Source: United States Navy
SIGONELLA, Italy – On May 6, 2025, United States Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella and U.S. Naval Medical Readiness and Training Unit (USNMRTU) Bahrain marked the beginning of Nurses Week with solemn Blessing of the Hands ceremonies—a cherished tradition that recognizes the sacred role of nurses and corpsmen in healing and compassionate care.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Press Release
Nokia selected by CoreSite for routing-based network edge solution to support data-intensive, mission-critical applications
13 May 2025
Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced that it has been selected by CoreSite, an American Tower company (NYSE: AMT) empowering critical business and AI workloads that impact everyday life through interconnected data center solutions, to deliver an IP routing-based edge and core network solution across 30 data centers in 11 U.S. markets. Delivering massive scale, performance and efficiency, the Nokia portfolio will accommodate the intensifying cloud connectivity and interconnection needs of resource-intensive artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing workloads for CoreSite’s nearly 40,000 customer interconnections.
As CoreSite enterprise, cloud provider and network carrier customers ramp up data-intensive services, the data center infrastructure must deliver high performance and scalable networking to ensure service availability adheres to stringent industry standards. At the same time, a data center space with advanced cooling and ultra high-density power is a must for supporting growth efficiency.
“Our customers expect best-in-class performance and reliability at every level of the network. By deploying Nokia’s advanced IP routing portfolio across our data center campuses, we ensure that our network edge infrastructure stays ahead of market demands, providing customers with a seamless experience and faster access to mission-critical applications,” said Chris Malayter, Vice President Network and Interconnection at CoreSite.
The Nokia 7250 Interconnect Router (IXR-s) will provide advanced routing capabilities, carrier-grade reliability and high-capacity throughput as enterprises leverage CoreSite’s colocation centers for data storage and processing, new product and service development and other business operations. The Nokia 7750 Service Router (SR) provides the massive scale, performance and reliability for IP interconnectivity within the data center campuses. In addition, Nokia FP5 silicon supports high throughput and reliability for uninterrupted data flows, and scales traffic with zero deterioration in performance.
The seamless integration of the Nokia Service Router Operating System (SR OS) with CoreSite’s existing environment will accelerate roll-out times and dramatically reduce operation costs.
”Collaborating with CoreSite has enabled us to drive the performance and scale of its multicloud connectivity and routing core. The integration of the Nokia 7250 IXR-s and 7750 Service Router allows CoreSite to adeptly manage increased traffic demands while ensuring low latency and reliable interconnection services that are essential to the modern digital economy,” said Vach Kompella, Senior Vice President and General Manager, IP Networks at Nokia.
Resources and additional information
Product page: Nokia 7250 Interconnect Routers
Product page: Nokia 7750 Service Router
Web Page: Noka Data Center Networks
About Nokia
At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.
As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.
With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.
About CoreSite
CoreSite, an American Tower company (NYSE: AMT), is a leading interconnection data center platform that empowers businesses to future-proof their digital transformation initiatives. For more than 20 years, CoreSite’s purpose-built, highly interconnected data center campuses and team of experts have delivered the cloud-enabled, resilient, and flexible digital ecosystems required for customers to quickly scale and interoperate their businesses to support the increasing demands of critical workloads, like AI and high-density applications. For more information, visit CoreSite.com and follow CoreSite on our Connect[ED] blog, LinkedIn and YouTube channels.
Media inquiries
Nokia Press Office
Email: Press.Services@nokia.com
CoreSite
Megan Ruszkowski, Vice President of Marketing and Sales Development
Phone: 720-446-2014
Email: press@CoreSite.com
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements herein that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect Nokia’s current expectations and views of future developments and include statements regarding: A) expectations, plans, benefits or outlook related to our strategies, product launches, growth management, licenses, sustainability and other ESG targets, operational key performance indicators and decisions on market exits; B) expectations, plans or benefits related to future performance of our businesses (including the expected impact, timing and duration of potential global pandemics and the general or regional macroeconomic conditions on our businesses, our supply chain and our customers’ businesses) and any future dividends and other distributions of profit; C) expectations and targets regarding financial performance and results of operations, including market share, prices, net sales, income, margins, cash flows, cost savings, the timing of receivables, operating expenses, provisions, impairments, taxes, currency exchange rates, hedging, investment funds, inflation, product cost reductions, competitiveness, revenue generation in any specific region, and licensing income and payments; D) ability to execute, expectations, plans or benefits related to changes in organizational structure and operating model; E) impact on revenue with respect to litigation/renewal discussions; and F) any statements preceded by or including “continue”, “believe”, “commit”, “estimate”, “expect”, “aim”, “influence”, “will”, “target”, “likely”, “intend”, “may”, “could”, “would” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from such statements. These statements are based on management’s best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to them. These forward-looking statements are only predictions based upon our current expectations and views of future events and developments and are subject to risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Factors, including risks and uncertainties that could cause these differences, include those risks and uncertainties identified in the Risk Factors above.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Chicago, IL., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems® today announced that Pioneer Insurance Agency, Inc. a subsidiary of Pioneer Bank, National Association (“Pioneer”), has selected Epic Quotes Commercial Lines to create a faster, more connected approach to quoting new CL business. Applied Epic’s native integration of commercial lines quoting provides the agency with appetite visibility capabilities to quickly identify markets and obtain multiple quotes that can be presented to clients in a timely fashion, creating a better customer experience that will assist with cross-selling efforts.
“As a one-stop solution for our clients’ financial needs, we understand the importance of providing an innovative, seamless insurance experience, and the multi-day, email-based quoting process did not meet our client experience standards or allow for scalable growth,” said Todd Shepersky, vice president, insurance agency manager, Pioneer. “Epic Quotes Commercial Lines allows us to quote multiple markets simultaneously and present quotes to our clients quickly, delivering the near-instant service they’ve come to expect in today’s digital world and positioning our insurance business for rapid growth.”
Epic Quotes Commercial Lines is a single-entry multi-carrier comparative rating natively within Applied Epic. Supporting standard commercial lines of business and providing access to more than 35 markets, the solution allows agency staff to seamlessly remarket or quote new business without ever leaving the management system. Epic Quotes for Commercial Lines uses a single data source for the quoting and application process and leverages insight-driven workflows to initiate remarketing, simplifying the bridge-to-portal bind experience and creating a connected commercial lines experience.
“Agents traditionally spend several hours manually producing just one commercial lines quote, limiting the number of policies an agent can quote, and in turn, inhibiting commercial lines growth,” said Anupam Gupta, chief product officer, Applied Systems. “Epic Quotes Commercial Lines enables agents to collect data, compare in-appetite markets and initiate the bind process all natively embedded in one system, creating a faster commercial lines quoting experience that enhances the customer experience and propels growth.”
# # #
The Applied products and logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S.
About Applied Systems
Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.
About Pioneer
Pioneer is a bank holding company whose wholly owned subsidiary is Pioneer Bank, National Association. Pioneer provides diversified financial services through Pioneer Bank, National Association and its subsidiaries, with 23 [SJ1] offices in the Capital Region of New York State, and offers a broad array of deposit, lending, and other financial services to individuals, businesses, and municipalities. Pioneer Bank, National Association is a national bank whose wholly owned subsidiaries are Pioneer Commercial Bank, Pioneer Insurance Agency, Inc. and Pioneer Financial Services, Inc. For more information on Pioneer, please visit www.pioneerny.com.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
13 May 2025
Appointment of new Non-Executive Director
Admiral Group plc (“Admiral”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Paola Bonomo as an Independent Non-Executive Director with effect from 12 May 2025.
Paola brings with her a wealth of international leadership experience in strategy, digital technology, and transformation. She spent 14 years in strategy consulting with McKinsey, specialising in technology and telecommunications. Paola spent 10 years in operational leadership roles in digital, including senior positions at eBay, Vodafone, and, latterly, Facebook where Paola was the Global Marketing Solutions Regional Director for Southern Europe.
Paola was a Non-Executive Director of AXA Assicurazioni S.p.A., the Italian operating entity of the AXA Group, from 2014 until April 2025 and had been a member of its Audit, Internal Control and Risk, and Remuneration Committees.
Paola is currently a Non-Executive Director of FAAC S.p.A., an international group providing access automation, parking and access control solutions. Further, Paola is a Non-Executive Director of Infrastrutture Wireless Italiane S.p.A. (INWIT), the leading Italian telecommunications tower operator. Further, Paola serves as Vice Chair of Italian Angels for Growth, where she is an angel investor and advisor to digital startups.
Paola has extensive board experience in both public and private companies, holding recent Non-Executive Director roles in a number of digital, telecoms, and retail companies. Paola has recently been a Non-Executive Director of Telecom Italia, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange, where she chaired the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, stepping down in 2024. She was a Non-Executive Director and member of the Audit Committee at Crystal Peak Acquisition, a special purpose acquisition company listed on Euronext Amsterdam, leaving this position in 2023. Paola was also a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Remuneration and Nomination Committees at Piquadro S.p.A., a fashion group operating a portfolio with brands Piquadro, The Bridge and Lancel, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange, leaving in 2022.
Paola holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a degree in business administration from Università Commerciale Luigi Bocconi, Italy.
Mike Rogers, Chair of the Admiral Board, said:
“I am pleased to appoint Paola to the Board. She has significant knowledge of the international financial services sector and extensive experience in digital transformation, gained whilst working for several well-known consumer-facing brands. Paola has achieved a lot of success in her executive and non-executive roles, and I believe that her insights will prove valuable as the Group continues to deliver against its strategy.”
Paola Bonomo, incoming Non-Executive Director, said:
“I am honoured to be joining Admiral’s Board. Admiral has established itself as a leading personal lines insurer in the UK by focusing on data to better understand and anticipate customers’ needs. I am looking forward to working with the rest of the Board and the management team to support the Group’s ambition to deliver long-term sustainable growth in its businesses in the UK and Mainland Europe.”
Milena Mondini de Focatiis, CEO of Admiral Group, said
“On behalf of all my colleagues I would like to welcome Paola to Admiral. The Group continues to evolve, and I look forward to working with Paola and the rest of the Board to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our growing customer base.”
Effective on 12 May 2025, Paola will be appointed to the Admiral Group Remuneration Committee. From 12 May 2025 the members of the Remuneration Committee will be Karen Green (Chair), Justine Roberts, Mike Brierley and Paola Bonomo.
This announcement is made pursuant to Listing Rule 6.4.6R. In accordance with LR 6.4.8R, the Company confirms that there is no further information to be disclosed in terms of LR 6.4.8R (1) to LR 6.4.8R (6) inclusive in respect to Paola Bonomo.
Notes to Editors
About Admiral Group
Admiral Group plc is a leading FTSE 100 financial services company offering motor, household, travel and pet insurance as well as personal lending products. Established in 1993 in the UK, the Group now has offices in Canada, France, Gibraltar, India, Italy, Spain, and the US.
For further information please contact:
Media:
Addy Frederick Addy.Frederick@admiralgroup.co.uk
Investors/ Analysts:
Diane Michelberger InvestorRelationsTeam@admiralgroup.co.uk
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Dstl has been part of a major MOD programme which will fundamentally change electromagnetic warfare surveillance and anti-ship missile defence capabilities.
In a significant advancement for UK maritime defence, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has played a crucial role in revolutionising the Royal Navy’s electromagnetic warfare (EW) capabilities through the Maritime EW Programme (MEWP).
Working alongside industry partners, Dstl has provided operational analysis, technical expertise and advice to help the UK and allies maintain operational advantage.
Modern naval operations face an increasingly crowded and contested electromagnetic environment. In order to better sense and understand this complex picture for improved situational awareness and to better react to growing threats from sophisticated anti-ship missiles and EW systems, the Royal Navy needed to significantly upgrade its capabilities.
This fundamental reappraisal, informed and spearheaded by Dstl’s evidence and analysis, has led to a comprehensive modernisation programme that addresses the technical capabilities and allows future capability spirals via an open architecture approach; as well as the operational frameworks for maritime EW. MEWP doesn’t just replace equipment, it reimagines how EW integrates into the command chain.
MEWP represents an unprecedented investment in naval EW capabilities, following 2 complementary tracks:
The programme represents a generational leap in capabilities. MEWSIC will equip 21 ships, including:
The Type 45, 26 and 31s will each receive 2 Ancilia launchers to ensure complete coverage.
A key innovation is the shift from fixed decoy launchers to trainable systems that can place the right effector in the right place at the right time to deceive incoming anti-ship missiles. This approach is already generating international interest and is being proposed as a NATO standard.
HMS Queen Elizabeth and Type 45 destroyer HMS Diamond in the North Sea.
The new technology fundamentally changes how EW information is collected and presented to decision-makers. This will provide:
Dstl helped drive the shift in EW surveillance capability by defining what needed to be sensed. This included not just threat emissions but also defined the EM operating environment – seeing the wood from the trees – and how command and control needs to use the detected emissions and enabling machine-speed warfare by moving to the use of machine-readable data.
Dstl has created a new template for describing EW effectors in a digital format, enabling automatic weapon allocation and streamlined threat evaluation. By automating elements of sense and understand, the highly skilled operators are freed to manage ‘on the loop’ rather than struggling with data manipulation ‘in the loop’.
This improved system provides commanders with enhanced situational awareness, allowing for faster and better-informed decision-making in complex environments.
MEWP adopts an open architecture approach that facilitates continuous innovation and growth throughout the system’s lifecycle. This design choice reduces the barriers to entry for emerging technologies, particularly lower Technology Readiness Level innovations such as novel threat evaluation and weapon assignment algorithms. This enables early testing of improved techniques in areas such as signal detection and processing, command and control, and decision aids for force defence.
Dstl and its partners are already exploring potential incremental developments, including artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
Other longer-term plans under consideration could provide persistent offboard radio frequency countermeasures for task group defence. Dstl has already begun research into potential concepts, including maritime recoverable decoys deployable from uncrewed vehicles.
The success of MEWP relies on strong relationships across the defence enterprise.
Dstl’s expertise has been crucial in generating the evidence needed to shift the Royal Navy from fixed EW decoy launchers to more flexible systems. Simultaneously, Dstl has pushed a paradigm shift in the human system interface engaging closely with naval EW operators to understand the current and future challenges they face in relation to data presentation, understanding and decision making. This will enable MEWP to better deal with future challenges, such as the need to deal with directed energy weapons–and to see how technology could be applied to maximise the skills of the human operator.
Through operational analysis, Dstl provides impartial, evidence to support capability planning and inform equipment procurement decisions, ensuring the Royal Navy receives capabilities that are truly fit for purpose.
The MEWP programme represents more than just new equipment. It’s a complete rethinking of how EW integrates with naval operations.
The shift to a new open architecture system will facilitate continuous innovation and development throughout the system’s lifespan. By removing previous constraints in EW information processing, the Royal Navy will be better prepared to face evolving threats in the electromagnetic domain.
With initial operational capability planned for 2027, this Dstl-supported programme ensures the Royal Navy remains at the forefront of maritime EW capability, able to operate effectively in increasingly challenging environments.
Find out more about how Dstl delivers mission success through science and technology advantage.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gavin Williams, Lecturer in Music, King’s College London
On the evening of May 5, I took my seat in London’s Barbican Centre to experience a programme of interplanetary music. The concert began with the world premiere of Lim Cosmic Rhapsody, a piece by composer Manu Martin, and ended with Gustav Holst’s The Planets (completed in 1916 and first performed in 1920). Athwart these large orchestral works, lasting about 50 minutes each, lay a century’s worth of knowledge about space and music.
Lim Cosmic Rhapsody is a piano concerto, which aspires to tell, according to the work’s creative director Susan Lim, a “compelling story of climate change and humanity’s search for solutions beyond Earth”. Following the premiere, the piece has been released as an album.
Its first performance saw celebrated pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet command the stage in an iridescent dark-blue jacket and crystal-encrusted black slippers. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, led by conductor Robert Ziegler, was excellent and extended for the occasion by a huge choir drawn from the City of London Choir and London Voices, together with duduk (a type of flute), theremin (an electronic instrument), a drum kit and electric guitar and bass.
Additional vocal stylings were supplied by Matthieu Eymard and Britain’s Got Talent 2023 finalist Tom Ball. They jointly closed the concerto with a rock-inspired number celebrating human-alien hybrids.
But it began, with stern minor blows from the piano and an orchestral flurry reminiscent of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. They were intended to conjure up, as the programme notes explained, a “futuristic space lab in California in 2035”.
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The notes told us to expect the “arrival of a Humanimate” – an apparently friendly alien with an “expanded genetic code” containing human and “inanimate” elements. Cue oohs and aahs from the choir. The overall effect was that of a Hollywood soundtrack by James Horner, the composer for Titanic and Avatar.
Using the orchestra to tell stories is an established practice in contemporary film music, and in an earlier tradition of 19th-century programme music. The idea of using orchestral music to narrate global, environmental stories is, however, relatively new — an early example being Michael Abel’s Global Warming (1990), which juxtaposes musical idioms from across the world.
More recent orchestral works in this area, by contrast, tend to avoid “symphonising” the climate crisis – melding together musical differences into optimistic stories about “humanity” overcoming Earth – by sounding out specific ecologies under threat.
In Lim Cosmic Rhapsody, music and story are tightly woven, as in film music. But without the visual dimension, the story is hard to follow. I have reconstructed the following from the album pre-recorded by the record label Decca and released to coincide with the premiere.
The story of the concert follows a purple alpaca named Lavvy, brought back to life by a 3D printer, who guides a delegation from Earth to her homeland on a far-off planet, known as Purple Cave. A Song of a Lost Tribe pays tribute to the indigene-alpaca and her kind. Composed by Indian songwriter Joi Barua and orchestrated by Manu, it sets a melody in the shakuhachi, a Japanese bamboo flute (here expertly played by Andrew Findon), against slow-burn motor rhythms and faux-ethnic chanting.
We arrive at the Purple Cave. A martial beat recalls Darth Vader but soon dissolves into an uplifting riff, as Lavvy the resurrected alpaca prepares for her immortalisation. At the work’s peak, she obligingly blows herself up, becoming Star Among the Cosmic Clouds (a twinkling piano Alberti bass paints the scene) and releasing life-saving purple dust to rescue the Earthlings.
The work was conceived by Singaporean composer and surgeon Susan Lim in the early days of lockdown from the ski slopes of Courchevel, France. In this moment of global crisis, she found hope in SpaceX’s Crew Dragon flight, that delivered Nasa astronauts to the International Space Station in May 2020.
Lim prepared for the event by releasing a carefully timed animated tweet that caught the attention of SpaceX’s owner Elon Musk. He replied with a quote from Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody: “Open your eyes, look up to the skies.”
From this digital acorn, the Alan trilogy, of which Lim Cosmic Rhapsody is the second instalment, was born and continues to grow. A third part, Lim Symphony of the Oceans, is on the way.
The series’ large creative team includes distinguished artists but is clearly led by Lim and other medics who have “never created art before” (according to the album’s liner notes). This speaks to the money and the power behind the project, together with the ego and eccentricity of its creative director.
Beyond this work’s neocolonial fantasy of an exploding alpaca, it also speaks to the privilege of those who can afford to indulge in implausibly optimistic stories of technocratic overcoming. I was reminded of Indian writer Amitav Ghosh’s argument for the need for new ways to narrate the climate crisis as an urgent problem of human understanding. The combination of music and story on offer here was a serious misstep in this regard.
It was a relief to step back a hundred years in music history and listen with fresh ears, in the second half of the concert, to Gustav Holst’s orchestral take on the galaxy, produced during another time of global crisis, the first world war, albeit on more slender means. Holst’s astrology-inspired suite felt imaginative, fresh and crisp in the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s thoroughly committed performance.
As I transitioned from the cosmic clouds and back into the city fumes, ecological questions hung in the air. But not the questions the creators of Lim Cosmic Rhapsody might have hoped (how to save humanity? will science save the day? where to start space mining?) but rather that of the music’s own ecological footprint.
Conspicuous in this last respect was the mindless printing of hundreds of 33rpm records of the work, given away as party favours during a champagne reception before the concert and during the interval. How many times will these records, pressed from fresh plastics derived from oil, be played? Given the large stack left on the table at the end of the evening, I suspect some may never be played even once.
Gavin Williams does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Lim Cosmic Rhapsody: this orchestral journey to outer space aims to deliver hope amid global crisis – but falls short – https://theconversation.com/lim-cosmic-rhapsody-this-orchestral-journey-to-outer-space-aims-to-deliver-hope-amid-global-crisis-but-falls-short-256384
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Prime Minister spoke to the Taoiseach Micheál Martin this morning.
The Prime Minister spoke to the Taoiseach Micheál Martin this morning.
The pair discussed the productive Coalition of the Willing meeting on Saturday and agreed good progress had been made in support of Ukraine. They agreed to continue working with international partners and put pressure on Putin to accept the ceasefire deal on the table without conditions.
The Prime Minister updated the Taoiseach on his ongoing discussions with the European Union, ahead of the first UK-EU summit next week. Both leaders agreed that there was an ambitious package on the table that would serve to benefit hard-working people and businesses across Europe.
Finally, the Prime Minister and Taoiseach reflected on the constructive bilateral discussions held recently at the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference in April on a joint approach to dealing with legacy issues of the past in Northern Ireland. They agreed that their respective teams would continue these discussions at pace.
Source: Scottish Government
New skills to benefit patients and clinical staff.
Cardiology nurses are to be supported to develop advanced skills to enable them to treat a wider range of patients and heart conditions.
The National Specialist Nursing In Cardiology Framework will set out how nurses can develop advanced skills and expertise through university-level qualifications and clinical experience. This will support their practice at advanced level, including interpreting diagnostic tests and prescribing medications, leading teams and mentoring colleagues.
Nursing professionals and cardiology services will be better able to align with the needs of the people they are caring for.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto visited Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert to launch the framework and said:
“Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of serious ill health and death, and nurses across the country make enormous efforts to ensure the best care for patients.
“As a government we want to support the NHS workforce and ensure they can continue to develop new skills that benefit patients. This innovative framework will help cardiology nurses obtain advanced skills to ensure more timely diagnoses, improved management of conditions and better access to care.
“I hope that cardiology nurses across Scotland will find this to be a useful framework and that it helps them to develop their careers and meet the increasing amount of cardiovascular demand that we are seeing across the system.”
The framework is a collaboration between the Scottish Government, nursing representatives from all NHS health boards, and NHS Education for Scotland.
Senior Cardiology Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist and National Heart Disease Coordinator for the Scottish Government Leeanne Macklin said:
“The framework not only aims to enhance patient care but also offers a structured pathway for career progression in specialty cardiology nursing. By creating clear routes to advanced practice roles such as Clinical Nurse Specialist and Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist, the framework supports the ongoing professional development of nurses within cardiology across Scotland.
“This initiative is also designed to improve retention and job satisfaction by providing nurses with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in their careers.”
Associate Director for Nursing, Policy and Professional Practice at RCN Scotland Eileen McKenna said:
“Advanced practice roles recognise the safety critical role that nursing plays and provide an opportunity for nurses to develop and have their clinical skills and expertise recognised. The Specialist Nursing in Cardiology Framework is a welcome route for learning and career progression for existing and future cardiology nurses.”
The Chief Medical Officer’s Specialty Advisor for Cardiology Dr Ross McGeoch said:
“Clinical Nurse Specialists are integral to the delivery of timely, safe, and effective cardiology care in Scotland. The Specialist Nursing in Cardiology Framework further strengthens these roles for the benefit of both practitioners and our patients.”
Background
Source: City of Westminster
Westminster City Council has launched a new pilot scheme aimed at tackling harmful air pollution caused by cooking emissions in restaurants.
Commercial cooking is the third-largest single source of Particulate Matter (also known as PM2.5 emissions) in London, which is estimated to account for 59% of total emissions. These emissions originate from cooking fuels such as charcoal, wood and gas, as well as food preparation methods like frying and grilling.
PM2.5 are tiny particles in the air that are small enough to travel deep inside the lungs, heart and brain. Long-term exposure has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and even cognitive decline.
To address this, Westminster City Council is trialling a new air purification system in five local restaurants to assess its effectiveness in reducing PM2.5 emissions and improving indoor and outdoor air quality. The trial will also provide valuable data on how restaurant emissions contribute to pollution across the city, which will be shared with the businesses.
Mayfair restaurant, Apricity, is one of four restaurants in Westminster piloting this new technology to improve the air quality for its staff and diners.
Eve Seemann, head chef at Apricity restaurant in Mayfair, said:
“It’s important research in terms of health for myself and the staff, as well as anyone visiting Mayfair and central London.
“Although our style of cooking may not be as polluting as others, it’s important to see what areas we could improve in. This data will allow us to see when there’s a peak, what caused that peak and what we can do to try and remedy it. I’m glad we are part of finding a solution to reduce air pollution.”
Cllr Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, said:
“These emissions from commercial cooking present a significant air quality and public health challenge in Westminster. What we learn from this pilot could help us shape future policies and ensure cleaner air for all those who live, work and visit the city.
“We want this pilot to raise awareness of air quality issues within the industry, and I hope it encourages other businesses to sign up to participate in the trial. I’m proud that we’re leading the way testing innovative solutions to make sure our communities can live in a greener, more sustainable Fairer Environment.”
Dr Philip Webb, Chief Executive Officer at Health and Wellbeing 360 Ltd, said:
“Not only will monitoring indoor environmental quality and outdoor air quality provide important data on pollutants and toxins in a real world setting such as kitchens in local restaurants based in community settings, it will give us insights into the health and wellbeing impacts of these types of emissions indoors and outdoors and, importantly, we will be able to assess the effectiveness of interventions such as ventilation, filtration and purification.
“It also demonstrates Westminster Council leading the way on innovation in this sector and highlights the role of appropriate technology in identifying risks and mitigation strategies to help protect the health and wellbeing of local communities now and for future generations.”
Businesses can still be a part of the scheme and can sign up to the council’s commercial cooking pilot.
Source: City of Wolverhampton
Two men, using a van that had been hired by business Sergiu Razvan Ed Ltd, dumped bags of rubbish at night in Byrne Road, Blakenhall.
The incident was caught on a camera that had been installed by City of Wolverhampton Council to monitor fly tipping. Officers were able to trace the vehicle to a hire company and identify who had control of the van at the time of the incident.
The director of the business, Sergiu Razvan, admitted to leaving items on the footpath and agreed to pay a £400 Fixed Penalty. However, after several weeks, the fine remained unpaid.
As a result, a fly tipping prosecution was brought against the company itself, and the business was found guilty in its absence during a hearing at Dudley Magistrates Court on 2 May.
The business was fined £5,000, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000 and costs of £1,851.88. The costs awarded to the council will be reinvested back into its environmental crime service.
Magistrates were told that at 9.40pm on 27 February, 2024 a van was driven from Napier Road to Byrne Road where 2 men dumped refuse sacks of waste on the footpath. The van then drove off.
Despite the council issuing a £400 Fixed Penalty Notice and a reminder letter, no payment was received from the business and the prosecution was brought.
The recent court action supports ongoing work under the council’s Shop a Tipper campaign where anyone suspected of dumping rubbish will have their images shared to appeal for information to help identify them.
If the information provided leads to successful identification, and Fixed Penalty Notices are issued and paid or a prosecution takes place, residents receive a £100 Enjoy Wolverhampton Gift Card.
Residents can contact 01902 552700 with information or report online at Fly-Tipping – Shop a Tipper.
Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “The courts have sent out a very strong message in this case.
“If the business responsible had paid the Fixed Penalty Notice, the council would not have had to prosecute. But as a result, the company is now facing a significant financial penalty.
“I welcome the decision of the courts to take this tough approach. This case clearly shows fly tippers that they should not ignore contact from us and simply hope we will go away.
“Fly tipping is a blight on the local environment and we are continually working to tackle this unpleasant and illegal behaviour. We will take all necessary measures to keep our city clean for residents to enjoy.”
Residents are reminded that waste can be disposed of free of charge at our Household Waste and Recycling Centres (tips) which are open 7 days a week from 8am to 4pm. Centres are at Anchor Lane, Lanesfield, Bilston and Shaw Road, Wolverhampton.
A bulky item collection service to dispose of big unwanted items is also available, find out more at Bulky item collection.
Source: University of Aberdeen
Dr Bárbara Barreiro LeónThe endurance of the European Song Contest and its place in the hearts of so many countries provides the ‘ideal lens for analysing cultural identities, memory, and heritage’, says Dr BárbaraBarreiro León.
The lecturer in Lecturer in Film & Visual Culture at the University of Aberdeen is currently writing a book exploring how identities are represented through film, music and other contemporary arts, including Eurovision.
She says each year of the content – which has been running since 1956 – offers ‘a truly inexhaustible source of research’ and she will attend the 2025 event as part of the press group and will present at an academic conference being held at the University of Basel.
“Comparing different years, countries, performances, and styles of hosting significantly enriches my research focus on memory, cultural heritage, and identity within Eurovision,” Dr León added.
“When I last attended in 2023, the UK hosted on behalf of Ukraine—a moment filled with symbolic weight. This year, Switzerland takes on the role, bringing the contest full circle as the country that hosted the very first Eurovision in 1956. Being behind the scenes in these contexts offers a unique form of fieldwork—one that is immersive, dynamic, and unlike any other.”
She said that the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest stands out as ‘a record-breaking moment for linguistic diversity in the competition’.
Dr León said: “Out of 37 entries, 24 feature lyrics in languages other than English. Some countries are embracing their native tongues for the first time in years—or even decades—like Germany.
“Others are showcasing regional dialects, such as Sweden’s entry, which is performed in Vörå, a unique blend of Finnish and Swedish. In a surprising twist, some nations are even singing in the native languages of other countries, with Estonia, for example, presenting a song in Italian.”
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Dr León’s previous work has focused primarily on Ukraine but she has expanded this focus to encompass themes such as European belonging, diaspora and migration, and the visual politics of flag representation.
“It is a competition which may not always be taken seriously here but which has very different meanings across the countries taking part,” she added.
“It is still the biggest musical event in the world and was founded to bring Europe back together following the Second World War.
“There is nothing comparable which has run for so many years and which has such an enormous fan base crossing a huge number of national borders.
“From that perspective it is the ideal vehicle to look at more than seven decades of change in our societies and culture with each edition of the contest bringing fresh examples that continuously enrich and deepen the broader conversation.”
Further details of the conference at the University of Basel can be found at https://www.eurovisions.eu/programme-2025
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang will conclude his Beijing visit tomorrow and depart for Hungary and Egypt from May 15 to 20 to attend the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Economic & Trade Cooperation Exchange Conferences.
The conferences are jointly organised by the People’s Government of Guangdong Province, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Macao Special Administrative Region Government, to promote the development opportunities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
While in Beijing, Mr Tsang led the Hong Kong SAR Government delegation to meet Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Hua Chunying and leaders of various bureaus to deepen their understanding of the country’s foreign policies and the latest developments of the international situation.
Mr Tsang thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its staunch and continuous support for the Hong Kong SAR Government.
He hoped it would continue to provide support and guidance to the Hong Kong SAR Government in handling the city’s external affairs, to support Hong Kong in intensifying international interaction and co-operation, and to showcase the successful implementation of “one country, two systems” to the world.
Mr Tsang also met the Hong Kong Basic Law Committee of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress and the Committee on Liaison with Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan & Overseas Chinese of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and toured the China Foreign Affairs University.
Before leaving Beijing tomorrow, he will visit the Museum of Early Revolutionary Activities of the Communist Party of China in Beijing, meet Hong Kong students in Beijing, and call on the Office of the Hong Kong SAR Government in Beijing to receive briefings on its work.
Mr Tsang will leave for Budapest, Hungary, in the early hours of May 15 to attend the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area – Europe (Hungary) Economic & Trade Cooperation Exchange Conference the next day.
The conference aims to promote the enormous business opportunities brought about by the GBA to the Hungarian business community and how Hong Kong can play its important function as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” between the two places.
During his stay in Hungary, Mr Tsang will meet local political and business representatives to learn about the latest developments in the region and explore ways to further strengthen co-operation between Hungary and Hong Kong, with a view to opening up new opportunities for enterprises of both places.
He will depart for Cairo, Egypt, on May 17 for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area – Africa (Egypt) Economic & Trade Cooperation Exchange Conference on May 19 to promote the GBA’s latest developments and the development potential as well as Hong Kong’s unique advantages under “one country, two systems”.
During his stay, he will exchange views with representatives of the local political and business circles to understand the local development trends and promote interface between the industries of Hong Kong and Egypt.
Mr Tsang will leave Egypt on the evening of May 19, returning to Hong Kong on May 20. During his absence, Under Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Clement Woo will be Acting Secretary.
Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Maisie Chan and Director-General of Investment Promotion Alpha Lau will join the visits.
Source: United States Army
Back to
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)
DODJI, Senegal — After nearly a month of dynamic multinational training, Soldiers assigned to Dog Company, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, concluded their participation in African Lion 2025 (AL25) — U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual combined joint exercise.
Deployed to Centre d’Entraînement Tactique 2 (CET2), Dog Company executed a high-tempo training plan which tested its capabilities, reinforced foundational skills and deepened interoperability with partner forces from the Armed Forces of Senegal, the Mauritanian Armed Forces, the Armed Forces of Côte d’Ivoire and the Royal Netherlands Army.
“It was fantastic to see our paratroopers adapt their small-unit tactics, techniques, and procedures to best achieve their mission given the harsh environment,” said U.S. Army Capt. Austen Deppe, Dog Company commander.
Key events included a dismounted anti-tank live-fire exercise, multinational patrolling events culminating in a two-day combined field training exercise, integration of small, unmanned aircraft systems, and shared static live-fire ranges—all conducted in a resource-limited, austere desert environment.
“I’m proud to have participated in this event with our partners and proud of the fundamental capabilities we built collectively throughout the training,” said Deppe.
Dog Company Soldiers worked shoulder-to-shoulder with Senegalese and Dutch counterparts — not just in planning and execution, but in overcoming shared challenges. Whether firing anti-armor weapon systems, adjusting formations in unfamiliar terrain or refining communications procedures, soldiers built trust and enhanced interoperability.
“Integration is key at every level in multinational operations, but seeing Soldiers build real cooperation at the small-unit level was the most rewarding,” said U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Maurice Novack, Dog Company first sergeant. “The Infantry is a mindset, and it was refreshing to see that, though small-unit tactics may vary across the greater force, we all share the critical mindset to close with and destroy the enemy — no matter the conditions.”
Dog Company also mentored junior Senegalese leaders during situational training exercises and worked alongside the Dutch 42nd Brigade Reconnaissance Squadron to enhance cross-unit communication during complex range operations.
“It wasn’t just us training them — we were learning, too,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Brian Garcia-Ono, a Dog Company squad leader. “Whether it was a different way to conduct a battle drill or TTPs [tactics, techniques and procedures] for operating in a desert environment, we left with new tools in the toolbox.”
AL25 brought together more than 10,000 troops from over 50 nations across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia. For Dog Company, the experience underscored the role of U.S. forces not only as trainers, but as long-term partners invested in regional security and mutual growth.
“This exercise was never meant to be easy,” Deppe said. “It was about building capability and confidence across logistics systems, tactical competence and organizational relationships on a personal level. That’s what defines African Lion to us, and that’s why we are proud to have participated.”
Deppe’s first sergeant agreed.
“Everyone’s going home better than they arrived,” Novack added. “We didn’t just build readiness. We built trust.”
The 173rd Airborne Brigade (Sky Soldiers) is the U.S. Army’s Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapid forces to the United States European, Africa and Central Commands areas of responsibility. Forward-based in Italy and Germany, the Brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners.
SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe.
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Source: United Nations – English
ear Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, our generous hosts.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
My thanks to Germany for bringing us together at this consequential moment.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.
Our organization was founded on the conviction that peace is possible if we work as one united human family.
That is what our peace operations are about.
From preventive diplomacy to peacekeeping…
From negotiating ceasefires to helping to implement them…
From electoral support and observer missions to de-mining operations and protection of civilians…
To the focus of today’s Ministerial meeting — peacekeeping.
Excellencies,
UN Blue Helmets are the most globally recognized symbol of the world’s ability to come together to help countries move from conflict to peace.
Peacekeepers hail from every corner of the world.
But they are united in their commitment to peace.
As we meet today, UN peacekeepers are hard at work helping to ensure that ceasefires are respected…
Protecting civilians caught in the line of fire…
Helping provide the conditions for lifesaving aid to flow to those in need…
And laying the foundations for long-term recovery.
In trouble spots around the world, Blue Helmets can mean the difference between life and death.
And they are also a clear demonstration of the power of multilateral action to maintain, achieve and sustain peace.
There is a long list of countries that have achieved durable peace with the support of UN Peacekeeping — including Cambodia, Cote d’Ivoire, El Salvador, Liberia, Namibia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and Timor Leste.
Many of these countries now themselves contribute troops.
At the same time, we recognize that peace comes at a price.
Through the decades, 4,400 peacekeepers have fallen in the line of duty.
Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Please join me in a moment of silence to honour all those who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace.
[MOMENT OF SILENCE]
Thank you.
Excellencies,
We owe it to peacekeepers — and the populations they protect — to continue strengthening their ability to answer this call to peace.
And to do so in the face of daunting challenges.
Complex, intertwined and frequently borderless conflicts…
Growing polarization and division around the globe…
Targeting of peacekeepers through deadly misinformation spreading through social media…
Terrorism and transnational crime, which find fertile ground in instability…
The ongoing climate crisis that is exacerbating conflict while leaving more of the planet uninhabitable…
All the continued trampling of international law and international humanitarian law.
As a result, we are now facing the highest number of conflicts since the foundation of the United Nations, and record numbers of people fleeing across borders in search of safety and refuge.
We must recognize that peacekeeping operations are only as effective as the mandates directing them, and can struggle in contexts where political support and clearly defined outcomes and solutions are absent or elusive.
Meanwhile, we see increasing differences of views around how peacekeeping operations should work, under what circumstances, with what mandates they should be deployed, and for how long.
And we face dramatic financial constraints across the board.
We’ve worked to adapt in the face of these challenges.
But we need to do more.
Today, I want to highlight three areas of focus.
First — help us shape peacekeeping operations that are fit for the future.
The Pact for the Future called for a Review of Peace Operations — including peacekeeping.
The review will examine how we can make peacekeeping operations more adaptable, flexible and resilient — while recognizing the limitations in situations where there is little or no peace to keep.
It will also aim to critically examine the tools we have today and propose concrete recommendations to make them fit for the future.
Through this review, we must ensure that the United Nations is prepared to deploy peace operations tailored to each individual conflict, while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
We can draw inspiration from our UNIFIL operation, which recently developed an adaptation plan to keep peace along the Blue Line, and ensure lifesaving aid can flow to civilians in southern Lebanon.
In the Central African Republic, we see MINUSCA protecting civilians and assisting the government to extend its reach beyond the capital where people are in desperate need.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, despite ongoing fighting, UN Peacekeepers remain in the field, protecting vulnerable populations.
We’re also seeking efficiencies through partnerships — from Member States to regional and sub-regional organizations, to local communities.
Most important among them is our strong partnership with the African Union.
Security Council resolution 2719 has lifted this partnership to a new level as we work to establish peace enforcement missions under the AU’s responsibility, supported by the United Nations through assessed contributions.
Today, the Review of Peace Operations will need to be informed — and inspired — by your views.
Member States make peacekeeping possible.
They must lead the way as we strengthen it for the future.
Second — as we make our operations more adaptable and flexible, we need to do the same in the use of our resources.
Peace operations can only succeed when backed by robust mandates and clear, predictable and sustained contributions, both financial and logistical.
But these are tough times for the financing of our work across the board.
Peacekeeping is no exception.
It is crucial that we are able to use the increasingly limited resources we have — and use them well.
That requires more flexible rules and processes.
This means updating our approach to abolishing or establishing positions, and working with troop-contributing countries to ensure we can deliver.
It means working with Member States and the UN Security Council to ensure that any new mandates are prioritized and achievable with the resources available and with a clear exit strategy.
And it means driving efficiencies and improvements across our work in light of the continued funding challenges we face.
Our Review of Peace Operations will work hand-in-hand with our UN80 initiative, to ensure we maximize efficiencies wherever possible, supported at every step by Member States.
We look forward to your governments’ support and ideas as we tackle these challenges together.
Third — we need your political support, including through the pledges you will make tomorrow.
Peace operations cannot succeed in the absence of a political solution.
Together we need to mobilize greater support for political solutions across our peacekeeping missions.
Pursuing these political solutions requires adequate means of delivering our operations — including unified political support from Member States, strong leadership, well-trained troops, equipment and technology.
These can strengthen our operations, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
And it requires the support of all Member States to ensure the safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers in the field, and the full implementation of the relevant privileges and immunities of the Organization and its personnel.
We are deeply grateful for the support and for the concrete pledges so many of you will announce here tomorrow.
Excellencies,
With a budget shared by all 193 Member States and representing a tiny fraction of global military spending — around one half of one per cent — UN Peacekeeping remains one of the most effective and cost-effective tools to build international peace and security.
But it’s only as strong as Member States’ commitment to it.
Unfortunately, peacekeeping operations have been facing serious liquidity problems.
It is absolutely essential that all Member States respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time.
Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations.
And the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges.
Together, let’s shape the UN peacekeeping operations that the challenges require, that Member States demand, and that our peacekeepers and the people they support need and deserve.
Thank you.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the Metropolitan Police Service to charge a man following an investigation by detectives.
The Met has issued a charge and requisition to Patrick Spencer, 36 (08.05.1988) from Suffolk, in connection with an investigation into two sexual assaults, which reportedly occurred at Groucho Club in August 2023.
The charges relate to two separate women.
On 13 March 2025, a man attended a voluntary interview at a London police station.
Patrick Spencer has since been charged with two counts of sexual assault and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 16 June.
We urge responsible reporting in line with guidance from the Attorney General’s Office. Editors, publishers, and social media users should take legal advice to ensure they are in a position to fully comply with the obligations to which they are subject under the common law and Contempt of Court Act 1981.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A 28-year-old man has been jailed for rape and sexual offences following a lengthy investigation by the Met Police.
Gabriel Hay (02.01.1997) of Gauden Road, SW4 was sentenced to 19 years in prison on Tuesday, 13 May at Inner London Crown Court.
Hay was found guilty of rape, attempted rape and two counts of sexual assault on Monday, 10 March at the same court. The charges relate to multiple incidents which took place between 2016 and 2023.
In April 2023, Hay met a woman while working at a bar in Clapham. It was here that Hay recommended she and a friend go on drinking at another location – he would join them there. When Hay arrived at the end of his shift, he plied her with alcohol. As a result of this she became unsteady on her feet and he led her out of the bar to his address – a house he shared with his mother – where he raped her.
It was this report of rape that enabled detectives to re-open previously reported incidents that did not initially hold sufficient evidence and bring charges against Hay.
These incidents were a sexual assault in April 2014 in which Hay groped a woman in her 20s at a party in Clapham. He later attempted to rape her at his house in July 2016. Hay also touched another woman without consent in the back of a taxi in south London in 2018.
Detective Sergeant Damian Jones, who let the Met’s investigation, said:
“While nothing can remedy Hay’s horrific crimes, I hope this sentence brings closure to the three women – who have shown such resilience over the last few years – especially during the trial. It is because of them that we secured a conviction.
“This investigation has taken a dangerous individual off our streets. Our officers will continue to tackle violence against women and girls and put victim-survivors at the centre of our work. If you would like to come forward and make a report relating to Hay, you can contact police via 101 quoting 2532/21APR23.”
If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek independent support from specialist agencies, please contact the charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer support.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Foreign Secretary will host Foreign Ministers of the Weimar+ group for critical talks on repelling Russian aggression and bolstering European security.
The Foreign Secretary will host Foreign Ministers of the Weimar+ group today (12 May 2025) at Lancaster House for critical talks on repelling Russian aggression and bolstering European security.
Representatives from France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Poland and the EU will join Foreign Secretary David Lammy in London. It follows a historic visit on Saturday by the leaders of the UK, France, Germany and Poland to Kyiv during which, alongside the US, they called for Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire to allow for unfettered peace talks.
Hosted in the UK for the first time, today’s Weimar+ meeting is the sixth time these major European powers have come together in this format.
Ukraine’s rightful future is a just and lasting peace. Putin’s refusal to engage seriously in peace talks is forcing that future into improbability. This is a critical moment to secure the future of Ukraine. The Foreign Secretary will make clear at Weimar+ that Europe’s leaders must stand strong in our unwavering support for Ukraine’s right to peace and freedom.
We are facing a once-in-a-generation moment for the collective security of our continent. The challenge we face today is not only about the future of Ukraine – it is existential for Europe as a whole.
I have brought our friends and partners to London to make clear that we must stand together, allied in our protection of sovereignty, of peace and of Ukraine.
A strong and secure Britain is a foundation of our Plan for Change. This cannot be achieved without standing up to Putin and strengthening our shared European security.
To further resist Putin’s attacks on Ukraine, the international order and peace, the Foreign Secretary is gathering Allies for discussions on both our joint efforts to strengthen European security and secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
This builds on a drumbeat of collaboration between the UK and the EU on defence and security. On top of Saturday’s meeting attended by the Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary on Friday joined European ministers in Lviv to announce the UK’s support for the establishment of a Special Tribunal, to hold those responsible for the crime of aggression against Ukraine to account. This followed the Foreign Secretary visiting Poland to join the Gymnich meeting, where he highlighted the need for a new, ambitious security relationship between the UK and Europe that will support economic growth, protect citizens, and support European collective security and defence. The Weimar+ is an important opportunity to continue driving forward these talks with EU member states.
The Weimar+ meeting comes days ahead of the UK-EU Summit (19 May), which will cover a range of UK-EU issues and look to foster a stable, positive and forward-looking relationship.
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Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jennifer Ho, Professor of Asian American Studies, University of Colorado Boulder
For the first time, in 1990, May was officially designated as a month honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage. Though the current U.S. administration recently withdrew federal recognition, the month continues to be celebrated by a wide array of people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
People from the Pacific Islands have their own distinct histories and issues, delineated in part by a specific geography. Yet when we refer to the even broader category of Asian Americans, a concept with a deep yet often unknown history, who exactly are we referring to?
There are nearly 25 million people of Asian descent who live in the United States, but the term Asian American remains shrouded by cultural misunderstanding and contested as a term among Asians themselves.
As a professor of Asian American studies, I believe it is important to understand how the label came into being.
The arrival of people from Asia to the U.S. long predates the country’s founding in 1776.
After visits to modern-day America that began in the late 16th century, Filipino sailors formed – as early as 1763 – what is believed to be the first Asian settlement in St. Malo, Louisiana.
But it wasn’t until the 1849 California Gold Rush that Asian immigration to the U.S. – from China – began on a mass scale. That was bolstered in the 1860s by Chinese laborers recruited to build the western portion of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Starting toward the end of the 19th century, Japanese immigration steadily picked up, so that by 1910 the U.S. Census records a similar number for both communities – just over 70,000. Likewise, a small number of South Asian immigrants began arriving in the early 1900s.
Yet after coming to the U.S. in search of economic and political opportunities, Asian laborers in America were met by a surge of white nativist hostility and violence. That reaction was codified in civil society groups and government laws, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882.
By 1924, federal law had expanded into a virtual ban on all Asian immigration, and through the first half of the 20th century, a multitude of anti-Asian laws targeted areas including naturalization, marriage and housing, among others.
From the start, people from Asian countries in the U.S. were generally identified broadly with identifiers such as “Oriental,” a common term at the time mostly for those from China, Japan and Korea.
As more Asians came to the U.S, other terms were used to denigrate and demean these new immigrants, whose physical appearance, language and cultural norms were distinctly different from their Euro-American neighbors.
The desire to claim America was one of the drivers for activists in the 1960s to create the concept of Asian American that we know today.
The movement began in the charged political context of anti-Vietnam War protests and the Civil Rights Movement for Black equality. Students of Asian heritage at San Francisco State University and the University of California, Berkeley were organizing for the establishment of ethnic studies classes, specifically those that centered on the histories of Asians in the U.S.
Rejecting the term “oriental” as too limiting and exotic, since oriental literally means “from the East,” the student activists wanted a term of empowerment that would include the Filipino, Chinese, Korean and Japanese students at the heart of this organizing. Graduate students Emma Gee and Yuji Ichioka came up with “Asian American” as a way to bring activists under one radical organizing umbrella, forming the Asian American Political Alliance in 1968.
Today, the Asian American label has moved beyond its activist roots. The term might literally refer to anyone who traces their lineage from the whole of the Asian continent. This could include people from South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan or Sri Lanka to parts of West Asia like Syria, Lebanon or Iran.
Yet not all people who identify as Asian actually use the words Asian American, since it is a term that flattens ethnic specificity and lumps together people with as disparate of backgrounds as Hmong or Bangladeshi, for example.
A 2023 Pew Research Center survey of self-identified Asian adults living in the U.S. revealed that only 16% of people polled said they identified as “Asian American,” with a majority – 52% – preferring ethnic Asian labels, either alone or in tandem with “American.”
Moreover, unlike the student activists who worked together through their shared Asian American identity, the majority of people of Asian descent living in the U.S. came after the 1965 Immigration Act was passed, which ended all prior anti-Asian immigration laws. This, combined with a subsequent wave of Asian immigration from parts of Asia not represented in the past – including Vietnam, Taiwan and Pakistan – means that most Asian Americans alive today are either immigrants or one generation removed from immigrants.
As a largely immigrant and recently Americanized group, many Asians therefore may not relate to the struggles of an earlier history of Asians in the U.S. That may contribute to why many don’t connect with the term “Asian American.” Korean immigrants, for instance, may not see their history connected with third-generation Japanese Americans, particularly when considering their homelands have been in conflict for decades.
For some, Asian American is too broad a term to capture the complexity of Asian-heritage Americans.
Indeed, Asian Americans come from over 30 countries with different languages, diverse cultures, and histories that have often been in conflict with other Asian nations. Within such a broad grouping as “Asian American,” a wide range of political, socioeconomic, religious and other differences emerge that greatly complicate this racial label.
Even though the term remains contested, many Asians still see value in the concept. Much like the activists who first created the label in the 1960s, many believe it signifies a sense of solidarity and community among people who – despite their many differences – have been treated like outsiders to the American experience, regardless of how American their roots are.
Jennifer Ho does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. How Asian American became a racial grouping – and why many with Asian roots don’t identify with the term these days – https://theconversation.com/how-asian-american-became-a-racial-grouping-and-why-many-with-asian-roots-dont-identify-with-the-term-these-days-255578
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Dame Melinda Simmons DCMG has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Poland in succession to Ms Anna Clunes CMG OBE who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Dame Melinda will take up her appointment during August 2025.
Dame Melinda Simmons DCMG
Full name: Melinda Veronica Simmons
| Date | Role |
|---|---|
| 2024 to present | Full time language training |
| 2023 to 2024 | University College London, Visiting Professor |
| 2019 to 2023 | Kyiv, His Majesty’s Ambassador |
| 2016 to 2019 | National Security Secretariat, Director, Joint Funds Unit |
| 2013 to 2016 | FCO, Deputy Director, Head of Conflict Department |
| 2011 to 2013 | DFID, Deputy Director, Head of Europe Department |
| 2010 to 2011 | DFID, Head of the Humanitarian Emergency Response Review |
| 2009 to 2010 | DFID, Deputy Director, Head of Middle East Department |
| 2005 to 2008 | Pretoria, Head of DFID Southern Africa |
| 2002 to 2005 | DFID, Deputy Head, Africa Policy Department |
| 2000 to 2002 | DFID, Head of Conflict Policy, Conflict Department |
| 1998 to 2000 | DFID, Team Leader, Russia Desk |
| 1994 to 1998 | International Alert, Public Affairs Officer |
| 1990 to 1994 | Primesight Intl, International Marketing Manager |
| 1988 to 1990 | The Register Group, International Marketing Officer and Associate Director |
Media enquiries
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Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.
Source: IMF – News in Russian
May 13, 2025
A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.
The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.
Copenhagen, Denmark:
Denmark’s strong growth has continued, primarily driven by pharmaceutical exports, while domestic demand has remained relatively sluggish. Staff expects output growth to moderate in the near term as external demand weakens. Direct impacts from U.S. tariffs are expected to be limited, but heightened trade tensions and trade policy uncertainty pose risks to the outlook. Denmark’s robust institutions, competitive and relatively diversified economic structure, strong fiscal position, and highly educated workforce all reinforce its resilience to external shocks. In this context, the policy priorities are as follows.
Economic outlook and risks
Maintaining fiscal sustainability amid rising defense and aging-related spending
Safeguarding financial stability
Pursuing structural reforms
The mission thanks the authorities and private sector counterparts for their accommodative flexibility, warm hospitality, and candid and high-quality discussions. The IMF team is especially grateful to the Danmarks Nationalbank for its assistance with meeting and logistical arrangements.
PRESS OFFICER: Boris Balabanov
Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org
https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/12/mcs-denmark-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission
Source: Apple
Headline: Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year
May 13, 2025
PRESS RELEASE
Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year
New features include Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access, and Accessibility Reader; plus innovative updates to Live Listen, visionOS, Personal Voice, and more
CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced new accessibility features coming later this year, including Accessibility Nutrition Labels, which will provide more detailed information for apps and games on the App Store. Users who are blind or have low vision can explore, learn, and interact using the new Magnifier app for Mac; take notes and perform calculations with the new Braille Access feature; and leverage the powerful camera system of Apple Vision Pro with new updates to visionOS. Additional announcements include Accessibility Reader, a new systemwide reading mode designed with accessibility in mind, along with updates to Live Listen, Background Sounds, Personal Voice, Vehicle Motion Cues, and more. Leveraging the power of Apple silicon — along with advances in on-device machine learning and artificial intelligence — users will experience a new level of accessibility across the Apple ecosystem.
“At Apple, accessibility is part of our DNA,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Making technology for everyone is a priority for all of us, and we’re proud of the innovations we’re sharing this year. That includes tools to help people access crucial information, explore the world around them, and do what they love.”
“Building on 40 years of accessibility innovation at Apple, we are dedicated to pushing forward with new accessibility features for all of our products,” said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives. “Powered by the Apple ecosystem, these features work seamlessly together to bring users new ways to engage with the things they care about most.”
Accessibility Nutrition Labels Come to the App Store
Accessibility Nutrition Labels bring a new section to App Store product pages that will highlight accessibility features within apps and games. These labels give users a new way to learn if an app will be accessible to them before they download it, and give developers the opportunity to better inform and educate their users on features their app supports. This includes VoiceOver, Voice Control, Larger Text, Sufficient Contrast, Reduced Motion, captions, and more. Accessibility Nutrition Labels will be available on the App Store worldwide, and developers can access more guidance on the criteria apps should meet before displaying accessibility information on their product pages.
“Accessibility Nutrition Labels are a huge step forward for accessibility,” said Eric Bridges, the American Foundation for the Blind’s president and CEO. “Consumers deserve to know if a product or service will be accessible to them from the very start, and Apple has a long-standing history of delivering tools and technologies that allow developers to build experiences for everyone. These labels will give people with disabilities a new way to easily make more informed decisions and make purchases with a new level of confidence.”
An All-New Magnifier for Mac
Since 2016, Magnifier on iPhone and iPad has given users who are blind or have low vision tools to zoom in, read text, and detect objects around them. This year, Magnifier is coming to Mac to make the physical world more accessible for users with low vision. The Magnifier app for Mac connects to a user’s camera so they can zoom in on their surroundings, such as a screen or whiteboard. Magnifier works with Continuity Camera on iPhone as well as attached USB cameras, and supports reading documents using Desk View.
With multiple live session windows, users can multitask by viewing a presentation with a webcam while simultaneously following along in a book using Desk View. With customized views, users can adjust brightness, contrast, color filters, and even perspective to make text and images easier to see. Views can also be captured, grouped, and saved to add to later on. Additionally, Magnifier for Mac is integrated with another new accessibility feature, Accessibility Reader, which transforms text from the physical world into a custom legible format.
A New Braille Experience
Braille Access is an all-new experience that turns iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro into a full-featured braille note taker that’s deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. With a built-in app launcher, users can easily open any app by typing with Braille Screen Input or a connected braille device. With Braille Access, users can quickly take notes in braille format and perform calculations using Nemeth Braille, a braille code often used in classrooms for math and science. Users can open Braille Ready Format (BRF) files directly from Braille Access, unlocking a wide range of books and files previously created on a braille note taking device. And an integrated form of Live Captions allows users to transcribe conversations in real time directly on braille displays.
Introducing Accessibility Reader
Accessibility Reader is a new systemwide reading mode designed to make text easier to read for users with a wide range of disabilities, such as dyslexia or low vision. Available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, Accessibility Reader gives users new ways to customize text and focus on content they want to read, with extensive options for font, color, and spacing, as well as support for Spoken Content. Accessibility Reader can be launched from any app, and is built into the Magnifier app for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, so users can interact with text in the real world, like in books or on dining menus.
Live Captions Arrive on Apple Watch
For users who are deaf or hard of hearing, Live Listen controls come to Apple Watch with a new set of features, including real-time Live Captions. Live Listen turns iPhone into a remote microphone to stream content directly to AirPods, Made for iPhone hearing aids, or Beats headphones. When a session is active on iPhone, users can view Live Captions of what their iPhone hears on a paired Apple Watch while listening along to the audio. Apple Watch serves as a remote control to start or stop Live Listen sessions, or jump back in a session to capture something that may have been missed. With Apple Watch, Live Listen sessions can be controlled from across the room, so there’s no need to get up in the middle of a meeting or during class. Live Listen can be used along with hearing health features available on AirPods Pro 2, including the first-of-its-kind clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature.
An Enhanced View with Apple Vision Pro
For users who are blind or have low vision, visionOS will expand vision accessibility features using the advanced camera system on Apple Vision Pro. With powerful updates to Zoom, users can magnify everything in view — including their surroundings — using the main camera. For VoiceOver users, Live Recognition in visionOS uses on-device machine learning to describe surroundings, find objects, read documents, and more.1 For accessibility developers, a new API will enable approved apps to access the main camera to provide live, person-to-person assistance for visual interpretation in apps like Be My Eyes, giving users more ways to understand their surroundings hands-free.
Additional Updates
Celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day with Apple
Apple Retail is introducing dedicated tables spotlighting accessibility features on a variety of devices in select store locations throughout the month of May. Additionally, Apple offers accessibility sessions year-round through Today at Apple for deeper learning, tips, and feature customization. Sessions can be scheduled at all Apple Store locations worldwide through Group Booking or by visiting a nearby store.
Apple Music shares the story of artist Kiddo K and the power of music haptics for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, unveils updates to its Haptics playlists, and launches a brand-new playlist featuring ASL interpretations of music videos alongside Saylists playlists.
Apple Fitness+ welcomes Chelsie Hill as a guest in a Dance workout with Fitness+ trainer Ben Allen. Hill is a professional dancer and founder of Rolettes, an L.A.-based wheelchair dance team that advocates for disability representation and women’s empowerment. The workout is available now in the Fitness+ app.
Apple TV+ shares a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the new Apple Original film Deaf President Now!, which premieres on Apple TV+ on May 16. The documentary tells the story of the greatest civil rights movement most people have never heard about, which unfolded across eight tumultuous days in 1988. At the world’s only Deaf university, four students must find a way to lead an angry mob — and change the course of history.
Apple Books, Apple Podcasts, Apple TV, and Apple News will spotlight stories of people with disabilities and those who are working to make the world more accessible for everyone.
The App Store is sharing a collection of apps and games designed to be accessible to everyone, in addition to featuring the story of Klemens Strasser, a developer guided by a philosophy of making accessible apps and games like The Art of Fauna.
The Shortcuts app adds Hold That Thought, a shortcut that prompts users to capture and recall information in a note so interruptions don’t derail their flow. The Accessibility Assistant shortcut has been added to Shortcuts on Apple Vision Pro to help recommend accessibility features based on user preferences.
New videos on the Apple Support accessibility playlist include features like Eye Tracking, Vocal Shortcuts, and Vehicle Motion Cues, as well as a library of videos to help everyone personalize their iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro to work best for them.
About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.
Press Contacts
Will Butler
Apple
Apple Media Helpline
Source: Apple
Headline: Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year
May 13, 2025
PRESS RELEASE
Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year
New features include Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access, and Accessibility Reader; plus innovative updates to Live Listen, visionOS, Personal Voice, and more
CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced new accessibility features coming later this year, including Accessibility Nutrition Labels, which will provide more detailed information for apps and games on the App Store. Users who are blind or have low vision can explore, learn, and interact using the new Magnifier app for Mac; take notes and perform calculations with the new Braille Access feature; and leverage the powerful camera system of Apple Vision Pro with new updates to visionOS. Additional announcements include Accessibility Reader, a new systemwide reading mode designed with accessibility in mind, along with updates to Live Listen, Background Sounds, Personal Voice, Vehicle Motion Cues, and more. Leveraging the power of Apple silicon — along with advances in on-device machine learning and artificial intelligence — users will experience a new level of accessibility across the Apple ecosystem.
“At Apple, accessibility is part of our DNA,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Making technology for everyone is a priority for all of us, and we’re proud of the innovations we’re sharing this year. That includes tools to help people access crucial information, explore the world around them, and do what they love.”
“Building on 40 years of accessibility innovation at Apple, we are dedicated to pushing forward with new accessibility features for all of our products,” said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives. “Powered by the Apple ecosystem, these features work seamlessly together to bring users new ways to engage with the things they care about most.”
Accessibility Nutrition Labels Come to the App Store
Accessibility Nutrition Labels bring a new section to App Store product pages that will highlight accessibility features within apps and games. These labels give users a new way to learn if an app will be accessible to them before they download it, and give developers the opportunity to better inform and educate their users on features their app supports. This includes VoiceOver, Voice Control, Larger Text, Sufficient Contrast, Reduced Motion, captions, and more. Accessibility Nutrition Labels will be available on the App Store worldwide, and developers can access more guidance on the criteria apps should meet before displaying accessibility information on their product pages.
“Accessibility Nutrition Labels are a huge step forward for accessibility,” said Eric Bridges, the American Foundation for the Blind’s president and CEO. “Consumers deserve to know if a product or service will be accessible to them from the very start, and Apple has a long-standing history of delivering tools and technologies that allow developers to build experiences for everyone. These labels will give people with disabilities a new way to easily make more informed decisions and make purchases with a new level of confidence.”
An All-New Magnifier for Mac
Since 2016, Magnifier on iPhone and iPad has given users who are blind or have low vision tools to zoom in, read text, and detect objects around them. This year, Magnifier is coming to Mac to make the physical world more accessible for users with low vision. The Magnifier app for Mac connects to a user’s camera so they can zoom in on their surroundings, such as a screen or whiteboard. Magnifier works with Continuity Camera on iPhone as well as attached USB cameras, and supports reading documents using Desk View.
With multiple live session windows, users can multitask by viewing a presentation with a webcam while simultaneously following along in a book using Desk View. With customized views, users can adjust brightness, contrast, color filters, and even perspective to make text and images easier to see. Views can also be captured, grouped, and saved to add to later on. Additionally, Magnifier for Mac is integrated with another new accessibility feature, Accessibility Reader, which transforms text from the physical world into a custom legible format.
A New Braille Experience
Braille Access is an all-new experience that turns iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro into a full-featured braille note taker that’s deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. With a built-in app launcher, users can easily open any app by typing with Braille Screen Input or a connected braille device. With Braille Access, users can quickly take notes in braille format and perform calculations using Nemeth Braille, a braille code often used in classrooms for math and science. Users can open Braille Ready Format (BRF) files directly from Braille Access, unlocking a wide range of books and files previously created on a braille note taking device. And an integrated form of Live Captions allows users to transcribe conversations in real time directly on braille displays.
Introducing Accessibility Reader
Accessibility Reader is a new systemwide reading mode designed to make text easier to read for users with a wide range of disabilities, such as dyslexia or low vision. Available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, Accessibility Reader gives users new ways to customize text and focus on content they want to read, with extensive options for font, color, and spacing, as well as support for Spoken Content. Accessibility Reader can be launched from any app, and is built into the Magnifier app for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, so users can interact with text in the real world, like in books or on dining menus.
Live Captions Arrive on Apple Watch
For users who are deaf or hard of hearing, Live Listen controls come to Apple Watch with a new set of features, including real-time Live Captions. Live Listen turns iPhone into a remote microphone to stream content directly to AirPods, Made for iPhone hearing aids, or Beats headphones. When a session is active on iPhone, users can view Live Captions of what their iPhone hears on a paired Apple Watch while listening along to the audio. Apple Watch serves as a remote control to start or stop Live Listen sessions, or jump back in a session to capture something that may have been missed. With Apple Watch, Live Listen sessions can be controlled from across the room, so there’s no need to get up in the middle of a meeting or during class. Live Listen can be used along with hearing health features available on AirPods Pro 2, including the first-of-its-kind clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature.
An Enhanced View with Apple Vision Pro
For users who are blind or have low vision, visionOS will expand vision accessibility features using the advanced camera system on Apple Vision Pro. With powerful updates to Zoom, users can magnify everything in view — including their surroundings — using the main camera. For VoiceOver users, Live Recognition in visionOS uses on-device machine learning to describe surroundings, find objects, read documents, and more.1 For accessibility developers, a new API will enable approved apps to access the main camera to provide live, person-to-person assistance for visual interpretation in apps like Be My Eyes, giving users more ways to understand their surroundings hands-free.
Additional Updates
Celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day with Apple
Apple Retail is introducing dedicated tables spotlighting accessibility features on a variety of devices in select store locations throughout the month of May. Additionally, Apple offers accessibility sessions year-round through Today at Apple for deeper learning, tips, and feature customization. Sessions can be scheduled at all Apple Store locations worldwide through Group Booking or by visiting a nearby store.
Apple Music shares the story of artist Kiddo K and the power of music haptics for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, unveils updates to its Haptics playlists, and launches a brand-new playlist featuring ASL interpretations of music videos alongside Saylists playlists.
Apple Fitness+ welcomes Chelsie Hill as a guest in a Dance workout with Fitness+ trainer Ben Allen. Hill is a professional dancer and founder of Rolettes, an L.A.-based wheelchair dance team that advocates for disability representation and women’s empowerment. The workout is available now in the Fitness+ app.
Apple TV+ shares a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the new Apple Original film Deaf President Now!, which premieres on Apple TV+ on May 16. The documentary tells the story of the greatest civil rights movement most people have never heard about, which unfolded across eight tumultuous days in 1988. At the world’s only Deaf university, four students must find a way to lead an angry mob — and change the course of history.
Apple Books, Apple Podcasts, Apple TV, and Apple News will spotlight stories of people with disabilities and those who are working to make the world more accessible for everyone.
The App Store is sharing a collection of apps and games designed to be accessible to everyone, in addition to featuring the story of Klemens Strasser, a developer guided by a philosophy of making accessible apps and games like The Art of Fauna.
The Shortcuts app adds Hold That Thought, a shortcut that prompts users to capture and recall information in a note so interruptions don’t derail their flow. The Accessibility Assistant shortcut has been added to Shortcuts on Apple Vision Pro to help recommend accessibility features based on user preferences.
New videos on the Apple Support accessibility playlist include features like Eye Tracking, Vocal Shortcuts, and Vehicle Motion Cues, as well as a library of videos to help everyone personalize their iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro to work best for them.
About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.
Press Contacts
Will Butler
Apple
Apple Media Helpline
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Mansion House Accord unlocks up to £50 billion investment for the economy, with first commitments to invest in the UK.
More ambitious targets than 2023 Mansion House Compact will unlock investment into UK businesses and major infrastructure projects, including clean energy developments.
Comes ahead of Pensions Investment Review final report, which will create megafunds to drive more investment, boost pension pots and grow the economy through the Plan for Change.
Up to £50 billion of investment for UK businesses and major infrastructure projects is set to be unlocked through a new agreement with Britain’s biggest pension funds, as the Government goes further and faster to drive growth through the Plan for Change.
Seventeen workplace pension providers managing around 90 percent of active savers’ defined contribution pensions will sign the Mansion House Accord at a roundtable with the Chancellor and Minister for Pensions in the City of London today (Tuesday 13 May).
Signatories to the Accord will pledge to invest 10 percent of their workplace portfolios in assets that boost the economy such as infrastructure, property and private equity by 2030. At least 5 percent of these portfolios will be ringfenced for the UK, expected to release £25 billion directly into the UK economy by 2030.
This investment could support clean energy developments across the country, delivering greater energy security and helping to lower household bills, as well as delivering growth finance to Britain’s world-leading science and technology businesses – creating jobs, boosting businesses and putting more money into people’s pockets.
Pension savers will also benefit from the commitment to invest in private markets. Comparable Australian schemes invest significantly more in private markets and domestic companies than UK schemes, and research suggests greater investment in private markets can deliver security through diversified asset holdings and potentially drive higher returns.
The pledge follows hot on the heels of securing trade agreements with India and the US, which will add billions of pounds to the UK economy and protect thousands of steel and car manufacturing jobs, as well as a fourth interest rate cut since last Summer. This demonstrates the UK’s strength in navigating a changing world, going further and faster through our Plan for Change to drive growth and put more money into people’s pockets.
Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said:
Through our Plan for Change, we are choosing to back British businesses and British workers. I welcome this bold step by some of our biggest pension funds, which will unlock billions for major infrastructure, clean energy, and exciting startups — delivering growth, boosting pension pots, and giving working people greater security in retirement.
Torsten Bell, Minister for Pensions, said:
Pensions matter hugely, they underpin not just the retirements we all look forward to, but the investment our future prosperity depends on. I hugely welcome the pensions industry decision to invest in more productive assets, from growing companies to infrastructure. This supports better outcomes for savers and faster growth for Britain.
Today’s announcement is more ambitious than the 2023 Mansion House Compact, where eleven funds committed to the aim of investing 5 percent of their workplace defined contribution default funds – the off-the-shelf funds providers offer to the vast majority of savers – in unlisted companies by 2030. The new commitment involves the vast majority of the industry and brings more assets into scope, doubles the target from 5 percent to 10 percent, and includes a specific commitment to investing 5 percent in the UK.
Progress against the commitment will be monitored and the initiative will be reinforced by measures to be announced in the upcoming final report of the Pensions Investment Review. The final report will tackle fragmentation in the UK pension system, creating pension megafunds that take advantage of scale and consolidation like Australian and Canadian funds do, to invest in productive assets like private markets and big infrastructure projects.
Some pension funds have already indicated privately that they will go beyond the targets agreed through the Mansion House Accord, which could lead to even more direct investment in the UK economy – and is particularly welcomed by the government.
Today’s commitment comes alongside progress in the government’s efforts to help pension savers benefit from the opportunities of investing in UK growth. The British Business Bank has now received regulatory approval from the Financial Conduct Authority to deliver the British Growth Partnership – which will provide UK pension funds and other institutional investors with access to the Bank’s extensive pipeline of UK venture capital opportunities.
The government will continue working with the industry to make sure pension schemes deliver the best possible value for savers — while driving the investment needed to deliver growth and put more money into people’s pockets.
Yvonne Braun, Director of Policy, Long-Term Savings, Health and Protection at the ABI, said:
As major investors, the pensions industry already plays a vital role in driving growth in the UK and globally. The Accord formalises the industry’s ambition to invest more in private markets to diversify investments, support innovation and infrastructure, and ensure prosperity. Investments under the Accord will always be made in savers’ best interests. It is now critical that Government supports the industry’s ambition, by facilitating a pipeline of suitable investment opportunities, tackling barriers to investments, and delivering wider pension reforms effectively.
Alastair King, Lord Mayor of London, said:
The Mansion House Accord builds on the strong foundations of the Compact and signals a step change in ambition: more signatories, deeper allocations to private markets, and a clearer commitment to backing UK assets. That includes a renewed focus on revitalising the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange as well as the Aquis Exchange, which play a critical role in supporting high-growth companies that drive innovation, jobs and productivity. If we want those firms to scale in the UK, we must ensure they have the capital to do so. This is not just about better pension outcomes, it is about building a more dynamic, competitive investment ecosystem. Delivering long-term, sustainable growth is crucial and the City of London Corporation is delighted to have partnered with industry and Government to bring this ambition to life.
Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the PLSA, said:
UK pension schemes already invest billions in UK growth assets. This accord demonstrates the collective ambition of the DC sector to do even more, as well as its confidence that the UK will provide the right opportunities to invest, consistent with schemes’ fiduciary duty to members. The Government, in its turn, has committed to take action to ensure there is a strong pipeline of investable assets for pension schemes. With everyone playing their part, there is great potential to boost returns for savers while providing vital funding to productive growth areas.
This is a voluntary expression of intent by seventeen signatories. The Mansion House Accord has been jointly led by the ABI, City of London Corporation and the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association.
Signatories to the new commitment include: Aegon, Aon, Aviva, Legal & General, LifeSight, M&G, Mercer, Natwest Cushon, Nest, NOW: Pensions, Phoenix Group, Royal London, Smart Pension, the People’s Pension, SEI, TPT Retirement Solutions and the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).
The signatories to the Accord have stated that £252 billion of assets are subject to the pledge. Based on historical growth rates (which have been halved to reflect a maturing market (17% per annum)) and reflecting further consolidation in the pensions market, this could rise to around £740 billion by 2030.
The £50 billion and £25 billion cash estimates for investment unlocked are indicative and assume current private market investment levels are at 3.5%, of which 40% is UK-based. These are increased to 10% and 50% respectively by 2030 in line with the Accord.
Some providers have indicated they may exceed the private markets investment targets in the Accord, which could lead to additional investment.
Investments will support UK growth sectors, including clean energy infrastructure and innovative small businesses.
Government Actuary Department Analysis from 2024 found that a portfolio with greater exposure to private markets – including infrastructure and private equity – delivered stronger returns than a baseline portfolio comprised largely of overseas equities.
Andy Briggs, Phoenix Group CEO, said:
This Mansion House Accord will unlock investment in UK private markets while helping deliver better long-term returns and retirements for millions of pension savers. The new commitments have the potential to strengthen the economy by fuelling the growth of British businesses and boosting investment in critical infrastructure.
Phoenix Group has already taken a lead by launching Future Growth Capital — the first private market investment manager formed to deliver the commitments made in the initial Mansion House Compact — committing £2.5bn over three years to the UK’s most exciting, innovative and fastest growing companies. The Accord is the natural next step, and we’re proud to play our part in delivering better outcomes for our customers and for the wider society.
Patrick Heath-Lay, Chief Executive Officer of People’s Partnership, provider of People’s Pension, said:
People’s Pension has a vital role to play in the exciting, shared vision for the future of the pensions’ industry, which will see bigger, stronger, value-driven schemes that will deliver better value to their members. By signing this Accord, we are reaffirming how seriously we take our commitment to delivering better outcomes, as well as helping to drive UK economic growth.
David Lane, Chief Executive of TPT Retirement Solutions, said:
By reaching an agreement with pension providers to invest in UK productive finance in a mutually beneficial way, the Government can achieve its objective and support better outcomes for scheme members. Many pension schemes already invest in productive finance, and most are open to investing more in the UK. Investment in assets such as infrastructure, transportation, housing, venture capital and private markets can play an important role in improving risk-adjusted returns for members while also contributing to economic growth.
Meeting the Government’s objectives while also maintaining fiduciary duty and ensuring strong returns for members are not mutually exclusive ambitions. However, hurdles remain around value for money considerations and the availability of suitable investment opportunities. These should be a focus for Government policy to spur more investment. The most pressing issue to deal with is that provider pricing practices leave very little room in the annual management charge for investment fees. There needs to be a shift to a value for money approach that considers the returns from an investment and not just its fees.
Jelena Croad, Head of LifeSight GB, said:
Signing up to the Mansion House Accord is a significant step for LifeSight. We believe that private market investments can increase overall returns as part of a diversified portfolio and have already begun investing in this way.
Our ability to invest in private markets, without increasing existing fee agreements, showcases our dedication to providing the best possible outcomes for our members. We are excited to be part of this initiative and look forward to contributing to the growth of the economy in which our members live.
We are pleased that the government acknowledges the need to increase the pipeline for UK private market investment opportunities. This recognition aligns with our mission to support the growth of innovative firms and sustainable infrastructure within the UK, ultimately enhancing the retirement incomes of millions of UK pension savers.
For LifeSight members, these investments are being made as part of our main default funds, ensuring that our members benefit from high-quality investment opportunities.
Steve Charlton, a member of SPP’s DC Committee and DC Managing Director at SEI, said:
Due to ongoing collaboration and open dialogue between the industry and the UK government, we have become comfortable with the proposed changes to the Mansion House reforms. This accord demonstrates our collective ambition to have a consolidated workplace pension environment that provides flexibility and choice for pension funds to invest where they see opportunity, whilst balancing their responsibility to members.
We welcome the government’s commitment to ensure a good flow of investable opportunities for pension schemes. This mitigates our previous concerns about the risks of high-priced, poor-quality investments in an environment where the originally proposed investable opportunities are scarce. It enables everyone to play their part in helping to deliver better member outcomes and drive economic growth.
Lorna Blyth, Managing Director – Investment Proposition at Aegon UK, said:
Aegon UK is proud to be a signatory of the Mansion House Accord, which aligns with our aim to deliver better long-term outcomes for our pension scheme members.
We are committed to ensuring our customers can access and share in the potential growth and success of new, innovative companies as part of diversified portfolios. Leveraging our partnership with the British Business Bank, along with our scale and expertise, we are dedicated to developing investment solutions that improve the retirement outcomes of the millions of members of the defined contribution pension schemes we support. We’ve made significant progress in becoming a DC provider fit for the future – but our journey doesn’t end here.
The Accord is a key element of the Government’s growth agenda, alongside other initiatives likely to transform the UK’s DC pensions market. It comes as the conclusions of the Pensions Investment Review are expected imminently and further fundamental changes are expected in the Pension Schemes Bill later this spring. This makes it essential that the Government adopts a pragmatic approach to implementation. Realistic timeframes and a steady supply of high-quality UK investment opportunities across all private asset classes are crucial for ensuring success. This includes collaborating with more organisations such as the British Business Bank to provide access to diverse types of private assets – from private equity to infrastructure, which are all vital for optimising member benefits and developing investment portfolios designed for long term growth.
Amanda Blanc DBE, Aviva Group Chief Executive Officer, said:
This is a major opportunity for the pension and investment industry to support UK growth while delivering improved outcomes for pension savers. As a significant investor in private markets, Aviva has recently launched a number of funds to give over four million workplace pension customers even greater opportunity to invest in UK assets, including innovative, early-stage businesses, and we want to do much more.
Jo Sharples, CIO, DC Solutions at Aon, said:
We believe that investing in private assets will benefit pension scheme members by delivering better expected returns over the long-term, ultimately resulting in higher retirement outcomes. The new Mansion House Accord is a great step forward in achieving this and is a fantastic example of how the UK pensions industry can work together to break down barriers to enable greater investment in private assets.
Source: The Green Party in Northern Ireland
Parties who let Lough Neagh die are now selling off our land for dirty profit
Sinn Féin’s Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and the Executive are granting seven new mineral licences in the West-using a colonial law from 1969 and ignoring over 2,000 public objections.
Green Party leader Mal O’Hara calls them out: “The parties who let Lough Neagh die are now selling off our land for dirty profit, ignoring residents, campaigners, and the environment. Their promises to protect nature are as fake as plastic grass-looks good from far away, but up close, it’s toxic.”
Alliance and its Environment Minister Andrew Muir have shown themselves to be ineffective at standing up to big business and protecting our shared environment from profiteering.
Enough is enough. Our land, habitats, and communities are not commodities for the Crown Estate and mining companies. We demand real protection, not more destruction.
ENDS
Press enquiries – Mal O’Hara on 07540790663
Source: City of Plymouth
Council leader Tudor Evans outlined his mission to ‘keep Plymouth fishing’ during a visit from Fishing Minister Daniel Zeichner and pledged to work up a package of measures designed to reinvent and reinvigorate Plymouth’s fishing industry.
The minister was in Britain’s Ocean City this week for high-level discussions over the future of the industry. Council leader Tudor Evans said: “We are a fishing port and we talked to the minister about protecting 400 jobs as well as the importance of shore side facilities
“The auction may have closed, but crews are still landing catch in huge numbers. Plymouth’s fishing industry remains strong with landings last year worth around £12m, making Plymouth the 4th largest port by landings in England.
“I was really encouraged by the signals we were getting. There are still huge potential opportunities here and we are being strongly encouraged to pull together a bid for funding under the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, which is run by MMO.”
Ideas need to be further developed but are expected to reflect proposals put forward in a report by Tegean Mor Fisheries Ltd Consultants Ltd, which was commissioned by Sutton Harbour Company, Plymouth Fishing and Seafood Association and Plymouth City Council.
They include new infrastructure on the quay to enable fishing crews to continue to land their catch effectively and more efficiently. This could include new landing cranes, access fobs and CCTV.
New uses at the site should also be explored such as improving the site’s existing retail offer, creating spaces to deliver seafood cookery classes, A national marketing campaign that focusses on the quality of the catch coming into Britain’s Ocean City could also be on the cards.
Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “Fishing has been part of our history for hundreds of years and while fishing nationally has certainly shifted and changed shape, Plymouth’s future includes this important industry. One door closes, but many more doors open.”
The fish auction at Fish Quay in Sutton Harbour stopped operating a year ago which meant fishing vessels landing fish in Plymouth no longer had a local auction to sell their catch. The fish is now transported to other local auctions such as Brixham and Newlyn.
Source: United Nations secretary general
Dear Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, our generous hosts.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
My thanks to Germany for bringing us together at this consequential moment.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.
Our organization was founded on the conviction that peace is possible if we work as one united human family.
That is what our peace operations are about.
From preventive diplomacy to peacekeeping…
From negotiating ceasefires to helping to implement them…
From electoral support and observer missions to de-mining operations and protection of civilians…
To the focus of today’s Ministerial meeting — peacekeeping.
Excellencies,
UN Blue Helmets are the most globally recognized symbol of the world’s ability to come together to help countries move from conflict to peace.
Peacekeepers hail from every corner of the world.
But they are united in their commitment to peace.
As we meet today, UN peacekeepers are hard at work helping to ensure that ceasefires are respected…
Protecting civilians caught in the line of fire…
Helping provide the conditions for lifesaving aid to flow to those in need…
And laying the foundations for long-term recovery.
In trouble spots around the world, Blue Helmets can mean the difference between life and death.
And they are also a clear demonstration of the power of multilateral action to maintain, achieve and sustain peace.
There is a long list of countries that have achieved durable peace with the support of UN Peacekeeping — including Cambodia, Cote d’Ivoire, El Salvador, Liberia, Namibia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and Timor Leste.
Many of these countries now themselves contribute troops.
At the same time, we recognize that peace comes at a price.
Through the decades, 4,400 peacekeepers have fallen in the line of duty.
Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Please join me in a moment of silence to honour all those who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace.
[MOMENT OF SILENCE]
Thank you.
Excellencies,
We owe it to peacekeepers — and the populations they protect — to continue strengthening their ability to answer this call to peace.
And to do so in the face of daunting challenges.
Complex, intertwined and frequently borderless conflicts…
Growing polarization and division around the globe…
Targeting of peacekeepers through deadly misinformation spreading through social media…
Terrorism and transnational crime, which find fertile ground in instability…
The ongoing climate crisis that is exacerbating conflict while leaving more of the planet uninhabitable…
All the continued trampling of international law and international humanitarian law.
As a result, we are now facing the highest number of conflicts since the foundation of the United Nations, and record numbers of people fleeing across borders in search of safety and refuge.
We must recognize that peacekeeping operations are only as effective as the mandates directing them, and can struggle in contexts where political support and clearly defined outcomes and solutions are absent or elusive.
Meanwhile, we see increasing differences of views around how peacekeeping operations should work, under what circumstances, with what mandates they should be deployed, and for how long.
And we face dramatic financial constraints across the board.
We’ve worked to adapt in the face of these challenges.
But we need to do more.
Today, I want to highlight three areas of focus.
First — help us shape peacekeeping operations that are fit for the future.
The Pact for the Future called for a Review of Peace Operations — including peacekeeping.
The review will examine how we can make peacekeeping operations more adaptable, flexible and resilient — while recognizing the limitations in situations where there is little or no peace to keep.
It will also aim to critically examine the tools we have today and propose concrete recommendations to make them fit for the future.
Through this review, we must ensure that the United Nations is prepared to deploy peace operations tailored to each individual conflict, while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
We can draw inspiration from our UNIFIL operation, which recently developed an adaptation plan to keep peace along the Blue Line, and ensure lifesaving aid can flow to civilians in southern Lebanon.
In the Central African Republic, we see MINUSCA protecting civilians and assisting the government to extend its reach beyond the capital where people are in desperate need.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, despite ongoing fighting, UN Peacekeepers remain in the field, protecting vulnerable populations.
We’re also seeking efficiencies through partnerships — from Member States to regional and sub-regional organizations, to local communities.
Most important among them is our strong partnership with the African Union.
Security Council resolution 2719 has lifted this partnership to a new level as we work to establish peace enforcement missions under the AU’s responsibility, supported by the United Nations through assessed contributions.
Today, the Review of Peace Operations will need to be informed — and inspired — by your views.
Member States make peacekeeping possible.
They must lead the way as we strengthen it for the future.
Second — as we make our operations more adaptable and flexible, we need to do the same in the use of our resources.
Peace operations can only succeed when backed by robust mandates and clear, predictable and sustained contributions, both financial and logistical.
But these are tough times for the financing of our work across the board.
Peacekeeping is no exception.
It is crucial that we are able to use the increasingly limited resources we have — and use them well.
That requires more flexible rules and processes.
This means updating our approach to abolishing or establishing positions, and working with troop-contributing countries to ensure we can deliver.
It means working with Member States and the UN Security Council to ensure that any new mandates are prioritized and achievable with the resources available and with a clear exit strategy.
And it means driving efficiencies and improvements across our work in light of the continued funding challenges we face.
Our Review of Peace Operations will work hand-in-hand with our UN80 initiative, to ensure we maximize efficiencies wherever possible, supported at every step by Member States.
We look forward to your governments’ support and ideas as we tackle these challenges together.
Third — we need your political support, including through the pledges you will make tomorrow.
Peace operations cannot succeed in the absence of a political solution.
Together we need to mobilize greater support for political solutions across our peacekeeping missions.
Pursuing these political solutions requires adequate means of delivering our operations — including unified political support from Member States, strong leadership, well-trained troops, equipment and technology.
These can strengthen our operations, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
And it requires the support of all Member States to ensure the safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers in the field, and the full implementation of the relevant privileges and immunities of the Organization and its personnel.
We are deeply grateful for the support and for the concrete pledges so many of you will announce here tomorrow.
Excellencies,
With a budget shared by all 193 Member States and representing a tiny fraction of global military spending — around one half of one per cent — UN Peacekeeping remains one of the most effective and cost-effective tools to build international peace and security.
But it’s only as strong as Member States’ commitment to it.
Unfortunately, peacekeeping operations have been facing serious liquidity problems.
It is absolutely essential that all Member States respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time.
Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations.
And the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges.
Together, let’s shape the UN peacekeeping operations that the challenges require, that Member States demand, and that our peacekeepers and the people they support need and deserve.
Thank you.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Four innovative projects set to share £800,000 to improve accessible information for passengers using rail replacement coaches.
Today’s announcement (13 May 2025) will break down the barriers to opportunity – as part of our Plan for Change – by improving accessible travel on rail replacement coaches for disabled people, thanks to £800,000 of government funding for new technology innovations – including a 3D animated avatar that allows passengers to ask questions through voice interaction or access audio via apps or QR codes.
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood has today confirmed the funding will go to 4 selected projects which will help to roll out audible and visible information for passengers onboard coach services – transforming public services and driving efficiency.
While many buses in the UK already offer these features, coach services used for rail replacement often lack the technology needed to deliver the same standard of information. This can leave passengers, especially those with visual or cognitive impairments, without the support they need to travel independently and confidently.
The new technology will offer flexible solutions that work in different vehicles, helping operators meet the requirements set out in the Public Service Vehicles (Accessible Information) Regulations 2023.
The Department for Transport (DfT) introduced the Public Service Vehicles (Accessible Information) Regulations 2023, requiring local bus and coach services to provide clear and accessible audible and visible onboard information. This includes details such as the route, direction of travel and upcoming stops.
The projects were selected following the competition run by Innovate UK, which combined established solutions with newer technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and a new Bluetooth feature, Auracast, to deliver real-time information in a variety of accessible formats. These projects will be completed by March 2026.
As part of the government’s Plan for Change, these projects will enable more people to travel independently for work, education, and leisure.
Making transport more accessible and inclusive not only benefits disabled passengers, but also helps unlock wider economic benefits – from increasing workforce participation to boosting local tourism and supporting businesses across the country.
Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:
There are around 16 million disabled people in the UK and many depend on coach services to get around. It’s vital that these services provide clear, accessible information for everyone, particularly on rail replacement journeys where the route and stops can change.
To help rail replacement coach operators make this transition smoothly, we are providing £800,000 of funding as part of the government’s Plan for Change to explore technology that helps all passengers, regardless of their needs, travel with confidence and independence. Public transport should be accessible for all and we’re committed to making that a reality – clearing away barriers to growth.
This government is securing our future through the Plan for Change by making transport more accessible through initiatives like Access for All, which has delivered step-free access at over 260 stations, and new measures in the Bus Services (No. 2) Bill. The bill will require disability awareness and assistance training for drivers and staff providing direct assistance to passengers and require local authorities to pay regard to new bus stop safety and accessibility guidance.
Rail media enquiries
Media enquiries 0300 7777878
Switchboard 0300 330 3000
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
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General Disclaimer
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Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Read how funding from the Woodland Creation Planning Grant and England Woodland Creation Offer helped to create woodland in Cumbria.
Tree seedlings growing on Ladybeck Wood. Copyright Lowther Estate.
Ladybeck Wood in the Lake District is an inspiring landscape of seedlings and whips. In December 2023, around 51 hectares of new woodland was planted on Lowther Estate across 2 locations bordering the Eastern Lakes in Cumbria.
The newly planted woods promise to be a boon for nature recovery in the area as the trees grow and mature. The predominantly broadleaf woodlands are just the latest planted on the estate, which also boasts large timber crops.
With local biodiversity and business resilience in mind, the new woods show how planting under EWCO can help to provide benefits to landowners, nature and the wider community.
The woodland project at Ladybeck Wood began when a large section of land came back under the management of Lowther Estate. The retirement of a long-term tenant meant the estate had big decisions to make about the best use for this land. They considered further expanding the estate’s food production enterprises, however, due to the soil quality, this was unlikely to be a profitable venture.
Ultimately, woodland creation was chosen for the environmental benefits and the diversification it offered the estate – allowing them to make their income streams more resilient. Producing carbon credits on top of grant funding would provide additional income and allow the estate to offset some of their own emissions which made the woods an appealing option.
David Bliss, CEO Lowther Estate. Copyright Lowther Estate.
Ladybeck Wood was initially planned across 97 hectares with 2 locations between Tirril, Askham and Helton. Lowther Estate applied for the Woodland Creation Planning Grant, which helped them plan the scheme and further assess the viability of planting woodland in the area.
Half of the proposed site was inside the bounds of a National Park and World Heritage Site. This required consultation around the visual impact of woodland on the National Park area.
It was decided that tree planting in this area would be as wood pasture, as this would blend better with the landscape, whilst allowing the estate to use it for grazing cows as part of its extensive beef production business. The wood pasture was funded under a Natural England wood pasture scheme through Countryside Stewardship.
The portion of land from the Ladybeck Wood plan that was outside of the National Park required an Environmental Impact Assessment screening, Landscape Impact Assessment and breeding wader surveys. The planning grant assisted with the funding for the required surveys and the costs of producing their UK Forestry Standard compliant woodland creation plan.
In total, around 51 hectares were planted outside the National Park with support from EWCO which covered 100% of standard costs. The sites were eligible for additional stackable payments under EWCO for delivering wider benefits to nature recovery and the environment.
Blocks were eligible for nature recovery (£69,000), water quality (£20,400) and flood risk (£21,800) contributions, providing over £111,000 in stackable payments. However, the landowner opted not to take water quality and flood risk payments to take advantage of third-party funding to support the landowners’ objectives. Yearly maintenance payments of £400 from EWCO will help to establish the woodland as it grows.
The woodland is registered with Forest Carbon, who act as an intermediary and project developer for the Woodland Carbon Code. This allows the estate to use and sell carbon credits as their woodland matures.
The current strategy is to sell a third of the credits, which will help provide income from the woods. Lowther Estate will then use two thirds of these credits for offsetting their own carbon emissions.
Kelvin Archer, Forestry and Conservation Manager, Lowther Estate. Copyright Lowther Estate.
Planting took place between November and December 2023 and the EWCO agreement will continue for the next 15 years.
The planting of Ladybeck Wood will help Lowther Estate to reap benefits from areas of their land that were difficult to farm. As the woodland grows, it will also provide benefits for the land, and the wider community through water quality and nature recovery improvements.
Lowther Estate landowners recommend the following:
Find out more about how the Forestry Commission can help you create woodland.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Community radio stations across the UK are to benefit from a £600,000 funding uplift this year to help them thrive and keep providing a vital platform for local voices.
Community radio stations across the UK are to benefit from a £600,000 funding uplift this year, ensuring they can continue to thrive and provide a vital platform for local voices.
The uplift from Government will help stations in need of support to invest in staff, train volunteers, develop business plans and reach wider audiences. It takes the total funding available for community stations this year to £1 million.
There are more than 300 community radio stations in the UK, which provide a crucial service by producing local content that keeps people and communities connected, engaged and entertained.
The majority of the funding available (£900,000) will be awarded to stations in the form of grants from the Community Radio Fund (CRF), delivered by the media regulator Ofcom.
The remaining £100,000 will be managed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), working with the sector to develop new initiatives that support community radio, such as audience measurement research and supporting potential new services in underserved areas.
The Government’s decision to boost community radio funding by £600,000 for 2025/6 is part of its Plan for Change, supporting economic growth by creating more jobs and training opportunities.
Media Minister Stephanie Peacock said:
Community radio plays an important role in the lives of many people across the UK, helping to keep them informed, entertained and connected to the world around them.
We are committed to ensuring the growth and sustainability of the sector, which is why we have boosted funding to help stations create more jobs, build their businesses and reach even more listeners.
Unlike commercial radio, community stations are run as not-for-profit organisations. They typically cover a small geographic area and must benefit their area or community to be eligible for an operating licence from Ofcom. This could involve catering to under-represented groups or offering training opportunities for young people interested in careers in the media.
The CRF was launched in 2005 and since then has supported more than 150 community radio stations to ensure their long-term sustainability.
Stations are able to submit applications for grants, which are then assessed and awarded by an independent panel facilitated by Ofcom. Grants awarded are usually in the range of £5,000 to £30,000.
Mark Jones, Chair of the Community Radio Fund, said:
With the fund more than doubling for this year, we’ll be able to support new roles at even more stations. This will help community radio stations operate sustainably and continue to serve their local areas with creative and distinctive programming.
Ofcom will shortly announce more details about how they will manage the process for the 2025/26 fund, which will open for bids in September.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
Further quotes:
Vijay Umrao, Chair of the Community Media Association, said:
The increase in funding will help the Community Radio Fund achieve its primary role of providing grants to help fund the core costs of running Ofcom-licensed community radio stations, enabling the stations to continue their pivotal work of serving their local communities, something the sector has been doing for 20 years.
We are also particularly pleased that part of the funding will be supporting potential services in underserved areas, something we know our members will be excited about.
Martin Steers, Director of the UK Community Radio Network, said:
We welcome this uplift in support of the vital work community radio stations are doing across the country, now quite often the only local radio stations serving local communities, providing a platform for their issues, encouraging community cohesion, and holding local councils and others to account.
While it’s great to have this boost in funding for this year, it’s vital that the government looks to permanently increase the funding support available to community radio stations. This funding is needed more than ever to support the social gain and the vital service that these stations provide to their communities.
