NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives name teenager shot in Stockwell

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a boy shot in Stockwell have named him, while they continue appeals for witnesses and information.

    Lathaniel Burrell from Stockwell sadly died at the scene following yesterday’s shooting. He was 16-years-old.

    Officers are now asking for the public’s help to track down those responsible.

    Police were alerted at 15:21hrs on Tuesday, 4 March to reports of a shooting at Paradise Road, SW4, and attended with emergency services colleagues.

    London’s Air Ambulance and London Ambulance Service treated Lathaniel at the scene but despite their best efforts, he died. His family are being supported by specialist officers.

    The investigation is being led by a homicide team.

    Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee said: “This is a horrendous crime, which has shocked the local community and beyond. Our thoughts are with Lathaniel’s family and friends at this devastating time.

    “Our investigation is continuing at pace, examining CCTV and collecting witness statements.

    “We have deployed officers to the area on reassurance patrol, and have officers on the ground engaging with the local schools.

    “We need the help of the public too – if you were in the local area please think remember back to yesterday afternoon and come forward with any information, no matter how small.

    “We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who has any mobile phone or dash cam footage from the area surrounding Paradise Road.”

    No arrests have been made at this stage, and detectives are keeping an open mind about the possible motive for the attack.

    If you were a witness or have any information, please call police on 101 with the reference 4116/4MAR.

    You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 if you want to remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Trade Smarter with BexBack: 100% Deposit Bonus, 100x Leverage, No KYC & $50 Bonus for New Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin’s price fluctuating below $100,000, many analysts predict a prolonged period of high volatility in the crypto market. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages.The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and up to 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading—all with No KYC requirements—providing excellent opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and 50 other major cryptocurrencies for futures contracts.. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

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    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

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    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e21fc178-7344-42ca-b670-266d9c3f7531

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6202de8e-d347-431f-8adf-311f08c14aad

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c61032f7-5659-4e45-9303-cfbf114c3816

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/50ebb12a-7da1-4e6f-8a18-4ec9f503aa97

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deepening UK-US defence relations and peace in Ukraine to top agenda for Defence Secretary’s Washington visit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Deepening UK-US defence relations and peace in Ukraine to top agenda for Defence Secretary’s Washington visit

    During meetings, the Defence Secretary will hail the unparalleled depth of the UK-US relationship, which bolsters security and supports economic growth

    Securing a lasting peace in Ukraine and strengthening bonds between NATO allies will be the focus of discussions during the Defence Secretary’s visit to Washington DC on Wednesday and Thursday – including a meeting with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth.

    John Healey MP will hail the unparalleled depth of the UK’s special relationship with the US – the UK’s closest security ally – as both nations continue to collaborate on military operations, peacekeeping, intelligence gathering, and development of advanced technologies – bolstering security and supporting economic growth. 

    The Defence Secretary’s arrival in Washington DC comes as the UK receives the last of an order of 50 of the latest generation AH-64E attack helicopters for the British Army, the most advanced attack helicopter in the world. The helicopter was handed over yesterday (4 March) at the Boeing site in Arizona under a programme that supports more than 300 UK jobs, helping to grow the UK economy – underscoring defence as an engine for driving economic growth. 

    The visit also comes at the conclusion of the 50th occurrence of Exercise Red Flag in Nevada, a joint exercise with the UK, United States and Australia. The training is designed to test equally matched air forces in a realistic combat scenario and involves more than 3,000 military personnel in high-intensity training, such as dogfighting, air-policing and practicing bombing runs, at Nellis Air Force Base. 

    At their bilateral meeting tomorrow [Thursday], the two Defence Secretaries are due to discuss the plan for peace in Ukraine being worked on by the US, UK, France, and European allies. It comes after Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Washington last week, where the Prime Minister and the President confirmed both nations will work together on security arrangements to deliver a lasting peace in Ukraine. The discussions follow the Prime Minister’s meeting of international leaders in London last weekend, where allies discussed the need for a lasting peace settlement, with US support.    

    The latest defence engagement with the new US administration follows a first meeting between the two Defence Secretaries last month, when the UK convened the 50-nation strong Ukraine Defence Contact Group, which coordinates urgent military support for Ukraine. 

    On Wednesday, the Defence Secretary will attend a reception to mark the 250th Anniversary of the US Marine Corps, held at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Washington DC.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: 

    Amid a period of growing global instability, the unique and special relationship between the UK and US is as strong as ever – underlined by a shared commitment to freedom and democracy. 

    It is crucial that the UK and Europe step up further to take more responsibility for our security, and we are doing so. In the face of increasing global threats, we are cementing our ties as NATO allies, bolstering our national security and economic security, too. 

    The Prime Minister was clear following his meetings over the past week, that we will continue our dialogue with friends and allies to secure a path to a lasting peace in Ukraine. We will advance that work in Washington over the coming days.

    Discussions are also expected to cover deepening the UK-US defence relationship. The British and US Armed Forces operate in close alignment around the world, from the long-standing global coalition to combat Daesh in the Middle East to joint maritime security patrols in the Indo-Pacific.  

    Collective security and stability also support both nations’ economies and delivers on our Plan for Change.

    The AUKUS programme to develop a fleet of world-class nuclear powered, conventionally armed submarines for the UK and Australia, is a perfect example of this work – with a £9 billion contract with Rolls Royce awarded in January as part of the programme, creating more than 1,000 jobs and supporting a further 4,000 roles. 

    The Apache programme also supports the UK economy, with numerous components manufactured in the UK. This benefits 75 British companies, including 33 SMEs, with jobs being supported at the Army Aviation Centre at Middle Wallop in Hampshire and Wattisham Flying Station in Suffolk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leading international photographer Hrair Sarkissian to bring solo exhibition to Wolverhampton Art Gallery

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The solo exhibition Other Pains includes 3 bodies of work where captivating landscapes and urban scenes reflect sites of previous pain, trauma or melancholy from both the artist’s own personal history and that of others. Through extensive research Sarkissian conveys stories of conflict, displacement, loss and hope.

    By documenting sites that bear the scars of trauma as hints that remain of a life that has gone before in a landscape or previously loved place, Sarkissian draws upon personal and collective memories to reveal narratives previously untold.

    As a third generation Syrian photographer of Armenian descent, Sarkissian grew up with the inherited narrative of the 1915 Armenian genocide from which both of his grandparents were the sole survivors of their respective families.

    Sarkissian is considered one of the leading conceptual photographers of his generation. He trained at his father’s photographic studio in Damascus, Syria, which to this day informs his perspective and practice. In 2010, he completed a BFA in Photography at the Gerrit Rietveld Academie, Amsterdam. Sarkissian’s practice spans photography, moving image, sculpture, sound and installation, sometimes creating meditative dreamscapes; sometimes capturing landscapes which were previously places of trauma and destruction.

    A major new commission for Other Pains, Sea of Trees, is an installation of 7 large format photographs with sound, captured in Aokigahara forest, which encompasses 30 square kilometres on the northwestern flank of Mount Fuji in Japan. A sea of trees thrives on hardened lava deposited by the last major volcanic eruption over a thousand years ago. The roots of hemlock, cypress and pine trees are unable to penetrate the ground, and snake out over the surface through a blanket of moss. Evergreen, and resembling an ocean when looked at from Mount Fuji, the forest is commonly referred to as Jukai, or Sea of Trees. The porous lava rock absorbs all sound, contributing to a profound sense of solitude.

    The practice of finding solace in remote places to end life has deep roots in Japanese culture and mythology. Aokigahara forest has long been associated with this – a place where souls meet or disappear.

    Sarkissian has captured the beauty and serenity of the forest in a series of large format photographs. Printed on aluminium and ceiling mounted, surrounded by the sounds of the Aokigahara forest, the installation allows visitors to walk around each work, emulating a sense of walking through the forest.

    Included in the exhibition is a 3 channel video installation Sweet & Sour, Sarkissian travelled to his ancestral village to capture a place that was unknown and yet familiar to him. He subsequently travelled to Damascus, where he shared the footage with his father, who had also never visited his birthplace. The filmed encounter focusses on the emotional landscape of his father’s face as he watches the footage Sarkissian has captured. A third screen shows Sarkissian himself overlooking his ancestral land.

    The third part of the exhibition in 47 archival inkjet prints is called Last Scene – a series of photographs of locations in The Netherlands that were chosen by terminally ill patients to visit as their last wish. The scenes were captured on the same date and time the actual visit took place in a previous year.

    Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Chris Burden, said: “Wolverhampton Art Gallery is honoured to welcome award winning photographer Hrair Sarkissian in this powerful solo exhibition, Other Pains.

    “This immersive showcase of captivating landscapes and urban scenes reveals previously untold narratives, offering a compelling and unmissable experience.”

    The project centres on the power of a well loved place to express an outlook on life in one scene that is at once melancholic and joyful. The simplicity of each landscape or scene heightens attention to an inner journey of remembering the past and envisioning a future beyond your time. The images turn into mirrors: on the one hand the viewer can try to imagine the person who looked at the scene for the last time, while at the same time it encourages personal introspection.

    Hrair Sarkissian, Other Pains, runs at Wolverhampton Art Gallery from Saturday 29 March until Sunday 22 June. Visit Wolverhampton Arts & Culture for more information.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Big Open Weekend of free activities returns to four Oxford leisure facilities

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 5 March 2025

    More Leisure Community Trust has announced its Big Open Weekend, offering two days of free fitness taster sessions, classes, events and more for the whole family to enjoy on March 8th and 9th.

    Visitors can expect swimming lesson taster sessions, free activities such as badminton and pickleball, free fitness classes, exclusive deals and much more. Free public skate and ice-skating taster lessons will also be available at Oxford Ice Rink throughout the two days.

    The four facilities taking part over the two days are: Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools & Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre and Oxford Ice Rink.

    Robert Jennings, Contract Manager for More Leisure Community Trust, said:

    “We love the Big Open Weekend as it gives us a chance to showcase everything that’s good about our centres. The weekend gives visitors the opportunity to try out our facilities for free, and experience the kind of fun, inclusive and friendly sessions we offer at each centre.

    “To see what’s on offer and to book activities, visit our website. We look forward to welcoming you this weekend!”

    Cllr Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for A Healthy Oxford, said:

    “The Big Open Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to get active, try something new, and experience the great facilities we have in Oxford. We want to make it as easy as possible for everyone, of all ages and abilities, to enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle, and free events like this help break down barriers to participation. I encourage everyone to come along, get involved, and have fun!”

    To find the centre nearest to you, so you can start planning your Big Open Weekend, please visit the trust’s website: Oxford City Leisure

    In partnership with Serco Leisure, More Community Leisure Trust manage five facilities on behalf of Oxford City Council.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inspectors praise Stanley Primary School

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Stanley Primary School and Early Learning and Childcare has been praised for their work to improve outcomes for children.

    Inspectors from Education Scotland visited the school in January and highlighted several strengths in the school’s work.

    They also praised the school’s approach to children’s wellbeing, and the leadership opportunities given to pupils throughout their time at the school.

    The inspection also identified areas for improvement, including improving approaches to learning, teaching and assessment and enhancing planning and assessment strategies to ensure all children make the best possible progress.

    Education Scotland’s evaluations for Stanley Primary School and Early Learning and Childcare are as follows:

    Primary Stages:

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

    Nursery Class:

    • Leadership of change: Good
    • Learning, teaching, and assessment: Good
    • Ensuring wellbeing, equality, and inclusion: Good
    • Securing children’s progress: Good

    Councillor John Rebbeck, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Learning and Families Committee, said: “This inspection report achievement is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the entire school community.

    “This report not only recognises the school’s current successes but also sets a benchmark for continued growth and improvement.”

    Last modified on 05 March 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA publishes latest survey on healthcare-associated infections

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA publishes latest survey on healthcare-associated infections

    The report finds that overall healthcare-associated infections were present in 7.6% of patients, a 1% increase on the last reported figures in 2016.

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published its Point Prevalence Survey (PPS) on healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), antibiotic use (AMU) and antibiotic stewardship (AMS) for England in 2023.

    The survey looks at data from 121 NHS trusts and independent sector organisations across England. It provides a one-day snapshot of prevalence levels in our healthcare system, offering insights on current practices and where targeted intervention across various healthcare settings are needed most.

    The report for 2023 found that overall HCAIs were present in 7.6% of patients, a 1% increase on the last reported figures in 2016. This rise could be associated with increased pressure on the healthcare system following the COVID-19 pandemic and more unwell patients due to an ageing population or more patients with comorbidities. Work is being done to understand the increase further.

    The results suggest England’s HCAI prevalence level is consistent with trends seen in other European countries, including Spain, Sweden and Ireland.

    Prevalence varied across different settings. In acute NHS trusts, 8% of patients tested positive for an HCAI. However, expected higher levels at 16.6% were recorded in acute specialty trusts, such as orthopaedic and children’s trusts where patients can be more susceptible to HCAIs. Among specialty trusts, HCAI prevalence was highest in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) at 15.9%.

    Of the total number of 3,493 HCAIs reported by the participating organisations, pneumonia/lower respiratory tract infections (PNLRI) were the most common sites of infection (29.6%), followed by urinary tract infections (UTIs) (17.5%), and sepsis/disseminated infections (10.6%).

    This year’s report included mental health and community sites for the first time, with prevalence levels at 5.1% and 5% respectively. These additional data sets are essential to develop our understanding of the HCAI risks and antibiotic use levels across different healthcare settings in England for comparative purposes.

    The overall prevalence of antibiotic use in all hospital patients surveyed was 34.1% in 2023. This means that out of the 44,372 patients included in the national analysis, 15,134 were treated with an antibiotic on the day of the survey. In NHS acute care hospitals, the overall antibiotic use prevalence was similar in 2023 (37.3%), compared to 2016 (36.7%).

    Further analysis of the antibiotics prescribed showed that ‘Access’ and ‘Reserve’ antibiotics accounted for 31.3% and 6% of total antibiotic use respectively in participating hospitals. The UK’s 2024 AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) categorisation system is a tool used to help healthcare professionals prescribe the most appropriate antibiotics for patients while protecting their future effectiveness. Most patients should receive ‘Access’ antibiotics in the first instance. They offer the most effective treatment while minimising the potential for resistance. However, in some cases, for example seriously ill patients in hospitals, treatment with ‘Watch’ or ‘Reserve’ antibiotics may be required. Watch’ antibiotics are first or second choice antibiotics for a limited number of infections, while ‘Reserve’ are “last resort” or new antibiotics.

    By 2029, the UK is aiming to achieve 70% of total use of antibiotics from ‘Access’ across the human healthcare system to preserve efficacy. According to the latest assessment in 2023, this was 64.1% for England across the healthcare sector.

    Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director at UKHSA, said:

    It’s good to see that overall levels of healthcare-associated infections remained relatively similar in 2023, compared to 2016. This is likely thanks to the efforts of staff across the healthcare system who work tirelessly to implement effective infection prevention and control measures, and ensure antibiotics are being prescribed and taken appropriately.

    However, levels have still increased in some parts of the health service, which must be addressed – together with continuing to drive down overall levels. Work is being conducted to better understand the drivers so that we can protect patients, especially those who are more susceptible to these types of infection such as the elderly and people with comorbidities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Development of Apply for criminal legal aid service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Development of Apply for criminal legal aid service

    View the funding decision of a criminal legal aid application in your LAA online portal with the new functionality rolled out for Apply for criminal legal aid.

    Apply for criminal legal aid service was successfully implemented as a replacement for the eForms service in September 2024. The service became mandatory for all criminal legal aid applications in November 2024.

    A search functionality was released in November 2024, to allow providers to search submitted and returned applications within Apply for criminal legal aid. We will continue to improve the search function based on provider feedback.

    New functionality release

    We recently released an outcome feature within the service that allows you to be able to view the funding decision of a criminal legal aid application in your LAA online portal.

    Representation orders, contribution notices, and refusal notices will not be visible and will still be emailed to you.

    You will now find applications that have been processed by LAA under the new “Decided” tab. You can view the funding decision inside the full application details screen, along with any comments left by caseworkers. A reminder to always read caseworker comments as they may contain crucial information about the funding decision.

    This feature will make it easier to see when an application has been processed and the outcome of that application. 

    Looking forward

    As you will have seen from the releases detailed above, functionality that we release for Apply for criminal legal aid may not be the final version and we aim to keep developing the features wherever possible.  We will continue to expand the functionality of the service, listening to feedback from providers to deliver a more accessible, user-friendly platform. 

    Provider Feedback

    Apply for criminal legal aid has been informed by provider feedback, we continue to welcome your feedback through the feedback link in the header and footer of the Apply for criminal legal aid service.

    The language used for the funding decisions has minor grammatical differences from that used in eForms, therefore here are the current definitions within the outcome screens:

    Overall results

    Message Meaning
    Granted The application has passed on both interests of justice (IoJ) and means. A representation order will be emailed to you.
    Granted – failed means This result can be returned on appeals to the Crown Court where an application has passed on IoJ but has not passed the means test. The client may be liable to pay a contribution towards the cost of their appeal depending on the outcome of that appeal. A representation order will be emailed to you.
    Granted – with contribution The application has passed on IoJ but the means test determined that the client will have to pay a contribution towards the cost of their defence. A representation order and a contribution notice will be emailed to you.
    Refused – failed IoJ The application has not met IoJ requirements. A refusal notice will be issued and emailed to you.
    Refused – failed IoJ and means The application has not met IoJ requirements and has not passed the means test. A refusal notice will be issued and emailed to you.
    Refused – failed means This applies to applications to the magistrates’ court. The application has not passed the means test. A refusal notice will be issued and emailed to you.
    Refused – ineligible This applies to applications to the Crown Court where the client’s disposable income exceeds the threshold. A refusal notice will be issued and emailed to you.

    IoJ results
    Passed The application has been assessed and meets IoJ requirements.
    Failed The application has been assessed and does not meet IoJ requirements.

    Means test results
    Passed The application has been assessed and is below the threshold for legal aid to be awarded.
    Passed – with contribution The application has been assessed and is within thresholds for legal aid to be awarded where the client will have to pay a contribution towards their legal fees.
    Failed The application has been assessed and is above the threshold for legal aid to be awarded.

    More information

    You can find more information on the service here Digital developments for criminal legal aid: civil providers – GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government unlocks floating offshore wind with major investment for Scottish port

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government unlocks floating offshore wind with major investment for Scottish port

    The expansion of Port of Cromarty Firth will make it the first port able to make floating offshore wind turbines on site and at scale in the UK, backed by a grant from the Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme (FLOWMIS).

    • Grant funding from UK government into Scotland’s floating offshore wind sector to drive growth and create hundreds of jobs
    • when fully developed, the port is expected to support up to 1,000 highly skilled jobs
    • Port of Cromarty Firth to become the UK’s first port able to make floating offshore wind turbines at scale – representing the next step of government’s Plan for Change to deliver clean power

    The Port of Cromarty Firth in Scotland will be a major hub for the UK’s world-leading floating offshore wind industry, as the UK government announces over £55 million for its expansion – creating hundreds of skilled jobs and generating growth, helping deliver the government’s Plan for Change.  

    Offshore wind projects are crucial to delivering the UK’s mission for clean power by 2030 and to become a clean energy superpower. The UK is already home to the largest grid-connected floating offshore wind farm in the world, with a further 30GW in the pipeline, and the latest statistics showing that wind generated more power than gas last year.  

    The expansion of Port of Cromarty Firth will make it the first port able to make floating offshore wind turbines on site and at scale in the UK, backed by a grant from the Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme (FLOWMIS). 

    This initial financial backing from the UK government paves the way for the port to secure match-funding from other investors, with the port expected to become operational by the start of 2028.

    Construction work on the port’s expansion is expected to create up to 320 jobs. When fully developed, the port is expected to support up to 1,000 skilled jobs in the construction, installation and operational support of offshore and floating offshore wind – such as crane operators, marine engineers, and people working on the vessels towing the turbines out to sea.

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:

    Communities in Scotland and across the country should be powered by reliable, home-grown, clean energy from British coastlines – this is how we reduce our reliance on unstable fossil fuel markets and bring down energy bills for good.

    That’s why the government is getting on with building the infrastructure needed to roll out clean energy quickly, creating skilled jobs in local communities and driving growth – the priority in our Plan for Change.

    The UK is already a world leader in floating offshore wind, but this support for Cromarty Firth will take us even further – creating hundreds of jobs in Scotland and delivering energy security for the UK.

    Scottish Secretary, Ian Murray, said:

    Scotland is a key part of making the UK a global leader in clean energy and this investment is a significant vote of confidence in the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport and the surrounding area.

    Through our Plan for Change the UK government is paving the way for cutting-edge floating offshore wind technology while also helping to create highly skilled jobs and drive economic growth.

    Alex Campbell, Port of Cromarty Firth Chief Executive, said:

    The Port is delighted that FLOWMIS funding has been secured for our ambitious Phase 5 expansion, which is a critical step towards creating the UK’s first custom-built floating offshore wind integration port.  

    We believe this confirmation by the UK government shows the faith in our Trust Port status to deliver jobs and economic growth locally and nationally, and that the certainty from this announcement will unlock further investment in other Ports across the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport to boost their complementary plans.

    The £55.7 million grant award is the latest step taken by the government to deliver clean power by 2030 and support growth. The government also launched the Clean Industry Bonus, incentivising offshore wind developers to invest in cleaner supply chains and create jobs in industrial communities.

    FLOWMIS was launched in 2023, designed to provide grants to ports to support development of port infrastructure needed for deployment of floating offshore wind at scale. The Port of Cromarty Firth is one of two ports selected for funding, with plans for the second shortlisted port, Port Talbot, under development.

    Notes for editors

    The Port of Cromarty Firth estimates that between 280 – 1,000 FTE jobs will be created when the port becomes fully operational.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government partners with young people to help develop new national youth strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government partners with young people to help develop new national youth strategy

    Young voices to be at the heart of policymaking as government breaks down barriers to opportunity through Plan for Change

    • Government launches national listening exercise to let young people have their say on support services, facilities and opportunities they need outside the school gates
    • Through youth engagement charity My Life My Say and the #iwill Movement young people will be able to engage with Government both in-person and online. 

    Young people across the country will be able to have their say on decisions that affect their lives as the Government launches one of the most ambitious listening exercises in a generation today.

    Ahead of the landmark National Youth Strategy, those aged 10-21 years old, and up to 25 years old for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), will be asked to take part in a survey to hear what support services, facilities and opportunities they need outside the school gates to benefit their lives and futures.

    Young people will be able to submit their views on a range of topics including what issues matter to them in their local area, what services they think should be available to young people, and how money should be spent in their area – delivering on the government’s Plan for Change to spread opportunity across the country.

    Input will be collected by the Government in a range of ways including via an online survey, plus physical events including peer led focus groups known as ‘Democracy Cafes’, and workshop sessions so young people can offer views in their own words. The survey is now open here, and will close on 16 April. 

    This period of consultation will inform the Government’s new National Youth Strategy, previously announced by the Culture Secretary, designed to prioritise delivering better coordinated youth services and policy at a local, regional and national level. It will make sure decision-making moves away from a one-size-fits all approach, handing power back to young people and their communities, and rebuilding a thriving and sustainable sector. This will help deliver on the government’s missions, spreading opportunities, making our streets safer and taking pressure off health services.

    Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy said: 

    We are handing power back to young people and their communities, giving them a genuine opportunity to help make the policies that affect their lives. 

    We want to hear from young people directly through one of the most ambitious listening exercises for a generation – Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Nation. 

    We are providing young people with a genuine voice, delivering on our Plan for Change and creating opportunities in every part of the country.

    Minister for Civil Society, Stephanie Peacock said:

    We are breaking down the barriers to opportunity that young people face and giving them the chance to have their say – on what they want from the Government and how public policies can work for them.

    I encourage all young people to fill in the survey and tell us what you think so you can help shape a brighter future for you and your generation.” 

    To ensure that young people’s voices are at the heart of the process throughout, the Government has appointed 13 young people to form a Youth Advisory Group (YAG). Members span multiple sectors and have experience across key areas including advocacy, violence prevention, social mobility and mental health. They include Jhemar Jones (member of London’s Violence Reduction Unit Young People’s Action Group), Yahye Abdi (Youth Development Coordinator with the Hope Collective) and Zafeera Akarim (Member of Youth Parliament).

    An Expert Advisory Group (EAG) will sit alongside the YAG to help guide the national conversation with young people, providing expertise and challenging thinking throughout the National Youth’s Strategy development. The group is made up of 14 experts from a variety of sectors including Isa Guha (sports presenter and founder of Cricket charity championing women and girls, Take Her Lead), Alex Holmes OBE (Deputy CEO at The Diana Award), and Paul Lindley OBE (founder of Ella’s Kitchen), among other highly experienced voices. 

    Young people will also be able to take part in ‘Hackathon’ events, collaborating with others alongside youth engagement experts and professional researchers to try and solve some of the most pressing issues they’re facing. Over the past few weeks, young people have been meeting at peer-led focus groups called ‘Democracy Cafés’ across the country, discussing the issues they want to see addressed.

    An expert consortium of partners will facilitate the widespread engagement with young people, comprising market research consultancy Savanta; key leader in youth-led engagement in the UK, My Life My Say (MLMS); and the #iwill Movement, a social movement supporting Youth Social Action with coordination from leading civil society and social action charity Volunteering Matters and UK Youth. They will be working with ten Youth Collaborators, young people recruited to ensure all activities are genuinely co-produced. 

    ENDS

    Additional quotes: 

    YAG member and Volunteer with Sea Cadet Corp Munachiso Thornton said:

    It is encouraging to see that outstanding individuals from a wide range of backgrounds have been recruited for the Youth Advisory Group, and we shall endeavour to authentically represent and amplify youth experiences. It is my earnest hope that the result of our input will contribute to a strategy that truly services young people of the UK.

    EAG member and Head of Artist Management at Off the Rells, Mickey Perkins said:

    Young people are the future of this country, and it’s crucial that they have a direct voice in shaping the policies that impact their lives. Through the Expert Advisory Group, we are ensuring that youth engagement goes beyond a mere tick-box exercise; it’s about fostering real conversations, creating real influence, and driving real change. The survey provides a platform for young people to express their views, helping bridge the gap between the government and the next generation. This will ensure that their ideas and experiences are no longer overlooked and can play a role in shaping the national agenda.

    Co-chair of #iWill Movement, Sami Gichki said:

    The National Youth Strategy isn’t something that has been decided, it is open – it will be shaped by young people so that it will be fit for purpose. It is hope; hope for creating a Britain where young people don’t just survive but thrive!

    Chair of Back Youth Alliance (BYA) & OnSide Chief Executive, Jamie Masraff said: 

    I am delighted that the Government is developing a new National Youth Strategy, something the BYA has been calling for over the last few years. This is a real opportunity to set out an overarching vision for young people that brings together priorities and recognises the importance of youth work and enrichment up and down the country.

    Associate Director of Policy at Centre for Mental Health, Kadra Abdinasir said: 

    The forthcoming youth strategy offers a crucial opportunity to enhance support for the nation’s children and young people.Hearing from young people is essential to ground the process in their views and experiences. I’m hopeful that the strategy will be a step toward creating a more confident and supported generation that feels heard, regardless of their background, and I’m pleased to be a member of the expert advisory group helping to shape its direction

    Bradley Riches autistic actor and author, Calls for Youth Voices to Shape the Future said:

    As a young person who has faced challenges growing up neurodivergent, I know how important it is to feel heard and understood. This initiative is an incredible opportunity for young people to have a say in shaping the support and services that will directly impact their futures. By listening to real experiences, the Government can make meaningful changes that empower young people from all backgrounds. I encourage everyone to get involved—your voice matters, and together, we can help shape a brighter, more inclusive future.

    Notes to editors: 

    Deliver You is the name of this national campaign across England, which will seek views directly from young people to inform the National Youth Strategy. The campaign, co-created with young people, is an ambitious and exciting opportunity for young people to share their views, experiences, and ideas- and to tell the Government what really matters to them.   – The Deliver You campaign is powered by DCMS, #iWill Movement, My Life My Say and Savanta – a partnership driven by a commitment to equipping and enabling young people to shape and lead change.

    Youth Advisory Group:

    • Yahye Abdi, Youth Development Coordinator, The Hope Collective
    • Zafeera Akarim, Member of Youth Parliament for Gloucester and Forest of Dean
    • Reuben Byfield, Youth Advisory Board member, NCS Trust
    • Jhemar Jones, youth worker and consultant
    • Charlotte Atherton, Girlguiding Advocacy Panel
    • Hilary Balogan, Girlguiding Advocacy Panel
    • Sophie Pender, founder, The 93% Club and Foundation
    • Serene Weibe, campaigner, boxing coach and mentor at Empire Fighting Chance
    • Dan Lawes, Co-CEO of My Life My Say and an #iwill ambassador
    • Sami Gichki, Co-Chair, #iwill Movement
    • Joe Seddon, Founder and CEO, Zero Gravity
    • Koby Davis, Youth Justice Case Manager, Leicestershire County Council
    • Lauren Roberts-Turner, researcher and campaigner
    • Munachiso Thornton, Volunteer with Sea Cadet Corp

    Expert Advisory Group:

    • Kadra Abdinasir, Associate Director of Policy at the Centre for Mental Health
    • Paul Lindley OBE, entrepreneur, campaigner and author
    • Professor Joht Singh Chandan, Clinical Professor of Public Health, University of Birmingham
    • Alex Holmes OBE, Deputy CEO, Diana Award
    • Alex Goat, CEO, Livity 
    • Jason Arthur, CEO, Mission 44
    • Mickey Perkins, Head of Artist Management, Off the Rells
    • Harris Bokhari OBE, Chair, National Citizen Service Trust
    • Jonathan Hopkins, public affairs consultant
    • Ciaran Thapar, Director of Public Affairs and Communications, Youth Endowment Fund
    • Jamie Masraff, CEO, OnSide
    • Leigh Middleton OBE, CEO, National Youth Agency
    • David Knott, CEO, The National Lottery Community Fund
    • Isa Guha, founder/chair of Take Her Lead and Presenter/Commentator for BBC and Fox

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Hallmarking Council appoints three new members

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    British Hallmarking Council appoints three new members

    The new members will be part of the British Hallmarking Council from January 2025 for a period of three years.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade has appointed three new members to the British Hallmarking Council from January 2025 for a period of three years.

    They will work with the Chair Noel Hunter, OBE and existing members of Council to ensure the organisation achieves its strategic objectives. 

    New members appointed are:

    • Kerry Gregory
    • Sally Leonard
    • Frederick Toye

    British Hallmarking Council Chair Noel Hunter said:

    I am delighted to welcome our three new members to Council. Their expertise in the precious metal, gemmology and jewellery trades will be invaluable as the Council continues its work to protect consumers, ensure the integrity and adequacy of hallmarking, and support growth in the sector.

    I would also like to express my thanks to our outgoing Secretary of State appointed Council members Joanna Hardy, Patrick Fuller, and Rachel Holloway for their invaluable contributions over the years.

    Kerry Gregory

    Kerry Gregory has been in the UK jewellery and pawnbroking industry for over 25 years. She started her business ‘Gemmology Rocks’ after a varied career of retail jewellery, valuing, pawnbroking and gemmology.

    Kerry holds qualifications in diamonds and gemstones from Gem-A, GIA, AIGS, and FEEG. As well as a certificate in Valuation Practice from NAJ. Kerry also holds a level 6 diploma in Education and Training specialising in teaching adults.

    Kerry is very active in both the UK and US industry, and has delivered presentations, and written articles, to critical acclaim, to many organisations and associations. A past long term tutor and head of ATC for Gem-A, she served on the board of Gem-A, and ran one of the UK Branches. Kerry is currently on the Board of Trustees for the Silversmiths and Jewellers Charity (UK), and a key contributor to the National Association of Jewellers Professional Trade Standards Committee.

    Sally Leonard

    Sally Leonard is a jeweller and consultant with over two decades of experience supporting the jewellery industry. Through her consultancy, she has guided hundreds of businesses, offering practical advice on strategy, market positioning, and sustainability.

    As the founder of Leonard of London, Sally combines her passion for design with a steadfast commitment to ethical sourcing and craftsmanship. Her work is rooted in inclusion and collaboration, helping to ensure that the jewellery sector remains both innovative and vibrant.

    She is honoured to be a Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company and the City of London.

    Frederick Toye

    Frederick Toye is chairman and a director of the celebrated British manufacturing firm Toye, Kenning & Spencer. Through the company, Frederick has collaborated with a wide variety of contemporary and well-known designers and brands creating precious metal jewellery, accessories and other items.

    The company uses several techniques at its diverse range of in-house workshops in the UK, including but not limited to stamping, polishing, plating, gold and silversmithing, engraving, toolmaking, enameling, woodwork, weaving, machine and hand-embroidery, gold and silver wire drawing and millinery.

    In addition, Frederick is one of the leading figures in the creation of state insignia, medals and regalia in the UK and holds a Royal Warrant from HM King Charles III for ‘the supply of gold and silver laces, insignia and embroidery’.

    Frederick is also a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes to sick pay will help people stay in work and grow economy

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Changes to sick pay will help people stay in work and grow economy

    More than one million working people across the UK will see a rise in living standards thanks to improvements to Statutory Sick Pay, ministers have announced today.

    • Landmark changes are all part of the government’s number one priority in the Plan for Change to grow the economy and put more money into working people’s pockets 
    • Announcement comes as the World Bank notes that ‘without improvements in productivity, there is no economic growth’ 
    • The government has pledged to deliver on its promise to Make Work Pay with lower income workers no longer having to choose between their health or their jobs

    This comes as the government delivers on the plan to boost workers’ rights and create a healthier, more productive workforce, which will be at the forefront of efforts to grow the economy – the priority of our Plan for Change. 

    The changes will mean up to 1.3 million people on low wages who find themselves ill will either receive 80% of their average weekly earnings or the rate of Statutory Sick Pay which will be £118.75 per week from April – whichever is lowest.  

    The move means some of the lowest earners will be up to £100 better off per week, compared to the current system. This safety net will enable people to have the time off they need to recover, so they can get better and remain in work rather than risk quitting altogether.

    Under the government’s Plan for Change, this new fairer rate strikes the right balance between providing financial security for employees who fall ill, and the cost to businesses – all while retaining the incentives for people to return to work. 

    The UK has seen a slow-down in productivity in recent years that has been more severe than other nations, which is not acceptable. The World Bank has been clear that “without improvements in productivity, there is no economic growth”.

    Today’s changes will boost productivity in the workforce to help drive growth and usher in a decade of national renewal. 

    The Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner MP said: 

    What we put into our workforce, we get back and more.

    That’s why we’re making Statutory Sick Pay a right for every worker for the first time so people can stay in work rather than risk dropping out.

    This is a pro-worker, pro-business government in action – boosting productivity, while ensuring people don’t have to choose between health and wealth, helping deliver our Plan for Change.

    Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall MP said: 

    For too long, sick workers have had to decide between staying at home and losing a day’s pay or soldiering on at their own risk just to make ends meet. 

    No one should ever have to choose between their health and earning a living, which is why we are making this landmark change. 

    The new rate is good for workers and fair on businesses as part our plan to boost rights and Make Work Pay, while delivering our Plan for Change.

    The government’s response to its Statutory Sick Pay consultation has also been published today alongside other responses and amendments to the Employment Rights Bill, including on tackling fire and rehire and zero-hour contracts to tackle insecure work.  

    This latest move follows the commitment to ensure the right to sick pay from the first day of illness, and to make more people eligible by removing the need to earn Lower Earnings Limit. 

    Over 1,700 responses to a six-week consultation helped inform the decision on the new rate, taking in to account the views of businesses, charities, trade unions and workers.  

    TUC General Secretary, Paul Nowak, added:

    Nobody should be plunged into hardship when they become ill. 

    These reforms will stop millions from facing a financial cliff edge if they get sick.

    Making statutory sick pay available to all workers – and from day one – shows why the government’s Employment Rights Bill is so important.

    With sick pay rights from the first day of sickness, you will know that your family is protected. And you can take the time you need to recover.

    We hope this is the start of a programme of sick pay reform and will continue to make the case for higher future sick pay rates.

    Further information:

    • The Lower Earnings Limit (currently £123 per week) is the amount of earnings that allow an employee to qualify for Statutory Sick Pay.
    • The DWP published a consultation in October 2024 seeking views on what the new percentage rate that will be paid up to the flat rate of Statutory Sick Pay should be. The consultation ran until December 2024 and received 1,797 responses: Making Work Pay: Strengthening Statutory Sick Pay – GOV.UK  
    • The Government’s response to this consultation and the new percentage rate of Statutory Sick Pay was published this week: Government response: Making Work Pay: Strengthening Statutory Sick Pay – GOV.UK
    • While Statutory Sick Pay is devolved to Northern Ireland, a Legislative Consent Motion will be sought from the Northern Ireland Assembly to mirror these changes.  
    • The Government has also published consultation responses covering collective redundancy (fire and rehire), the creation of a modern framework for industrial relations, the application of zero-hour contracts and tackling non-compliance in the umbrella company market: Government Response to the consultation on strengthening remedies against abuse of rules on collective redundancy and fire and rehire
    • The Employment Rights Bill was introduced in the House of Commons in October 2024. It is currently awaiting Report Stage.   
    • The World Bank notes that ‘without improvements in productivity, there is no economic growth.’ 
    • The UK has seen a productivity slowdown that is more pronounced than other advanced economies over the past few years: an increasingly insecure and fragmented labour market can undermine conditions for growth and investment.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Working in partnership to support young people in housing need

    Source: City of Norwich

    24 Pottergate. Copyright British Listed Buildings

    Published on Wednesday, 5th March 2025

    Norwich City Council is proud to announce the successful launch of an innovative new project aimed at supporting young people in housing need.

    The project has been made possible through a unique partnership with the Norfolk and Waveney Quakers the Benjamin Foundation and Solo Housing.

    Several years ago, a representative from the Quakers approached Norwich City Council with an offer to help address the growing issue of homelessness in the area. Following extensive discussions, the Quakers generously agreed to donate the use of their building at 24 Pottergate to the council.

    Using funds generated through the Right to Buy scheme, the council renovated and transformed the building into five self-contained apartments. These apartments are now managed by the Benjamin Foundation and provide safe, secure accommodation for young people facing housing challenges.

    The young residents are referred to the scheme by the council’s housing options team, with many coming from the care system. Once housed, they receive ongoing mentorship and support from the Benjamin Foundation to help them develop the skills needed to manage their own tenancies. This supportive environment empowers them to grow in confidence and independence, with the ultimate goal of transitioning into mainstream social housing.

    Councillor Beth Jones, portfolio holder for housing, commented on the initiative: “This programme is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and compassion. It offers life-changing opportunities for young people in housing need, providing them with a stable foundation to build their futures. The generosity of the Norwich Quakers is truly inspiring, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to them for their incredible contribution. By investing Right to Buy receipts into this project, the council has been able to deliver exceptional value for money while making a real difference to the lives of young people in our city.”

    This project highlights the power of partnership and community spirit in addressing complex social issues. Norwich City Council, the Norfolk and Waveney Quakers, and the Benjamin Foundation are committed to continuing their work together to create positive outcomes for vulnerable young people in the area.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foster for East Midlands Proudly Supports LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week

    Source: City of Derby

    Foster for East Midlands is proud to support LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week, which begins on Monday, March 3, 2025. This annual campaign encourages more LGBTQ+ people to consider adoption or fostering, ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe and loving home.

    LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week, led by New Family Social, works to dispel myths about who can adopt or foster while promoting the support available for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. 

    In England, there were 83,860 looked-after children in 2024. At the same time, one in five adoptions in England in 2024 were to same-sex couples. These figures highlight the urgent need for more foster carers and adoptive parents, including those from LGBTQ+ communities, to provide stable and loving homes for children who need them most.

    As part of the campaign, Sarah and Elizabeth, who adopted through Adoption East Midlands, have shared their experience as a same-sex couple. They describe it as the best decision they ever made and praised the support they received throughout the process. They have adopted siblings, recognising the importance of keeping brothers and sisters together. Elizabeth shared how their children naturally came up with their own names for them as parents, calling them “Tall Mum” and “Short Mum.” Sarah emphasised the joy of seeing their children thrive and encouraged others to consider adopting sibling groups.

    Long-time foster carers Lyn and Shelley have also opened their hearts and home to over 100 children. “We started fostering because we wanted to help children feel loved and safe. It’s like being a big family, where everyone is welcome,” says Lyn. Over the years, they have cared for children of all ages, from babies to teenagers, helping many transition into adulthood. One of their most cherished memories is taking a child to the seaside for the first time. “Seeing their excitement was magical,” recalls Lyn. Shelley adds, “Even small gestures, like a Christmas present or a party dress, can mean the world to a child. It shows them they matter.”

    Shelley and Lyn emphasise that fostering is open to everyone, regardless of gender, background, or family structure. “Single mums, single dads, same-sex couples, and traditional families can all provide the loving and safe environment children need,” says Shelley. “What truly matters is a big heart, a sense of humour, and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations.”

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands, said:

    We are proud to support LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering Week and encourage more individuals and couples from all backgrounds to consider fostering or adoption. Every child deserves stability, care, and love, and initiatives like this help break down barriers and ensure that more children can find their forever homes. If you’ve ever thought about fostering or adopting, now is the perfect time to take that first step.

    Join us for an Fostering and Adoption Information Event on Tuesday, 4 March, 6pm to 9pm at Derbyshire LGBT+, 25 Curzon Street, Derby, DE1 1LH. Register your place or see other events available on the webpage https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events/

    Foster for East Midlands is a partnership of four local authorities Derby City, Derbyshire, Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire Councils offering support and guidance to those interested in fostering. Anyone considering fostering can visit their webpage, call 03033 132 950 or email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.

    Adoption East Midlands is a therapeutic, trauma-informed agency with a specialist adoption support service. More information is available on their webpage, social media channels, or call 0115 804 4567.

    Other Adoption and Fostering information events for your diary: 

    Adoption information events, book on our webpage:
    •    Wednesday, 13 March 12-2pm, online

    Fostering information events, book on our webpage:
    •    Thursday 6 March and 25 March, 12 noon – 1pm, online

    •    Wednesday 12 March, 5.30pm to 6.30pm
    Nottingham Central Library, Nottingham City, NG1 7FH

    •    Wednesday 19 March, 6.30pm to 7.30pm
    Chesterfield Fire Station Community Room, Chesterfield, S40 2WH

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chinese student convicted of drugging and raping 10 women

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met detectives appeal for victim-survivors to come forward after serial rapist convicted

    A serial rapist – who drugged and raped a number of women both in the UK and China – has been convicted, following one of the most complex investigations carried out by detectives in the Met.

    Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was today (Wednesday, 5 March) found guilty of a total of 28 offences, including 11 counts of rape against 10 different women.

    A jury found Zou guilty after a five-and-a-half-week trial at Inner London Crown Court. He will be sentenced at the same court on Thursday, 19 June.

    Following the conclusion of today’s court proceedings, detectives can now share they believe the scale of Zou’s offending may be much wider and are making a direct appeal for any victim-survivors who have not yet been identified to come forward and seek specialist support.

    While detectives have identified two victim-survivors, eight of the women who Zou was convicted of raping remain unidentified. Beyond this, detectives believe there may be more than 50 other women who may have been a victim and have not yet been identified by police.

    The investigation

    Zou is originally from Dongguan in the Guangdong Province of China and is believed to have lived in the UK since 2017.

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

    Zou met women using online platforms and dating apps, inviting them to his home under the guise of studying or to have drinks. Officers have established that he invited women back to his address – one in central London and another in Elephant and Castle.

    Once inside he would offer them a drink which contained a substance – believed to be butanediol, which converts to GHB once in the human body.

    This would leave the victim-survivors drifting in and out of consciousness. While unconscious, he filmed himself as he raped and sexually assaulted them.

    Zou also kept items from victim-survivors, such as jewellery and clothing.

    After a woman came forward to report Zou, police searched his home and found the drugs butanediol and ketamine, as well as a number of hidden cameras. They also seized a number of laptops and mobile phones, which later uncovered the true scale of Zou’s offending.

    Officers downloaded the digital devices amounting to six and a half trillion bytes of data, which included around nine million WeChat messages.

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

    They also watched hundreds of videos stored on his devices, which appear to show Zou filming himself raping and sexually assaulting women. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.

    During the trial, officers were assisted by the Chinese Ministry of Public Security, who helped to facilitate one of the brave victim-survivors giving evidence against Zou.

    As part of the investigation, the Met has also been supported by the Crown Prosecution Service, National Crime Agency and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

    The appeal

    To protect the integrity of ongoing legal proceedings after Zou was first charged with offences, detectives have not been able to publicly appeal for further potential victim-survivors until this time.

    The Metropolitan Police is now asking anyone who thinks they may have been a victim to come forward and speak with police.

    Specialist officers work closely with victim-survivors to seek justice and are available to offer support and signpost to external partners, so they can get help.

    Officers are keeping an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors, but are particularly keen to hear from women from the Chinese student community who may have met Zou and were living in and around London between 2019-2024. They also would like to speak to potential victims-survivors who may have met Zou while he was living in China.

    Women may have met Zou via online platforms, including student forums on the Chinese social media apps WeChat or Little Red Book, or may have spoken to him on dating apps, such as Bumble.

    Victim-survivors may have visited Zou at his accommodation in Woburn Place in central London or his address in Churchyard Row in Elephant and Castle in London. Others may have met Zou when he was living in China.

    Due to the nature of Zou’s offending, detectives believe that some women may not know they have been a victim-survivor and do not underestimate how distressing and difficult it may be to read or hear about his crimes following this verdict. They are reassuring potential victim-survivors that any reports will be fully investigated and dealt with the utmost sensitivity, care and compassion.

    Officers also understand that not every victim-survivor may wish to speak with the police to get support. Therefore, the charity Rape Crisis is also offering support for women to seek help and guidance from advisors who are independent to the police.

    As part of their appeal, detectives are also keen to speak to any witnesses who might have helpful information, in particular anyone who might have met Zou at parties or spoke to him on social media apps and has any concerns.

    Commander Kevin Southworth, lead for public protection at the Metropolitan Police, said: “Zhenhao Zou is a dangerous and prolific sexual predator, who manipulated and drugged women in order to prey on them in the most cowardly way.

    “I’d like to acknowledge the two women who bravely gave evidence against Zou in court – their courage and resilience has been unwavering.

    “We are determined to support all victim-survivors and are now asking women who believe they may have concerns about Zou to please come forward. I want to reassure anyone impacted that you are not alone and can seek specialist support and guidance, not only from the police, but also from independent charities and services.

    “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the investigation team, who have shown professionalism, compassion and determination in their pursuit for justice.”

    The Met recognises the impact that this horrific case will have on Londoners, in particular Chinese students who may have lived in and around Southwark and Lambeth. Officers continue to liaise with partners to ensure anyone with concerns can access advice and specialist support from local police teams.

    How to contact the police and independent support agencies:

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

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

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

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

    Background

    • Please consult ‘Document 1’ for a full breakdown of offences, including information relating to locations of offences
    • Please consult ‘Document 2’ for a timeline of offences

    Tackling Violence against Women and Girls

    • In 2023, the Met launched its new Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan, working with women and girls across London to shape a new approach to keep them safe.
    • The Met has transformed the way it investigates rape and serious sexual offences. Under Operation Soteria, the Met is doing more to put victim-survivors at the heart of its response to these crimes.
    • As part of its commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, caused largely at the hands of predatory men, officers are placing more focus on suspects and offering support to those impacted alongside specialist partners.
    • Since 2021, the Met has more than doubled its charge rate for rape.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang and Industry Visionaries to Unveil What’s Next in AI at GTC 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NVIDIA today announced GTC 2025, the world’s premier AI conference, will return March 17-21 to San Jose, Calif. — bringing together the brightest minds in AI to showcase breakthroughs happening now in physical AI, agentic AI and scientific discovery. GTC will bring together 25,000 attendees in person — and 300,000 attendees virtually — for an in-depth look at the technologies shaping the future.

    NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang will deliver the keynote from SAP Center on Tuesday, March 18, at 10 a.m. PT focused on AI and accelerated computing technologies changing the world. It will be livestreamed and available on demand at nvidia.com. Registration is not required to view the keynote online.

    Onsite attendees can arrive at SAP Center early to enjoy a live pregame show hosted by the “Acquired” podcast and other surprise festivities. Virtual attendees can catch the pregame show live online.

    “AI is pushing the limits of what’s possible — turning yesterday’s dreams into today’s reality,” Huang said. “GTC brings together the brightest scientists, engineers, developers and creators to imagine and build a better future. Come and be first to see the new advances in NVIDIA computing and breakthroughs in AI, robotics, science and the arts that will transform industries and society.”

    AI is here, and it’s mainstream — powering the everyday brands that shape people’s lives. At GTC, some of the world’s largest companies, groundbreaking startups and leading academic minds will convene to explore the transformative impact of AI across industries.

    With over 1,000 sessions, 2,000 speakers and nearly 400 exhibitors, GTC will showcase how NVIDIA’s AI and accelerated computing platforms tackle the world’s biggest and toughest challenges — spanning climate research to healthcare, cybersecurity, humanoid robotics, autonomous vehicles and more. From large language models and physical AI to cloud computing and scientific discovery, NVIDIA’s full-stack platform is driving the next industrial revolution.

    At the conference, attendees can also look forward to curated experiences, including dozens of demos spanning every industry, hands-on training, autonomous vehicle exhibits and rides, and a new GTC Night Market featuring street food and wares from 20 local vendors and artisans.

    Notable speakers include:

    • Pieter Abbeel, director of the UC Berkeley Robot Learning Lab and co-director of the UC Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Lab
    • Drago Anguelov, vice president and head of research, Waymo
    • Frances Arnold, Nobel Laureate in chemistry and Linus Pauling Professor of chemical engineering, bioengineering and biochemistry, California Institute of Technology
    • Gülen Bengi, chief marketing officer, Mars Snacking
    • Esi Eggleston Bracey, chief growth and marketing officer, Unilever
    • Noam Brown, research scientist, OpenAI
    • Nadia Carlsten, CEO, Danish Centre for AI Innovation, Novo Nordisk Foundation
    • Max Jaderberg, chief AI officer, and Sergei Yakneen, chief technology officer, Isomorphic Labs
    • Athina Kanioura, executive vice president and chief strategy and transformation officer, PepsiCo
    • Jeffrey Katzenberg, founding partner, WndrCo
    • The Rt Hon Peter Kyle MP, secretary of state for science, innovation and technology, United Kingdom
    • Yann LeCun, vice president and chief AI scientist, Meta; professor, New York University
    • Arthur Mensch, CEO, Mistral AI
    • Joe Park, chief digital and technology officer, Yum! Brands; president, Byte by Yum!
    • Rajendra “RP” Prasad, chief information and asset engineering officer, Accenture
    • Raji Rajagopalan, vice president, Azure AI Foundry, Microsoft
    • Aaron Saunders, chief technology officer, Boston Dynamics
    • RJ Scaringe, founder and CEO, Rivian
    • Clara Shih, head of business AI, Meta
    • Alicia Tillman, chief marketing officer, Delta Air Lines
    • Pras Velagapudi, chief technology officer, Agility Robotics

    More than 900 organizations will participate, including Accenture, Adobe, Arm, Airbnb, Amazon Web Services (AWS), BMW Group, The Coca-Cola Company, CoreWeave, Dell Technologies, Disney Research, Field AI, Ford, Foxconn, Google Cloud, Kroger, Lowe’s, Mercedes-Benz, Meta, Microsoft, MLB, NFL, OpenAI, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, Pfizer, Rockwell Automation, Salesforce, Samsung, ServiceNow, SoftBank, TSMC, Uber, Volvo, Volkswagen, Wayve and Zoox.

    Quantum Day Arrives
    NVIDIA will host its first Quantum Day at GTC on March 20. The event will bring together the global quantum computing community and key industry figures.

    Leaders from the quantum computing industry will join a panel with Huang from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, shedding light on the current state and future of quantum computing. The panel will be livestreamed and available on demand, and feature pioneers in quantum computing, including:

    • Alan Baratz, CEO, D-Wave
    • Ben Bloom, CEO, Atom Computing
    • Peter Chapman, executive chair, IonQ
    • Rajeeb Hazra, CEO, Quantinuum
    • Loïc Henriet, co-CEO, Pasqal
    • Matthew Kinsella, CEO, Infleqtion
    • Subodh Kulkarni, CEO, Rigetti
    • John Levy, CEO, SEEQC
    • Andrew Ory, CEO, QuEra Computing
    • Théau Peronnin, CEO, Alice & Bob
    • Rob Schoelkopf, chief scientist, Quantum Circuits
    • Simone Severini, general manager, quantum technologies, AWS
    • Pete Shadbolt, chief scientific officer, PsiQuantum
    • Krysta Svore, technical fellow, Microsoft

    Quantum Day will also feature technical sessions with partners, NVIDIA researchers and more.

    AI Training and Certification for Developers
    NVIDIA is training the workforce of the future to equip them with critical skills for navigating and leading in an AI-driven future.

    GTC attendees can participate in more than 80 hands-on instructor-led workshops and training labs provided by NVIDIA Training.

    For the first time, onsite attendees can take certification exams for free — gaining a tremendous opportunity to validate their AI and accelerated computing skills and advance their careers.

    In addition, new professional certifications will be available in accelerated data science and AI networking, as well as workshops in generative AI, agentic AI and accelerated computing with CUDA® C++.

    Learn more about training offerings at GTC on the event webpage.

    Startup and Venture Capital Ecosystem
    For startups and VCs, GTC will feature an AI Day with expert panels, live demos from top startups, session tracks designed for investors, a VC reverse pitch session and exclusive networking opportunities with investors.

    The NVIDIA Inception Pavilion will spotlight cutting-edge innovation from the NVIDIA Inception program, home to more than 22,000 startups. Nearly 250 Inception members will showcase their breakthroughs with demos, exhibitions and sessions spanning areas such as healthcare, climate science and robotics.

    NVIDIA Financial Analyst Q&A
    NVIDIA will hold a Q&A session for investors on March 19 at 8:30 a.m. PT. The webcast will be available at investor.nvidia.com.

    About NVIDIA
    NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) is the world leader in accelerated computing.

    For further information, contact:
    Clarissa Eyu
    Corporate Communications
    NVIDIA Corporation
    ceyu@nvidia.com

    Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements as to: the timing, size, themes, sessions, speakers, participants, availability and impact of GTC, including the GTC keynote and the Quantum Day; AI pushing the limits of what’s possible — turning yesterday’s dreams into today’s reality; from large language models and conversational AI to cloud computing and scientific breakthroughs, NVIDIA’s full-stack platform driving the next industrial revolution; AI powering the everyday brands that shape people’s lives; NVIDIA training the workforce of the future; the availability of professional certifications for onsite attendees; and the timing and availability of the financial analyst Q&A are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to be materially different than expectations. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include: global economic conditions; our reliance on third parties to manufacture, assemble, package and test our products; the impact of technological development and competition; development of new products and technologies or enhancements to our existing product and technologies; market acceptance of our products or our partners’ products; design, manufacturing or software defects; changes in consumer preferences or demands; changes in industry standards and interfaces; unexpected loss of performance of our products or technologies when integrated into systems; as well as other factors detailed from time to time in the most recent reports NVIDIA files with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including, but not limited to, its annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Copies of reports filed with the SEC are posted on the company’s website and are available from NVIDIA without charge. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, NVIDIA disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

    © 2025 NVIDIA Corporation. All rights reserved. NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo and CUDA are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability and specifications are subject to change without notice.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/922e27de-6626-4818-9a6d-d3108f818e25.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: India expands UK footprint as £41 billion partnership boosts countries’ growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    India expands UK footprint as £41 billion partnership boosts countries’ growth

    Britain and India bolster trade ties during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar’s visit to UK.

    • Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar visits UK to boost £41 billion trading relationship  
    • UK welcomes the opening of 2 new Indian consulates in Belfast and Manchester  
    • move set to enhance economic growth and support further regional Indian investments in the UK delivering on the government’s Plan for Change   

    The UK-India partnership will strengthen further with the opening of 2 new Indian consulates in Belfast and Manchester, boosting regional economic ties and delivering on the growth agenda.  

    It comes as the UK welcomes Indian investment deals worth more than £100 million which is creating jobs, strengthening growth, and helping working people by putting more money in their pockets.   

    Before opening the consulates, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar will meet with Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House.   

    At Chevening, the foreign ministers will drive forward the UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This will focus on fostering mutual economic growth, technological innovation, and collaboration on global challenges including climate change. They will also discuss Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, the Middle East and other global affairs.  

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:   

    One of my first visits as Foreign Secretary was to India because deepening our partnership for our shared growth and security is a key part of this government’s Plan for Change. 

    Dr Jaishankar and I are supercharging our £41 billion trading relationship with India, after trade talks were relaunched in Delhi. It is the floor, not the ceiling of our ambitions that will benefit both our economies.  

    The opening of new Indian consulates in Belfast and Manchester demonstrate the growing links between our peoples and how we are working together to deliver growth not only in London, but right across the UK. This expansion of India’s diplomatic presence will further boost our trading relationship and support the valued Indian community in the UK.

    Ministers are also set to discuss the Technology Security Initiative, launched during the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Delhi in July 2024. They will touch on the opportunities for citizens in both countries that will come from closer collaboration in sectors such as artificial intelligence, telecoms and critical minerals. Opportunities include more effective and affordable healthcare and more resilient supply chains, as well as greater innovation, investment and job creation.  

    And the visit will highlight the living bridge between the UK and India, including a special reception with Chevening scholars at Chevening House, celebrating India’s position as home to the world’s largest Chevening programme.  

    Background  

    • Chevening is the UK government’s flagship international scholarships and fellowships programme. It offers fully funded scholarships (including tuition, travel and living expenses) for a one-year postgraduate course in the UK
    • it also offers short term fellowships to mid-career professionals in cyber security, science and innovation, journalism, and leadership and excellence
    • it is mandatory for scholars and fellows to return to their home country upon completion of their course
    • the Chevening programme in India is the largest in the world, benefiting over 3,900 scholars and fellows since 1983. Over 40% of Chevening scholars in India come from outside metro cities, are first generation learners, and belong to lesser privileged groups

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK to extend electronic travel to European visitors

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK to extend electronic travel to European visitors

    Europeans can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK and will need one from 2 April 2025.

    Photo: Getty Images

    The UK government is taking the last major step in the rollout of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the millions of visitors who pass through the UK border every year. From today, eligible Europeans can apply for an ETA and will need one to travel to the UK from Wednesday 2 April 2025.

    This expansion follows the successful rollout of ETAs to all eligible non-European nationals last year, which includes visitors from the USA, Canada and Australia who now need an ETA to travel. Almost 1.1 million visitors have been issued with ETAs and will benefit from smoother, easier travel to the UK for short trips in the future.

    ETAs will strengthen the immigration system’s security and keep our country safe by screening people before they set foot in the UK.

    Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said:

    Securing our borders is a foundation of the UK government’s Plan for Change and by digitising the immigration system we are paving the way for a contactless UK border, ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless travel experience in the future.

    Expanding ETA worldwide cements our commitment to enhance security through technology and innovation.

    Applying for an ETA is quick and simple through the UK ETA app and, with the vast majority of applicants currently receiving a decision automatically in minutes, spontaneous trips to the UK should still be possible. Prospective visitors can also apply on GOV.UK if they do not have access to a smartphone.

    Applicants provide their biographic and biometric details and answer questions on suitability and criminality. Once an applicant has successfully applied, their ETA is digitally linked to their passport.

    While most applications are approved quickly, it is still recommended to allow up to 3 working days to account for the small number of cases that require additional review.

    An ETA currently costs £10 and allows multiple visits to the UK of up to 6 months over a 2-year period, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner. An ETA is not a visa, it is a digital permission to travel.

    The UK government continues to work closely with the travel industry, including major airline, maritime and rail carriers, to ensure the smooth implementation of our new digital requirements.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Co-op re-writes anti-competitive land agreements

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Co-op re-writes anti-competitive land agreements

    Grocery retailer addresses over 100 land agreements which restrict rivals opening nearby.

    iStock

    Co-operative Group Limited (Co-op) has admitted to 107 breaches of an Order put in place to protect competition and stop the use of unlawful anti-competitive land agreements in grocery retailing.

    The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found that the supermarket chain, which owns almost 2,400 stores across the UK and holds a 5.2 per cent market share in the UK’s £190.9bn supermarket industry, breached the Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010.The Order was introduced to stop supermarkets imposing restrictions that block rivals from opening competing stores nearby. By ensuring supermarkets compete freely, the CMA is ensuring that shoppers have more choice and so benefit from a wider range of groceries and access to cheaper prices.

    The CMA was concerned that this substantial number of breaches demonstrates a significant failure of compliance for a business of Co-op’s size. Having already addressed 104 agreements, Co-op has also agreed to resolve the remaining 3.

    Daniel Turnbull, Senior Director of Markets at the CMA said:

    Restrictive agreements by our leading retailers affect competition between supermarkets and impact shoppers trying to get the best deals.

    We know that Co-op has made a considerable effort to amend all their unlawful agreements, given this Order has been in place since 2010. Co-op and the other designated retailers must make sure they do the right thing by their customers in the future.

    Today’s action is part of a targeted programme of activity by the CMA to enforce the Order’s rules on land agreements, and thereby protect competition between businesses, helping to keep prices down for supermarket customers. This includes action on similar breaches of the same rules by Tesco in 2020 (23 breaches); Waitrose in 2022 (7 breaches); Sainsbury’s (18 breaches); Asda (14 breaches) in 2023; Morrisons (55 breaches); and Marks and Spencer (10 breaches) in 2023.

    The CMA’s wider work in the groceries sector includes an investigation of loyalty pricing and a market study into the infant formula and follow-on formula market which concluded with recommendations.

    Notes to editors:

    1. For more information about the limits on large grocery retailers’ ability to prevent land being used by their competitors for grocery retailing in the future, please read: Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010 and the CMA’s guidance on Land Agreements.
    2. The Order came into force in 2010 and banned new restrictive covenants which prohibit land being used for a supermarket.
    3. The Order also banned Exclusivity Arrangements (which prevent landlords from allowing stores to compete with an existing supermarket) which were over 5 years long.
    4. There are seven designated large grocery retailers that the Order currently applies to: Tesco plc; J Sainsbury plc; Wm Morrison Supermarkets Limited; Asda Stores plc; Co-operative Group Limited; Waitrose Limited; and Marks and Spencer plc.
    5. The CMA’s letter sent to Co-op is publicly available and sets out the CMA’s response to its respective reported breaches.
    6. The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 enhanced the CMA’s power to ensure compliance with its remedies, by empowering it to impose financial penalties for breaches of its remedy requirements. These enhanced powers apply to breaches of remedies put in place after the commencement of the new powers on 1 January 2025. As the Order was put in place in 2010, before the commencement of the new powers, the CMA does not have the power to fine those who breach the Order.
    7. For media enquiries contact the CMA press office on 0203 738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement at the Panel on Early Warning and Genocide Prevention

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement at the Panel on Early Warning and Genocide Prevention

    UK Statement at the Panel on Early Warning and Genocide Prevention. Delivered by UK Ambassador for Human Rights to the UN, Eleanor Sanders.

    Mr President, Deputy High Commissioner,

    The UK thanks the Special Adviser for her presentation.

    As we approach the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the Responsibility to Protect, protecting people from atrocities remains vital and necessary.

    To highlight one worrying conflict, we continue to see disturbing reports of ethnically motivated attacks and killings in Darfur. The international community must hold perpetrators to account.

    As well as protection from and accountability for atrocities, we need earlier action to prevent atrocities from occurring in the first place. 

    We are concerned by escalating tensions across South Sudan including between parties to the 2018 peace agreement and call on all parties to act urgently to prevent further violence, including against civilians.

    The UK supports efforts to improve early warning systems, including leveraging global advances in data analytics and Open-Source Intelligence, allowing the international community to identify and understand the emerging risk of atrocities.

    Mr President, Panellists,

    How can the 2 Special Advisers ensure that the UN system’s existing foresight and risk analysis processes better incorporate an atrocity prevention lens in all its work and that it is more joined up?

    Thank you

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New resources to help access reliable immigration advice

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New resources to help access reliable immigration advice

    Digital posters and leaflets, available in multiple languages, for regulated organisations, ambassadors, and charities to easily download, share, and distribute

    The Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) has launched a range of new promotional materials aimed at helping people understand the importance of seeking regulated immigration advice, the risks of unregulated advice, and how to report poor or illegal advice.   

    These materials, available for free download, include digital posters and leaflets. To ensure accessibility, they have been translated into 23 languages, alongside English, to reach communities across the UK. 

    The IAA’s new materials provide clear guidance on:   

    • how to check if an immigration adviser is registered and authorised to give advice   

    • the risks posed by unregulated advisers   

    • how to report concerns about poor advice or illegal activity   

    The resources are designed for use by regulated organisations, ambassadors, charities, and legal professionals to help ensure individuals receive reliable advice and avoid exploitation.   

    The IAA encourages organisations to download and share these materials widely to help protect advice seekers from the risks of unregulated advice.  

    To download the materials or find out more, visit the IAA promotional materials page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives name teenager shot in Stockwell with continued appeal for witnesses

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a boy shot in Stockwell have named him, while they continue appeals for witnesses and information.

    Lathaniel Burrell from Stockwell sadly died at the scene following yesterday’s shooting. He was 16-years-old.

    Officers are now asking for the public’s help to track down those responsible.

    Police were alerted at 15:21hrs on Tuesday, 4 March to reports of a shooting at Paradise Road, SW4, and attended with emergency services colleagues.

    London’s Air Ambulance and London Ambulance Service treated Lathaniel at the scene but despite their best efforts, he died. His family are being supported by specialist officers.

    The investigation is being led by a homicide team.

    Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee said: “This is a horrendous crime, which has shocked the local community and beyond. Our thoughts are with Lathaniel’s family and friends at this devastating time.

    “Our investigation is continuing at pace, examining CCTV and collecting witness statements.

    “We have deployed officers to the area on reassurance patrol, and have officers on the ground engaging with the local schools.

    “We need the help of the public too – if you were in the local area please think remember back to yesterday afternoon and come forward with any information, no matter how small.

    “We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who has any mobile phone or dash cam footage from the area surrounding Paradise Road.”

    No arrests have been made at this stage, and detectives are keeping an open mind about the possible motive for the attack.

    If you were a witness or have any information, please call police on 101 with the reference 4116/4MAR.

    You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 if you want to remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple introduces the new MacBook Air with the M4 chip and a sky blue color

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple introduces the new MacBook Air with the M4 chip and a sky blue color

    March 5, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple introduces the new MacBook Air with the soaring performance of the M4 chip, a gorgeous new sky blue color, and a lower starting price of $999

    The world’s most popular laptop delivers more value than ever with greater performance, up to 18 hours of battery life, a 12MP Center Stage camera, and enhanced external display support — all in its strikingly thin and light design

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced the new MacBook Air, featuring the blazing-fast performance of the M4 chip, up to 18 hours of battery life,1 a new 12MP Center Stage camera, and a lower starting price. It also offers support for up to two external displays in addition to the built-in display, 16GB of starting unified memory, and the incredible capabilities of macOS Sequoia with Apple Intelligence — all packed into its strikingly thin and light design that’s built to last. The new MacBook Air now comes in an all-new color — sky blue, a metallic light blue that joins midnight, starlight, and silver — giving MacBook Air its most beautiful array of colors ever. It also now starts at just $999 — $100 less than before — and $899 for education, making it an incredible value for students, business professionals, or anyone looking for a phenomenal combination of world-class performance, portability, design, and durability. With two sizes to choose from, the new 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air are available to pre-order today, with availability beginning Wednesday, March 12.

    “MacBook Air is by far the world’s most popular laptop, and today we’re giving everyone even more reasons to love it, including a big boost in performance with the M4 chip, a new Center Stage camera, and a beautiful new sky blue color,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “Combined with its thin and light, fanless design, all-day battery life, and the incredible capabilities of macOS Sequoia with Apple Intelligence, MacBook Air is unlike any other laptop. And with a new lower starting price of $999, MacBook Air delivers more value to consumers than ever before, making this the perfect moment to upgrade or experience the Mac for the first time.”

    A Fresh New Hue: Hello, Sky Blue  

    Adding a new choice to the lineup of MacBook Air colors is the all-new sky blue. A beautiful, metallic light blue that creates a dynamic gradient when light reflects off of its surface, sky blue joins midnight, starlight, and silver to complete the brilliant array of color choices for MacBook Air. All color options, including sky blue, come with a color-matched MagSafe charge cable.

    M4: Performance to the Next Level 

    With M4 in MacBook Air, everything from daily activities like multitasking between apps to more demanding tasks like photo and video editing is faster and more fluid. The M4 chip features a powerful 10-core CPU, an up to 10-core GPU, and support for up to 32GB of unified memory, making the new MacBook Air up to 2x faster than the M1 model.1 When compared to the fastest Intel-based MacBook Air, the M4 model delivers up to 23x faster performance.1 With battery life on the new MacBook Air up to 18 hours, Intel-based upgraders will get up to six additional hours, so they can get more done on a single charge.1 The powerful Neural Engine in the M4 chip, which accelerates AI-based tasks, is also up to 3x faster than on MacBook Air with M1, significantly increasing speed in tasks like automatically enhancing photos and removing background noise from a video.

    MacBook Air with M4 delivers a new level of performance:

    • Spreadsheet calculation performance in Microsoft Excel is up to 4.7x faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Air, and up to 1.6x faster than the 13-inch MacBook Air with M1.1
    • Video editing in iMovie is up to 8x faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Air, and up to 2x faster than the 13-inch MacBook Air with M1.2
    • Photo editing in Adobe Photoshop is up to 3.6x faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Air, and up to 2x faster than the 13-inch MacBook Air with M1.1
    • Web browsing is up to 60 percent faster when compared to a PC laptop with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, and more demanding tasks get up to 2x faster performance.1

    Built for Apple Intelligence

    MacBook Air is built for Apple Intelligence, unlocking exciting new capabilities that make Mac even more helpful and powerful. Users can explore creative new ways to express themselves visually with Image Playground, create the perfect emoji with Genmoji, and make their writing even more dynamic with Writing Tools. With new Siri improvements, users can move fluidly between spoken and typed requests to accelerate tasks throughout their day, and Siri can answer thousands of questions about Mac features and settings, with step-by-step instructions for how to do something on Mac. With access to ChatGPT seamlessly integrated into Writing Tools and Siri, users can choose to access ChatGPT’s expertise so they can get things done faster and easier than ever before. Users can access ChatGPT for free without creating an account, and privacy protections are built in — their IP addresses are obscured and OpenAI won’t store requests. Users can choose whether to enable ChatGPT integration, and are in full control of when they use it and what information is shared with ChatGPT.

    Designed to protect users’ privacy at every step, Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing, meaning that many of the models that power it run entirely on device. For requests that require access to larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of Mac into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence. When using Private Cloud Compute, users’ data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill their request.

    Always Camera-Ready

    A new 12MP Center Stage camera with improved video quality keeps MacBook Air users looking their best, whether at home, school, or work. Center Stage automatically keeps users centered in the frame as they move around — great for connecting with friends and family over FaceTime or joining an important meeting. It also supports Desk View, which simultaneously displays the user and a top-down view of their desk, making video calls even more engaging for those who want to show off their latest DIY project or present a prototype at work.

    Enhanced Display Support 

    MacBook Air can easily power a multi-display setup to make viewing and interacting with content a breeze, for anyone from business professionals at the office multitasking across multiple windows, to students in a dorm room tackling a big project across several apps. For users who like to spread their work out, MacBook Air now supports up to two 6K external displays, in addition to its built-in Liquid Retina display.

    Everything Users Already Love

    More people choose MacBook Air over any other laptop. In addition to what’s new, MacBook Air with M4 includes all of the useful features and capabilities that have made it so popular, including:

    • Reliability and durability: The 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air feature a durable aluminum unibody enclosure that’s built to last, and are both less than half an inch thin, so users can work, play, or create from anywhere. The 13-inch model provides the ultimate in portability for users on the go, while the 15-inch model offers even more room to multitask.
    • Touch ID and Magic Keyboard: With the advanced security of Touch ID, users can easily and securely unlock their MacBook Air, make online purchases with Apple Pay, and download apps. The comfortable and quiet Magic Keyboard is backlit and comes with a full-height function row.
    • Gorgeous display: MacBook Air features a brilliant 13.6- or 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display with up to 500 nits of brightness, support for 1 billion colors, and up to 2x the resolution of comparable PC laptops. Content looks vivid with sharp detail, and text appears super crisp.
    • Versatile connectivity: MacBook Air with M4 features fast Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. It also includes MagSafe charging and two Thunderbolt ports for connecting accessories like external storage and security keys, along with a 3.5mm headphone jack.
    • Mics and speakers: Users will sound their best with a three-mic array and enhanced voice clarity on audio and video calls. And with an immersive sound system that has support for Spatial Audio along with Dolby Atmos, users will enjoy a three-dimensional soundstage for music and movies.

    An Unrivaled Experience: macOS Sequoia

    macOS Sequoia completes the new MacBook Air experience with a host of exciting features, including iPhone Mirroring, allowing users to wirelessly interact with their iPhone, its apps, and notifications directly from their Mac.3 Safari, the world’s fastest browser,4 now surfaces relevant information on sites in Highlights; summarizes articles in the redesigned Reader; keeps videos front and center in a new Video Viewer; and lets users hide distracting items with Distraction Control. Gaming gets even more immersive with features like Personalized Spatial Audio and improvements to Game Mode, along with a breadth of exciting titles, including Civilization VII, Wuthering Waves, and more. Easier window tiling means users can stay organized with a window layout that works best for them. The all-new Passwords app gives convenient access to passwords, passkeys, and other credentials — all stored in one place. And users can apply new, beautiful built-in backgrounds for video calls, which include a variety of color gradients, or use their own photos.

    Next month, macOS Sequoia 15.4 will make it easier than ever to set up the new MacBook Air with iPhone. By simply bringing iPhone close to Mac, users can quickly and conveniently sign in to their Apple Account to get their files, photos, messages, passwords, and more on their new MacBook Air.5

    Better for the Environment

    MacBook Air is designed with the environment in mind. As part of Apple 2030, the company’s ambitious goal to be carbon neutral across its entire carbon footprint by the end of this decade, Apple is transitioning to renewable electricity for manufacturing, and investing in wind and solar projects around the world to address the electricity used to charge all Apple products, including MacBook Air. Today, all Apple facilities run on 100 percent renewable electricity — including the data centers that power Apple Intelligence.

    To achieve Apple 2030, the company is designing products with more recycled and renewable materials, which further drives down the carbon footprint. MacBook Air features over 55 percent recycled content overall, the most in any Apple product. This includes 100 percent recycled aluminum in the enclosure and 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in all magnets. The battery contains 100 percent recycled cobalt and — in a first for any Mac — over 95 percent recycled lithium. MacBook Air meets Apple’s high standards for energy efficiency, and is free of mercury, brominated flame retardants, and PVC. The packaging is entirely fiber-based, bringing Apple closer to its goal to remove plastic from all packaging by the end of 2025.6

    Pricing and Availability

    • Customers can pre-order the new MacBook Air with M4 starting today on apple.com/store and in the Apple Store app in 28 countries and regions, including the U.S. It will begin arriving to customers, and will be in Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Resellers, starting Wednesday, March 12.
    • The 13-inch MacBook Air with M4 starts at $999 (U.S.) and $899 (U.S.) for education, and the 15‑inch MacBook Air with M4 starts at $1,199 (U.S.) and $1,099 (U.S.) for education. Both are available in sky blue, midnight, starlight, and silver.
    • Additional technical specifications, configure-to-order options, and accessories are available at apple.com/mac.
    • Apple Intelligence is available on all Mac models with M1 and later, in localized English for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and the U.S. Additional languages — including French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (simplified), English (Singapore), and English (India) — will be available in April, with more languages coming over the course of the year, including Vietnamese. Some features, applications, and services may not be available in all regions or all languages.
    • With Apple Trade In, customers can trade in their current computer and get credit toward a new Mac. Customers can visit apple.com/shop/trade-in to see what their device is worth.
    • AppleCare+ for Mac provides unparalleled service and support. This includes unlimited incidents of accidental damage, battery service coverage, and 24/7 support from the people who know Mac best.
    • Every customer who buys directly from Apple Retail gets access to Personal Setup. In these guided online sessions, a Specialist can walk them through setup, or focus on features that help them make the most of their new device. Customers can also learn more about getting started with their new device with a Today at Apple session at their nearest Apple Store.
    • Customers in the U.S. who shop at Apple using Apple Card can pay monthly at 0 percent APR when they choose to check out with Apple Card Monthly Installments, and they’ll get 3 percent Daily Cash back — all up front. More information — including details on eligibility, exclusions, and Apple Card terms — is available at apple.com/apple-card/monthly-installments.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Testing was conducted by Apple in January 2025. See apple.com/macbook-air for more information. Battery life varies by use and configuration. See apple.com/batteries for more information.
    2. Results are compared to previous-generation MacBook Air systems with Apple M1, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 2TB SSD; and 1.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i7-based MacBook Air systems with Intel Iris Plus Graphics, 16GB of RAM, and 2TB SSD.
    3. Available on Mac computers with Apple silicon and Intel-based Mac computers with a T2 Security Chip. See requirements on apple.com/macos/macos-sequoia. Some iPhone features (for example, camera and microphone) are not compatible with iPhone Mirroring.
    4. Testing was conducted by Apple in August 2024. See apple.com/safari for more information.
    5. Available next month on macOS Sequoia 15.4 with iPhone and iPad running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or a later version.
    6. Based on retail packaging as shipped by Apple. Breakdown of U.S. retail packaging by weight. Adhesives, inks, and coatings are excluded from our calculations of plastic content and packaging weight.

    Press Contacts

    Starlayne Meza

    Apple

    starlayne_meza@apple.com

    Lizette Viviana Du Pond

    Apple

    ldupond@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple unveils new Mac Studio, the most powerful Mac ever

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple unveils new Mac Studio, the most powerful Mac ever

    March 5, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple unveils new Mac Studio, the most powerful Mac ever, featuring M4 Max and new M3 Ultra

    With Thunderbolt 5, up to 512GB of unified memory, and an up to 16TB SSD, all in a compact design, the ultimate pro desktop delivers even more performance

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced the new Mac Studio, the most powerful Mac ever made, featuring M4 Max and the new M3 Ultra chip. The ultimate pro desktop delivers groundbreaking pro performance, extensive connectivity now with Thunderbolt 5, and new capabilities in its compact and quiet design that can live right on a desk. Mac Studio can tackle the most intense workloads with its powerful CPU, Apple’s advanced graphics architecture, higher unified memory capacity, ultrafast SSD storage, and a faster and more efficient Neural Engine. It provides a big boost in performance compared to the previous generation, and a massive leap for users coming from older Macs.

    Mac Studio is a powerhouse for AI, capable of running large language models (LLMs) with over 600 billion parameters entirely in memory, thanks to its advanced GPU and up to 512GB of unified memory with M3 Ultra — the most ever in a personal computer. It’s also built for Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that transforms how users work, communicate, and express themselves, while protecting their privacy. The new Mac Studio is available to pre-order today, with availability beginning March 12.

    “The new Mac Studio is the most powerful Mac we’ve ever made,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering. “A complete game-changer for pros around the world — powering both home and pro studios — Mac Studio sits in a class of its own, offering a staggering amount of performance in a compact, quiet design that fits beautifully on your desk. With this new Mac Studio, we’re delivering even more extreme performance with M4 Max and M3 Ultra, support for half a terabyte of unified memory, up to 16TB of superfast storage, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity. Mac Studio truly is the ultimate pro desktop.”

    Mac Studio with M4 Max: A Performance Juggernaut

    The new Mac Studio with M4 Max is the perfect choice for video editors, colorists, developers, engineers, photographers, creative pros, and other users who need to blaze through intensive workflows. It delivers phenomenal single-threaded CPU performance with the world’s fastest CPU core, along with outstanding multithreaded CPU performance for complex workloads. Featuring an up to 16-core CPU, an up to 40-core GPU, over half a terabyte per second of unified memory bandwidth, and a Neural Engine that is over 3x faster than M1 Max, Mac Studio with M4 Max can run on-device AI models incredibly fast. Mac Studio with M4 Max is up to 3.5x faster than Mac Studio with M1 Max, and is up to 6.1x faster than the most powerful Intel-based 27-inch iMac.1

    The GPU in M4 Max also brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to Mac Studio for the first time, including dynamic caching, hardware-accelerated mesh shading, and a second-generation ray-tracing engine for more seamless content creation and gaming. Mac Studio with M4 Max starts at 36GB of unified memory, with support for up to 128GB, so users can do everything from sorting through thousands of images with speed and precision, to producing complex compositions with hundreds of tracks, plug-ins, and virtual instruments, all played in real time. And with the powerful Media Engine in M4 Max, which features two ProRes accelerators, Mac Studio performance is outstanding for videographers who can effortlessly work with multiple streams of 4K ProRes.

    Mac Studio with M4 Max enables:1

    • Up to 1.6x faster image processing in Adobe Photoshop when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Max, and up to 2.9x faster when compared to the 27-inch iMac with Core i9. 
    • Up to 2.1x faster build performance when compiling code in Xcode when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Max, and up to 3.1x faster when compared to the 27-inch iMac with Core i9. 
    • Up to 1.2x faster ProRes transcode performance in Compressor when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Max, and up to 2.8x faster when compared to the 27-inch iMac with Core i9. 
    • Up to 1.6x faster video processing performance in Topaz Video AI when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Max, and up to 5x faster when compared to the 27-inch iMac with Core i9.

    Mac Studio with M3 Ultra: The Pinnacle of Pro Performance

    Mac Studio with M3 Ultra pushes demanding workflows to a whole new level. It delivers nearly 2x faster performance than M4 Max in workloads that take advantage of high CPU and GPU core counts, and massive amounts of unified memory.2 Mac Studio with M3 Ultra is up to 2.6x faster than Mac Studio with M1 Ultra, and up to 6.4x faster than the 16-core Intel Xeon W-based Mac Pro.1 With the new M3 Ultra, Mac Studio features an up to 32-core CPU with 24 performance cores, 50 percent more than any previous Ultra chip and the most CPU cores ever in a Mac. It also offers an up to 80-core GPU, more than any Apple silicon chip; a powerful 32-core Neural Engine for on-device AI and machine learning (ML); and a high-bandwidth memory architecture that delivers over 800GB/s of unified memory bandwidth.

    Mac Studio with M3 Ultra starts with 96GB of unified memory, which can be configured up to 512GB — the most unified memory ever in a personal computer — and up to 16TB of ultrafast SSD storage, so content and data can be kept locally. That’s enough storage for over 12 hours of 8K ProRes video. The advanced graphics architecture brings Dynamic Caching, along with hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing, so graphics workflows like GPU-based renderers are up to 2.6x faster than Mac Studio with M1 Ultra.

    Mac Studio with M3 Ultra enables:1

    • Up to 16.9x faster token generation using an LLM with hundreds of billions of parameters in LM Studio when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Ultra, thanks to its massive amounts of unified memory.
    • Up to 2.6x faster scene rendering performance in Maxon Redshift when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Ultra, and up to 6.4x faster when compared to the 16-core Intel-based Mac Pro with Radeon Pro W5700X.
    • Up to 1.1x faster basecalling for DNA sequencing in Oxford Nanopore MinKNOW when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Ultra, and up to 21.1x faster when compared to the 16-core Intel-based Mac Pro with Radeon Pro W5700X. 
    • Up to 1.4x faster 8K video rendering performance in Final Cut Pro when compared to Mac Studio with M1 Ultra, and up to 4x faster when compared to the 16-core Intel-based Mac Pro with Radeon Pro W5700X.

    Thunderbolt 5 for High-Bandwidth Accessories and Expansion

    The new Mac Studio features Thunderbolt 5 ports that deliver transfer speeds up to 120 Gb/s, up to 3x faster than the prior generation, enabling faster external storage, expansion chassis, and powerful hub solutions. For those who rely on PCIe expansion cards for their workflows, Thunderbolt 5 allows users to connect an external expansion chassis with higher bandwidth and lower latency. And with M3 Ultra, Mac Studio now drives up to eight Pro Display XDRs at the full 6K resolution. Mac Studio also offers a wide array of connectivity within easy reach for pros, including a 10Gb Ethernet port, an HDMI port, an SDXC card slot on the front to conveniently import photos and video, along with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

    Built for Apple Intelligence

    Mac Studio helps pros push the boundaries of what they can do, and Apple Intelligence elevates those experiences even further. Writing is even more dynamic with Writing Tools, which can help users rewrite, proofread, or summarize — whether they are responding to emails or using summarization to draft an abstract in seconds in apps like Scrivener. Pros can minimize unnecessary distractions with Priority Notifications and use live transcription in Notes to record and easily recap important meetings. With new Siri improvements, users can move fluidly between spoken and typed requests to accelerate tasks throughout their day, and Siri can answer thousands of questions about Mac features and settings, with step-by-step instructions like how to combine PDF files in Preview. With access to ChatGPT seamlessly integrated into Writing Tools and Siri, users can tap into ChatGPT’s expertise, so they can get things done even faster and easier. Users can choose to enable ChatGPT integration, and are in full control of when to use it and what information is shared with ChatGPT. Users can also explore creative new ways to express themselves visually with Image Playground, and drop their original image right into their paper, mood board, or Keynote presentation. Whether users are researching their next project, editing a video, creating new designs, or preparing for their next lecture, these new tools will help pros be even more productive.

    Designed to protect users’ privacy at every step, Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing, meaning that many of the models that power it run entirely on device. For requests that require access to larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of Mac into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence. When using Private Cloud Compute, users’ data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill their request.

    macOS Sequoia: An Unrivaled Experience

    macOS Sequoia completes the new Mac Studio experience with a host of exciting features, including iPhone Mirroring, which allows users to wirelessly interact with their iPhone, its apps, and notifications directly from their Mac.3 Pros can now move files, photos, and videos between iPhone and Mac as easily as they can drag and drop between apps on Mac. Easier window tiling means users can stay organized with a window layout that works best for them. The all-new Passwords app gives convenient access to passwords, passkeys, and other credentials, all stored in one place. And users can apply beautiful built-in backgrounds for video calls, which include a variety of color gradients and system wallpapers, or upload their own photos. Safari, the world’s fastest browser,4 now surfaces relevant information on sites in Highlights; summarizes articles in the redesigned Reader; keeps videos front and center in a new Video Viewer; and lets users hide distracting items with Distraction Control. Gaming gets even more immersive with features like Personalized Spatial Audio and improvements to Game Mode, along with a breadth of exciting titles, including Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition by CD PROJEKT RED, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and more.

    Next month, macOS Sequoia 15.4 will make it easier than ever to set up the new Mac Studio with iPhone.5 By simply bringing iPhone close to Mac, users can quickly and conveniently sign in to their Apple Account to get their files, photos, messages, passwords, and more on their new Mac Studio.

    The Ultimate Studio Setup

    Mac Studio, together with Studio Display, empowers creative users to build the studio of their dreams. Studio Display perfectly pairs with Mac Studio with its expansive 27-inch 5K Retina display, 12MP Center Stage camera, studio-quality three-mic array, and six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio. For users working on HDR workflows, Pro Display XDR offers a 32-inch Retina 6K display with up to 1600 nits of peak HDR brightness. Customers can also add matching Magic accessories — including Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Mouse — that beautifully complement the elegant design of Mac Studio and Studio Display.

    Better for the Environment

    The new Mac Studio is designed with the environment in mind. As part of Apple 2030, the company’s ambitious goal to be carbon neutral across its entire carbon footprint by the end of this decade, Apple is transitioning to renewable electricity for its manufacturing, and investing in wind and solar projects around the world to address the electricity used to power all Apple products, including Mac Studio. Today, all Apple facilities run on 100 percent renewable electricity — including the data centers that power Apple Intelligence.

    To achieve Apple 2030, the company is designing products with more recycled and renewable materials, which further drives down the carbon footprint. Mac Studio features over 30 percent recycled content overall, including 100 percent recycled aluminum in the enclosure and 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in all magnets. Mac Studio uses far less energy and materials than desktops in its class, and is free of mercury, brominated flame retardants, and PVC. The packaging is entirely fiber-based, bringing Apple closer to its goal to remove plastic from all packaging by the end of 2025.6

    Pricing and Availability

    • Customers can pre-order the new Mac Studio starting today on apple.com/store and in the Apple Store app in 28 countries and regions, including the U.S. It will begin arriving to customers, and will be in Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Resellers, starting Wednesday, March 12.
    • Mac Studio starts at $1,999 (U.S.) and $1,799 (U.S.) for education. Additional configure-to-order options are available at apple.com/store. 
    • More information on Studio Display, Pro Display XDR, and Magic accessories is available at apple.com/shop/buy-mac.
    • Apple Intelligence is available on all Mac models with M1 and later, in localized English for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and the U.S. Additional languages — including French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (simplified), English (Singapore), and English (India) — will be available in April, with more languages coming over the course of the year, including Vietnamese. Some features, applications, and services may not be available in all regions or all languages. 
    • With Apple Trade In, customers can trade in their current computer and get credit toward a new Mac. Customers can visit apple.com/shop/trade-in to see what their device is worth. 
    • AppleCare+ for Mac provides unparalleled service and support. This includes unlimited incidents of accidental damage, battery service coverage, and 24/7 support from the people who know Mac best. 
    • Every customer who buys directly from Apple Retail gets access to Personal Setup. In these guided online sessions, a Specialist can walk them through setup, or focus on features that help them make the most of their new device. Customers can also learn more about getting started with their new device with a Today at Apple session at their nearest Apple Store.
    • Customers in the U.S. who shop at Apple using Apple Card can pay monthly at 0 percent APR when they choose to check out with Apple Card Monthly Installments, and they’ll get 3 percent Daily Cash back — all up front. More information — including details on eligibility, exclusions, and Apple Card terms — is available at apple.com/apple-card/monthly-installments.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Testing was conducted by Apple in January and February 2025. See apple.com/mac-studio for more information.
    2. Results are compared to Mac Studio systems with Apple M4 Max, 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU, 128GB of RAM, and 8TB SSD.
    3. Available on Mac computers with Apple silicon and Intel-based Mac computers with a T2 Security Chip. See requirements on apple.com/macos/macos-sequoia. Some iPhone features (for example, camera and microphone) are not compatible with iPhone Mirroring.
    4. Testing was conducted by Apple in August 2024. See apple.com/safari for more information.
    5. Available next month on macOS Sequoia 15.4 with iPhone and iPad running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or a later version.
    6. Based on retail packaging as shipped by Apple. Breakdown of U.S. retail packaging by weight. Adhesives, inks, and coatings are excluded from calculations of plastic content and packaging weight.

    Press Contacts

    Michelle Del Rio

    Apple

    mr_delrio@apple.com

    Starlayne Meza

    Apple

    starlayne_meza@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sniffer dogs help to seize illegal vapes and cigarettes

    Source: City of Coventry

    Sniffer dogs, have been helping Coventry Police and Council Trading Standards Officers to hunt down thousands of illegal vapes and cigarettes, during city raids.

    The Council and Police’s local neighbourhood teams have joined forces with four-legged working cocker spaniels Sky and Louis – both are trained to sniff out hidden compartments of tobacco, vapes and money.

    The tobacco detection dogs have been offering a helping paw as part of a crackdown at shops across Coventry.

    The dogs helped sniff out illicit goods at five city centre premises and even indicated that there was tobacco behind false walls, inside furniture and inside vehicles, which officers eventually accessed to find the goods inside.

    At one location a substantial amount of N2O, better known as Nox or Noz, was also seized and will now be investigated by the Police.

    Each incident where illicit goods were recovered will be now investigated.  

    Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, Cabinet member for Police and Deputy Leader at Coventry City Council, said:

    “Our Trading Standards team go above and beyond in their pursuit of illegal vapes and cigarettes, as is shown with this very successful operation.

    “Hiring Sky and Louis, who did an excellent job, was a fantastic way of protecting the health of our residents and keeping local children safe from underage sales.

    “With the ongoing help of partners, West Midlands Police we are very effective in dealing with this problem.

    “Anyone who knows of retailers selling illegal goods, or selling age restricted goods to children, can tell our Trading Standards team about it via our online reporting form found by searching ‘Coventry Trading Standards’.”

    Wednesday, 5th March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Progress in tackling waiting times

    Source: Scottish Government

    Frailty services expansion to build on improved performance.

    The national roll-out of specialist frailty services at all 30 A&E departments will build on recent progress to clear long waits and help reduce hospital stay length for the most vulnerable people.

    Frailty Units are specialist beds that focus on intense assessment of older people with frailty – the services offer access to specialist skills and care plans, accelerate early discharge and look to reduce delays and length of stay.

    The expansion, supported through the £200 million announced as part of the 2025-26 Budget, will be a key focus of the Scottish Government’s new Operational Improvement Plan for the NHS, due to publish this Spring. This will include changes to the way acute services are delivered to help reduce waiting times. In recent weeks Health Boards have reported significant progress against long waits, including:

    • the pledge to carry out 64,000 procedures through £30 million additional funding by the end of March 2025 has already been exceeded – with boards reporting to have 75,500 delivered by end of January 2025.
    • a 4% decrease in the total waiting list size for diagnostics – with waits now at their lowest since October 2021
    • a 12% decrease from a recent peak in April 2024 in total ongoing waits for eight key diagnostic tests combined
    • 90.6% of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) referrals being seen within 18 weeks from October to December– the standard is 90%.

    On a visit to Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Health Secretary Neil Gray outlined the Scottish Government’s plans to build on this progress by installing a frailty service in every site with a core A&E by the summer.

    Mr Gray met staff working in the hospital’s dedicated frailty service which has reported significant progress in the last 18 months – with average length of stay for vulnerable patients reducing by 3 days, without any increase in readmission. The service has also reported enhanced co-ordination and collaboration among healthcare teams leading to improved patient outcomes.

    Mr Gray said:

    “In recent weeks we have seen good progress in reducing waits and there are encouraging signs that our plan is working. However, we know there is more to do and we want to drive further improvement. That is why we are investing £200 million to help clear waiting list backlogs, improve capacity and reduce delayed discharge.

    “I was pleased to meet the team working in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary frailty service and see first-hand the positive impact their crucial work is having – with the service allowing speedier assessment of vulnerable people presenting at A&E and reducing length of stay for patients significantly.

    “We want to replicate this success across Scotland and shift the balance of care from acute, to community. Through a portion of our £200 million investment, we will deliver direct access to specialist frailty teams in every A&E by this summer. This will enable people who experience frailty to be referred directly by GPs and the Scottish Ambulance Service to specialist frailty services as an alternative to attending A&E or admission.”

    Laura Duffy, Consultant Geriatrician at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, said: 

    “Working with our colleagues in the Emergency Department and Acute Assessment Unit, we have created a process which identifies people living with frailty. This enables us to direct and prioritise these people to receive care from a specialist team, in specialist areas and initiate early Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment. A key part of developing this service has been ensuring that we identify the priorities and concerns of our patients and their carers promptly and work in partnership with them to develop a plan for their care.

    “We have also worked at further developing and enhancing our links and interface working with our colleagues in the community and in social care. We have developed daily CGA Huddles which can be attended by a variety of acute, community and social care teams. These allow the early exchange of key information and collateral information gathering about patients, which helps provide more effective, timely and patient centred care.

    “The results so far have been promising with 74% of patients admitted through the Acute Medical Receiving Unit being screened for frailty. We have also noted a reduction in length of stay of three days for people with frailty, without an increase in readmissions.”

    Background

    There are currently five frailty units – these have been set up during the Focus on Frailty programme led by Health improvement Scotland across Ayrshire and Arran, Lanarkshire, Tayside, Glasgow and Dumfries and Galloway. There is variation in these services with no standard model. The services provide a dedicated closed unit or area staffed by frailty / medicine of the elderly staff with frailty assessment within the first hour of arrival at hospital.

    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 March 2025. By 31 January 2025, 56,500 diagnostic procedures, almost 9,200 surgeries, and over 9,800 outpatient appointments had been delivered.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Aktia Bank Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Aleksi Lehtonen

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    5 March 2025 at 3.00 p.m.

    Aktia Bank Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Aleksi Lehtonen

    Person subject to the notification requirement
    Name: Lehtonen, Aleksi
    Position: Chief Executive Officer
    Issuer: Aktia Bank Plc
    LEI: 743700GC62JLHFBUND16

    Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
    Reference number: 743700GC62JLHFBUND16_20250304114903_219

    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2025-03-03
    Venue not applicable
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI4000058870
    Nature of the transaction: RECEIPT OF A SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 6,623 Unit price: 0.00 EUR

    Aggregated transactions
    (1): Volume: 6,623 Volume weighted average price: 0.00 EUR

    Aktia Bank Plc

    Further information:
    Oscar Taimitarha, Director, Investor Relations, tel. +358 40 562 2315, ir (at) aktia.fi

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Mass media
    www.aktia.com

    Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds internationally. We employ approximately 850 people around Finland. Aktia’s assets under management (AuM) on 31 December 2024 amounted to EUR 14.0 billion, and the balance sheet total was EUR 11.9 billion. Aktia’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aktia Bank Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Anssi Huhta

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    5 March 2025 at 3.00 p.m.

    Aktia Bank Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Anssi Huhta

    Person subject to the notification requirement
    Name: Huhta, Anssi
    Position: Other senior manager
    Issuer: Aktia Bank Plc
    LEI: 743700GC62JLHFBUND16

    Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
    Reference number: 743700GC62JLHFBUND16_20250304114926_220

    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2025-03-03
    Venue not applicable
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI4000058870
    Nature of the transaction: RECEIPT OF A SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 6,716 Unit price: 0.00 EUR

    Aggregated transactions
    (1): Volume: 6,716 Volume weighted average price: 0.00 EUR

    Aktia Bank Plc

    Further information:
    Oscar Taimitarha, Director, Investor Relations, tel. +358 40 562 2315, ir (at) aktia.fi

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Mass media
    www.aktia.com

    Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds internationally. We employ approximately 850 people around Finland. Aktia’s assets under management (AuM) on 31 December 2024 amounted to EUR 14.0 billion, and the balance sheet total was EUR 11.9 billion. Aktia’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aktia Bank Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Kati Eriksson

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    5 March 2025 at 3.00 p.m.

    Aktia Bank Plc: Managers’ Transactions – Kati Eriksson

    Person subject to the notification requirement
    Name: Eriksson, Kati
    Position: Other senior manager
    Issuer: Aktia Bank plc
    LEI: 743700GC62JLHFBUND16

    Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
    Reference number: 743700GC62JLHFBUND16_20250304114903_218

    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2025-03-03
    Venue not applicable
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI4000058870
    Nature of the transaction: RECEIPT OF A SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 4,469 Unit price: 0.00 EUR

    Aggregated transactions
    (1): Volume: 4,469 Volume weighted average price: 0.00 EUR

    Aktia Bank Plc

    Further information:
    Oscar Taimitarha, Director, Investor Relations, tel. +358 40 562 2315, ir (at) aktia.fi

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Mass media
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Maritime Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference showcases tech and ASEAN efforts to combat trafficking

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Maritime Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference showcases tech and ASEAN efforts to combat trafficking

    The conference focused on innovative technologies and strategies to combat illegal wildlife trade, promoting marine biodiversity and sustainable trade in ASEAN.

    The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) hosted the Maritime Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) Conference in Singapore from 25th to 27th February 2025, to address the pressing issue of the IWT in marine species.

    Supported by the UK Government, this event united key Southeast Asian and global stakeholders from government, NGOs, academia, and the private sector to explore cutting-edge technologies and strategies to tackle marine IWT, advancing global efforts to protect marine biodiversity in the ASEAN region and promoting sustainable trade practices.  

    With around 90% of global trade and illegal wildlife trafficking occurring via maritime transport, regional coordination and innovative solutions are more crucial than ever.

    UK Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Sarah Tiffin said:  

    Through the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action, the UK is committed to working with ASEAN to enhance regional cooperation and help build Member States’ capacities to prevent and repress the illicit trafficking of wildlife. We are delighted to welcome government representatives from across the ASEAN region to this conference to contribute to the depth and breadth of their expertise through talks, case studies and workshop sessions. IWT is a big concern; it not only affects national fishing industries, but livelihoods and increasing knock-on transnational crime that spills from the maritime space to land.

    The Chair of ASEAN Working Group on CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and Wildlife Enforcement, Mr Athapol Charoenshunsa said:  

    The illegal wildlife trade threatens key marine species such as sharks, rays, turtles, and corals in Southeast Asia, drawing increasing attention as efforts to combat its impact intensify. The potential for tools and technology to address these concerns is promising, and the ASEAN Working Group on CITES and Wildlife Enforcement has supported this conference since its inception to strengthen ASEAN-UK collaboration.

    The Maritime IWT Conference is organised in partnership with the cooperation of National Parks Board (NParks) Singapore.  

    NParks’ CEO, Ms Hwang Yu-Ning said:  

    Singapore is privileged to host the Maritime Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference, providing a platform for representatives from ASEAN member states, the UK, and other partners to convene and share knowledge. In line with the theme of the conference, we recognise the importance of utilising new and emerging tools in this global fight and will continue to strengthen our partnerships and enhance our collective efforts in tackling illegal wildlife trade and protecting biodiversity more effectively.

    The UK is committed to tackling IWT in marine species particularly through its support of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN Maritime Outlook. By bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders, the conference aimed to foster partnerships and enhance regional cooperation. Given the tangible negative effects that the illegal trade of marine species has on the ASEAN region, including impacts on livelihoods, the facilitation of corruption and the spread of wildlife disease, this conference and its outcomes are of paramount importance to the UK Mission to ASEAN. 

    This initiative aligns with the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action (2022-26), which includes commitments to combat the illegal trade in wildlife and timber pursuant to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and other relevant conventions and agreements.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –