose which are due to close in their current form. Markets provide a vital source of income in the area. Funds will contribute to market rebrand. 

    Argyll and the Isles. Virtual Farmers’ Market                                           £5,000  

    Creation of innovative digital farmers’ market to help local producers increase their sales and show their contribution to the local economy, both to visitors and locals. This project will off support to rural businesses struggling with rising costs with funds going towards the creation of assets and campaign delivery. 

    Alloa, Clackmannanshire. First Sound Bites Festival 2026                     £5,000  

    Collaborative, community festival to promote sales of local produce. Funding will help expand food and drink offer following successful trial last year and will contribute to marketing material and stall hire. 

    Dumfries and Galloway. Nurture from Nature – Local Food Outlet £5,000  

    Project aims to create a permanent retail outlet for local producers on this working farm. Funding will contribute to development of marketing and promotional costs. 

    Fife. Food from Fife – Retail Display Project                                            £5,000 

    Following the successful trial in November 2024 by regional food group, Food From Fife, roll out of more branded units and point of sale material to a wider range of Fife food and drink businesses, providing dedicated in-store marketing and sales space. 

    North Fife and Tayside. From Tree to Glass                                             £4,500 

    Delivered by Bioregioning Tayside, creation of producer group to promote and grow the area’s craft cider and perry production, preserving its apple, pear and plum heritage.  Funds will support delivery of business to business, consumer and education events and materials. 

    Fife. Turning the Tide for Turnip Revolution                                           £5,000 

    led by East of Scotland Growers will deliver a series of partnerships with chefs, retailers and communities to raise awareness and sales of turnip as a modern, delicious, climate-friendly crop. Funding will contribute to branding, marketing and chef costs. 

    Forth Valley. Forth Valley Five                                                                  £4,993  

    Led by regional food group, Forth Valley Food & Drink, this collaborative project will encourage restaurants, cafes, retailers and locals to add feature five local products on menus; stock five new local products on shelves and add five local products to shopping baskets. Funds will support creation of marketing materials and delivery. 

    Isle of Bute. Isle of Bute Food & Drink Festival                                       £3,240 

    Three-day celebration of the island’s food and drink via producer stalls; masterclasses; foraging and other experiences, delivered by regional food group, Bute Kitchen, in collaboration with other organisations and businesses.  

    Love Loch Lomond – A Taste of Loch Lomond Marketing Campaign    £4,500  

    Marketing campaign to promote a new publication, ‘A Taste of Loch Lomond: Stories & Flavours from the Bonnie Banks’, that showcases stories, products and recipes from the area’s local producers and hospitality businesses. Funding will support campaign material production and promotion. 

    Orkney. Orkney Food and Drink Festival                                                 £5,000  

    Delivered by regional food group, Orkney Food and Drink, this two-day festival will bring together the island’s businesses to sell their products to visitors and locals. Funding will support venue and promotional costs. 

    Outer Hebrides. Hebridean Fine Food & Drink Festival                          £3,000 

    Regional food group, Eat Drink Hebrides, will deliver branding and marketing assets for two food fairs and two networking events including a Food and Drink Awards, increasing sales, promoting local businesses and supporting local supply chains. 

    Fine Cheesemakers of Scotland – Promoting Scottish Artisanal Cheese £5,000  

    Project from this collaborative artisan cheese network to improve digital presence and tell a more compelling and cohesive story to increase sales and promotion. Funding will support professional content rebrand including video/photos/Instagram and website. 

    The Scottish Cider Festival                                                                      £5,000  

    New annual event to promote Scotland’s emerging cider industry, delivered by Fife-based cider pioneers, Aeble. Hosted in Edinburgh, it will provide a platform for the country’s producers to sell their craft products, partnering with other local food and drink producers. Funding will support venue, branding and marketing costs. 

    TOTAL          15 Applicants         TOTAL GRANT CLAIM FUNDING     £66,208   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’

    Working people in cities and towns from Sunderland to Solihull will benefit from the biggest investment in regional transport, as every part of the country prospers under Plan for Change.

    • Chancellor more than doubles investment in local transport in England’s city regions, delivering the biggest ever investment over the next five years.

    • Announcement comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review focused on investment in the Government’s priorities, in Britain’s renewal, and in what matters to you in the place that you live.

    Working people across the North, Midlands and the South West will benefit from the biggest ever investment in buses, trams and local train infrastructure in city regions as the Chancellor today promises the renewal of Britain to make all parts of the country better off.

    In a speech in Greater Manchester, Reeves is expected to say that “a Britain that is better off cannot rely on a handful of places forging ahead of the rest of the country,” adding that the “result of such thinking has been growth created in too few places, felt by too few people and wide gaps between regions, and between our cities and towns.”

    Reeves will say the Spending Review next week will take different choices, with investment in a “new economic model – driven by investment in all parts of the country, not just a few.”

    She will unveil the first investment announcements from the Spending Review, with £15.6 billion of funding for local transport projects in England’s city regions – including South Yorkshire, the North East, the East Midlands and Tees Valley. The funding – a more than double real-terms increase in capital spending on local transport in city regions by 2029/30 compared with 2024/25 – will empower local leaders to invest in transport projects that will make a difference to their local area.

    Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said:

    Today marks a watershed moment on our journey to improving transport across the North and Midlands – opening up access to jobs, growing the economy and driving up quality of life as we deliver our Plan for Change.

    For too long, people in the North and Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6bn of Government investment, we’re giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal so you and your family are better off.

    This long-overdue investment outside of London and the South East will see projects like the Metro extension linking Washington to Newcastle and Sunderland and the renewal South Yorkshire’s tram network linking employment and housing areas in Sheffield and Rotheram get off the ground – creating jobs, better commutes, bigger labour markets and more opportunity.

    The game-changing funding comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review when the Chancellor will set out how this government is investing in the country’s future and the priorities of working people to make every part of Britain better off.

    The five-year settlements will mean the Mayor of West Yorkshire can commit to delivering the West Yorkshire Mass Transit, which will be fully integrated with cycling, walking, bus and rail, making journeys quicker, more accessible and more reliable across the region.

    The funding will also mean the Mayor of the West Midlands can build a metro extension to Birmingham’s sports quarter, making a start on his ambitions to deliver mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.

    It will also allow the Mayor of Greater Manchester to transform the Metrolink tram network, with new stops in Bury, north Manchester and Oldham and a Metrolink extension to Stockport town centre.

    The Chancellor is also expected to confirm “a step change in how government approaches and evaluates the case for investing in our regions” following a review of the Treasury’s Green Book and how it is used, “to make sure that this government gives every region a fair hearing when it comes to investments”.

    The full conclusions of the Green Book review will be published on June 11, alongside the wider Spending Review.

    Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said:

    This government’s decision to back major local transport projects with serious, long-term investment will be critical to driving regional growth. The economic revival of Greater Manchester, enabled by sustained investment in the tram network in particular, has already begun to close the productivity gap with London. To build on that success and replicate it across all our regions in the North, we need to see key projects delivered – including the extension of the Metro to Washington, the replacement of the Sheffield tram fleet, and the extension of Metrolink to Stockport.

    Too many times in the past, a trade-off was made – due to limited funding – between connectivity within and between our regions. The spending rules adopted last autumn mean this government can invest in both at the same time, unlocking far greater productivity gains than prioritising one at the expense of the other.

    Jonny Haseldine, Head of Business Environment at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

    The pathway to the strong and consistent growth the UK economy needs has to come through investment in our regions.

    That means developing regional infrastructure, including transport projects and grid connectivity, improved rail capacity and electrification of key sections of the network.

    These projects can then give firms involved in the supply chains real confidence to start planning and investing in their local economies.

    But it is critical that no corner of the UK gets left behind and regional development works in alignment with national goals.

    More information

    Mayoral breakdown of Transport for City Regions funding:

    Mayoral Combined Authority Funding allocation (27/28-31/32) (1) Projects likely to be taken forward by mayors
    West Midlands £2.4 billion Metro extension connecting Birmingham City Centre to new sports quarter, unlocking £3bn investment from private investors. This is the first phase of new mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.
    West Yorkshire £2.1 billion Spades in the ground to start building West Yorkshire Mass Transit by 2028, with aim for first services by mid-2030s. Transforming six transport corridors in West Yorkshire not covered by the mass transit routes, including through new bus stations at Bradford and Wakefield
    Greater Manchester £2.5 billion Major infrastructure projects to unlock new homes, jobs and better connect communities, including growing and transforming the Metrolink tram network, with new tram stops in Bury, Manchester and Oldham and Metrolink extension to Stockport. A fully electric Bee Network, with zero emission public transport network across bikes, bus and tram by 2030, including purchase of 1,000 new electric buses. £530m to renew the tram network, providing a fleet of new, replacement vehicles, modernising tram stops, as well maintenance to improve reliability.
    South Yorkshire £1.5 billion £350m to reform South Yorkshire’s buses, with franchised buses operating in Sheffield, Doncaster and Rotherham by 2027 and across the whole of South Yorkshire by 2029.
    Liverpool City Region £1.6 billion £100m for 3 new bus rapid transit routes, to the Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Everton stadium and Anfield. Buying a brand-new fleet of buses for the city region’s franchised bus network, beginning with St Helens and the Wirral in 2026 and then Sefton, Knowsley, North and South Liverpool in 2027.
    North East £1.8 billion Metro extension linking Newcastle and Sunderland via Washington, serving one of the largest advanced manufacturing zones in the UK.
    West of England £0.8 billion £150m to improve rail infrastructure across the region, including funding to support WECA’s ambitions for increased frequency of services between Brabazon and the city centre. £200m for Mass transit development between Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.
    Tees Valley £1.0 billion £60m for the Platform 3 extension at Middlesborough station, unblocking the local network.
    East Midlands £2.0 billion Designing a new mass transit system to connect Derby and Nottingham, encompassing road, rail and bus improvements across the Trent Arc corridor.

    (1): Some of this funding will be brought forward to 2025/26 and 2026/27 to ensure communities see the benefit of this significant investment even earlier.

    Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said:

    It’s great to see the Government investing in the local transport infrastructure that will tangibly improve the lives of millions across our city regions and particularly good to see trams being prioritised in several areas. Fast, frequent and reliable public transport is essential to unlocking opportunity and driving inclusive economic growth.

    We hope to see similar commitments to revenue funding in next week’s Spending Review, alongside support for local authorities to plan, deliver and run the high-quality transport services their communities need.

    Mark Casci, Head of Policy and Representation at West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

    This commitment to fund mass transit in West Yorkshire can be a game changer for the region.

    West Yorkshire is home to a world-class business community, but the region is held back by poor connectivity which impacts upon our productivity.

    By delivering this much needed infrastructure upgrade to the region, West Yorkshire can finally punch its weight and deliver enhanced returns for UK PLC.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Supreme Court annual evidence session

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Members discuss the role of the Supreme Court and challenges to the rule of law in this Lords Constitution Committee session with Lord Reed of Allermuir, President of the Supreme Court, and Lord Hodge, Deputy President of the Supreme Court.

    Find out more about the committee https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/172/constitution-committee/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rT5JxtagRBw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Winterberry Group Research Unveils How Marketers Can Improve the Effectiveness Of $1.12 Trillion of Global Media Spend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Creative, labeled as “non-working” media, is responsible for driving 40-70% of an advertising campaign’s performance, yet it has been deprioritized and undervalued. Global advertising spend is projected to reach $1.12 trillion by 2026, so investment in creative and content is expected to surpass $140 billion. Winterberry Group, a strategic growth consultancy, today released the findings of a new report that details how to collapse the artificial siloes of “working” and “non-working” media and achieve marketing effectiveness with media, audience and creative intelligence.

    The report defines creative intelligence as the ability to collect, structure and analyze creative decisions against performance data to continuously optimize assets for effectiveness and engagement.

    “It is time to overhaul outdated thinking that the billions spent on creative production is non-working,” said Bruce Biegel, senior managing partner of Winterberry Group. “To truly unlock the full potential of modern marketing effectiveness with greater financial discipline, media, audience and creative data have to converge into a full-funnel, personalized and measurable experience at scale.”

    Brands and agencies can connect every stage of the creative and campaign process to outcomes. Creative intelligence empowers smarter briefings, pre-flight analysis, real-time activation and optimization as well as creative lifetime value (Creative LTV).

    With the pace of AI advancements and budgets under pressure, Winterberry predicts creative intelligence will be widely adopted by leading marketers in the next 24-36 months. Starting in channels with the most accessible creative data – social, email and mobile messaging, and then expand into programmatic digital formats such as display, video, audio, and connected TV (CTV).

    Other key findings from the report include:

    • Nearly half of marketers (49%) still equate “creative intelligence” with ideation alone, rather than recognizing it as a system for measurement and optimization.
    • Nearly all marketers (99%) view measuring creative LTV as important – with 72% calling it very important.
      • However, only 54% say their organization measures creative LTV very effectively.
    • Creative intelligence is most impactful for understanding brand awareness (41%) and performance outcomes (38%).
    • Creative quality is universally valued as the most important metric for understanding creative intelligence followed by brand lift by both brands (49%) and agencies (38%).
      • Brands then are more interested in measuring conversions (33%), while agencies lean into audience relevance (31%) and engagement (28%).
    • Overall, brands and agencies expect creative intelligence to be led by marketing strategy and operations (but agencies favor external advisory roles more than brands).
    • Brands prioritize agencies for executional support in the evolving creative intelligence ecosystem, while agencies see themselves having more of a focus on technology and strategic integration.

    “Intelligent creative isn’t an emerging trend, it’s the new standard,” said Laura Desmond, CEO of Smartly. “With audience data in place, AI accelerating, and content demands at an all-time high, brands that harness creative intelligence are turning what was once marketing guesswork into a performance engine. The shift isn’t coming, it’s already here, and it’s redefining how we drive growth with speed, precision, and impact.”

    “Winterberry Group’s research powerfully validates what we see every day: for too long, creative has been under-leveraged as a driver of marketing effectiveness,” said Wesley ter Haar, Chief AI and Revenue Officer at Monks. “At Monks, we’re focused on building the AI-powered connective tissue that unifies creative, media and audience data, enabling brands to drive measurable and scalable marketing effectiveness everywhere they show up.”

    “Creative Intelligence isn’t a theory—it’s a system,” said Rob Rakowitz, head of marketing at VidMob. “What makes this whitepaper so valuable is its attention to the mechanics: the inputs, outputs and feedback loops that turn creative into a measurable asset across the entire marketing lifecycle.”

    “This valuable research aligns with over two decades of Analytic Partners’ ROI Genome findings: Creative is the #2 driver of marketing effectiveness—right after spend,” said Nancy Smith, President and CEO of Analytic Partners. “Advertisers must incorporate creative within their optimization and measurement programs to maximize commercial impact.”

    For this research report, Winterberry Group surveyed over 200 senior brand marketing and agencies executives, data, analytics and technology thought leaders across the United States and United Kingdom, conducting in-depth interviews with over 50 industry experts and influencers from customers and users of creative intelligence solutions.

    This is the first research report in the Winterberry Group series on creative intelligence – “Demystifying Creative Intelligence: Enhancing Marketing Effectiveness at the Intersection of Media, Audience and Creative.”

    This report was made possible with the support of IAA North America, Analytic Partners, Smartly.io, VidMob, Monks, APR and ContinuumGlobal.

    The full research report is available for download: https://winterberrygroup.com/demystifying-creative-intelligence-enhancing-marketing-effectiveness-at-the-intersection-of-media-audience-and-creative.  

    About Winterberry Group
    Winterberry Group is a growth consultancy specializing in the intersecting disciplines of marketing, advertising, technology, data and analytics. We collaborate with stakeholders across those ecosystems—agencies, service providers, technology developers, brands, publishers and investor groups—leveraging deep industry expertise to build actionable strategies that spur growth and drive the creation of real and lasting stakeholder value. Learn more at winterberrygroup.com.

    Media Contact
    Lacy Talton
    Evergreen & Oak on behalf of Winterberry Group
    lacy@evergreenandoak.com
    252.467.5220

    Ilisia Shuke
    Winterberry Group
    ishuke@winterberrygroup.com
    917.635.2405

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Open Innovation Team PhD Placement Scheme 2026

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Open Innovation Team PhD Placement Scheme 2026

    We’ve hosted more than 150 PhD students since 2016, with many going on to policy jobs in government and think tanks

    Apply here

    Applications for our 2026 placements in both policy and evaluation are now open.  To apply, please complete the application form.

    Applications will close at 12pm on Tuesday 1 July.

    About the team

    The Open Innovation Team (OIT) is a cross-government unit that works on a wide range of policies, including health, justice, education, sustainability, energy, international development, and artificial intelligence. This year, the team has launched a new evaluation service which will evaluate the impact of policies across a range of areas. 

    For years now, PhD students have played an important role in helping us deliver policy projects, working alongside experienced officials, academics and other experts to deliver the highest quality analysis and advice to colleagues across government.

    Alongside our policy placements, we are offering placements in the OIT’s Evaluation Services Unit (ESU). The ESU uses a range of methods – quantitative, quasi-experimental as well as qualitative and theory-based – to evaluate government policy and assess its impacts. No prior experience of evaluation methodologies is required, though some knowledge of quantitative and/or relevant qualitative research methods is desirable for this placement.

    Our PhD placements run throughout the year, spread across four cohorts. Placements normally last three months, with around 30 placement opportunities each year. Find out what our previous PhD placement students thought of their time with the Open Innovation Team here.

    About the placement 

    PhD placements work on a diverse range of policy projects and are not expected to have prior experience of policy or knowledge of the policy area that they are asked to work on. This year, there may be additional opportunities to work on the evaluation of policies with the Team’s new evaluation service.  

    Successful applicants should expect to:

    • make significant contributions to the policy and evaluation work the team carries out 
    • help plan and deliver our events, bringing together academic experts and policymakers to work through policy problems 
    • assess and synthesise evidence and research, and learn how to present this for policymaking audiences

    Students will also get the chance to help the team raise its profile, create new products and services for policy colleagues and deliver training and advice to academics. 

    All PhD placement work aims to build skills and provide students with an insight to what it’s like to work on policy and in government.

    The application process 

    There are three stages to the application process. All applicants must complete the initial application form. Those successful at this stage will be invited to complete an online written test. Those successful at the written test will pass onto the final interview stage.

    Drop in sessions

    If you would like to find out more about the placement, we will be running two Q&A drop-in sessions, which anyone is welcome to join:

    Essential conditions for applicants 

    To be considered, you must be studying on a PhD programme at a UK university, and be in a position to take up the placement prior to your expected viva date. The placements are full time for the 3-month period. 

    You must also secure funding to cover the cost of the placement from your university, PhD funding body or other suitable organisation. 

    Successful applicants, on receipt of a placement offer, will be expected to be able to pass BPSS security clearance. 

    Apply for our 2026 PhD placements scheme here

    Follow our LinkedIn page for the latest OIT news.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Economic Proposals for Dundee

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Two economic proposals could be developed for Dundee, if councillors approve reports.  

    They will consider whether early engagement should begin on a potential visitor levy for the city.  

    And elected members are also being asked to agree to the council playing a role in efforts to establish a Business Improvement District (BID) in the city centre.  

    Two separate reports into these issues will come before the Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Committee at its next meeting.  

    On the visitor levy, the committee will hear that under the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, councils can establish a scheme to raise funds that should be “re-invested locally on facilities and services substantially for or used by visitors”.  

    Scottish Government guidelines give local authorities the power to determine the rate of the levy, where it applies and the maximum number of nights to apply the levy to visitors.  

    The committee is being asked to approve early engagement with local businesses, residents and other relevant parties to inform a draft scheme for the city.  Work would be carried out to assess the potential income that could be generated by a levy.  

    Results would be reported back to councillors by next spring, and they would then decide on whether to proceed onto the formal consultation stage.   

    The committee will hear that early and ongoing engagement with those most likely impacted by the possibility of the introduction of a levy scheme in Dundee is fundamental.  The visitor economy in Dundee is continuing to develop.  There were 1.35 million visits to Dundee in 2023 with an average length of stay of 2.6 days.  The economic impact of the visitor economy is £243 million per annum, with the sector supporting 3500 jobs.  

    Meanwhile, on the Business Improvement District, the committee will hear that the long-term City Centre Strategic Investment Plan is designed to encourage growth in the city centre and requires close work with private sector interests.    

    A BID is a business led initiative within a defined area where businesses work together and collectively invest funds raised by a levy on non-domestic rates. The levy is used for projects and improvements which must be additional to services already provided by the local authority.  

    A steering group of businesses interested in a Dundee BID has been formed, with administrative support provided through Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce.   

    The steering group has set a provisional date for a ballot of businesses on the issue in March next year.  

    Councillors are being asked to agree that senior officers will engage in the BID process and provide support and guidance on technical aspects, including collection and management of the levy.  

    Committee convener Councillor Steven Rome said: “These reports outline the very early stages of what could be significant developments for Dundee.  

    “We need to carefully consider the views of everyone who expresses an opinion about these matters.  

    “Both the visitor levy and the Business Improvement District have the potential to be transformative, but we have to take each step at a time.  

    “There is a real shared desire to make Dundee a better place for everyone, and we must look thoroughly at every tool at our disposal.”  

    The Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Committee meets on Monday June 9. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –