NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour in a row over shutting a gate, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.

    A jury at Southwark Crown Court found Trevor Gocan, 57 (07.09.1967), of Odhams Walk, Covent Garden, guilty of manslaughter over the killing of James O’Neill – known as ‘Jim.’

    The assault occurred in Odhams Walk, close to both men’s homes, on Sunday, 6 October, 2024. The victim died in hospital almost a fortnight later, on Monday, 21 October.

    Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, from Specialist Crime South – who led the investigation – said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr O’Neill, who lost a loved one in shocking circumstances.

    “The killer acted disgracefully, punching and kicking his victim in full view of members of the public – among them children – on a busy Sunday morning.

    “The jury’s verdict shows that casual, thuggish violence will not be tolerated on London’s streets. There was absolutely no excuse for Gocan’s conduct.”

    Around 12:00hrs on Sunday, 6 October, 2024, officers responded with the London Ambulance Service following reports that a man had been assaulted in Odhams Walk. Mr O’Neill was treated at the scene for multiple injuries. He was taken to hospital, where doctors established he was suffering from a bleed on the brain.

    Police learned that the assailant had gone into a nearby house. There they found and arrested Gocan, who turned out to be a resident at the address.

    A post-mortem examination found that Mr O’Neill’s death was caused by complications from a traumatic brain injury and rib injuries resulting from the assault.

    At interview, the defendant gave no comment. In court, he claimed he acted in self-defence when he attacked Mr O’Neill, following a row over gate.

    Gocan has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 26 June.

    Notes to editors: The family would like James O’Neill to be referred to as Jim in any coverage.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Eucharistic Celebration on the sixth day of the Novendiali

    Source: The Holy See

    At 17.00 this afternoon, in the Vatican Basilica, the Eucharistic Celebration in memory of the Roman Pontiff Francis took place, on the sixth day of the Novendiali.
    The Papal Chapel was specially invited to the Celebration.
    The Concelebration was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, former prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
    The following is the homily delivered by His Eminence Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández during the course of the Holy Mass:

    Homily of His Eminence Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández
    This Easter, Christ tells us: “Everything that the Father gives me will come to me … and this is the will of the one who sent me, that I should not lose anything of what he gave me”. What immense gentleness these words have.
    Pope Francis is of Christ, he belongs to Him, and now that he has left this earth, he is fully of Christ. The Lord took Jorge Bergogliio to him from his baptism, and throughout all his existence. He is of Christ, who promised the fullness of life for him.
    You know the tenderness with which Pope Francis spoke of Christ, how he took pleasure in the sweet name of Jesus, as a good Jesuit. He knew well that he was His, and surely Christ did not leave him, He did not lose him. This is our hope, that we celebrate with Paschal joy under the precious light of this, today’s Gospel.
    We cannot ignore that we are also celebrating the day of workers, who were so close to Pope Francis’ heart.
    I remember a video he sent some time ago to a meeting of Argentinean businessmen. To them he said: “I will not tire of referring to the dignity of labour. Someone implied I propose a life without effort, or that I despise the culture of work”. Indeed, some dishonest people said that Pope Francis was defending the lazy, the drones, the delinquent, the idle.
    But he insisted: “Imagine if that can be said of me, a descendant of Piedmontese people, who did not come to this country hoping to be supported, but with a great desire to roll up their sleeves and build a future for their families”. You can tell they had annoyed him.
    Because for Pope Francis, work expresses and sustains the dignity of the human being, permitting him to develop his capacities, to help him grow in relationships, to feel like a collaborator with God in taking care of and improving this world, to make him feel useful to society and in solidarity with his loved ones. This is why work, regardless of hardships and difficulties, is a path of human maturation. And this is why he affirmed that work “is the best aid for the poor”. What is more, “there is no worse poverty than that which deprives of work and the dignity of work”.
    It is worth remembering his words during his journey to Genoa. He said that “the entire social pact is built around work”, and that when there are problems with work “it is democracy that goes into crisis”. Then he took up with admiration what the Italian Constitution says in Article 1: ‘Italy is a democratic republic, founded on work’.
    Behind this love for work is a strong conviction of Pope Francis: the infinite value of every human being, an immense dignity that must never be lost, that can never be ignored or forgotten.
    But every person is so worthy, and must be taken so seriously, that it is not just a question of giving him things, but of promoting him. That is, that he may develop all the good he has in him, that he may earn bread with the gifts God has given him, that he may develop his capacities. In this way, every person is promoted in all his or her dignity. And this is where work becomes so important.
    Now beware, Francis said. Another thing is some false talk of “meritocracy”. For it is one thing to assess a person’s merits and reward efforts. Another thing is the false “meritocracy”, which leads us to think that only those who are successful in life have merits.
    Let us take a look at a person who was born into a good family and was able to increase his wealth, lead a good life with a nice house, car, holidays abroad. Everything is good. He was lucky enough to grow up in the right conditions and performed meritorious deeds. Thus, with skills and time he has built a very comfortable life for himself and his children.
    At the same time, one who works with manual labour, with equal or greater merits due to the effort and time he has invested, has nothing. He did not have the good fortune to be born in the same context and, no matter how hard he works, he is barely able to survive.
    Let me tell you about a case I cannot forget: a young man I saw several times near my home in Buenos Aires. I would find him on the street, doing his job, which was to collect cartons and bottles to feed his family. I found him working when I went to university in the mornings, when I came back, and even working at night. Once, I asked him: “But how many hours do you work?” He replied: “Between twelve and fifteen hours a day. Because I have several children to support and I want them to have a better future than mine”.
    And so I asked him, “But how much time do you spend with them?” And he answered, “I have to choose, either I stay with them or I bring them food to eat”. Despite this, a well-dressed passer-by said to him, “Go and work, lazy!”. These words seemed to me horrendously cruel and vain. But these words can also be found hidden behind other, more elegant speeches.
    Pope Francis gave a prophetic cry against this false idea. And in several conversations, he made me notice: look, they lead us to think that the majority of poor people are poor because they have no “merit”. It seems that the one who has inherited a lot of goods is more worthy than the one who has worked hard all his life without being able to save anything or even buy a small house.
    That is why he stated in Evangelii gaudium that this model “does not appear to favour an investment in efforts to help the slow, the weak or the less talented to find opportunities in life” (EG 209).
    The same question always recurs: are the less giftted not human people? Do the weak not have the same dignity as we do? Must those who are born with fewer opportunities limit themselves merely to surviving? Is there no chance for them to have a job that enables them to grow, to develop, to create something better for their children? The value of our society depends on the answer we give to these questions.
    But allow me also to present Pope Francis as a worker. He not only spoke about the value of work, but all his life lived his mission with great effort, passion and commitment. For me, it was always a mystery to understand how he was able to bear such a demanding pace of work, also being an older man with several health problems. He not only worked in the morning with several meetings, audiences, celebrations and encounters, but also all the afternoon. And it seemed to me truly heroic that he summoned the little strength he had in his last days in order to be able to visit a prison.
    We cannot take him as an example, because he never took any holidays. In Buenos Aires, in the summer, if you could not find a priest, you could certainly find him. When he was in Argentina he never went out for dinner, to the theatre, to go for a stroll or to see a film; he never took a full day off. Instead, we normal beings could not resist. But his life was a stimulus to live our work generously.
    What I want to show, however, is the extent to which he understood that his work was his mission, his daily work was his response to God’s love, it was an expression of his concern for the good of others. And for these reasons work itself was his joy, his nourishment, his rest. He experienced what the first reading we heard says: “none of us lives for himself”.
    We ask for all workers, who sometimes have to work in unpleasant conditions, that they may find a way to live their work with dignity and hope, and that they may receive compensation that allows them to look forward with hope.
    But in this Mass, with the presence of the Vatican Curia, we take into account that we in the Curia also work. Indeed, we are workers who work to a timetable, who perform the tasks assigned to us, who must be responsible, and strive, and make sacrifices in our commitments.
    The responsibility of work is also for us, in the Curia, a path of maturation and fulfilment as Christians.
    Finally, allow me to recall Pope Francis’ love towards Saint Joseph, that strong and humble worker, that carpenter of a small forgotten village, who with his work took care of Mary and Jesus.
    And let us also recall that whenever Pope Francis had a serious problem, he placed a piece of paper with a supplication beneath the image of Saint Joseph. So, let us ask Saint Joseph in heaven to give a warm embrace to our dear Pope Francis.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public International Law panels recruitment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Public International Law panels recruitment

    Applications open on Wednesday 14 May

    The Public International Law panels (PIL) panels were created in 2014 and supplement the work of the Attorney General’s existing panels of civil counsel.

    Members of the panels advise the government on matters of public international law and undertake cases involving public international law in international courts and in the courts of the UK. The PIL panels are divided into A, B and C panels based on experience in the practical application of international law, whether as an adviser or advocate, or a mix of both.

    Applications open on Wednesday 14 May and close at midday on Wednesday 18 June. Appointments will commence on 1 January 2026 for a 5 year term.

    This exciting opportunity is open to practitioners and academics with relevant experience in the practical application of international law and who are qualified in a UK jurisdiction. All panellists are expected to understand and be able to advise on fundamental precepts of international law, including treaties, customary law and other sources and state responsibility. Applications are welcomed from those with experience in specific areas of international law.

    Application process

    Application packs, which include referee templates, an equality and diversity monitoring form and panel specific criteria will be available from  Wednesday 14 May. Contact the Panel Counsel Secretariat to receive a pack and make sure to include whether you are applying for the A, B or C panel.

    Those applying to the A panel will be expected to supply 5 references and those applying to the B and C panels will be expected to supply 3 references.

    Application packs will not be available before Wednesday 14 May.

    Join the virtual information evening on  Tuesday 20 May, 5pm to 6pm. Details of this session and how to register: PIL event flyer (MS Word Document, 444 KB)

    If you have any queries, please contact the Panel Counsel Secretariat.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens condemn ‘shameful’ SNP rollback on conversion practices and misogyny bill

    Source: Scottish Greens

    02 May 2025 Equality

    More in Equality

    The Scottish Government’s rollback on equality is a ‘shameful’ backward step, says Scottish Green equality spokesperson Maggie Chapman MSP.

    The comments come as Government Initiated Questions confirmed that the Government has dropped a misogyny bill which offered much-needed protections for women and girls at risk of gender-based violence. 

    At the same time, the government is also dropping their commitment to end conversion practices against LGBTQIA+ people in this term, instead opting to follow in Westminster’s footsteps and put equalities on the back burner.

    Both of these bills were originally promised as part of the Bute House Agreement that Scottish Greens negotiated after the last Holyrood elections.

    Ms Chapman says:

    “Dropping these bills sends a worrying message about the government’s commitment to equalities, and a shameful backward step. A lot of people have waited far too long for the protections in these bills, and they will be deeply disappointed that they will not be happening as promised.

    “Violence against women and girls is a national emergency. The misogyny bill was a vital step in ensuring that reports of harassment and assault are taken seriously. 

    “LGBTQIA+ people are put at serious risk by cruel, harmful conversion practices that are currently flying under the radar. So-called conversion “therapies” are deeply immoral and leave lasting damage for survivors. These abusive practices have no place in a modern, progressive Scotland.

    “This sends a terrible message. Our government must offer compassion, kindness and reassurance, not only in words but also in laws.

    “The Scottish Government should not be kicking these bills into the long grass, but that is exactly what is happening. The promises of support and justice tomorrow mean nothing to those being actively harmed by inaction today.

    “I urge the Scottish Government to reconsider their shameful decision and make good on their promise to improve equalities and human rights in Scotland through these bills today.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Final polls give Labor a clear lead before the election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    With those who haven’t already cast a pre-poll vote ready to hit the polling places tomorrow, a final batch of polls give Labor a firm lead.

    The final Newspoll gave Labor a 52.5–47.5 lead, a Freshwater poll gave Labor a 51.5–48.5 lead, a DemosAU poll gave Labor a 52–48 lead and a Morgan poll gave Labor a 53–47 lead. Vote counting at the election is also covered.

    The final Newspoll, conducted Monday to Thursday from a sample of 1,270, gave Labor a 52.5–47.5 lead, a 0.5-point gain for Labor since the April 21–24 Newspoll. Primary votes were 34% Coalition (down one), 33% Labor (down one), 13% Greens (up two), 8% One Nation (steady) and 12% for all Others (steady).

    Applying 2022 election preference flows to these primary votes would give Labor about a 53–47 lead. Newspoll is giving the Coalition a greater share of One Nation preferences than in 2022.

    Here is the final poll graph. Labor is clearly ahead and will win Saturday’s election unless polls are overstating them by as much as they did in the 2019 election.

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval in Newspoll was down one point to -10, with 52% dissatisfied and 42% satisfied. Peter Dutton’s net approval slumped a further four points to a new record low of -28. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by an unchanged 51–35.

    Since the early March Newspoll (the last one before the election campaign began), Dutton has lost 14 points on net approval, while Albanese has gained two points.

    Here is the graph of Albanese’s net approval in Newspoll this term. The plus signs are the Newspoll data points and a trend line has been fitted.

    A simple average of the four polls this week that have asked for leaders’ ratings (Newspoll, Freshwater, Essential and Resolve) has Albanese at net -3.8 approval and Dutton at net -20.

    By 57–43, voters thought they would be better off in the next three years under an Albanese Labor government than a Dutton Coalition government.

    Labor takes 51.5–48.5 lead in final Freshwater poll

    A national Freshwater poll for The Financial Review, conducted Tuesday to Thursday from a sample of 2,055 (double the normal sample size), gave Labor a 51.5–48.5 lead by respondent preferences, a 1.3-point gain for Labor since the April 14–16 Freshwater poll.

    Primary votes were 37% Coalition (down two), 33% Labor (up one), 12% Greens (steady) and 18% for all Others (up one). One Nation were broken out for the first time and had 8%. By 2022 election flows, Labor would lead by about 51–49.

    Freshwater has been the most pro-Coalition of regular Australian pollsters, and its last poll had a near tie when other polls had Labor well ahead.

    Albanese’s net approval was up seven points to -3, with 44% unfavourable and 41% favourable. Dutton’s net approval was down five points to -16. Albanese led Dutton as preferred PM by 49–39 (46–41 previously).

    Labor gained a point on cost of living and economic management to reduce the Coalition’s lead to one point and five points on these issues respectively.

    The Coalition led by 55–45 with the 42% who had already voted (25% early and 17% by postal ballot). Labor led by 52–41 with those yet to vote with 7% undecided.

    Two DemosAU final week polls

    The two national DemosAU polls listed here were taken over a concurrent fieldwork period. The previous DemosAU poll, conducted April 22–23, had given Labor a 52–48 lead from primary votes of 31% Coalition, 29% Labor, 14% Greens, 9% One Nation, 7% independents and 10% others.

    A national DemosAU poll
    , conducted April 27–30 from a large sample of 4,100, gave Labor a 52–48 lead, from primary votes of 33% Coalition, 31% Labor, 12% Greens, 9% One Nation, 2% Trumpet of Patriots, 7% independents and 6% others. State and other breakdowns are provided in the report.

    Albanese led Dutton by 46–34 as preferred PM. Party breakdowns of this question had Albanese leading by 71–10 with Greens voters, 57–20 with independent voters and 36–27 with other voters. Dutton only led by 43–21 with One Nation voters and 37–30 with Trumpet of Patriots voters. These breakdowns don’t imply a Coalition surge on preference flows.

    A second national DemosAU poll for The Gazette, conducted April 27–29 from a sample of 1,974, gave Labor a 51–49 lead, Primary votes were 32% Coalition, 29% Labor, 12% Greens, 9% One Nation, 7% independents and 11% others.

    Labor retains 53–47 lead in final Morgan poll

    The final national Morgan poll, conducted Monday to Friday from a sample of 1,368, gave Labor a 53–47 lead, unchanged from the April 21–27 Morgan poll.

    Primary votes were 34.5% Coalition (steady), 33% Labor (down one), 13.5% Greens (up 0.5), 6.5% One Nation (down one), 2% Trumpet of Patriots (up 0.5), 3% teal independents (up one) and 7.5% for all Others (steady). By 2022 election flows, Labor led by an unchanged 54–46.

    More from the Spectre poll

    I’ve received the full Spectre poll that I wrote about on Thursday. Labor’s net favourability was net zero, the Liberals were at net -2, Albanese was net -6, Dutton was net -13, Pauline Hanson was net -8 and Greens leader Adam Bandt was net -12.

    The most unpopular people in this poll were US President Donald Trump at net -47 and Elon Musk at net -45.

    Vote counting for the election

    Polls close at 6pm AEST Saturday in the eastern states, which have 122 of the 150 House of Representatives seats. Polls close at 6:30pm AEST in South Australia and the Northern Territory (12 combined seats), and in Western Australia at 8pm AEST (16 seats).

    By 8pm AEST, I expect the large majority of votes cast on election day to be counted in the eastern states. But pre-poll votes and returned postal votes already account for 40% of enrolled voters, and the biggest day of pre-polling (Friday) is still to be added.

    In many seats, we will need to wait until the pre-poll votes are counted before a result can be called. It’s unlikely the election will be called until a large proportion of the pre-poll votes have been counted. This is likely to take until late at night AEST.

    Not all seats will be called on election night. In some seats, the electoral commission will have selected the incorrect candidates for its final two candidate count, and will need to re-do this count with the correct candidates.

    Other seats will be close between the final two, and we will need to wait for late postals and absent votes to decide the winner. If postmarked by election day, postals have up to May 16 to arrive (13 days after the election).

    I wrote about the Senate election on April 16. It will usually be clear on election night who has won the top four or five seats out of six in a state. But to resolve the final seats, all votes need to be data entered into a computer system, then a button is pressed to electronically distribute preferences. This is likely to take about four weeks after the election.

    UK byelection and local elections

    I covered Thursday’s United Kingdom parliamentary byelection and local government elections for The Poll Bludger. The far-right Reform gained the safe Labour Runcorn and Helsby seat, winning by just six votes. They are making massive gains from both the Conservatives and Labour in the local elections.

    In final results from Monday’s Canadian election, the centre-left Liberals won 169 of the 343 seats, three short of the 172 needed for a majority. The Conservatives won 144 seats, the separatist left-wing Quebec Bloc (BQ) 22, the left-wing New Democratic Party (NDP) seven and the Greens one. Vote shares were 43.7% Liberals, 41.3% Conservatives, 6.3% BQ, 6.3% NDP and 1.3% Greens.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Final polls give Labor a clear lead before the election – https://theconversation.com/final-polls-give-labor-a-clear-lead-before-the-election-255724

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two new Non-Executive Board Members appointed to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Two new Non-Executive Board Members appointed to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport

    The Secretary of State has appointed Jude Kelly and Janet Pope as Non-Executive Board Members for terms of three years from 23 April 2025 to 22 April 2028.

    Jude Kelly

    Jude Kelly CBE is an internationally acclaimed creative leader who has founded and steered some of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions, arts festivals, charities, and outreach programmes. A pioneer for social progress, Jude is renowned for championing inclusion, gender equality and diversity. She is the former Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre , founder Artistic Director of the West Yorkshire Playhouse ( now Leeds Playhouse) and the Founder and current Head of Global Advisory of WOW – Women of the World which runs festivals and programmes in  many parts of the UK including Bradford, Durham, Hull, Manchester Rotherham and internationally in 26 countries . Jude has directed over 200 theatre and opera productions, led the Culture programme for the London Olympic and Paralympic 2012 bid and was  a Cultural Leader in Residence for the World Economic Forum 2024. She is the eighth Master of St Catherine’s College, University of Oxford, a Board member of Creative UK and cultural adviser to The Eden Project. She is the inaugural Chair of One Creative North.

    Janet Pope

    Janet Pope is currently Chair of the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) Bank and Environment and Social Purpose Committee Chair at Yorkshire Building Society. She is also a Trustee at StepChange, the debt advisory charity. Janet recently retired from her role as Chief of Staff and Chief Sustainability Officer at Lloyds Banking Group where she was a Group Director for more than ten years and previously Savings Director.  Her earlier roles include CEO Alliance Trust Savings, EVP Strategy at Visa and Retail Banking Director (Africa) at Standard Chartered Bank. Janet’s previous non-executive roles include board roles at the Banking Standards Board and government audit committee roles at DCLG and ODPM. Janet read Economics at the LSE and holds an MSc Economics and MBA from London University.

    As well as sitting on the Departmental Board, Janet has been appointed to chair the Department’s Audit and Risk Committee.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    These roles receive an annual remuneration of £15,000 per annum (£20,000 for Audit and Risk role). These appointments have been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. 

    Jude Kelly has declared that she is a member of The Labour Party and canvassed on their behalf at the last general election.  Janet Pope has declared that she was a Labour  Councillor for the London Borough of Camden from 1986-1990, Chair of Camden Town with Primrose Hill Branch of Holborn & St Pancras Labour Party 2021-2023 and from 2024 she is currently Treasurer of Camden Central branch Holborn & St Pancras Labour Party 2024

    DCMS has around 400 regulated Public Appointment roles across 42 Public Bodies (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations) including Arts Council England, Theatres Trust, the National Gallery, UK Sport and the Gambling Commission. DCMS is committed to ensuring that the boards of public bodies benefit from a range of talents, backgrounds, and perspectives, and welcome applications from across the country. To find out more about Public Appointments or to apply for a role visit the HM Government Public Appointments Website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Man convicted of fly-tipping offence after successful prosecution by council

    Source: City of Winchester

    Winchester City Council has achieved another successful prosecution for a fly-tipping offence.

    A West Sussex man has been convicted of the fly-tipping offence after an incident at Alresford Road, Ovington, Winchester in April 2024.  

    Philip Henry Exall, 68 years-old and a resident of Willett Close, Petworth, West Sussex, pleaded guilty on Friday 4 April 2025 in Basingstoke Magistrates Court.

    The court heard that surveillance camera images captured an open-back tipper truck in a lane with concrete boulders in the rear, boulders which were later discovered dumped in the same area.

    Mr Exall was ordered to pay a fine, victim surcharge and full prosecution costs, totalling £1,315.73.

    Winchester City Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance Cllr Neil Cutler said: “This case once again reinforces Winchester City Council’s zero-tolerance approach to fly-tipping; the latest Defra figures show that there has been a reduction of 15% in fly tipping incidents in the Winchester District and we will continue to look to prosecute all of those who commit this environmental crime wherever possible.

    “Fly-tipping causes huge damage to our local communities, wildlife and the environment, and we also rely on reports and witness statements from the public to prosecute – I’d encourage anyone who witnesses or captures footage of someone dumping waste illegally in our district to report it.”

    Reports of fly-tipping can be made on the council’s website at www.winchester.gov.uk/report, via the Your Winchester app or by calling 0300 300 0013. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: International operation uncovers large scale scheme laundering hundreds of millions of euros

    Source: Eurojust

    The suspect is the son of a prominent entrepreneur in Ukraine, who owned a defence company. Following the Russian invasion, profits began to decline, and the owners are suspected of having illegally sold their majority stake to representatives of a foreign state.

    To hide the illegal profits gained from the sale, the owner’s son bought properties, in several countries including France and Monaco. He is believed to have subsequently laundered hundreds of millions of euros in profits.

    In France alone, he is suspected of having laundered over EUR 57 million between 2010 and 2023. He also laundered profits from illegal arms sales by his father, the owner of the defence company. Soon after opening a money laundering investigation, the French authorities froze the suspects’ assets worth EUR 57 million with the intention of returning them to Ukraine.

    Investigations continued in the framework of a joint investigation team (JIT) set up at Eurojust, facilitating the judicial cooperation between the three countries. French, Ukrainian and Monegasque authorities worked together with support from Eurojust to establish a judicial strategy and exchange information on the illegal activities.

    Their collaboration resulted in the arrest of the son in Monaco on 28 April. The French, Ukrainian and Monegasque authorities are currently questioning him as part of the JIT. During the operation, several documents of value to the investigation were discovered in Monaco. The owner of the defence company is already on trial in Ukraine for crimes against national security and is now suspected of money laundering as well.

    The following authorities carried out the operations:

    • France: JUNALCO (National Jurisdiction against Organised Crime); Public Prosecution Office Paris; ONAF (National Office against Fraud)
    • Ukraine: Prosecutor General’s Office; Security Service of Ukraine
    • Monaco: Prosecutor General’s Office of Monaco; Directorate of Public Safety

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Burkina Faso and Mali’s fabulous flora: new plant life record released

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Cyrille Chatelain, Scientist, Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques de Genève (CJBG)

    The Illustrated Flora of Burkina Faso and Mali is the first comprehensive documentation of the remarkable plant diversity in these two west African countries.

    Written in French, the book is the outcome of decades of botanical research and scientific collaboration between institutions and botanists from Burkina Faso, Mali, France, Switzerland and Germany. For the first time, it provides a complete inventory of ferns and flowering plants in Burkina Faso and Mali. It catalogues 2,631 species – both native and introduced – with 2,115 identified in Burkina Faso, 1,952 in Mali, and 1,453 shared between both countries.

    Featuring over 800 photographs, 2,631 scientific illustrations, detailed descriptions, distribution maps, and identification keys, it serves as an essential tool for scientific research and biodiversity conservation. It’s also useful for sustainable development in the region.

    We are a team of botanists from Burkina Faso, Mali and Europe who worked on this guide. One of our team is the botanist Jean César, who has carried out botanical research in the region for over 30 years. We based the guide on his earlier work in researching the flora of West Africa, and training young botanists.

    The guide shows how diverse the climate of west Africa is. From the Sahara Desert to the Sahelian zone and the savannas and open forests of the Sudanian region.

    By identifying plant species – whether common, rare, overexploited, or invasive – this guide can play a crucial role in conservation efforts: one can only protect what one knows.

    The publication lays the groundwork for conservation of Sahelian ecosystems, which face increasing degradation with direct consequences for rural communities.

    How we came up with the guide

    As a team, we’ve conducted more than 40 years of research in Burkina Faso and Mali, documenting different plants. We also studied herbarium collections in Paris, Montpellier, Frankfurt and Geneva in Europe and Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso in Burkina Faso.

    We drew from online resources such as African Plants – A Photo Guide and the African Plant Database. These compile comprehensive data on African plant biology, distribution and taxonomy (the science of classifying and naming plants).

    The book is written in French and includes an index of local plant names in the local languages of Bambara, Dogon, Sonrai, Sénoufo and Peulh. This makes it a valuable resource for local communities and researchers alike. There is an open access digital version to make sure that everyone can use the new illustrated guide.

    Discovering new and rare species

    The book highlights species previously known from only a few observations. These are both widely distributed species and plants that are rare, only found in unprotected areas facing heavy urbanisation.

    About 330 of the plant species in the guide have only ever been seen once in Burkina Faso or Mali, although some are present in neighbouring countries.

    Another 40 near-endemic species (mainly only found in Burkina Faso and Mali) have only been seen once 40 years ago. Most of those are aquatic plants, growing along the Niger River, or in small wetland environments.

    Additionally, this research updates information on more than a hundred poorly understood species that require further study. Some of these are likely new to science and have not even been given formal names. For instance, we found a new type of Brachystegia tree in the Geneva Botanical Garden’s herbarium. It is new to science and will have to be described.

    Many plants documented here hold ethnobotanical value. They are part of the indigenous knowledge of Burkina Faso and Mali and play roles in traditional medicine, agriculture and crafts.

    We found more than 120 species that have medicinal uses. Identifying them with correct scientific names will be crucial for the study of how people can continue to use these plants, especially as medicine.

    Collaboration in difficult times

    The hospitality of Sahelian countries has fostered numerous collaborations over the years under different projects.

    Unfortunately, the current insecurity in the region has made field studies extremely dangerous, threatening conservation projects. For instance, forest rangers can no longer travel freely, and some regions have become inaccessible.

    Publishing this book at such a difficult time brings renewed momentum to scientists and serves as a positive sign of continued collaboration. It gives visibility to botanical studies in both countries and highlights the importance of collaborations among botanists from different continents.

    By recording this biodiversity, this work not only preserves valuable ecological knowledge but also ensures that the knowledge of these species is not lost to conflict-driven environmental degradation. It sheds light on the importance of preserving plants for future generations.

    Cyrille Chatelain receives funding from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

    Adjima Thiombiano, Blandine Marie Ivette Nacoulma, and Mamadou Lamine Diarra do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Burkina Faso and Mali’s fabulous flora: new plant life record released – https://theconversation.com/burkina-faso-and-malis-fabulous-flora-new-plant-life-record-released-253571

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent museum to host jam-packed comedy festival in city’s Centenary year

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Friday, 2nd May 2025

    The Stoke-on-Trent Comedy Festival is returning to the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery this month.

    The popular festival has been extended to take place over two weekends in May as part of the city’s Centenary celebrations.

    Eight comedians will be taking to the stage at the Hanley venue on Friday 9 May, Saturday 10 May and Saturday 17 May.

    The line-up includes:

    • Mrs Smith who accidentally became a stand-up comedian after going viral on Facebook
    • George Lewis who has supported Romesh Ranganathan, Tom Allen, Russell Kane and Josh Widdecombe on their own tours
    • Edinburgh Festival regular Barbara Nice who has supported comedians Johnny Vegas and Peter Kay in the past
    • Tez Ilyas who has made various television appearances on shows such as Live at The Apollo, Mock the Week, and The Last Leg
    • Award-winning comedian Jonny Awsum who shot to national fame on Britain’s Got Talent
    • Freestyle rapper MC Hammersmith who has amassed over 100 million view online and supported Jason Manford and John Bishop
    • Unwitting star of Shooting Stars, Dave’s One Night Stand and The Angelos Epithemiou Show – Angelos Epithemiou
    • Edinburgh Award nominee and Live at The Apollo star Josh Pugh

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Our comedy festivals are incredibly popular so we’re delighted that it’s returning to the city during our Centenary year.

    “It’s going to be bigger and better than ever with a great line-up of different comedians to suit everyone’s tastes.

    “Comedians who have performed at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery in the past have told us how much they enjoyed the venue and the audience so I’m sure this will be another great success.”

    Rachel Jones and Dave Twentyman from Me & Mrs Jones Comedy, who have organised the Stoke-on-Trent Comedy Festival in partnership with the city council, added: “Following the success of our comedy festival last year we are extremely happy to be returning to the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery with even more shows than before.

    “We are proud to be bringing high calibre professional comedians to Hanley and hope that there is an act who most people will enjoy watching. With over 850 people already booked to attend this year’s festival we are looking forward to welcoming everyone there.”

    For further information, or to book a ticket, visit: https://meandmrsjonescomedy.com/stoke-on-trent-comedy-festival-2025/

    The full line-up for The Stoke-on-Trent Comedy Festival is:

    Friday 9 May

    Mrs Smith ‘See Me’!

    Doors and bar open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Tickets £18.  Recommended for over 16s.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-eadrdey

    Saturday 10 May

    George Lewis: “The Best Thing You’ll Ever Do.” (SOLD OUT)

    Doors open at 2.30pm, show 3 – 4pm. Tickets £16.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-vvopjdm

    Fun! with Barbara Nice.

    Doors open at 4.30pm, show 5 -6pm. Tickets £15. Age 14+

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-ojoxlga

    Talk to Tez.

    Doors open at 6.30pm, show 7 – 8pm. Tickets £16. Recommended for over 18s.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-noxrqmp

    Saturday 17 May

    Jonny Awsum and his award-winning kids show.

    Doors open 12.30pm, show 1 – 2pm. Tickets £10.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-dvqgzme

    MC Hammersmith: The MC Stands for middle class.

    Doors open at 2.30pm, show 3 – 4pm. Tickets £15.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-jzpejjz

    Angelos Epithemiou: Can I Just Show You What I’ve Got?

    Doors open at 4.30pm, show 5 – 6pm.Tickets £16.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-krxgxng

    Josh Pugh: Haha Yeah Sound (Work in Progress).

    Doors open at 6.30pm, show at 7 – 8pm. Tickets £18.

    To book visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Me-and-Mrs-Jones-comedy/t-dvqxaxr

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New RE syllabus launched in Derby focuses on inclusion and diversity

    Source: City of Derby

    Educators and community leaders welcomed a new Religious Education (RE) syllabus which will be taught in Derby’s schools. Around 100 professionals from Derby City Council, schools and other partner organisations attended the launch event.

    The development of the new syllabus follows the government’s requirement for a review of the RE curriculum every five years. Local authorities are required to have a Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE) to oversee RE and collective worship.

    Derby City Council collaborated with its SACRE, comprising faith representatives from across the city, along with schools and advisors, to create an inclusive and wide-ranging syllabus.

    The syllabus provides children and young people with the opportunity to study various faiths and beliefs, fostering mutual respect in relation to both religious and non-religious worldviews.  It also incorporates new elements addressing significant contemporary issues, including anti-racism and climate change awareness. 

    Delegates gathered in the Council Chamber at the launch event

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

    RE is such an important subject – it explores big questions about life, what people believe and what difference this makes to how they live, so that pupils can make sense of religion and world views, and reflect on their own ideas and ways of living. 

    The ambition for RE in the city of Derby is to provide the opportunity for children and young people to acquire knowledge in relation to the lives of people within the local area and the wider world.

    Professor Cecile Wright, chair of SACRE, said:

    The new Religious Education syllabus produced by the city council provides a framework for schools in accordance with its statutory duties. It offers a balanced and sensible approach to the curriculum content, with the aim of fostering social and community cohesion. 

    It also offers the scope for children and young people to develop key transferable skills such as critical thinking.

    The new syllabus will be introduced in September 2025. Further information can be found on the National Association of SACREs website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sharing Experience, Building Tomorrow: Solutions to Complex Challenges in Asia and the Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    In a fast-changing and uncertain world, countries must solve complex challenges to forge a sustainable future. At ADB’s 58th Annual Meeting in Milan, Italy, a broad range of partners and stakeholders will discuss how shared solutions can deliver stability, progress, and lasting positive change in Asia and the Pacific.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Fixing Our Broken Food System episode 3: The Debate | Unpacking The Evidence

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

    In this third episode on Fixing Our Broken Food System, hear from committee chair Baroness Walmsley and members of the Lords as they press government on the committee’s report.

    Baroness Walmsley shares highlights from the recent House of Lords debate on the Food, Diet and Obesity Committee’s report. In the debate, members raised topics including the sugar tax, junk food, HFSS, ultra-processed foods, school meals, the impact on the NHS and the economy, and more.

    Watch now to find out more about the government’s response to the committee’s report and what members are calling on the government to do next.

    Find out more about the series https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/house-of-lords-podcast/

    Find out more about the Lords Food, Diet and Obesity Committee https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/698/food-diet-and-obesity-committee/

    Presenter: Baroness Walmsley

    Music: Universfield on Pixabay

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #Food #Obesity #Nutrition #Diet

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6L2XjLrxAk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS to attend 58th Annual Meeting of Asian Development Bank in Milan, Italy

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, will depart for Milan, Italy, in the early hours of May 4 (Sunday) to attend the 58th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The theme of this year’s meeting is “Sharing Experience, Building Tomorrow”, focusing on development issues and challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region, such as climate change, digital transformation, and promoting mutually beneficial co-operation and inclusive economic growth. Mr Chan will deliver remarks at the Governor’s Plenary.

         He will also meet with the President of the ADB, Mr Masato Kanda, and financial officials from other countries and regions attending the meeting.

         Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong on May 7 (local time) and arrive on the morning of May 8. During his absence, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, will act as the Financial Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Robert Schuman – 02-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    In 1958, Robert Schuman was elected president of the European Parliamentary Assembly, predecessor to the European Parliament. This French politician, who was particularly sensitive to the tensions between France and Germany, is regarded as one of the ‘founding fathers’ of what is now the European Union. After the Second World War, he supported the establishment of the Council of Europe and helped to bring many other European projects to fruition. With his declaration of 9 May 1950, considered the founding act of the European integration process, Robert Schuman assumed political responsibility for a common coal and steel market that would later become the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). The declaration underlines the role of France in building a strong, prosperous and peaceful Europe, starting with France and Germany. Going far beyond mere objectives, the declaration also sets out the precise basis upon which the negotiations should begin. Robert Schuman was president of the European Parliamentary Assembly from 1958 to 1960. This institution was the political institution par excellence of the Communities: at once a democratic organ representing the peoples of Europe, a body invested with the power of executive scrutiny, and a unifying element between the three Communities. Highly influenced by Christian values, Robert Schuman campaigned to build a strong and united Europe step by step, and to establish institutionalised solidarity between European countries. Robert Schuman’s legacy continues to influence and shape the European Union to this day.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Christodoulos Patsalides: The economy of Cyprus – developments and outlook

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Intoduction

    Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and friends,

    It is a great pleasure to address the 3rd Capital Link Cyprus Business Forum here in New York, a city that has long served as a global hub for business, finance, and innovation. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the organizers for bringing us together today to exchange insights on the economic trajectory of Cyprus. Events like this are crucial in fostering dialogue and reinforcing the strong economic ties between Cyprus and the international business community.

    Key metrics of the Cypriot Economy

    The Cypriot economy and its banking sector have continued to demonstrate remarkable resilience, despite an increasingly volatile global environment marked by geopolitical uncertainty and rising trade tensions. In 2024, Cyprus achieved robust economic growth, significantly outpacing the euro area average and primarily driven by foreign investment, robust tourism, and rapid expansion in Information and Communication Technologies. At the same time, unemployment declined notably, falling well below the euro area average and approaching conditions of full employment, while inflation declined significantly and remains well on track. Fiscal performance also strengthened considerably, with public debt reduced to levels well below the euro area average, highlighting the country’s improved fiscal discipline.

    Meanwhile, key indicators of banking sector strength remained solid. Capital adequacy levels, as measured by the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio, are significantly above the EU average, and profitability, as measured by Return on Equity, reached one of the highest levels across the Union. Cypriot banks also continue to maintain some of the strongest liquidity positions in the EU, further reinforcing the sector’s soundness and resilience.

    The remarkable economic performance of Cyprus was recently acknowledged by the International Monetary Fund. As mentioned in its Concluding Statement of its recent Article IV Mission:

     “Cyprus has demonstrated impressive resilience to successive shocks. Growth has remained among the highest in the euro area, mainly supported by foreign investment, strong tourism, and a boom in the ICT sector.”

    All major credit rating agencies have also recognized the notable progress of the economy, upgrading Cyprus’s credit rating to the ‘A’ category. This progress not only reflects solid economic performance but also acts as a safeguard against global uncertainty and constitutes key factor for sustaining strong growth potential.

    Domestic Economy

    Growth Outlook

    Having outlined the broader context of the Cyprus economy, I will now turn to the growth outlook in more detail. In 2024, GDP growth reached 3.4% compared to 0.9% in the euro area. Domestic demand, and most specifically, private consumption has been a key driver of growth, complemented by a positive contribution from net exports, particularly export of services. Investments also registered an increase in 2024, across both housing and other private investments, such as ongoing implementation of major infrastructure projects with foreign financing as well as projects under the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Despite geopolitical challenges, tourism arrivals and revenue reached record levels in 2024, exceeding four million tourists for the first time. On the production side, the services sectors of the economy were the key drivers for economic activity. Specifically, the sectors of trade, transportation (particularly shipping), hotels and restaurants gave the greatest support to GDP growth. The information and communication sector as well as financial and professional services were also important contributors to growth. Finally, healthcare and education, real estate management activities, construction and manufacturing sectors also fueled economic activity.

    I would like to highlight at this point that the steps taken to diversify our economy-both across sectors, including services, tourism, and non-tourism-related industries, as well as across different markets-have played a key role in strengthening our resilience. These efforts have significantly enhanced our ability to withstand external shocks, particularly in times of geopolitical turmoil.

    Looking ahead, based on March 2025 projections of the Central Bank of Cyprus, GDP is expected to continue to grow robustly at around 3% per year over 2025-2027. This continued expansion is anticipated to largely stem from domestic demand, with external demand playing, to a lesser extent, a supporting role. Investments are also expected to remain strong. Nevertheless, persistent geopolitical tensions may introduce downside risks to the speed of external recovery.

    Fiscal Developments and Public Debt Reduction

    On the fiscal side, Cyprus has made significant strides in reinforcing fiscal stability, a cornerstone of sustainable economic progress. Notably, public debt declined substantially from 113.6% of GDP in 2020 to 65.4% in 2024. As of January 2025, the debt-to-GDP ratio had fallen further to 61.9%, reflecting disciplined fiscal policies and sound economic management. It should be noted that in the euro area, public debt stood at 88.2% at the end of the third quarter of 2024.

    Looking forward, the Ministry of Finance projects that this downward trajectory will persist, with public debt expected to fall below 50% of GDP by 2028. This fiscal consolidation not only strengthens Cyprus’ financial resilience but also enhances investor confidence, reinforcing the country’s attractiveness for foreign direct investment and securing long-term economic stability.

    Inflation Trends

    Turning to inflation, price stability remains a key focus. Inflationary pressures have eased significantly, with the headline inflation significantly declining to 2.3% in 2024 from 3.9% in 2023. This reduction has been largely driven by the correction of external supply-side shocks, particularly in energy markets, as well as the European Central Bank’s monetary policy tightening.

    Over the period 2025-2027, inflation is projected to sustainably stabilize around 2%. This is in line with the medium-term target we set at the Governing Council of the ECB. Although certain services sectors continue to experience relatively elevated price growth, overall inflationary pressures remain well-contained, ensuring a stable environment for households and businesses alike. However, we must remain vigilant, as exceptionally high uncertainty continues to pose upside risks to inflation, alongside climate-related factors.

    The Cyprus Banking Sector

    The banking sector in Cyprus has demonstrated remarkable progress and resilience over the past years. Our financial institutions have not only navigated a challenging global environment but have also shown notable strides in strengthening their foundations. A primary indicator of this resilience is the enhancement of the solvency capacity, with the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio increasing to 24.5% in December 2024. This increase places Cyprus at the top of the EU spectrum, well above the EU average of 16.1%.

    Despite the ongoing challenges from successive crises, Cyprus has experienced no clear signs of a decline in credit quality. On the contrary, the Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio has continued to show improvement. As of December 2024, it has decreased to 6.2%. Even though this is a positive trend, we must acknowledge that more work is needed, especially considering the EU’s average NPL ratio of 1.9% as of the same period.

    Profitability has remained strong and persistent, with the Return on Equity (RoE) reaching 20.0% in December 2024, significantly higher than the EU average of 10.5% in the same period. Operational efficiency has also seen progress, as the cost-to-income ratio decreased to 37% in December 2024, a considerable improvement compared to previous years and lower than the EU’s 54% average in the same period.

    Cypriot banks maintain some of the highest liquidity levels within the EU. This strong liquidity position enhances their capacity to navigate potential market disruptions and to continue supporting economic stability. As of December 2024, the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR), which reflects a bank’s ability to withstand significant liquidity outflows during stressful periods, stands at 333%, well above the EU average of 163% as of the same period and the minimum requirement of 100%. Similarly, the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR), which measures the stability of a bank’s funding sources, is at 188% in December 2024, exceeding both the EU average of 127% recorded in the same period and the required 100%.

    Looking ahead, the banking industry must navigate several challenges, including integrating AI, managing cyber risks, responding to geopolitical instability, shifting towards a more sustainable economy, addressing the growing need for substantial investments in technology, and adapting to heightened competition from the non-banking sector, particularly in the area of payment services. Addressing these key issues is crucial for maintaining the sector’s positive growth and will continue to be a primary focus of our oversight efforts.

    Conclusion

    Cyprus has demonstrated resilience and strong economic performance against a backdrop of global uncertainties. Despite elevated international risk and the increasing geopolitical fragmentation, it is my belief that Cyprus will continue to prosper thanks to its commitment on prudent, yet business-friendly policies.

    Let me bring my speech to a close by quoting Warren Buffett’s renowned advice: “Risk comes from not knowing what you’re doing.” This obviously highlights the necessity for informed decision-making. I therefore urge you to examine the country’s track record and to assess the ingredients of its pursued policies. I am confident that Cyprus will stand out as a compelling and reliable destination for investment.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Response to arbitration tribunal final report: UK-Sandeel (The European Union v. the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Government response

    Response to arbitration tribunal final report: UK-Sandeel (The European Union v. the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland)

    UK Government statement on the sandeel Arbitration Tribunal’s final ruling in the UK-Sandeel case

    • The UK Government has received the sandeel Arbitration Tribunal’s final ruling in the UK-Sandeel case.
    • While the UK succeeded in the majority of its arguments, the Tribunal identified a procedural error in the decision to close English waters.
    • The ruling does not mean the UK is legally obliged to reverse the closure of English waters, and the decision to close Scottish waters was fully upheld.
    • The government will undertake a process in good faith to bring the UK into compliance.

    The sandeel Arbitration Tribunal has published its final ruling.

    This relates to decisions taken in March 2024 by the UK and Scottish Governments to close our North Sea Waters to sandeel fishing. The decisions were taken to protect vulnerable seabird populations and support the wider marine environment.

    In April 2024, the EU launched dispute proceedings to challenge the closures. In October 2024, the EU referred the challenge to an arbitration tribunal to rule on the dispute.

    The report found that the UK successfully demonstrated that the measures taken to close English and Scottish waters were based on the best available science and had sufficient regard to the principle of non-discrimination. The tribunal also found that the Scottish measures had sufficient regard to the principle of proportionality.

    The Tribunal found that during the decision-making process to close English waters to sandeel fishing, the UK did not have sufficient regard to the principle of proportionality, specifically in relation to EU rights during the adjustment period – a requirement under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement  (TCA).

    The government will now undertake a process in good faith to bring the UK into compliance. 

    There is no legal obligation for the UK to reverse the closures while the compliance process takes place, and the report does not indicate that compliance must require reversing the closures. 

    A government spokesperson said: 

    We welcome the clarity provided by this decision, and we will undertake a process in good faith to bring the UK into compliance on the specific issues raised by the Tribunal. 

    The ruling does not mean the UK is legally obliged to reverse the closure of English waters, and the decision to close Scottish waters was fully upheld. 

    We remain committed to protecting our seabirds and the wider marine environment, in accordance with our commitments to the TCA and other international agreements.

    Disputes and the use of resolution mechanisms are a normal part of a mature relationship with international partners. We will continue to act in the national interest as we work towards a strong and lasting partnership with our European neighbours.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Costa to head to Barcelona on 5-6 May 2025 to highlight Europe’s industrial and innovation efforts

    Source: Council of the European Union

    The President of the European Council, António Costa, will travel to Barcelona, Spain on 5 and 6 May 2025 to meet with regional leaders and visit key industrial and research infrastructures in the areas of the automotive sector, artificial intelligence and innovation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City commemorates VE Day 80 with community events

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The City of Wolverhampton Council has made £20,000 available in grants from the Safer Prosperity Fund, enabling communities to mark this historic occasion in style.  

    Residents will be holding street parties and joining together in parks, community centres, places of worship – even allotments.

    VE Day, celebrated annually on 8 May, commemorates the day in 1945 when Nazi Germany officially surrendered to the Allied forces, ending nearly 6 years of brutal conflict in Europe. The 80th anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals and the enduring spirit of unity and resilience that characterised the Allied victory.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Digital and Community, said: “VE Day is a time for us to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the peace and prosperity that their bravery has afforded us.

    “As we mark this 80th anniversary, let us honour their legacy by fostering a community spirit of unity and remembrance.”

    In addition to community based celebrations, the council will be hosting several special events:

    • Coffee morning at Central Library at 10.30am on Thursday 8 May. Staff will dress in red, white, and blue, and there will be a green screen and sing along with school children in Central Library. The young poet laureate and primary poet champion have been commissioned to write a poem to be read at the event and shared widely on social media.
       
    • VE Family Celebration Event at Bantock Park on Monday 5 May, from 11am to 3pm – a themed event with bunting, 40s singers, The Bluebird Belles, and craft activities. 
       
    • Wolverhampton Art Gallery will be displaying artwork from their collection for the 80th commemoration of VE Day. The featured artwork is by Edward Bawden, titled “Ravenna: Tired Tanks parked in the Viale Farini, 1944.”

    Councillor Ahmed added: “We’re inviting all residents to participate in these events and join in commemorating this historic occasion. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of VE Day continues to inspire future generations.”

    Additionally, veterans will be attending a wide range of events including The Black Soldiers Story Untold, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of Black soldiers during VE/VJ Day and providing a platform to celebrate their courage, Vaisakhi at West Park will be honouring Sikh war veterans at Vaisakhi, Veterans in the Community will come together for a buffet, music, quiz and raffle, Bilston Memory Café will be holding a celebration for people with dementia and local veterans, while the RAFA Club will be opening its doors to families, veterans and children alike to commemorate VE Day next Saturday 10 May.

    National celebrations will be honouring the momentous announcement made by Prime Minister Winston Churchill at 3pm on 8 May, 1945, signalling the end of the Second World War in Europe after nearly 6 years of brutal conflict. 2025 will also mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day on 15 August, 1945, which signified the Allies’ defeat of Japan.

    For more details of the national celebrations, visit the VE/VJ Day 80 website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 150 children and young people take part in The Big Sports Day

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    In a first-of-its-kind event for the city, over 150 children and young people from Special Schools and mainstream primary and secondary schools part in The Big Sports Day.

    The event was held at the Saughton Athletics Track and invoilved children and young people with with a physical disability learn,ing difficulty or autism.

    Organised by the City of Edinburgh Council’s Active Schools team and Youth Work Development Workers based at Gorgie Mills school, children and young people took part in a range of sports, facilitated by a range of trusted providers, including: football, frame running, cycling, tennis, karate, rugby, archery, cricket and lots more.

    Groups of pupils rotated around three or four specific activity stations catering to their individual needs and abilities. Edinburgh College students volunteered their support on the day.

    The event was partly funded through the Edinburgh 900 fund with a one -off amount secured to run The Big Sports Day event.

    Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education, Children and Families Convener, said:

    It is truly fantastic to see that this community event was attended by so many learners from across the city and to hear that a great time was had by all! Having fun through sport and keeping active is an important part of the curriculum across all Edinburgh schools and it’s brilliant that learners had the chance to try out a range of different sports.

    Published: May 2nd 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Primož Dolenc: Green finance and investment

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests,

    I am delighted to welcome you to today’s conference organized jointly by Banka Slovenije and the European Investment Bank.

    The event builds on the discussions from our 2023 conference, once again placing green finance and investment at the center of our debate.

    This underscores the recognition that risks linked to climate and environmental change are among the most pressing global challenges of our time.

    Confronting these challenges calls for collective action and a shared responsibility towards future generations.

    Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 requires significant investments across the EU, alongside other measures.

    According to Mr Draghi’s report and other studies, the EU will have to allocate additional green investments amounting to around two percent of GDP annually by 2030.

    Despite the funds available at the EU level and the reformed EU fiscal governance framework, we can expect a public funding gap for green investments in the years to come.

    As public finances are increasingly strained due to security concerns and an ageing population, Europe needs a strong framework to also attract and efficiently deploy private capital.

    The recently launched Savings and Investment Union strategy, which builds on the Capital Markets Union and Banking Union projects, is an important element to support the massive green investment needs.

    A more integrated and deeper EU financial system – complemented by advances in financial literacy and, ideally, a positive shift in mindset – would enable a more efficient allocation of savings from businesses and citizens.

    While Europe remains committed to ambitious climate goals, the strategies and processes guiding the green transition continue to evolve.

    A perspective that has gained traction over the last year is how Europe can reconcile the complexities of global competition and environmental imperatives and balance ambitious climate goals with economic vitality.

    In February this year, the European Commission unveiled its proposal for a Clean Industrial Deal, outlining strategies to unlock investments in clean energy and decarbonize and revitalize Europe’s industry.

    Another important initiative is the Omnibus Simplification Package, introduced by the Commission in February.

    By simplifying the business environment and reducing administrative burdens, Europe would enhance its global competitiveness and ultimately spur investments, including those supporting the green transition.

    However, this drive for simplification is not without its critics and concerns that easing regulations could undermine corporate accountability and stall progress towards our climate objectives.

    When introducing adjustments, policymakers must ensure that the underlying strategies are both ambitious and pragmatic. 

    At Banka Slovenije and within the Eurosystem, we are committed to play our part by:

    • increasingly incorporating climate-related issues into our analyses;

    • decarbonizing our monetary policy-related corporate bond holdings and implementing climate-related measures in our collateral framework;

    • greening our non-monetary portfolio;

    • and, as supervisors, encouraging and directing banks to identify, measure and manage climate-related risks in a timely and comprehensive manner, ensuring they remain well positioned to support the economy and the green transition.

    Before we move on to the discussion, let me first give the floor to the Head of the European Investment Bank Group Office in Slovenia, Mr Simon Savšek.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Solicitor General’s intervention leads to increase in sex offender’s sentence

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Solicitor General’s intervention leads to increase in sex offender’s sentence

    A sex offender who sexually assaulted multiple young women and girls has had his sentence increased after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP intervened.

    Robert Emmerson, 40, from Manchester, had his four-and-a-half years sentence increased to seven years with a further three on licence after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    The court heard that between 6 November 2023 and 15 April 2024, Emmerson committed five separate sexual assaults and seven acts of exposure against 11 girls and young women in central Manchester and Wythenshawe areas.

    The victims said that Emmerson’s attacks took place in broad daylight and that they were “shocked” and “terrified” with some noting that he was smiling throughout.

    The court also learned that Emmerson has a history of sexual offences, with previous convictions for indecent exposure and stalking. Some of his victims were schoolgirls.

    Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    I was sickened and angered to read of the offenders’ numerous sexual assaults against women and young girls His increased sentence clearly shows that sex offenders will be brought to justice and face the penalty they deserve.

    This government is committed to halving violence against women and girls in a decade as part of the Plan for Change and this increased sentence will keep predators like Emmerson off our streets. My thoughts today are with the young women attacked by Emmerson.

    On 30 January 2025, Emmerson was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court for four years and six months for five counts of sexual assault, and seven counts of exposure. He also received a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and is subject to indefinite notification requirements.

    On 1 May 2025, his sentence was increased to seven years with a further three on licence after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Progress in clearing longest waits

    Source: Scottish Government

    More than 105,500 procedures delivered last year with additional funding.

    More than 105,500 appointments and procedures were delivered by health boards last year through an additional £30 million of targeted investment – exceeding a pledge to carry out 64,000 appointments by the end of March 2025.

    The funding was targeted at the longest waits and, as seen in latest published data, there have been reductions in waiting lists across a number of specialities. Between March 2024 and December 2024 there has been:

    • a 71% decrease in waits for Scopes at NHS Ayrshire & Arran
    • a 52% decrease in Imaging waits at NHS Fife
    • a 28% decrease in Ophthalmology waits at NHS Lothian
    • a 23% decrease in Urology waits at NHS Lanarkshire
    • a 10% decrease in Orthopaedic waits at NHS Highland.

    Latest published statistics also show improved waiting times performance with diagnostic waits at their lowest since October 2021.

    In April 2024 the Scottish Government funded NHS boards to deliver 64,000 procedures (40,000 diagnostic procedures, 12,000 surgeries and 12,000 new outpatient appointments) by the end of the year. By March 2025, 10,700 surgeries and 15,800 outpatients appointments were delivered. Almost 79,000 diagnostic procedures took place – delivering almost double the original pledge of 40,000.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “We have delivered on our promise, exceeding our original target of 64,000 by more than 41,000 procedures – we have carried out nearly double the amount of diagnostic procedures originally pledged, with diagnostic waits now at the their lowest since October 2021. This is testament to hard work and dedication of our NHS staff and I thank them for their outstanding efforts.

    “This is welcome progress and shows we are moving in the right direction.  But we know many people are still waiting too long and we are determined do more. That is why we are investing record amounts in our health service, targeting waiting list backlogs and delivering 150,000 additional appointments.   

    “This government is focussed on taking the action needed to cut waiting lists and make it easier for patients to get access to the treatment they need.  Next week the First Minister will publish our Programme for Government, setting out how we will build on recent progress and further reduce patient waits in the year ahead.”

    Background

    This is an update on progress previously reported in February this year – Pledge on waiting times exceeded – gov.scot

    Written question and answer: S6W-37418 | Scottish Parliament Website

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA publishes new analysis of health inequalities in England

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA publishes new analysis of health inequalities in England

    Data shows current state of health inequalities caused by infectious diseases, as well as environmental health hazards

    As part of its commitment to achieving equitable health security outcomes for everyone, the UK Health Security Agency is publishing (Friday 2 May) comprehensive new data, the Health Inequalities in Health Protection report. The report provides a high-level summary of the current state of health inequalities in England caused by infectious diseases, as well as environmental health hazards.

    The analysis mainly uses hospital admissions as a measure of infectious disease levels; key findings include:

    • people living in the 20% most deprived areas in England are almost twice as likely to be admitted to hospital due to infectious diseases than the least deprived
    • those living in the North-West are 30% more likely to be hospitalised for an infectious disease (3,600 per 100,000 admissions for Sept 23-Aug 24), compared to the England average (2,800 per 100,000)
    • areas of high levels of deprivation typically experience higher levels of air pollution than less deprived and less ethnically diverse areas
    • the scale of inequalities between ethnic groups varies by specific disease. For example, emergency admission rates for tuberculosis were 29 times higher for ‘Asian other ‘, 27 times higher for ‘Indian’ and 15 times higher for ‘Black African’, compared to ‘White British’
    • As well as the costs to the social, physical and mental health of our communities, it was estimated that inequalities in emergency infectious disease hospital admissions cost the NHS between £970 million and £1.5 billion in 2022-23.

    People living in deprived communities experience higher emergency hospital admission rates, compared to the least deprived communities; the data show these are:

    • twice as high for respiratory diseases in general and up to seven times higher specifically for tuberculosis and six times higher for measles.
    • twice as high for invasive infections in general, and up to 2.5 times higher specifically for sepsis
    • 1.7 times higher for gastrointestinal diseases

    People from more deprived areas are also disproportionately impacted by radiation, chemical, climate and environmental hazards through their exposure, direct impact on their health, and the exacerbation of existing health conditions​. Areas with high levels of deprivation typically have higher levels of air pollution than less deprived and less ethnically diverse areas.

    Dr Leonora Weil, Deputy Director for Health Equity and Inclusion at UKHSA said:

    The report reveals some stark facts on the state of inequalities in health security faced by some people, in particular those living in the most deprived communities and certain areas of the country, some ethnic groups, as well as excluded groups such as those experiencing homelessness.

    These health protection inequalities – where there are poorer health outcomes based on where you live, your socio-economic status or ethnicity are avoidable, pervasive, and preventable. That is why it is so important to shine a light on these findings to increase action to support communities to live longer and in better health.

    Going forward our data and analysis of the evidence will help us, and our partners apply a health equity lens to all our health security work, to inform how we better target effective health services and wider interventions to those most at need.

    This report is just the start. We need to build on these insights, as only through persistent and dedicated effort across all health organisations will we make a real difference to helping all people live longer and in better health.

    UKHSA’s approach to reducing health inequalities in health protection involves:

    • building our understanding of the people and places that experience these inequalities
    • taking a ‘people and place’ approach, working with local and national systems to support integrated, tailored and accessible interventions that better meet the needs of different communities and groups
    • working in partnership across national and local government, the NHS, the voluntary, faith and charity sector and communities themselves
    • equipping the UKHSA workforce with the capacity and capability to address inequalities in health protection in everything we do

    Inclusion health groups, such as people seeking asylum, people in prison, people experiencing homelessness and people who inject drugs are often disproportionately impacted by a range of infectious diseases. For example, it is estimated that over 80% of people in England living with chronic Hepatitis C have an injecting drug history. However, inclusion health groups are often not visible in routine health surveillance data.

    In addition to the social, physical and mental health costs to our communities, health inequalities also have a significant economic burden. It was estimated that inequalities in emergency infectious disease hospital admissions cost the NHS between £970 million and £1.5 billion in 2022-23. In a recent UKHSA report summarising infectious disease trends, it was estimated that infectious diseases were the primary reason for over 20% of hospital bed usage, at an annual cost of almost £6bn in 2023 to 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Beckfoot Oakbank (Keighley): warning notice

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Beckfoot Oakbank (Keighley): warning notice

    Warning notice to Beckfoot Trust in relation to Beckfoot Oakbank.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Beckfoot Oakbank: warning notice

    PDF, 140 KB, 3 pages

    Details

    Notice relating to: Beckfoot Oakbank

    URN: 143112

    Notice issued to: Beckfoot Trust

    Reason for issue: requires significant improvement Ofsted judgement

    DfE regional director: Alison Wilson

    DfE regional director office: Yorkshire and the Humber

    Local authority: Bradford Metropolitan District Council

    This replaces an earlier notice issued on 10 February 2023 which is available on the national archives.

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Would be street racers warned of consequences of breaching ban

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It comes after another individual admitted being in contempt of court following an incident of street racing, also known as car cruising, in Bearwood, Smethwick in late March.

    Qamar Hussain, of William Road, Smethwick, appeared before the High Court in Birmingham on Thursday 25 April and admitted racing against another vehicle along the Hagley Road between Wolverhampton Road and Bearwood Road. He received a 21 day custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay £2,950.30 in costs.

    The High Court injunction, led by the City of Wolverhampton Council on behalf of Dudley Council, Sandwell Council and Walsall Council and supported by West Midlands Police, prohibits people from participating in, as a driver, rider or passenger, street racing; from promoting, organising or publicising gatherings; or from participating as a spectator.

    The injunction covers the whole of the boroughs of Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall and anyone found to be breaching it will be in contempt of court and may be imprisoned, fined or have their assets seized. They may also be ordered to pay the council’s legal costs of any hearing.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Digital and Community, said: “The existence of the street racing injunction is widely known across the Black Country, but we are still seeing occasional incidents such as the one which occurred in Smethwick in March.

    “As we have seen once again, the court will not hesitate to take tough action against anyone who breaches the injunction.

    “We know that street racing activity typically increases with the lighter nights and warmer weather of spring and summer, and anyone who is thinking of taking part in this wholly anti social activity should recognise the severe consequences that they will face.”

    Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community, added: “Street racing puts people’s lives at risk and can lead to tragedies on our roads.

    “This is the 10th person we have taken to court for breaching the injunction by racing on Sandwell’s roads, and we will continue to work in partnership with the police and other Black Country councils to respond to people’s concerns and protect our communities.”

    For more information about the street racing injunction, including copies of the latest documentation and court orders, including very recent orders made on 29 and 30 April, please visit the street racing pages of the applicants – Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell, or Dudley – which are in the process of being updated.

    Incidents of street racing in Wolverhampton should be reported via asbu@wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk and in Sandwell at Report anti social behaviour, or to West Midlands Police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

    Police are also inviting members of the public to submit dash cam or mobile phone footage of street racing events or dangerous driving via its Op Snap website.

    The High Court originally granted the full and final injunction in February 2024 with the injunction and power of arrest remaining in force until at least 2027 subject to annual review, the next of which is scheduled to take place on 26 February, 2026 at the High Court of Justice, King’s Bench Division, Birmingham District Registry at Birmingham Civil and Family Justice Centre, The Priory Courts, 33 Bull Street, Birmingham, B4 6DS.

    Any existing defendants who wish to file any evidence in respect of the review hearing should do so no later than 14 days before the hearing by writing to FAO: Black Country Car Cruise, Legal Services, City of Wolverhampton Council, Civic Centre, St Peter’s Square, Wolverhampton WV1 1RG, emailing litigation@wolverhampton.gov.uk or calling 01902 556556.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former St Helens pub landlord failed to declare he was bankrupt when applying for Covid loan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Former St Helens pub landlord failed to declare he was bankrupt when applying for Covid loan

    Suspended sentence for former St Helens pub owner

    • Gary Wright was the owner of the Talbot Ale House in St Helens before it ceased trading in 2019, prior to the pandemic 

    • Wright was subsequently declared bankrupt in early 2020 

    • This did not stop him applying for a £25,000 Bounce Back Loan on behalf of the pub, failing to tell the bank he was bankrupt in the process 

    • The loan was repaid in full earlier this year

    A former St Helens pub owner who failed to disclose his bankruptcy when he applied for Covid support funds has been handed a suspended sentence.  

    Gary Wright did not inform the bank that he was bankrupt when he obtained a £25,000 Bounce Back Loan in the summer of 2020. 

    The 46-year-old made the application on behalf of the Talbot Ale House on Duke Street in St Helens town centre, the pub he ran before his bankruptcy earlier that year. 

    Wright, of Bleak Hill Road, St Helens, was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for two years, at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday 24 April. 

    He was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £1,500 in costs. 

    The Bounce Back Loan was repaid in full shortly before Wright was sentenced. 

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Gary Wright incurred significant debts after his business failed and he was ultimately declared bankrupt. 

    He then attempted to take advantage of a scheme which was backed by taxpayers and designed to support viable small businesses through the pandemic. 

    Bankrupts are legally required to declare their status when applying for loans or credit. Wright clearly failed to do this which is why he now has a criminal conviction. 

    Talbot Ale House ceased trading in September 2019 and Wright was declared bankrupt in February 2020 due to debts owed to a major utility company. 

    Despite this, Wright applied for a £25,000 Bounce Back Loan in June 2020, claiming the turnover of the pub was £400,000. 

    Wright remains an undischarged bankrupt, meaning he has not been officially released from his bankruptcy. 

    Individuals subject to a bankruptcy order must disclose their status if they borrow or obtain credit of £500 or more. 

    A pub continues to run from the same address but under different management. 

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Two charged following a fatal stabbing in Walworth

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    UPDATE:

    A third man has been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of Giovanny Rendon Bedoya in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

    Brian Villada-Hernandes, 19, (26.02.2006) of St James’s Crescent, Lambeth, will appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 2 May.

    Two men charged and another arrested following a fatal stabbing in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

    Joseph Jimenez, 21 (14.08.2003) of no fixed address was charged on Tuesday, 23 April with the murder of 21-year-old Giovanny Rendon Bedoya.

    He was remanded into custody and appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 23 March. He appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday, 25 April.

    Angel Gonzales Angulo, 19 (24.08.06) of Camberwell Church Street, SE5 was arrested on Wednesday, 23 April and was charged on Thursday, 24 April of murder. He appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 March. He will next appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 29 April.

    On Friday, 25 April a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder, he remains in police custody.

    On Monday, 14 April at 21:16hrs police were called to Hillingdon Street, SE17 following reports of a stabbing.

    Officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who treated 21-year-old Giovanny Rendon Bedoya for stab injuries.

    Sadly, despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead on scene.

    Giovanny’s next-of-kin continues to receive support and updates from specialist officers.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: VE Day 80 in the Winchester district

    Source: City of Winchester

    Thursday 8 May 2025 marks 80 years since Victory in Europe (VE) Day and the Winchester district is remembering the sacrifices and contributions that brought peace to Europe in 1945. 

    While VE Day marked the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, many thousands of Armed Forces personnel were still engaged in fighting in the Far East. Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) marks the day Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, which ended World War II.

    In Winchester, the special VE 80 flag will be raised at the Guildhall.

    Bunting to mark the occasion has also been put up in the city centre. 

    This Saturday 3 May, the Mayor of Winchester Cllr Russell Gordon-Smith will welcome members of the local Royal British Legion to Abbey House for a special event to mark VE 80. He will also attend a VE80 flag-raising service in Portsmouth on Sunday 4 May.      

    On VE Day itself, the Mayor of Winchester will attend a flag-raising in Wickham and will join a celebratory VE80 tea party at Hope Church in Middle Brook Street.

    The Mayor of Winchester Councillor Russell Gordon-Smith said: “On 8 May 2025, we will mark 80 years since Victory in Europe Day, a momentous occasion which marked the end of World War II in Europe and brought hope to war-torn communities across many countries.

    “In the Winchester district and beyond, people will come together to unite and to celebrate VE Day, and to remember the many millions who paid the ultimate price to achieve this historic victory. We pay tribute to their bravery, and to their service and sacrifice.

    “We remember with gratitude all those who served in the Allied armed forces, as well as the civilians who played their part in contributing to the war effort on this day of joy, reflection and celebration.”  

    Events are taking place across the district. For more on the local events planned to mark VE Day 80, and on Winchester’s military connections, head to Visit Winchester’s VE Day 80 page.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NDA group’s work praised in international forum

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    NDA group’s work praised in international forum

    The IAEA’s Joint Convention has recognised the good performance within the NDA group.

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel and Radioactive Waste Management

    The progress being made within the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group in spent fuel and waste management has been recognised in a significant international forum.

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel and Radioactive Waste Management, held in Vienna, Austria, acknowledged 15 areas where the UK is demonstrating ‘good performance’ in the field.

    A number of the areas to receive positive acknowledgement from the IAEA are being delivered across the NDA group, including:

    Supporting the UK delegation at the eighth triennial convention, which brought together a host of signatory nations, were Clive Nixon, the NDA’s Group Chief Nuclear Strategy Officer; Mark Foy, Chief Executive and Chief Nuclear Inspector at the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR); and Jo Nettleton, Chief Regulator at the Environment Agency.

    In addition to reflecting on achievements over the past three years, the convention also identified a number of themes against which progress will be measured at the next meeting in 2028, including emergency preparedness, use of emerging technologies and public engagement.

    Clive Nixon said:

    We were pleased to come together with international counterparts at the Joint Convention, and to have our progress recognised in this forum is testament to the skill and innovation across our group.

    Collaborating and engaging with international partners enables us to accelerate our mission by sharing knowledge about common opportunities and challenges.

    Through these forums, we share best practice and innovative approaches to decommissioning and for the management of radioactive waste so that together we can make the world a safer place.

    The full summary report is available here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –