Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2
Media Advisory Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Nursing for at least six months may spur beneficial gut bacteria connected to better heart health years later. What An observational study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that infants who had more diverse bacteria in their gut had lower childhood blood pressure, and this protective association was stronger if they were breastfed for at least six months. The findings published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. For the research, investigators reviewed data from 526 children enrolled in a prospective study in Denmark. They looked for connections between infant gut bacteria, which can be influenced by nutrition and supports a variety of health functions, and childhood blood pressure. To assess this, they collected fecal samples to analyze bacteria in the infants’ intestines during their first week, month, and year of life. Three and six years later, they measured the children’s blood pressure. The researchers found children with more diverse gut bacteria at one month had lower blood pressure six years later. They then assessed the influence of breastfeeding, which was measured in this study for durations of at least six months. They discovered that among children breastfed for at least six months, the blood-pressure lowering effect of having more diverse bacteria in their gut was even stronger. Specifically, those with a greater diversity of gut bacteria throughout the first month of life had systolic blood pressure that was about 2 mm Hg lower six years later if they were breastfed for at least six months. Researchers believe there may be several reasons for these associations. Certain gut bacteria have evolved specialized biologic machinery that allows them to convert otherwise indigestible carbohydrates in breast milk into calories and substances that can be used by the body. Specific Bifidobacterium species, including B. infantis, are superstars when it comes to breaking down these carbohydrates and turning them into short-chain fatty acids that may influence blood pressure and support cardiovascular health. In infants who are not breastfed, bacteria that do not have breast milk carbohydrates to feed on may instead break down carbohydrates that line the intestines. This could result in a condition called a “leaky gut,” where bacteria and fat could enter the bloodstream. A leaky gut has been linked to inflammation and increased blood pressure in adults. Additionally, the researchers found that some types of bacteria, including H. pylori, were present in some infants and these bacteria were linked to increased blood pressure years later. H. pylori, which can be passed from a mother to child, can create persistent levels of low inflammation and may influence a “leaky gut.” To make participants in the study as comparable as possible, the researchers accounted for a mother’s medical history, their diet during pregnancy, pregnancy complications, when and how a child was born, and how long they were breastfed. About 4% to 7% of children worldwide have high blood pressure, which can start when the fetus develops in the womb. These rates have doubled since 2020, which is why researchers are studying factors that may offset these risks and improve cardiovascular health. The study was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) grant K01HL141589. Who Charlotte Pratt, Ph.D., R.D., Acting Chief, Clinical Applications and Prevention Branch, NHLBI Study Liu T, Stokholm J, Zhang M, et al. Infant Gut Microbiota and Childhood Blood Pressure: Prospective Associations and the Modifying Role of Breastfeeding. J Am Heart Assoc. 2025; doi: 10.1161/JAHA.124.037447. About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov. About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov. NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health® ###
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
UK and Vietnam sign joint communiqué at annual migration dialogue
Today, the UK and Vietnam have signed a joint communiqué to build on joint work to tackle irregular migration.
The UK has today (4 March) signed a joint communiqué with the Government of Vietnam at the third annual UK-Vietnam Migration Dialogue, hosted in Hanoi, agreeing to build on our joint work to prevent the exploitation of irregular migrants, disrupt criminal gang operations, strengthen intelligence sharing and return those with no right to be in the UK.
The joint communiqué includes a series of commitments to further co-operation.
Preventing and responding to Vietnamese nationals migrating to the UK irregularly through:
a) targeted deterrence communications
b) raising awareness of legal routes
c) working together to tackle human trafficking
Strengthening co-operation in law enforcement, especially immigration crimes, through:
a) increasing operational law enforcement co-operation
b) co-operating with transit countries
c) sharing information on human trafficking
d) disrupting criminal gangs
Returning Vietnamese nationals with no legal right to be in the UK to Vietnam through:
a) expediting issuance of travel documents
b) exploring further ways to improve returns co-operation
c) holding regular returns working groups
The UK and Government of Vietnam reaffirmed the strong bilateral partnership and agreed to ensure progress on the aforementioned areas at the next migration dialogue, to be hosted by the UK in 2026.
Discussions over the future of a primary school in Leeds will continue next week as the authority seeks approval to progress to the next stage of consultation on its possible closure.
Due to low pupil numbers and an increasingly challenging budget position, Leeds City Council has identified that the long-term sustainability of Queensway Primary School in Yeadon is at risk.
A consultation on a proposal to close the school from the end of this academic year took place last month and a report providing an update will be discussed at next week’s executive board meeting (Wednesday March 12).
Senior councillors at the meeting will decide whether to progress to the next stage and publish a ‘statutory notice’ on the proposals, marking the start of a further four-week consultation period where views will continue to be sought.
A final decision is anticipated to take place at the council’s executive board meeting in June 2025.
The latest report highlights how, over the past five years, declining birth rates have led to a significant fall in pupil numbers across the Aireborough school area. Queensway Primary School has significantly felt the impact of reducing numbers, with only 81 children on its roll in October 2024, compared to its admission limit of 210.
Since the number of children at a school determines the funding it receives, this ongoing situation has led to a sharp rise in the school’s budget deficit forecast, which is expected to grow from an estimated £608,000 at the end of 2025/26 to £1.35m by the end of the 2027/28 financial year.
This increasing deficit means the school’s ability to fund the support for all pupils in the longer term, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), is at risk.
The report to the executive board stresses that, should the school close, the council would work closely with partners to ensure families are able to secure alternative school places, with extensive tailored support for pupils with SEND and/or Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “Closing a school is not a decision we take lightly and we absolutely understand the strength of feeling among the school and wider community as these difficult conversations continue.
“We fully recognise the tireless work of everyone involved in championing the school and improving its position. However the falling birth rate has led to an increasingly challenging budget situation and this has long-term implications for the school’s ability to support its pupils.
“As a local authority, we have a responsibility to consider the viability of the school and as such, we are now seeking to progress to the next stage of consultation.
“If this is approved, there will be further opportunity for people to show their support or objection to the proposal during the new statutory notice period.
“I would like to re-emphasise that, should the closure go ahead, we would work closely with all affected families, including providing comprehensive and bespoke support for children with SEND and/or EHCPs to ensure their needs continued to be met.”
To view the report being considered by the executive board visit Council and democracy (agenda item nine).
A report to senior councillors outlines the good progress being made on the council’s ambitious Connecting Leeds transport strategy, but highlights that more needs to be done and more funding allocated to meet its aims.
The report to the council’s Executive Board provides an update on progress on the Connecting Leeds transport strategy. Its vision is for Leeds to be a city where you don’t need a car, and where everyone has an affordable, accessible and zero carbon choice in how they travel, and since 2018 more than three quarters of a billion pounds has been invested in the city’s highways and transport network through the Connecting Leeds programme.
The Connecting Leeds transport strategy’s initial action plan 2020 -2024 has delivered some key successes including:
Major highway improvements including the Armley Gyratory and the completion of the East Leeds Orbital Route, increasing road capacity to support changes in the city centre, along with other improvements to key transport corridors including the A647 and Outer Ring Road between Horsforth and Rodley.
Launching our Vision Zero Strategy which aims to eliminate all fatalities and serious injuries on Leeds roads by 2040. The number of people killed or seriously injured on Leeds roads has reduced since its launch.
Transforming City Square and wider public realm in the city centre, including the Headrow, Vicar Lane and the Corn Exchange, creating safer pedestrian-friendly spaces.
The launch of Leeds City Bikes, the largest e-bike scheme in the UK which will see further roll-out later this year.
The Stourton Park & Ride has experienced continued growth since opening in late 2021, alongside the existing sites at Elland Road and Temple Green, and more than 90 electric buses are now serving the city’s busiest routes. Around 10,000 cars are taken off city roads each week with consistently over 20,000 passengers per week using the services and further improvements planned later in the year.
Improvements and significant funding in Leeds City Rail Station, with a significant increase in passenger numbers and footfall exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Local rail stations have experienced similar growth.
Fewer car commuters into the city centre since 2021, reducing congestion and improving local air quality.
These successes have led to increasing numbers of people walking through the city centre, along with rising bus passenger numbers.
Overall city centre footfall for the whole of 2024 increased by 1.3% compared to 2023, which in turn was up by 2.7% on 2022. Footfall at Leeds City Rail Station has also increased by 12% in 2024 compared to 2023, and with the city centre seeing significant and continued investment in its retail and hospitality offer it is hoped that footfall will keep rising and further boost the city’s economy.
There has also been a 4.1% reduction in car mileage across the city since 2019, and a 6% year-on-year increase of public electric vehicle charging points.
New Action Plan launched to 2027
Some measures within the initial action plan are ongoing or still progressing, and are being taken forward with the launch of a new action plan which details our ambitions and activities up to 2027.
This includes major schemes such as Dawson’s Corner and Stanningley Bypass, which has only recently secured c£36m government funding, the A660 improvements and the Lawnswood Roundabout scheme, along with more active travel and cycling schemes.
The council will continue to support the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to progress the mass transit scheme and to implement bus reforms, and will continue its partnership work to deliver the Vision Zero strategy regionally.
The challenges of delivering these measures is reflected in progress against the strategy’s ambitions. Although overall carbon emissions have reduced since 2019, the latest figures suggest that they have begun rising again and may reach pre-pandemic levels, so the council is still facing challenges to meet its net-zero targets by 2030.
There was a significant decrease in motorists driving into the city centre between 2022 and 2023, and although this trend has not continued during the last year the number remains below 2022’s levels.
Across the city the amount of HGV and LGV traffic is growing which is likely to relate to online shopping and home delivery trends.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council and Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Sustainable Development, said: “We have made significant progress towards our vision of creating a city where you don’t need to own a car, and we are proud of our achievements so far.
“Our places are becoming more people-friendly, inclusive and welcoming, we are delivering infrastructure which is fit for the 21st century, and we are encouraging more people to use active and sustainable travel methods and public transport.
“We have big ambitions for our city and we recognise that progress towards these hasn’t been easy. We’ve faced significant challenges along the way and there is much to do. When the council adopted this very ambitious strategy it was made with the knowledge that this would be underpinned by significant funding over a sustained period. Investment levels have been good in recent years and there is a need to maintain these in the coming years so we can achieve our goals alongside delivering general transport improvements.
“By launching our new action plan to 2027 we are making clear how we will ensure we achieve our vision for everyone who lives, works and visits our city, working closely with our partners and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.”
Exploring new funding opportunities
The report states that the ‘current level of funding is insufficient to cover all aspects’ of the new action plan. As a result, the council will be looking for alternative funding to deliver these activities, and will be looking to work with partners including the combined authority, the Department for Transport and the private sector to achieved its shared objectives.
As part of this, the council is exploring the possibility of introducing a workplace parking levy to generate revenue which would used as local contributions to major transport investments, principally mass transit.
Such a levy could charge city centre businesses for parking places they offer for staff use, with revenue ring-fenced to support significant transport improvements.
The report is seeking agreement to carry out exploratory work including surveys around how a workplace parking levy could potentially be applied in Leeds city centre. This would include engaging with key partners and businesses in the first instance, and developing a rationale around which premises should be exempt from the scheme such as the city’s hospitals which employ round-the-clock shift workers delivering a vital emergency service.
Following this exploratory work, should the council intend to proceed with the introduction of a workplace parking levy a further report would be submitted to executive board for approval.
Should this be granted, a business case would need to be submitted to the Department for Transport and approved by the Secretary of State.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
News story
UK Government releases £129m for reform of NI public services
Secretary of State has welcomed the release of £129 million by the UK Government to support public service transformation in Northern Ireland.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn MP
The funding is the first tranche of the £235 million transformation fund committed to the Executive, and demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to improving public services for people in Northern Ireland.
Targeted funding will support six Executive projects across the Departments of Health, Justice, Education and Infrastructure.
UK Government support to deliver Plan for Change.
The funding will see £61m go towards expanding the multi-disciplinary team approach to primary care across Northern Ireland, and support five other projects across justice, education and infrastructure which represent key priorities in the Executive’s Programme for Government.
This is the first tranche of funding to be allocated from the £235 million fund created by the UK Government as part of the financial package that led to the restoration of the Executive in February 2024. It comes in addition to a £1.5 billion increase through the Barnett formula, with £1.2 billion for day-to-day spending, and £270 million for capital investment. This investment shows the Government’s Plan for Change delivering reform and growth for the people of Northern Ireland.
Mr Benn said: “Everyone recognises that the task of stabilising and transforming Northern Ireland’s health and other public services is a priority.
“This allocation of UK Government funding is a really important step towards this, and in this UK Government, the Executive will always have a partner that is committed to supporting this work every step of the way.
“I am delighted that Northern Ireland will this year receive its largest real terms financial settlement since devolution, supporting growth and investment. Today’s additional funding will go directly towards the transformation of public services, which the people of Northern Ireland want to see.”
Background
The funding comes following the recommendations of the Public Sector Transformation Board to fund six projects across health, justice, education and infrastructure.
The Board, comprising officials from the Northern Ireland Civil Service and UK Government, supported by independent experts, provides recommendations to the Executive about approval on £235 million ringfenced funding.
Further funding decisions will be subject to the Public Sector Transformation Board’s recommendations, of which is led and agreed by the Northern Ireland Executive.
The transformation funding is part of the broader £3.3 billion restoration package for Northern Ireland.
Greenbelt, Maryland – On Friday, February 28, Newton Ofioritse Jemide, 47, a Nigerian national, pled guilty to a federal charge for wire fraud conspiracy. Jemide, who was recently extradited from France, was involved in a scheme to fraudulently obtain federal benefits.
Kelly O. Hayes, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Joseph V. Cuffari, Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); Acting Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Colleen Lawlor, Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of Inspector General – Philadelphia Field Division; and Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool, U.S. Secret Service – Washington Field Office.
“Mr. Jemide and his co-conspirators’ greed and utter disregard for the suffering of those who need national emergency assistance, by stealing from the government, will not be tolerated,” said United States Attorney Hayes. “The District of Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners will continue to hold those accountable who try to defraud our government through fraud, waste, and abuse during times of crisis.”
“Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message that individuals who defraud the federal government for their own personal gain will be identified and held accountable,” said U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, PhD. “DHS-OIG is grateful for our continued partnership with our law enforcement partners as we continue fighting waste, fraud, and abuse.”
During the timeframe covered by the indictment, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided emergency benefits and compensation for damages to victims affected by declared national emergency disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires. Among other benefits, an individual in an area affected was immediately eligible for Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) to purchase life-saving or life-sustaining materials. Victims could decide how to receive assistance payments, which included deposits on prepaid debit cards.
According to the guilty plea, in 2016 and 2017, Jemide and others from Nigeria directed co-conspirators living in the United States to purchase hundreds of Green Dot Debit Cards. Co-conspirators living in Nigeria then registered the cards with Green Dot using stolen personal information from identity theft victims around the United States. Jemide and his co-conspirators used an encrypted messaging application and other means to communicate.
In 2017, following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and the California wildfires, Jemide, and other co-conspirators from Nigeria, used stolen personal information to apply online for FEMA and CNA benefits. FEMA dispersed $500 per claim on the Green Dot Debit Cards that co-conspirators purchased for a total of at least $8 million.
“Bringing these criminals to justice prevents further victimization of American taxpayers and abuse of the programs put in place as safety nets for the most vulnerable in our country,” said SAC McCool. “This investigation underscores the Secret Service’s global reach and steadfast commitment, in collaboration with our partner agencies, to combat cyber-enabled financial crimes and relentlessly pursue those committing them.”
In addition to filing false disaster-assistance claims with FEMA, Jemide and co-conspirators also submitted false online claims for Social Security benefits, IRS tax refunds, and other government benefits using stolen identities of multiple individuals, including names, addresses, social security numbers, and other personal identifiers.
“Newton Ofioritse Jemide and his co-conspirators misused Social Security numbers to steal government funds via SSA’s online services. The misuse of SSA’s e-Services to defraud SSA and rightful beneficiaries and recipients will not be tolerated at any level,” said Acting SAC Lawlor. “Our office will continue to investigate those who abuse SSA programs and operations, including its e-Services, for their own selfish gain. I thank our law enforcement partners for their assistance and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this complex case.”
As a result of fraudulent submissions, FEMA and the other federal agencies deposited benefits onto the Green Dot Debit Cards. The funds were deposited on the debit cards using multiple stolen identities, including identities different from the identities used to register the cards. Jemide and select co-conspirators informed other co-conspirators when the fraudulent funds became available on the debit cards and gave them information to cash out the funds from the cards in exchange for a commission. Additionally, the co-conspirators took steps to conceal their identities by enlisting others to make purchases and withdrawals; utilizing multiple store and bank locations and methods of withdrawal; and making money orders payable to other individuals and/or corporate entities.
Jemide faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is currently scheduled for July 1, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., before U.S. District Court Judge Deborah K. Chasanow.
United States Attorney Hayes commended DHS-OIG, SSA-OIG, and USSS for their work in the investigation and thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the United States Marshals Service for their valuable assistance in securing the extradition of Jemide to the United States. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Wright and Darren Gardner who are prosecuting the federal case.
Derby City Council’s Family Hubs are holding a fantastic free event for children and young people. The first Family Hubs Festival takes place on Monday 10 March at the Museum of Making.
During the day, there’ll be loads of free fun for families with under-fives. Then, from 4pm, there will be youth activities galore for older children to enjoy.
The event kicks off at 11am in the beautiful surroundings of the Museum’s Italian Mill. There’s no need to book – parents, carers and little ones can just turn up and join in with whatever they fancy.
Together with our partners, we’ve planned a full programme of activities that will run until 3pm. These include:
Storytelling with Derby Libraries
Family Hub Programme information and taster sessions with our teams
Nature Connect Sessions with the University of Derby and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
A Family Hub treasure hunt around the museum
Creative literacy sessions with Bridge the Gap
Sensory Stay and Play for neuro-diverse children
Move Me! taster sessions with CANVAS
Health drop-in sessions with midwifery, health visitors and the infant feeding teams
Plus much more – so why not drop in and join in with the fun? Children will also be provided with a free lunch, while parents and carers can relax with a free hot drink.
Our Family Hubs aren’t just for younger children. From 4pm until 5.30pm you can discover what’s on offer for older ones too. The activities are aimed at 11-19-year-olds, but younger children are welcome to come along with their parents and carers.
There’ll be performances and a variety of workshops including music, sport, breakdancing, wellbeing, art and theatre – and it’s all free. You can even get free chips and hotdogs!
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:
The Family Hubs Festival is a brilliant opportunity for Derby families to come together and discover the wealth of free support and activities available right here in our city, for our youngest children right up to teenagers.
The sheer variety of activities on offer is testament to the strength of our partnerships. From storytelling to breakdancing, health drop-ins to nature sessions, this event shows the comprehensive support our Family Hubs provide. Come along and find out what’s on offer!
The Family Hubs Festival takes place on Monday 10 March at the Museum of Making on Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF. Families with under-fives are welcome from 11am until 3pm. From 4pm until 5.30pm, the activities will be aimed at 11-19-year-olds, but younger children can attend with a parent/carer. The free sessions are drop-in – no booking is required.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Pinar Dinc, Associate Professor of Political Science, Department of Political Science & Researcher, Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University
Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK), has called on the group to disarm and dissolve itself. In a letter read out by his political allies in Istanbul, Turkey, on February 27, he wrote: “I take on the historical responsibility for this call … All groups must lay down their arms and the PKK must dissolve itself.”
Two days later, the PKK’s executive committee declared a ceasefire to its armed struggle against the Turkish state. The conflict, which began in 1984 with the aim of establishing an independent Kurdish state in response to state oppression, has claimed the lives of more than 40,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands more.
Öcalan has been imprisoned on an island south of Istanbul since 1999, when he was captured by Turkish security forces in Kenya. But he has remained the leader of the PKK throughout and has kept his strong personality cult among the Kurdish freedom movement.
He was the force behind the PKK’s shift away from its separatist goals in the 2000s. He argued that the solution to the Kurdish question in the Middle East was for greater autonomy and Kurdish rights through the idea of “democratic confederalism”, built on the pillars of direct democracy rather than a nation-state model.
In his letter, Öcalan repeated this argument. He blamed the past 200 years of capitalist modernity for the break up of the alliance between the Kurds and the Turks. And he highlighted the importance of a truly democratic society and political space for a lasting solution to the Kurdish struggle.
Öcalan’s letter mainly addressed the Turkish public and international community, and is likely to have been “approved” by the Turkish state. As such, it was rather short, at times vague, and did not propose a detailed framework about the peace process between Turkey and the PKK.
But after Öcalan’s letter was read out, Sırrı Süreyya Önder, a member of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy party (DEM), shared with journalists an additional remark Öcalan had made.
Öcalan had apparently said: “Undoubtedly, in practice, the laying down of arms and the dissolution of the PKK require the recognition of democratic politics and a legal framework”. This point suggests that Öcalan’s call to disarm is merely the beginning of a long process to bring the conflict to a close.
The PKK has announced that, in order for disarmament and dissolution to be put into practice, Öcalan needs to lead this congress personally. This indicates an expectation for Öcalan to gain some sort of freedom to communicate and direct the process.
Support for dissolution
Leading figures from several pro-Kurdish groups have welcomed the order for the PKK to disarm. This has included Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and Salih Muslim, the former co-chairperson of the Democratic Union party (PYD) in Syria.
Öcalan’s call has also received support from the international community. This includes the US and UK, which alongside many other nations, recognise the PKK as a terrorist organisation. On February 27, US National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes told CNN that the announcement was “a significant development” that “we believe will help bring peace to this troubled region”.
Perhaps most importantly, Öcalan’s announcement has been welcomed almost unanimously by political parties in Turkey. Only the ultra-nationalist Good and Victory parties oppose the call to dissolve the PKK, seeing any negotiations with the group as compromising national integrity.
But, despite this important step towards peace, it remains difficult to see an imminent end to the Kurdish struggle in Turkey. The Justice and Development party (AKP) and the Nationalist Movement party, which have ruled Turkey together since 2023, have been continuing their oppression of the democratic sphere.
They have replaced elected Kurdish mayors with government officials, while also imprisoning democratically elected Kurdish politicians. And people in the media, civil society and other democratic movements, such as the People’s Democratic Congress, have been criminalised and detained.
At the same time, Turkey considers the SDF and other Kurdish organisations like the People’s Protection Units (YPG) and the PYD as offshoots of the PKK. It has supported its militia force in Syria, the Syrian National Army, to stop the Kurdish autonomous region on its border from achieving political status, seeing it as a direct threat to national security.
Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has warned the PKK of further action if the process of disarmament is stalled. In a post on X on March 1, Erdoğan wrote: “If the promises are not kept … such as delaying, deceiving, changing names … we will continue our operations, if necessary, until we eliminate the last terrorist”.
This signals an expectation from the Turkish state that they want all of the groups they associate with the PKK, armed and non-armed, to also disband. However, Abdi has asserted that Öcalan’s call for the PKK to dissolve does not apply to the group he leads. “If there is peace in Turkey, that means there is no excuse to keep attacking us here in Syria”, Abdi said.
The Syrian National Army has been launching attacks in northern Syria to capture territory from the SDF, with fighting particularly intense around the Tishreen Dam.
So far, the only positive approach from the Turkish government has been signalling a possible change in the constitutional definition of citizenship to go beyond ethnic criteria. This would be a first step towards a more pluralist and inclusive description of citizenship in Turkey, where people from several ethnic groups have lived for centuries.
There are various concerns over the ways in which the dissolution process will be carried out. But the possibility of peace is valuable as it opens up democratic avenues for struggle. Resolving the Kurdish question, one of Turkey’s most pressing unresolved issues, will pave the way for progress in other areas such as democratisation and freedom of expression.
Pinar Dinc is the principal investigator of the ECO-Syria project, which receives funding from the Strategic Research Area: The Middle East in the Contemporary World (MECW) at the Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University, Sweden.
The 50 American individuals and couples who gave or pledged the most to charity in 2024 committed US$16.2 billion to foundations, universities, hospitals and more. That total was 33% above an inflation-adjusted $12.2 billion in 2023, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s latest annual tally of these donations. Media mogul and former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg led the list, followed by Netflix co-founder and chairman Reed Hastings, along with his wife, Patty Quillin. Businessman Michael Dell and his wife, Susan Dell, pledged the third most in 2024.
Neither MacKenzie Scott nor Elon Musk, both of whom announced donations large enough to land them on this list, provided enough information for the Chronicle to include them. Musk didn’t name the nonprofits to which he gave stock, and Scott declined to confirm how much money she put into the donor-advised funds through which she gives. Known as DAFs, these funds are savings accounts reserved for charitable giving.
The Conversation U.S. asked David Campbell, Lindsey McDougle and Susan Appe, three philanthropy scholars, to assess the significance of these gifts and to consider what they indicate about the state of charitable giving in the United States.
What trends stand out overall?
Appe: I think it’s good to see that eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, an Iranian-American entrepreneur born in France, with his wife Pam, are among the top 12 donors. Omidyar is the only foreign-born philanthropist on this list who reported giving to democracy promotion in the U.S. through his Democracy Fund. The Omidyars also funded the AI Collaborative, a group that promotes artificial intelligence governance based on democratic values, and their Omidyar Network, an organization promoting responsible technology.
Omidyar is one of seven immigrants among 2024’s top U.S. donors. The others are Herta Amir, who was born in what was then Czechoslovakia; Sergey Brin, a Russian immigrant; the Pagidipati family, which came from India; K. Lisa Yang, who was born in Singapore; Michele Kang, who immigrated from South Korea; and Joe Wen, a Taiwanese immigrant.
In 2024, as in most years, many of these wealthy donors supported prestigious universities and large hospitals and stowed millions in their own foundations and donor-advised funds. Although it’s impossible to predict exactly what their foundations and DAFs will support in the future, history suggests that they’re unlikely to focus on addressing systemic issues such as economic inequality.
McDougle: It doesn’t appear that any of these top 50 donors are Black or Latino. This lack of representation is undoubtedly a reflection of broader societal disparities and may influence how individuals from these groups perceive their own potential as philanthropists.
Philanthropic capacity often correlates with wealth accumulation, and significant gaps in wealth between racial groups are likely to have a direct influence on who we see in the Philanthropy 50. Black families, for instance, possess just 15% of the wealth of white families, while Hispanic families have only about 22%. These wealth disparities likely prevent many Black and Latino Americans from having the wealth necessary to engage in large-scale philanthropy.
This reality highlights the need for the nation’s leading philanthropists to fund initiatives that focus on addressing systemic barriers to economic equality. MacKenzie Scott has been doing this through the millions of dollars she has donated to support racial equity and economic mobility.
Addressing these disparities also involves changing the narrative around who is considered a philanthropist. As I have argued before, underrepresented groups may not always see themselves as philanthropists, partly due to limited resources and the historical portrayal of philanthropy as the domain of the wealthy. But by redefining philanthropy to include a broader spectrum of giving, philanthropy can play a pivotal role in leveling the playing field and creating more opportunities for all.
What surprises you about the biggest donors?
Appe: The absence of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, Google co-founder Larry Page and former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer also stands out due to the presence of many other tech billionaires, including Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, on this list.
Campbell: In addition to Elon Musk, a South African immigrant, not making this list for the second year in a row – even though he is the richest person in the world – Jeff Bezos isn’t listed either. Few private citizens have sought to change American society more than they have – Musk most recently through his role in the so-called Department of Government Efficiency and Bezos through actions he takes as the owner of The Washington Post and the founder of Amazon, among other initiatives.
I believe that it is worth asking why neither of these men, who rank among the wealthiest Americans, made the list this year. While Musk gave too little information to make the list, his previous giving choices raise questions about his commitment to philanthropy as a way to advance the public good. In 2022 and 2023, for example, his foundation gave away less money than required by law and supported organizations that benefit him and his interests, such as schools attended by his children.
Do you have concerns about the big gifts these donors provide?
McDougle: The nonprofits receiving these large donations can end up in a precarious situation if that funding suddenly stops. When nonprofits rely too heavily on a few wealthy donors, they may be forced to make abrupt decisions like cutting crucial programs or laying off staff. Obviously, this underscores a core problem with overdependence on these types of major gifts: They can leave nonprofits in a bind and unable to sustain their operations without continued long-term support.
This is particularly problematic if it affects a nonprofit’s ability to engage in long-term planning. As such, when focusing on the giving of the super rich, it is important to consider not just the immediate benefits of their generosity but also the potential instability it can create for the recipients if their gift is not managed strategically.
Campbell: The total given by America’s top donors in 2024 was the sixth-highest in the past decade, after adjusting for inflation. I’d expected to see a larger amount, given that 2024 was the second straight year of stock market gains of 20% or more.
In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began, the top donors gave nearly twice as much to charity as they did this past year; and they gave close to $8 billion more than that in 2021. Why haven’t the wealthiest Americans sustained that level?
Giant gifts to universities, museums and hospitals are surely making a meaningful difference in America and the world. But I wonder why these donors tend not to focus on the challenges facing those who have the least.
To be sure, some of these philanthropists use the foundations they or their relatives control to help meet the basic needs of Americans struggling to get by and address issues such as poverty, disease prevention and criminal justice reform. Melinda French Gates, Warren Buffett, and John and Laura Arnold all directed much of their giving in 2024 to those kinds of foundations.
What do you expect or hope to see in 2025 and beyond?
Top philanthropists have been slow to react so far. However, the MacArthur Foundation just announced plans to increase its giving over the next two years. MacArthur president John Palfrey said this is a response to what he called a “major crisis” brought on by the Trump administration’s spending cuts. I will observe whether other foundations or some of the wealthiest Americans follow suit.
Still, philanthropy cannot fill all these gaps. The $60 billion in foreign aid cuts represent a sliver of the trillions the Trump administration wants to slice from the federal budget. If it succeeds, donors will have countless other priorities.
Campbell: Events that took place during the first Trump administration, like the murder of George Floyd, the erosion of democratic norms and the separation of immigrant families, led philanthropists to embrace giving that addressed these issues, notably diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. In the early days of the second Trump administration, prominent donors like Mark Zuckerberg have enthusiastically backtracked on their own DEI policies. I am now watching how other donors position themselves relative to the Trump administration’s objectives – as cheerleaders, combatants or something in between.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Arnold Ventures have provided funding for The Conversation U.S. in the past. The Gates foundation currently provides funding for The Conversation internationally.
David Campbell receives grants from the Learning by Giving Foundation and the Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation to support the experiential philanthropy course he teaches at Binghamton University. He also serves as the chair of the Klee Foundation board.
Lindsey McDougle and Susan Appe do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, attended today’s opening ceremony for the 2024/25 academic year at the ‘Scuola Ufficiali dell’Arma dei Carabinieri’ [‘Carabinieri Officers’ School’].
An event highlighting the vast network of organisations who are dedicated to the needs of the most vulnerable residents in the borough of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, was held recently at Lough Neagh Discovery Centre.
Over one hundred people from schools, businesses and organisations attended the ‘Beyond Crisis’ community support networking event, to share good practice across a wide range of services and show the excellent support that is available to those who need it most.
The event – themed ‘food and beyond’ – saw information presented on food insecurity, social supermarkets, suicide prevention, schools’ pastoral work, advice, debt management, social housing and more.It was a fantastic opportunity to show the extensive support that is in place to help those residents who find themselves in a difficult position – and that organisations working together is the way forward to achieve positive outcomes and solutions.
“We are committed to supporting and developing the ‘food and beyond’ support structure and establishing and delivering a range of initiatives aimed at helping those residents who are most in need,” commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy.
“Life can be challenging, especially with the ongoing cost of living crisis, so it is important that our residents know that help is available and where they can find it. We are so fortunate in our borough to have dedicated and skilled people who have formed a support network meaning we can confidently keep moving forward and beyond each crisis.”
The organisations taking part thoroughly enjoyed the day and new connections were made, ensuring that support continues to build and be available for those who need it.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy at the PCSP stand with Annette Blaney
Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy at the CYPSP stand with CYPSP Valerie Maxwell, Southern Health Trust Jessica Wiley, CYPSP Darren Curtis, Southern Health Trust Yvonne Neill and Southern Health Trust Bronwyn Campbell
Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy pictured with Mark Ingham (NIHE)
Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy at the PIPS stand with Lisa Daly and Siobhán Brennan
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy at the ABC Environmental Services with Dominic Marsden
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy at the SHSCT stand with Noel Harte and Agnieszka Judkiewicz-Kozak
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy with Samantha McCartney and Jordan Wilson from Café IncreABLE
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy with Via Wings Gail Redmond BEM and Marieanne Verhoeven – Taylor
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy, Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr Kyle Savage and CD Team members Ruth Allen, Allison Reilly, Boyd McClurg, Catherine Harris, Kelly Mallon, Nicola Mahood, and Department for Communities James Elliott.
Deputy Lord Mayor, Cllr Kyle Savage, Boyd McClurg, Nikki Cinnamond and Jennifer Fearon (Community Advice), Martin Stevenson (The Salvation Army) and Bernadette McNeice (St Vincent de Paul)
Deputy Lord Mayor, Cllr Kyle Savage with CD Team members Boyd McClurg, Kelly Mallon, Allison Reilly and Catherine Harris
Deputy Lord Mayor, Cllr Kyle Savage with Noella Murray and Susan Murphy from St John the Baptist College
NINR- Catherine Taylor, George Gillespie, Helen Tomb
Craigavon Area Food Bank Emma Beggs and Andrew Maguire, and Trusell – Denise Callaghan
Staff from Lurgan Junior High School, Cloughan Junior High School and Lurgan College
Community Advice ABC , Nikki Cinnamond (Chair of the Board), Lenard Breen, Jennifer Fearon, Donna Morris and Caroline Caesar.
Headline: Apple introduces iPad Air with powerful M3 chip and new Magic Keyboard
March 4, 2025
PRESS RELEASE
Apple introduces iPad Air with powerful M3 chip and new Magic Keyboard
CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today introduced the faster, more powerful iPad Air with the M3 chip and built for Apple Intelligence. iPad Air with M3 brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to iPad Air for the first time — taking its incredible combination of power-efficient performance and portability to a new level. iPad Air with M3 is nearly 2x faster compared to iPad Air with M1,1 and up to 3.5x faster than iPad Air with A14 Bionic.2 Users will feel the speed of M3 in everything they do, from creating engaging content faster than ever to playing demanding, graphics-intensive games. Available in two sizes and four gorgeous finishes that users love, the 11-inch iPad Air is super portable while on the go, and the 13-inch model provides an even larger display for more room to be creative and productive. Designed for iPad Air, the new Magic Keyboard enhances its versatility and delivers more capabilities at a lower price. With iPadOS 18, support for Apple Intelligence, advanced cameras, fast wireless 5G connectivity, and compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), the new iPad Air offers an unrivaled experience.
With the same starting price of just $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model, the new iPad Air is a fantastic value. And for education, the 11-inch iPad Air starts at just $549, and the 13-inch model starts at just $749. Customers can pre-order the new iPad Air with M3 and Magic Keyboard for iPad Air starting today, with availability beginning Wednesday, March 12.
“iPad Air is so popular because of its unmatched combination of powerful performance, portability, and support for advanced accessories, all at an affordable price,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “For everyone from college students taking notes with Apple Pencil Pro, to travelers and content creators who need powerful productivity on the go, iPad Air with M3, Apple Intelligence, and the new Magic Keyboard take versatility and value to the next level.”
Supercharged Performance with M3
iPad Air with M3 empowers users to be productive and creative wherever they are, from aspiring creatives using demanding apps and working with large files, to travelers editing content on the go. The powerful M3 chip offers a number of improvements over M1 and previous-generation models. Featuring a more powerful 8-core CPU, M3 is up to 35 percent faster for multithreaded CPU workflows than iPad Air with M1. M3 features a 9-core GPU with up to 40 percent faster graphics performance over M1. M3 also brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to iPad Air for the first time with support for dynamic caching, along with hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing. For graphics-intensive rendering workflows, iPad Air with M3 offers up to 4x faster performance than iPad Air with M1, enabling more accurate lighting, reflections, shadows, and extremely realistic gaming experiences.3
The faster Neural Engine in M3 means iPad Air users can enjoy even more AI capabilities in iPadOS. Compared to M1, the Neural Engine in M3 is up to 60 percent faster for AI-based workloads. Other improvements over iPad models with A-series chips include support for Apple Intelligence, the choice of 11- and 13-inch sizes, and support for advanced accessories, including the new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro.
iPad Air: Built for Apple Intelligence
iPad Air is built for Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that delivers helpful and relevant intelligence.4 In Photos, the Clean Up tool makes it easy to remove distracting elements in images, and natural language search allows users to search for just about any photo or video by simply describing what they are looking for. With Image Wand in the Notes app, users can make notes more visually engaging by turning rough sketches into delightful images, just by drawing a circle around the sketch with their Apple Pencil. Users can even circle empty space within a note, and Image Wand will gather context from the surrounding area to create a relevant image that complements the note and makes it more visual.
Apple Intelligence helps users 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. Users can now type to Siri, and Siri is more conversational with the ability to follow along if users stumble over their words. Siri can also maintain context from one request to the next, and with extensive product knowledge, Siri can answer thousands of questions about the features and settings of Apple products, so users can learn how to do things like take a screen recording.
With ChatGPT seamlessly integrated into Writing Tools and Siri, users can tap into ChatGPT’s expertise without jumping between applications, so they can get things done faster and easier than ever before. In addition, 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 to 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 iPad 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.
All-New Magic Keyboard for iPad Air
The all-new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air expands what users can do at an even lower price. The larger built-in trackpad brings greater precision for detail-oriented tasks, and a new 14-key function row allows easy access to features like screen brightness and volume controls. The new Magic Keyboard attaches magnetically, and the Smart Connector immediately connects power and data without the need for Bluetooth; a machined aluminum hinge also includes a USB-C connector for charging. Now starting at just $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch model, the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air features the magical floating design customers love and comes in white.
iPad Updated with Double the Starting Storage and the A16 Chip
Apple today also updated iPad with double the starting storage and the A16 chip, bringing even more value to customers. The A16 chip provides a jump in performance for everyday tasks and experiences in iPadOS, while still providing all-day battery life. Compared to the previous generation, the updated iPad with A16 is nearly 30 percent faster.5 In fact, compared to iPad with A13 Bionic, users will see up to a 50 percent improvement in overall performance,5 and A16 makes the updated iPad up to 6x faster than the best-selling Android tablet.6
Powerful and Intelligent Features with iPadOS 18
iPadOS 18 offers powerful features that enhance the iPad experience, making it more versatile and intelligent than ever:7
Designed for the unique capabilities of iPad, Calculator delivers an entirely new way to use Apple Pencil to solve expressions. With Math Notes, users are now able to write out mathematical expressions or type to see them instantly solved in handwriting like their own. They can also create and use variables, and add an equation to insert a graph. Users can access their Math Notes in the Notes app and use all of the math functionality in any of their other notes.
In Notes, handwritten notes become more fluid and flexible. Smart Script unleashes powerful new capabilities for users editing handwritten text, allowing them to easily add space or even paste typed text in their own handwriting. And as users write with Apple Pencil, their handwriting will be automatically refined in real time to be smoother, straighter, and more legible.
With new Audio Recording and Transcription, iPad can capture a lecture or conversation, and transcripts are synced with the audio, so users can search for an exact moment in the recording.
Users now have even more options to express themselves through the Home Screen. App icons and widgets can take on a new look with a dark or tinted effect, and users can make them appear larger to create the experience that’s perfect for them. A redesigned Control Center provides easier access to many of the things users do every day, including the option to organize new controls from third-party apps.
Better for the Environment
The new iPad Air and updated iPad are 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 the new iPad Air and iPad. 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. The new iPad Air and iPad each feature at least 30 percent recycled content overall, including 100 percent recycled aluminum in the enclosure and 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in all magnets. The batteries contain 100 percent recycled cobalt and — in a first for iPad — over 95 percent recycled lithium. The new iPad Air and iPad meet Apple’s high standards for energy efficiency, and are free of mercury, brominated flame retardants, and PVC. The packaging is also entirely fiber-based, bringing Apple closer to its goal of removing plastic from its packaging by the end of this year.8
Pricing and Availability
Customers can pre-order the new iPad Air with M3 starting today, March 4, on apple.com/store, and in the Apple Store app in 29 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 March 12.
The 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air with M3 will be available in blue, purple, starlight, and space gray, with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations.
The 11-inch iPad Air starts at $599 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi model, and $749 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The 13-inch iPad Air starts at $799 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi model, and $949 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
For education, the new 11-inch iPad Air starts at $549 (U.S.), and the 13-inch model starts at $749 (U.S.). Education pricing is available to current and newly accepted college students and their parents, as well as faculty, staff, and home-school teachers of all grade levels. For more information, visit apple.com/us-hed/shop.
The new Magic Keyboard, available in white, is compatible with the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air. The 11-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $269 (U.S.), and the 13-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $319 (U.S.). For education, the 11-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $249 (U.S.), and the 13-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $299 (U.S.).
Customers can pre-order the new iPad with A16 starting today, March 4, on apple.com/store, and in the Apple Store app in 29 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 March 12.
The new iPad starts with 128GB of storage, and is also available in 256GB and a new 512GB configuration. Available in blue, pink, yellow, and silver, Wi-Fi models of the new iPad are available with a starting price of $349 (U.S.), and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at $499 (U.S.). For education, Wi-Fi models of the new iPad are available with a starting price of $329 (U.S.), and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at $479 (U.S.).
Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad is available for $249 (U.S.) and comes in white. For education, the Magic Keyboard Folio is available for $229 (U.S.).
Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) are compatible with the new iPad Air. Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st generation) are compatible with the new iPad. Apple Pencil Pro is available for $129 (U.S.), and $119 (U.S.) for education. Apple Pencil (USB-C) is available for $79 (U.S.), and $69 (U.S.) for education.
Apple offers great ways to save on the latest iPad. Customers can trade in their current iPad and get credit toward a new one by visiting the Apple Store online, the Apple Store app, or an Apple Store location. To see what their device is worth and for terms and conditions, customers can visit apple.com/shop/trade-in.
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.
Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025. See apple.com/ipad-air for more information.
Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad Air 11-inch (M3) and iPad Air 13-inch (M3) units as well as production iPad Air (4th generation) units. Tested with Procreate Dreams v1.0.14 by exporting a 29-second project. Performance tests are conducted using specific iPad units and reflect the approximate performance of iPad Air.
Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad Air 11-inch (M3) and iPad Air 13-inch (M3) units as well as production iPad Air (5th generation) units. Octane X 2024.1.01 for iPad tested using a scene with 770,000 meshes and 8 million unique primitives, utilizing hardware-accelerated ray tracing on M3-based systems and software-based ray tracing on all other units. Performance tests are conducted using specific iPad units and reflect the approximate performance of iPad Air.
Apple Intelligence is available on iPad mini (A17 Pro) and iPad 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.
Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad (A16) units as well as production iPad (10th generation) units. Tested with a selection of tasks using Microsoft Excel for iPad v2.93. Performance tests are conducted using specific iPad units and reflect the approximate performance of iPad.
Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad (A16) units with Apple A16, as well as production Qualcomm SM6375-based Android tablet units with the latest version of Android 14 available at the time of testing. Best-selling Android tablet based on publicly available sales data over the last 12 months. Tested with common tasks in commercial applications and select industry-standard benchmarks. Performance depends on device settings, usage, environment, and many other factors. Performance tests are conducted using specific systems and reflect the approximate performance of iPad.
Some features may not be available for all countries or all areas. For more information on iPadOS 18, visit apple.com/ipados/ipados-18.
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.
Global power dynamics in Africa are shifting, with China eclipsing the influence of the US and France. China has become Africa’s single largest trading partner.
But these visuals oversimplify a complex reality. This is an issue I explore in a new study. For over a decade, I have researched the interactions of sub-Saharan Africa with other states like Turkey, Arab Gulf states, Japan and China.
In a recent paper I explored the use of maps that have been created of Africa showing China’s projects across the continent. I argue that, by overlaying Chinese flags on maps depicting Africa and its 54 states, media and policymakers turn economic ties into a visual representation of foreign encroachment.
This process is called securitisation – the framing of something as a threat, even if it’s not one.
This visual securitisation not only heightens fears of dependency but also primes certain audiences – in the US, Japan and France, for instance – to view China’s presence as a direct challenge to their interests.
Certain threats – like terrorist groups or nuclear weapons – are self-evident. China’s presence in many African states, however, is different: if it’s a threat, who is threatened and why? Do Chinese-built roads or railways – and the debt African states accrue for this infrastructure – constitute the threat?
My research shows that the answer to these questions is: it depends.
Portraying China’s presence in Africa with flags on maps can distort African states’ sovereignty and their power to make decisions based on national interests. This visual portrayal reduces these countries to arenas of global power competition. It fails to recognise them as strategic actors.
China tops imports to African states
Illustration of China’s economic influence in 2021 drenched in red and drawn from media, think tanks and related literature. Author’s composite map illustrates securitisation of China in Africa.Brendon J. Cannon
On the other hand, my research shows that China’s role may not be entirely benign.
My study focuses mostly on east Africa, to include the Horn of Africa. Much of Beijing’s engagement here remains primarily economic (as it does in west, central and southern Africa). However, China’s growing control over critical infrastructure and digital networks, and its pursuit of military footholds near strategic maritime routes, present real security concerns.
Policymakers need to separate legitimate risks from exaggerated securitisation narratives. This would help them avoid the pitfalls of reactionary policies.
Negative consequences
Presenting China as a threat in Africa has three negative consequences.
First, it erodes the idea and reality of African sovereignty and agency. Maps portraying Africa as overrun by China suggest that governments and civil society are mere bystanders unable to negotiate their own foreign and domestic agendas.
The reality is that countries like Kenya actively engage with China to attract investments for development projects, and to balance their relations with other international actors like the US and Japan.
The result of securitisation is that American or Japanese policymakers, for instance, have begun to view Africa through the lens of their strategic competition with China. This is evident in Washington’s foreign policy rhetoric, for example. This increasingly frames African states not just as partners but also as strategic battlegrounds in the growing US-China rivalry. The risk is that African countries may start being treated as passive players.
Second, securitisation inflates the perception of China as a global security threat.
The repeated use of maps with Chinese flags covering ports, railways and industrial zones creates an exaggerated image of unchecked expansion. These maps fail to show the host of other external states operating on the continent.
The US, multiple European states, Japan, India, Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and South Korea all have significant interests in Africa. While China is by far the largest, most prominent external actor, with the widest reach throughout Africa, it’s been singled out because of the perceived threats its presence in Africa may pose to the west.
Third, securitisation can lead to knee-jerk reactions to limit China’s presence rather than engage constructively with Beijing’s investments in Africa. These reactions can result in ill-advised attempts by China’s competitors to push projects that don’t correspond to the needs of African states. This partly explains Ethiopia’s strained relations with the west. Sanctions and aid cuts over the Tigray conflict fuelled a pivot toward China and Russia.
The security risks
Securitisation raises valid concerns, but my research also underscores genuine security risks related to China’s presence in Africa. These shouldn’t be overlooked.
China’s growing role and embeddedness in Africa’s digital ecosystem presents a double-edged sword, for instance. Huawei and other Chinese companies have contributed to Africa’s telecommunications and digital transformation. But these investments also increase Beijing’s potential influence over data security, cyber governance and information flows. These give China the option to exploit networks for surveillance, intelligence gathering or political coercion.
Chinese-funded, built or operated infrastructure, ports and military bases
A depiction of China’s infrastructure influence in 2023 from media, think tanks and related literature. Author’s composite map illustrates securitisation of China in Africa.Brendon J. Cannon
China’s expanding control over dual-use infrastructure is another concern. Chinese-operated ports in Djibouti, for instance, can be used for commercial and military purposes. They potentially grant Beijing a strategic foothold in key maritime corridors, such as the Red Sea. China could restrict access to these ports in times of conflict. Or use them to extend its naval footprint, similar to what it’s done in the South China Sea.
It’s China’s pursuit of other military facilities beyond its bases in Djibouti that will have the most serious implications for African states’ sovereignty. This is part of a deliberate Chinese strategy to expand its global power projection and protect access to critical resources like oil and gas.
Agreements on military facilities may end up undermining and even challenging African agency of action. The addition of Chinese ships and soldiers alongside the growing presence of US, European, Indian, Japanese and other regional naval forces could escalate tensions. It also risks entangling African states in power rivalries that aren’t in their national interests.
China’s presence in Africa has been securitised through maps drenched in red and stamped with flags, framing its engagement as a looming threat rather than a complex geopolitical reality. However, the real challenge for African states is ensuring that China’s growing influence – especially in infrastructure, digital networks, and security – does not erode their sovereignty. Whether Beijing’s presence becomes an opportunity or a liability will depend on how effectively African governments assert their national interests in shaping these partnerships on their own terms.
– Maps showing China’s growing influence in Africa distort reality – but some risks are real – https://theconversation.com/maps-showing-chinas-growing-influence-in-africa-distort-reality-but-some-risks-are-real-249454
The Bundesbank is expanding its reform proposals for central government’s debt brake, laying out a stability-oriented path towards increased government investment. It is thus presenting a concept that supports the necessary measures to strengthen infrastructure and defence whilst ensuring sustainable public finances over the long term, in line with European rules. At the same time, it maintains its position that debt brakes enshrined in Germany’s Basic Law make an indispensable contribution to sustainable public finances over the long term. “With regard to the debt ratio, Germany is doing well by international standards. Our reform proposal for the debt brake preserves sound public finances whilst at the same time facilitating urgently needed investment,” Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel said.
The Bundesbank’s latest Monthly Report outlines the detailed concept, which builds on proposals it presented back in 2022. Advising the Federal Government on issues of monetary policy importance is part of the Bundesbank’s statutory mandate.
Its reform proposal is centred on the 60% reference value enshrined in the EU Treaties becoming the touchstone of the debt brake. Under this proposal, central and state governments (the latter by means of investment grants) would be able to invest up to an additional debt-financed €220 billion in total up to 2030, provided that the debt ratio is below 60%. Should the debt ratio exceed 60%, this amount would be capped at around €100 billion up to 2030. The reform proposals do not replace the need to rethink consumption expenditure, though. “A stability-oriented reform of the debt brake would create additional scope for major investment, such as in infrastructure and defence,” Mr Nagel continued.
In concrete terms, the proposal envisages increasing central government’s scope for borrowing from 0.35% to a maximum of 1.4% of gross domestic product (GDP) if the debt ratio is below the 60% mark. This scope would comprise 0.5% of GDP as a “low-debt base” that would not be earmarked for any particular purpose, and a further 0.9% of GDP for the sole purpose of additional investment. Part of this investment component would be intended for grants to state and local governments, which account for the majority of fixed asset formation.
If the debt ratio were to exceed the 60% mark, the 0.9% investment component would remain, but the 0.5% “base” would no longer be available. “This would reward a debt ratio of below 60% whilst at the same time creating planning certainty for investment,” Mr Nagel explained.
Similar scope for borrowing and investment protection could also be provided by a special fund that could be temporary or limited in terms of volume. “We would prefer a fundamental reform of the debt brake that affords better predictability, but a special fund with comparable financial parameters would also be an option,” Mr Nagel continued.
A Metropolitan Police detective has been charged with coercive and controlling behaviour.
Detective Constable Asiri Hamidi, 34, attached to the South Area Command Unit, will appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 5 March. He was charged with coercive control on Friday, 31 January.
The charge relates to an allegation made to the police in April 2022. The offending is alleged to have taken place while the officer was off-duty, and DC Hamidi has been suspended.
As Lowry marks its 25th anniversary, Salford City Council is proud to join the celebrations and acknowledge the extraordinary impact this iconic cultural institution has had on the city. From its pivotal role in the regeneration of Salford Quays to its outstanding artistic and community achievements, Lowry continues to be a driving force for culture, creativity, and economic growth.
The anniversary programme – packed with familiar names including Quentin Blake, Jeanette Winterson, and Aakash Odedra, theatre productions Gods of Salford and Dear England, immersive gallery experience LOWRY 360, alongside a brand new mural commissioned with French multi-disciplinary artist, Camille Walala – reflects Lowry’s influence on culture and the local community, one that Salford City Council wholeheartedly support and celebrate.
Since opening in April 2000, Lowry has welcomed over 18.5 million visitors, generating an annual £86 million in visitor spending and supporting over 600 jobs. More than just an arts centre, Lowry has played a fundamental role in transforming Salford Quays into a dynamic cultural hub.
Paul Dennett, Salford City Mayor, highlighted the significance of Lowry in shaping the city’s future:
“Lowry is a force for good in Salford and was a vital catalyst for the regeneration of the area. It is a place that is first and foremost for the people. It’s wonderful to reflect on the past 25 years – Lowry has not only brought world-class arts and theatre to the Quays but has also been instrumental in fostering community engagement, supporting young people, and strengthening our creative economy. It supports over 600 jobs, including 576 full-time jobs in the North West and 649 across the UK, demonstrating its critical role in the regional and national economy. It has contributed to a £1.3 billion GVA, acting as a foundational anchor for the development of MediaCityUK and positioning Salford as a major centre for arts, culture, and digital industries.
Happy birthday Lowry, I look forward supporting your next exciting chapter!”
Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith, Lead Member for Culture, Heritage, Equalities, Sports and Leisure, echoed this sentiment, praising Lowry’s impact across generations:
“Lowry is a cultural institution that has had an immense positive influence on communities across Salford. It has provided access to arts and culture for thousands of residents and continues to inspire new generations with its diverse and exciting programme. Its achievements to date are truly remarkable. Happy birthday, Lowry!”
Findings from Lowry’s 2024 impact report reaffirm its invaluable contribution, with an estimated £22 million in social value generated annually. Lowry’s community outreach initiatives, including its Arts for Social Change programme and partnerships with local schools, continue to break down barriers and make the arts accessible to all.
The coordinator will work on the southern and southwestern coasts of the Island, which are facing serious erosion and landslide problems.
These areas are being hit hard by strong waves and heavy rain, causing damage to homes, road closures, and a drop in business activity.
The funding was secured following a successful bid by council officers to the Southern Regional Flood and Coastal Committee (SRFCC) via the Flood and Coastal Risk Management (FCERM) 7 funding route.
Councillor Paul Fuller, Cabinet member for planning, coastal protection and flooding, said: “Our coast is always changing, and the threat to human life is very real.
“This new role is crucial to help our communities understand the risks and take steps to protect themselves and their properties.
“We are committed to building a resilient future for the Isle of Wight, and this specialist will play a key part in that mission. Their work will ensure that our coastal communities are better prepared and more resilient in the face of these ongoing threats.”
The new coordinator will be part of the council’s climate, coast, and environment team.
Their role will be to support residents affected by frequent geological events on the Island and provide advice and support to council departments, councillors, outside agencies, developers, and the public on coastal erosion and landslide issues.
They will also research and develop opportunities to minimise the impact of erosion and landslides and design future strategies for managing these problems.
Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning, added: “Decaying defences and outdated policies are causing significant problems, worsened by climate change.
“This funding is crucial for providing the necessary resources to support homeowners and businesses. The new coordinator will research and share findings with the SRFCC, focusing on benefits like regeneration, poverty reduction, mental health support, and emergency services.
“They will also collaborate with other councils facing similar issues to find the best solutions. This teamwork is essential for helping coastal communities adapt to the challenges of erosion and landslides, ensuring a more resilient future for the Isle of Wight.”
Our early years team are holding a free ‘Do Something Big’ drop in event on Monday 24 March at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel 10am to 4pm, where you can meet professionals and training providers in the early years and childcare sector.
If you:
are passionate about making a difference to a child’s life
want to be part of an early year’s workforce with exciting career pathways
want to support parents returning to work
Then this event could be for you!
There are many career pathways in childcare and early years, such as: childminding, nursery nurse, play worker, nursery manager, pre-school worker, specialist worker with children with special educational needs, designated safeguarding leads, health and safety officer, first aider and many more.
Early years training providers will have stalls at the event such as Skills Launchpad, and City College Plymouth, to offer support and guidance on pathways into the childcare and early years sectors. There will be recruitment opportunities available.
Hear from Jo, a Childminder from Plympton, about the opportunities available:
Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “Working in Childcare is a very rewarding career, and no two days are the same, it’s such a special feeling when you know that you’re making a difference to a child’s life.
“This event is the perfect opportunity for those who are considering a career in childcare and early years to come along and hear from people who are already in the industry, and what they can offer to help you.”
Channel Islands Ministers discussed the planned reset in relations between the EU and UK with senior EU and British diplomats during meetings in Brussels. The discussions took place on the sidelines of a reception to mark the 15th anniversary of the Channel Islands’ Brussels Office.
The External Relations Ministers of Guernsey and Jersey, Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq and Deputy Ian Gorst, met with senior diplomats from France, the UK, Poland and Malta. Discussions also included the Islands’ relationship with France, their closest European neighbour, and promoted the Islands’ financial services interests, noting both Islands’ recent positive MONEYVAL assessments, as well as developments in sustainable finance.
Ministers also drew attention to the significance of the Islands’ relationship with Europe and spoke to existing areas of cooperation with Member States.
Speaking after the visit, Jersey’s Minister for External Relations, Deputy Ian Gorst said: “It is more important than ever, post Brexit, to engage with representatives of European Member States. Direct engagement with the EU in Brussels is essential to ensure our interests are known and understood. I look forward to continuing to build on our discussions over the past days through the work of the Channel Islands Brussels Office.”
Guernsey’s Minister for External Relations, Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq said: “The visit was a key opportunity to speak with representatives in Brussels and inform them of the interests of the Channel Islands. Regular engagement with EU partners is an essential part of our long-standing good neighbour policy. During these meetings I was pleased to discuss our financial services interests as well as noting the positive MONEYVAL assessment.”
The Ministers’ programme in Brussels included meetings with the Permanent Representatives (Ambassadors) to the EU of France and Malta, the Polish Political Counsellor, the UK Deputy Ambassador to the EU, the UK Ambassador to Belgium, and representatives of the Devolved Administrations and other Third Country offices in Brussels.
The Ministers hosted a reception for partners and stakeholders in Brussels to mark the 15th anniversary of the Channel Islands Brussels Office, the representative office for the governments of Guernsey and Jersey to the European Union. They were joined at this event by Jersey’s Director of Financial and Professional Services, Guernsey’s Director of Finance Sector Development, as well as representatives from Guernsey Finance and Jersey Finance who collectively promoted the Channel Islands’ financial services expertise to the European audience.
Secondary school admission figures for entry in September 2025 published 3 March reveal that 93.7% of York children have been allocated their first preference of school.
Parents and carers who applied online can find out where their child has been allocated a place by logging into their parent portal account today via www.york.gov.uk/SecondarySchoolAdmissions.
Parents who made written applications will receive a letter confirming their admission arrangements. Anyone who didn’t receive their first choice of school will also receive written confirmation.
This year’s admissions figures, compared with last year’s are outlined below:
Admission figures for 2025:
1st Preference: 1794 (93.7%)
2nd Preference: 78 (4.1%)
3rd Preference: 12 (0.6%)
4th Preference: 3 (0.2%)
5th Preference: 1 (0.1%)
Non Preference: 26 (1.4%)
Total: 1914 (100.0%)
Admission figures for 2024:
1st Preference: 1809 (93.6%)
2nd Preference: 80 (4.1%)
3rd Preference: 18 (0.9%)
4th Preference: 2 (0.1%)
5th Preference: 0 (0.0%)
Non Preference: 23 (1.2%)
Total: 1932 (100%)
Councillor Bob Webb, Executive Member for Education, Children and Young People, at City of York Council, said:
Moving on to secondary school is an exciting time and I’m pleased that the vast majority of students in York have got into their first choice of school. I wish all the students moving on in September the best of luck. I know that York schools are committed to supporting your transition into big school.”
Parents or carers whose children may be eligible for free school meals – one of a number of benefits that come with applying for the pupil premium – should apply through their online account at Parent Portal.
Assistance with school uniform costs for September may also be available to pupils starting years 7 to 10 who are entitled to receive benefit based free school meals at non-academy schools. Further information about this, and who could be able to get free school meals, is available at www.york.gov.uk/FreeSchoolMeals.
A consultation on proposed public realm improvements in the Chinatown area of Liverpool city centre is under way.
Liverpool City Council, with support from local community groups and the University of Liverpool Architecture School, has developed outline plans for Great George’s Square at the junction of Upper Pitt Street and Nelson Street.
The aim is to attract more visitors and investment, and create a neighbourhood to be proud of.
The centrepiece of the project will be the installation of two stone lions, which have been donated by the Chinese Consulate General in Manchester and were formally handed over to Liverpool in January to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Liverpool-Shanghai sister cities relationship.
The scheme will also see:
Better pedestrian access between Upper Pitt Street/Nelson Street and Great George’s Square
Installation of a red maple ‘wishing tree’ and ‘flower mat’ near the lions
Improvements to the children’s playground
The creation of a commemorative memorial garden
People are being asked their views on the proposed changes to the junction, the playground improvements and the Commemorative Memorial Garden.
It is hoped the work will be completed in early 2026.
Local people will also be able to find out more and comment at the City Centre South Neighbourhood community information event being held at the Black-e on Great George Street on Tuesday 4 March between 10.30am – 3pm.
The scheme will complement wider plans for a revitalised Chinatown which includes new homes and businesses on a previously stalled site at Great George Street. The Council recently succeeded in securing the site under its own unified ownership, with support from Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the Government.
Chinatown is also close to the thriving Baltic Triangle, where the new Liverpool Baltic Merseyrail station is due to open in 2027.
Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, Cllr Nick Small, said: “We are hugely proud of the city’s Chinatown, which is the oldest in Europe, and has huge potential.
“We want to revitalise it so it is somewhere that the local community and Liverpool residents are equally proud of, as well as being somewhere tourists can spend time.
“We’re asking local people and businesses to have their say on the ideas that have been developed and input into the design process, so that we can create something that is really special.
“When combined with our ambitions for the previously stalled site at Great George Street and the work on the new Baltic Station, this is a really exciting time for this part of the city centre.”
Chinese Consul General in Manchester, Tang Rui, said: “The stone lions in Chinese culture are actually a symbol of prosperity, so we hope that these pair of lions will bring good luck and showcases a new start for this beautiful, historic Chinatown.”
Secretary General of Merseyside Chinese Association Joint Action Group, Ming Wang, said: “Chinatown has been home to the local community for more than 200 years. It holds a very special place in our local community’s heart.
“With these two huge stone lions gifted by the Chinese Consul General in Manchester plus the City Council’s planning in regenerating Chinatown which includes a wishing tree, better playground and the creation of a commemorative memorial garden is so amazing.
“We look forward to witnessing the transformation of our beloved Chinatown, more footfall to Chinatown, followed by better business, more investment and more visitors from around the world.”
Liverpool City Council has announced several amendments to the experimental parking zone surrounding Everton Stadium as well as a number of improvements to the area, since the new venue’s first test event.
The zone, introduced under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), went live two weeks ago today (on Monday, 17 February) to coincide with Everton FC’s inaugural match at the stunning waterfront stadium at Bramley Moore-Dock.
Based on feedback from businesses and residents in the city’s North Docks community, as well as initial findings from that historic event, the Council will now implement changes to its operation.
The proposed amendments include:
Applications for more than 10 business permits will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Note: Business permits cost £50 each. Resident and visitor permits are free.
Safety-focussed enforcement of the zone on the second stadium test event, on Sunday, 23 March. (This will allow more time for businesses and residents to apply for permits and for the Council to investigate the level of appropriate enforcement during events.)
The one-hour limited waiting restriction will be extended to two hours, where possible.
Permit parking will be introduced in the Pumpfields area (i.e. the Blackstock Street, Paul Street, Pall Mall and Chisenhale Street areas.)
The process to modify the ETRO to implement these initial recommendations (including new signage) will begin to be enacted within the next three months.
The ETRO enables the Council to make these changes flexibly in the light of experience and analysis of their impact on a day-to-day basis. Further changes may also be made following the further two stadium Test Events, in March and May, and throughout the 18-month process up to August 2026.
In response to feedback from businesses, the Council will also explore the scope for on-street pay and display parking bays in key locations to identify options, where possible, for longer-stay parking.
A further series of improvements, identified from the first test event, will also now be implemented, including:
A review of the event traffic management plan on road closures ahead of the second test event. This is to ensure closures are enacted and communicated more effectively.
Improvements to Street Lighting on walking routes to and from the stadium.
Improved pedestrian wayfinding signage between Sandhills station and City Centre stations and the stadium.
Temporary signage to shuttle bus and taxi rank locations.
Following these amendments and improvements, the Council’s Highways team will continue to monitor the impact of the ETRO to determine whether this has positively assisted businesses, visitors, and public opinion and if other amendments are required.
When and where do the ETRO measures apply? The new measures introduced in the zone, which radiates out via a 30-minute walk from the stadium, operate between the hours of 10am to midnight each day. North of Boundary Street, the zone is operative 1 August to 30 June. South of Boundary Street it is operative 12 months of the year. This is except for the Great Homer Street area, which operates 8am to midnight all year round. The ETRO is to run until August 2026, but Liverpool City Council will be seeking to review and amend the measures within the first six months before the new football season begins in August. The measures can be made permanent before August 2026, subject to agreement.
What about Blue Badge holders? Blue Badge holders can park for as long as they need to within the permit parking areas in the experimental zone, and for up to three hours on a yellow line (unless a loading ban is in place). Badge holders can also park on yellow lines, unless there is a loading restriction, but they will need to clearly display their badge and blue parking clock as well as ensuring the vehicle is not causing an obstruction. For Blue Badge holders wishing to attend a football match at the stadium, Everton FC is in the process of exploring how it enhances its current parking offer to complement other transport arrangements such as the free shuttle bus service for disabled fans.
Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Since the Experimental Parking Zone went live on the day of Everton’s first test event, the Council has been listening to all the feedback and analysing what we can do to make improvements.
“We understand the concerns being raised by businesses, residents and fans and we’ve wasted no time in assessing the necessary amendments that can be introduced as quickly as possible.
“The measures that can be amended to alleviate concerns on issues like waiting times and number of permits will be considered as a priority. The major concerns from the first event around road closures and street lighting are also being addressed to ensure they are remedied by the second test event at the end of March.
“We are also working closely with colleagues at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Merseytravel and Merseyrail on their plans for public transport provision and we are in in active dialogue with them and Everton to ensure changes and improvements are made.”
Cllr Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said: “Given this is an experimental zone and we are in the test event stage, lessons are being learned all the time.
“I want to reassure everyone the Council is actively looking to make the necessary improvements to help businesses, residents and fans as much as possible, especially as we build up to the final test event in May and then the start of the new football season in August.
“The Council is keen to continue talking to businesses to explain the process and to hear how the measures and amendments are impacting their staff and customers and how we can work together to make improvements quickly.
“A key aim of the Experimental Zone is tackling the problem of commuter parking 365 days a year, as well as illegal and unsafe parking on double yellow lines and pavements. These issues impact the area all year round and it’s vital we get this right to support its economic development and to tackle congestion, especially as more businesses set up here and more residential schemes are developed.”
Meet the volunteers urging more people to sign up as Leeds City Council launches its new volunteering scheme.
Volunteer Team Leeds is the brand-new scheme bringing together and inviting new people to join the vibrant volunteering community that supports Leeds City Council affiliated events and initiatives.
From the stunning displays of Light Night and the cinematic experiences of the Leeds International Film Festival, to enriching opportunities within libraries and vital volunteer befriending schemes, Volunteer Team Leeds offers a diverse range of ways to contribute.
Building on the legacy of LEEDS2023, where over 1,800 volunteers signed up to support the city’s year of culture, the scheme aims to retain and grow this valuable community through a new simple, user-friendly, volunteer orientated system.
Previously working as a postman, Bill Hargreaves’ favourite part of his job was being able to help people. During lockdown he would even help residents by posting letters for them.
Having retired three years ago, he now spends most of his time volunteering and is a regular volunteer at most Leeds City Council events, such as Light Night and the Leeds International Piano Competition.
“When I retired, I felt like there was no reason to stop being helpful just because I don’t get paid for it. I was worried there would be a void after retirement but I’ve made sure to fill that with volunteering,” Bill says.
“There’s no way I was ever going to be someone who sits in front of the TV when I retired. I’m just having so much fun now,” he adds.
Like Bill, many people decide to volunteer because they enjoy it, but there are many other benefits that can come with it.
Khara Linton-Salmon has volunteered at film festivals across the country, but it was at Leeds Film Festival she made connections to build a career in film. In 2024, she worked as a programmer for the festival in the short film category.
“I felt like I could speak to people that were higher up than me, and they gave me good advice, they actually wanted to help me progress,” she explains.
“The main reason why I wanted to volunteer was just because I love film. It wasn’t until I decided to volunteer at Leeds that the snowball started rolling. Leeds gave me more of an opening to making it a career.
“Anybody that loves film I’m always telling them to do it. Not even for a career path but just because it’s fun. You go in with your passion and you meet 50 other people with the same passion,” she says.
With the launch of Volunteer Team Leeds comes a new platform which will be a one-stop-shop for people to create a profile and sign up to volunteer with different services or events either organised or supported by Leeds City Council. Volunteers will also be able to access learning and development tools.
To date there are close to 2,000 volunteers already signed up.
Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, and champion for volunteering, said:
“We believe volunteers are at the heart of our city. From the pitch to the streets, and across our communities, our city is full of passion for helping out and giving back. With Volunteer Team Leeds we’re hoping to get even more people signing up to share skills, meet people and learn new things. As a key part of our city’s Volunteering Strategy, we want Leeds to be a city that is the best to volunteer in and that celebrates volunteering in all its forms, where it’s easy for people to find ways to make a difference and get involved.
“We encourage all residents of Leeds to create a profile on the new platform and join the growing community of volunteers making a brilliant positive impact through council-supported initiatives across the city.”
Volunteer Team Leeds is funded through central government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is administered locally by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – The front line between the M23 guerrillas and the “Wazalendo” militiamen runs through the Ruzizi plain (in the province of South Kivu, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo). According to a report by the local civil society “Association against Evil and for the Supervision of Youth and Human Rights” (ACMEJ) and sent to Fides, the M23 controls the village of Kamanyola, while Katogota is allegedly controlled by the “Wazalendo” militias.The latter control the bridge in Katogota. “This is causing great fear among the population of the two villages, as they have become the front line where the two elephants are waiting to meet and will end up like grass trampled by pachyderms,” the note says. Control of the Ruzizi plain is strategically important because it represents a natural border between the DRC and Burundi on the one hand, and between the DRC and Rwanda on the other. Control of the river plain would allow the M23 to approach both borders, threaten Burundi (an ally of the government in Kinshasa) and open up another route for the Rwandan army to deliver aid to the movement. And above all, to export strategic minerals illegally mined in the DRC to Rwanda. In previous wars in the east of the DRC, the village of Katogota was the scene of a massacre that left an indelible memory among its inhabitants. “During the RCD/Goma period, on May 14, 2000, the soldiers of this movement carried out a massacre of the civilian population in Katogota, which left 375 civilians dead and was accompanied by a systematic looting of the property of the civilian population,” the note says. The “Rassemblement Congolais pour la Démocratie” (RCD) is just one of the many names of a pro-Rwandan guerrilla movement that later became the M23 (see Fides, 18/2/2025). The note concludes with an appeal “to the international community, the UN Security Council, the European Union, France and other major world powers to fulfill their duty to save the Democratic Republic of Congo in this difficult period for its civilian population.” “In order to obtain the strategic minerals they seek, these countries should not obtain them via Rwanda, but directly from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is the rightful owner,” it says. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 4/3/2025)
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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
An unpublished preprint uploaded to BioRXiv looks at gene editing in mice to create woolly mammoth-like hair phenotypes.
Dr Tori Herridge, Senior Lecturer, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, said:
Woolly Mouse in Context
“Colossal have announced that they have successfully bred ‘woolly mice’, and this is a “water shed moment” in their mission to genetically engineer an arctic adapted elephant, aka “bringing back the mammoth.”
“Colossal’s team made a number of genetic changes known as “knock outs” in lab mice that are already known to produce longer, thicker, wavier — or woollier — coats in mice. They also made a change known to cause blonde hair colouring in mice.
“The result, therefore, of various “woolly mice” from these genetic changes is unsurprising: woolly mice have been produced in labs and by mice breeders many times before.”
Mammoth-like genes?
“Three of the genetic changes made in some of the mice were inspired by woolly mammoth DNA, but they still only show effects in mice. The mice were not edited to have a precise copy of the mammoth genes, but it is possible that these edits may have had a similar effect in both mice and mammoths (either by stopping the gene from working, or by changing the way the gene worked), but we cannot be sure about this.
“It is also not possible to tell what impact these ‘mammoth-inspired’ changes had, if any, in the Colossal woolly mouse owing to other gene edits made at the same time.”
Are we a step closer to ‘bringing back the mammoth’?
“A mammoth is much more than just an elephant in a fur coat. While we know a lot about mouse genetics, we know much less about mammoths and elephants. It isn’t yet known which sections of the genome are vital for achieving the characters need to make an elephant fit for life in the Arctic circle. Genes that are linked to fur and fat in well-studied animals like mice are obvious targets, but the devil is in the detail. And what about other characters that are equally important? Which bits of the genome underpin the teeth and jaw changes that might be needed to accommodate an Arctic diet, for example (mammoth teeth were clearly under strong evolutionary pressure to adapt to their diet)? What about things we haven’t even discovered yet, things we don’t know we don’t know?
“Unless you decide to make EVERY edit necessary to in the genome, you are only ever going to create a crude approximation of any extinct creature, based on an incomplete idea of what it should look like. You are never going to ‘bring back’ a mammoth.
“Colossal’s Woolly Mouse experiments also show that de-extinction attempts are fraught with failure: most gene-edited embryos failed to result in live pups (less than 10%), and very few of those born were successfully edited for all target genes. This is for experiments that made a small number of relatively simple (loss of function) changes in well understood genes, using a ‘model’ lab animal as a surrogate.
“Engineering a mammoth-like elephant presents a far greater challenge: the actual number of genes likely to be involved is far higher, the genes are less well understood (and still need to be identified), and the surrogate will be an animal that is not normally experimented upon. Even if success rates are similar to those observed in the woolly mice (and they may well be lower given the greater number of edits and unknowns), there will likely need to be multiple pregnancies before a “successful” calf is born. This equates to either a very large number of surrogate dams, or – given elephant pregnancies last approximately 2-years – a very long time.
“Mammoth de-extinction doesn’t seem to be on the horizon anytime soon.”
Ethical Considerations
“Colossal’s Woolly Mouse experiments show that the physical effect of genome-editing cannot be observed until the animal experimentation stage. This will also be true in elephants.
“Although it is branded as “woolly mammoth de-extinction”, what is being proposed is an experiment to test the effect of certain gene edits on the appearance of elephants.
“For the mice in these experiments the risk was small: the effect of these gene edits already known, and were not likely to cause risk or suffering to surrogate or pup.
“We do not know the risk involved for elephants, but it could be very high.
“We do know that surrogacy is a burden on the dam, and that captive elephant pregnancies carry risks even under normal circumstances.
“Placing such a burden of risk on an elephant surrogate in pursuit of an experiment that – at best – will produce a simulacrum of a woolly mammoth, is unjustifiable.”
Dr Saad Arif, Senior Lecturer, School of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, said:
Is there enough info to comment on the announcement, how well can we judge what has been accomplished and how it has been done?
“The preprint provides enough information on what has been accomplished and how it was conducted.”
How novel is the research and techniques to create the mouse, is it more than just genetically engineered lab animals? Is this something more special?
“One novel element of the work seems to be the use of genome-editing technologies to alter multiple genes at once with high efficiency and speed in mice. Although we have had the ability to alter multiple genes at once for sometime, the efficiency and speed with which these changes can be made could still be improved. Based on the results presented by the authors, their methods for generating transgenic mice with the desired changes appears to be both rapid and highly efficient, which would be extremely desirable when testing for the function of genetic changes in any context, whether it has implications for conservation or disease biology.
“Genome-editing can also lead to unintended edits in non-targeted parts of the genome resulting in unwanted modifications, so-called off-target effects. Although, the authors report no missense mutations (potentially eradicating or modifying an untargeted gene’s function), this is not demonstrable proof that gene function hasn’t been altered. Such off-target effects could be detrimental in real world applications of genome-editing e.g. curing a disease or in trying to turn an ‘elephant” into a mammoth’.
“Another novel aspect of this study is that some of the genes targeted by the authors are based on their comparisons of ancient mammoth and modern elephant genomes. This set of genes (in contrast to most of the others, which are selected based on information from mice studies) comprise those with identified differences between cold-adapted mammoths and their warm-adapted elephant cousins. Hence differences in these genes could potentially be part of the cold adaptation repertoire of mammoths. This really paves the way for exploring the consequences of genomic differences in extinct species or populations.”
How is this proof of principle for the research missions of the company?
“It shows that Colossal have a model system to validate predicted effects of the DNA differences they have identified between mammoth and elephant genomes and which of these differences is relevant for mammoth’s cold adaptations. For example, they identified differences in DNA sequences of a gene that controls hair length both in Elephants and Mammals, they then introduced that difference in their mouse model, via genome editing, and determined that the change does indeed affect hair growth. The ability to edit genomes. rapidly and efficiently, to test the role of DNA changes will help them prioritize which genetic modifications are relevant for cold adaptation.
“However, it is important to note that their ability to predict whether a gene controls hair growth comes from work done in mice, humans and other organisms. Not all genes will have functional effects that are so easy to predict because not all genes are as well studied and screening for the effect of alterations in these genes may not be as straightforward. Many genes, unlike those that control hair colour or some aspect of outward appearance, may not have immediate or directly observable effects. Finally, given the idiosyncrasies of mouse biology, some genetic edits will just not manifest themselves in the same way as they would in mammoths or their relatives. The authors acknowledge this and this is a well-known issue with the use of mice in studying human genetics as well. Hence, being able to test whether a specific difference between mammoths and elephants is related to the former’s cold tolerance is still challenging.”
What are the implications of this research? How close are we getting to the “de-extinction” of the Woolly Mammoth? Does this have significance in conservation biology? “I think we are still very far from their “de-extinction” goal. The elephant and mammoth genomes are considered to be 96.4% identical, however, that still leaves potentially another ~13 million changes in DNA sequence to consider! It is also still unclear how mammoth cold adaptation phenotypes without a clear outward manifestation, could be identified or screened in mice.
“Additionally, at the moment it is difficult to see how they will “birth” a mammoth-like elephant as that may also require some additional technical advances and ethical considerations as this may require elephant surrogacy. Nonetheless, it still remains a goal worth striving for because of potential technical advances they could be achieved along the way. I wouldn’t mind being proven wrong on this. “I see this as a fairly small step towards their “de-extinction” goal and I still see us far from any direct impact in conservation biology. Nonetheless, being able to test the genetic effects of DNA differences discovered from extinct species and populations could help us identify the genes and sequence differences involved in making organisms more adaptable to their environments.
“Finally, the efficiency and speed of their multiplex genome-editing technologies is promising and perhaps the most impactful part of their work. These methods could have implications for human disease and biology and help us understand, and potentially treat, complex genetic diseases or traits that are controlled by multiple genes.”
Is there any ethical significance of this research to consider?
“I don’t think the results of the current research are of any ethical significance. However, later down the line, the idea of ‘birthing a mammoth’ via an elephant (an endangered species) surrogacy will surely raise ethical concerns.”
Dr Louise Johnson, Evolutionary Biologist, University of Reading, said:
“Seeing these mice is a bit like looking back at the past, but with a highly selective telescope. This technology offers an exciting opportunity to test some of our ideas about extinct organisms.
“It is an interesting piece of work, but the idea that we could bring something back from extinction is false hope.
“What has been done here is not trivial, but of the ten different mutations engineered into the mice, only a few actually make the mouse gene closer to a known mammoth gene. The result does show that it is possible to genetically engineer many genes at once and still produce some live mice at the end of the process, though. The researchers have succeeded in nudging the mouse genome in the direction of a mammoth genome, which is a first.
“If we have an idea of what a gene might do in an extinct mammal, this technology can produce powerful results by introducing a very similar sequence into a mouse. But in this particular case, most of the mutations are chosen just because they are already known to make mice have longer, coarser, wavier hair. You could, in theory, produce mice like this by just breeding mice with weird hair together.
“In theory, you could introduce a gene for hairiness into an elephant and it would look quite mammoth-like, but it wouldn’t be a mammoth in any meaningful way. Elephants would be a terrible species to do this research with – they are huge, have long gestation periods, and require highly specialist housing and care. The mouse is a brilliant lab animal, and we know a lot about the mouse genome and how to alter it effectively.
“You do have to know a bit about how the extinct genes might work. For example, it was already known that the genes for coat colour and texture were similar in the mammoth and the mouse. Being able to create and introduce a mouse gene that is somewhat the same as the mammoth opens up a new way to look at evolutionary genetics.”
Dr Alena Pance, Senior Lecturer in Genetics, University of Hertfordshire, said:
“Genetic engineering in mice has been performed for a very long time using, developing, and testing a variety of technologies. These modifications include introducing traits from other species, notoriously ‘humanised mice’ that have been used for research related to human traits and disease.
“The decoding of an extinct species genome to identify specific genes associated with particular traits has also been done before, where the physical characteristics of ancient humans have been deduced from their genomic data.
“Perhaps the novelty here is using mice to confirm the assumptions about correlations between genes and specific traits. The press release gives the impression that mammoth genes were introduced to mice but from the preprint, it transpires that the genomic editing in these mice consists of inducing loss of function of several genes simultaneously. The choice of these genes comes from observed spontaneous mutations in mice that impact traits such as coat and comparative analyses of elephant and mammoth genomes that reveal similar loss of function in some of these genes.
“The ability to use mice in order to examine and test gene-trait relationships and hypotheses about physical characteristics specifically using genomes from extinct organisms might prove useful, but overall not particularly novel.”
Prof Dusko Ilic, Professor of Stem Cell Science, King’s College London, said:
“The achievement described in the latest press release regarding “woolly mice” is interesting, particularly in terms of the strategy used to refine the list of genes related to hair growth that were also compatible with their model organism—the mouse. This is indeed a noteworthy milestone.
“Once the gene list has been established, engineering mutations in mice, including those involving seven genes, is a well-established process and not particularly challenging.
“With mice, the process is relatively straightforward. Their gestation period is only three weeks, and they typically give birth to six to eight pups per litter. However, translating this approach to elephants presents significant challenges. Elephants have the longest gestation period of any mammal—approximately two years—and generally give birth to a single calf. Furthermore, it will take 10-14 years for them to be sexually mature.
“Assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including in vitro fertilization (IVF), have seen limited success in elephants. The primary ART method employed in elephants has been artificial insemination (AI). The Indianapolis Zoo achieved a significant milestone in 2000 by facilitating the first successful birth of an African elephant conceived through AI. In 2023, the same zoo announced that a 16-year-old African elephant named Zahara was pregnant via AI, marking the first instance where an elephant born through AI is expecting a calf conceived by the same method.
“This raises critical questions: How many elephant cows would need to undergo experimental pregnancies to give a birth to a “woolly elephant”? And how long would it take before the first such hybrid is born?”
Dr Denis Headon, Group Leader and Senior Research Fellow, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, said:
“With a long-term goal of advancing the de-extinction of the mammoth, the team have managed to alter several mouse genes in one step. They chose these gene alterations based largely on things that we know about mice, rather than what we know about mammoths. This approach produced very shaggy mice with a coat that resembles that of the woolly mammoth remains we find today. While the mice have a striking golden coat, they are otherwise healthy, indicating that the method used is not harmful. Certainly this is an advance in speeding up the rate of genetic modification towards the many changes that distinguish one species from another, though it’s not clear that these changes alone would alter a relatively hairless elephant into a woolly animal. Further work on either synthesising or understanding the mammoth genome would also be required to go beyond these superficial characteristics to generate an animal that would, for example, have the right behaviour to live in Arctic conditions. This paper reports an important advance not only for de-extinction but for animal breeding in general.”
An unpublished preprint titled ‘Multiplex-edited mice recapitulate woolly mammoth hair phenotypes’ by Rui Chen et al. was uploaded to BioRXiv on 13:00 UK time Tuesday 4 March.
Declared interests
Dr Saad Arif: None
Dr Louise Johnson: None
Dr Alena Pance: I can confirm I have no conflict of interest regarding this story
Prof Dusko Ilic: I declare no conflicts of interest.
Dr Denis Headon: I don’t have any interests to declare on this paper/story.
For all other experts, no response for our request for DOIs was received.
Global power dynamics in Africa are shifting, with China eclipsing the influence of the US and France. China has become Africa’s single largest trading partner.
But these visuals oversimplify a complex reality. This is an issue I explore in a new study. For over a decade, I have researched the interactions of sub-Saharan Africa with other states like Turkey, Arab Gulf states, Japan and China.
In a recent paper I explored the use of maps that have been created of Africa showing China’s projects across the continent. I argue that, by overlaying Chinese flags on maps depicting Africa and its 54 states, media and policymakers turn economic ties into a visual representation of foreign encroachment.
This process is called securitisation – the framing of something as a threat, even if it’s not one.
This visual securitisation not only heightens fears of dependency but also primes certain audiences – in the US, Japan and France, for instance – to view China’s presence as a direct challenge to their interests.
Certain threats – like terrorist groups or nuclear weapons – are self-evident. China’s presence in many African states, however, is different: if it’s a threat, who is threatened and why? Do Chinese-built roads or railways – and the debt African states accrue for this infrastructure – constitute the threat?
My research shows that the answer to these questions is: it depends.
Portraying China’s presence in Africa with flags on maps can distort African states’ sovereignty and their power to make decisions based on national interests. This visual portrayal reduces these countries to arenas of global power competition. It fails to recognise them as strategic actors.
China tops imports to African states
On the other hand, my research shows that China’s role may not be entirely benign.
My study focuses mostly on east Africa, to include the Horn of Africa. Much of Beijing’s engagement here remains primarily economic (as it does in west, central and southern Africa). However, China’s growing control over critical infrastructure and digital networks, and its pursuit of military footholds near strategic maritime routes, present real security concerns.
Policymakers need to separate legitimate risks from exaggerated securitisation narratives. This would help them avoid the pitfalls of reactionary policies.
Negative consequences
Presenting China as a threat in Africa has three negative consequences.
First, it erodes the idea and reality of African sovereignty and agency. Maps portraying Africa as overrun by China suggest that governments and civil society are mere bystanders unable to negotiate their own foreign and domestic agendas.
The reality is that countries like Kenya actively engage with China to attract investments for development projects, and to balance their relations with other international actors like the US and Japan.
The result of securitisation is that American or Japanese policymakers, for instance, have begun to view Africa through the lens of their strategic competition with China. This is evident in Washington’s foreign policy rhetoric, for example. This increasingly frames African states not just as partners but also as strategic battlegrounds in the growing US-China rivalry. The risk is that African countries may start being treated as passive players.
Second, securitisation inflates the perception of China as a global security threat.
The repeated use of maps with Chinese flags covering ports, railways and industrial zones creates an exaggerated image of unchecked expansion. These maps fail to show the host of other external states operating on the continent.
The US, multiple European states, Japan, India, Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and South Korea all have significant interests in Africa. While China is by far the largest, most prominent external actor, with the widest reach throughout Africa, it’s been singled out because of the perceived threats its presence in Africa may pose to the west.
Third, securitisation can lead to knee-jerk reactions to limit China’s presence rather than engage constructively with Beijing’s investments in Africa. These reactions can result in ill-advised attempts by China’s competitors to push projects that don’t correspond to the needs of African states. This partly explains Ethiopia’s strained relations with the west. Sanctions and aid cuts over the Tigray conflict fuelled a pivot toward China and Russia.
The security risks
Securitisation raises valid concerns, but my research also underscores genuine security risks related to China’s presence in Africa. These shouldn’t be overlooked.
China’s growing role and embeddedness in Africa’s digital ecosystem presents a double-edged sword, for instance. Huawei and other Chinese companies have contributed to Africa’s telecommunications and digital transformation. But these investments also increase Beijing’s potential influence over data security, cyber governance and information flows. These give China the option to exploit networks for surveillance, intelligence gathering or political coercion.
Chinese-funded, built or operated infrastructure, ports and military bases
China’s expanding control over dual-use infrastructure is another concern. Chinese-operated ports in Djibouti, for instance, can be used for commercial and military purposes. They potentially grant Beijing a strategic foothold in key maritime corridors, such as the Red Sea. China could restrict access to these ports in times of conflict. Or use them to extend its naval footprint, similar to what it’s done in the South China Sea.
It’s China’s pursuit of other military facilities beyond its bases in Djibouti that will have the most serious implications for African states’ sovereignty. This is part of a deliberate Chinese strategy to expand its global power projection and protect access to critical resources like oil and gas.
Agreements on military facilities may end up undermining and even challenging African agency of action. The addition of Chinese ships and soldiers alongside the growing presence of US, European, Indian, Japanese and other regional naval forces could escalate tensions. It also risks entangling African states in power rivalries that aren’t in their national interests.
China’s presence in Africa has been securitised through maps drenched in red and stamped with flags, framing its engagement as a looming threat rather than a complex geopolitical reality. However, the real challenge for African states is ensuring that China’s growing influence – especially in infrastructure, digital networks, and security – does not erode their sovereignty. Whether Beijing’s presence becomes an opportunity or a liability will depend on how effectively African governments assert their national interests in shaping these partnerships on their own terms.
Brendon J. Cannon does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
ECF – a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse – working in partnership with City of Wolverhampton Council, submitted proposals in Autumn 2024. This included detailed plans for the first phase, as well as on outline application for the wider masterplan.
Following the decision, the new neighbourhood will be re-named Smithgate in a nod to the city’s historic metalworks.
Alongside delivering over 1,000 new homes, including affordable homes, the Smithgate masterplan will include new shops, cafes, restaurants and public spaces. It also enables the delivery of an enhanced Market Square.
First phase works, subject to funding agreements being in place, could commence later this year, and would include 331 Build to Rent and affordable homes along with new retail opportunities and public spaces.
Smithgate has been identified by the council as a strategic brownfield opportunity: it features in the Wolverhampton Investment Prospectus and is detailed in the City Centre Local Area Action Plan.
Part of a wider economic strategy to bring more people into the city centre, Smithgate will deliver a dynamic new neighbourhood. It will elevate Wolverhampton’s wider offer and boost footfall to support new and established businesses.
Basit Ali, Development Director at ECF, said: “With planning consent secured we will be able to work quickly to start delivery of the first phase at Smithgate.
“We’ve worked closely and in partnership with Wolverhampton Council to develop plans for an exciting new neighbourhood which will bring something different and new to the city. Its new name – ‘Smithgate’ – reflects the city’s historic industrial base as we deliver a dynamic new gateway to Wolverhampton.
“Wolverhampton is a place with ambition, a plan, and the capability to deliver. Reaching this milestone is testament to our strong partnership with the council, the city’s leadership, and the local authority’s pro-active and supportive approach.”
Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs, and Skills at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Smithgate will put people at the heart of the city centre with new homes, shops, cafes, and restaurants.
“It will drive economic growth which will benefit all our communities, help meet our significant housing needs and create a new place for people to visit and spend time.
“Now planning approval is in place we will continue to support ECF in securing the external funding needed to enable delivery of this transformational scheme.”
The new brand identity for Smithgate celebrates the heritage of the place through bold industrial inspired typography and textured images and graphics which add a grit and hand built quality. The new brand will start to be rolled out immediately.
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, Calif., March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Melissa, a global leader in data quality and address management solutions, is now available on Snowflake Marketplace. Offering Melissa APIs as Snowflake native apps, and a selection of its comprehensive datasets, Melissa is supporting enterprise users worldwide with enriched customer data for better business intelligence and global customer engagement. This integration simplifies access to Melissa’s high-quality data and verification services, enabling businesses to enrich, validate, and leverage critical customer and location intelligence directly within the Snowflake AI Data Cloud.
Melissa now offers 19 data products on Snowflake, including 17 datasets featuring phone, email, demographic, property, and geolocation information, and two Snowflake native apps designed to enhance data verification processes within the Snowflake environment. The newly integrated Personator Consumer and Global Address Verification native apps allow Snowflake users to validate customer addresses globally without exporting data, streamlining workflows and reducing errors.
“With Melissa’s integration into Snowflake Marketplace, businesses can now access our trusted data and verification services natively within the Snowflake platform. Data workflows are optimized and eliminate the traditional complexities of data extraction, transfer, and integration,” said Daniel Kha Le, Chief Data Officer, Melissa. “This partnership ensures that organizations using Snowflake can seamlessly enhance their data quality—a critical value in improving operational efficiency and driving better decision-making.”
Snowflake is a single, fully managed and integrated platform that businesses securely connect to globally across any type or scale of data to productize AI, applications, and more in the enterprise. This approach eliminates the data silos that lead to complexity and the need to move data to get business value. Snowflake users access all their data from a single platform, including data that is unstructured, in open formats, and from third parties.
Through the Snowflake Marketplace, businesses can now easily tap into Melissa’s datasets to find information on:
200 million U.S. consumers, including demographic, lifestyle, and contact data
17+ U.S. million companies and organizations, including firmographic and contacts
New mover data updated with over 100,000 new records every week
New homeowner data updated with over 75,000 new records every week
ZIP+4, Carrier Route, Place Name, Congressional District, Lat&Long Coordinates, Parcel and Building Footprints data
Geo-referenced and phone data for the U.S. and Canada
About Melissa Powering clean customer data for 40 years, Melissa is the Address Expert. Providing address validation, address autocomplete, and geo-verified address data for 240+ countries, Melissa supports global businesses with its offices in the U.S., U.K., Germany, India, Singapore, and Australia. Melissa’s suite of data quality, ID verification, and location data tools and services drives better decision-making, reduced costs, increased efficiency, and improved compliance. Our APIs, CRM and ecommerce integrations, and online tools help Melissa’s 10,000 customers worldwide process billions of addresses daily, fully capitalizing on the business value of customer data. For more information, visit www.Melissa.com or call 1-800-MELISSA (635-4772).
Media contacts Greg Brown Vice President, Global Marketing, Melissa greg.brown@Melissa.com +1-800-635-4772 x1130
A range of organisations, from landholders to grassroots community groups, joined together last week for the first time to discuss different ecological challenges in the city, and discussed how they can work better together to tackle them. The meeting- hosted by Westminster City Council- provided a platform to collaborate, network and share ideas with the goal of enhancing biodiversity and greening across Westminster.
Named Wilder Westminster, the first meeting marks the beginning of a long-term commitment by the council to address the ecological emergency. Regular collaboration between members will help to continue the discussion and develop the biodiversity and greening action plan outside the group bi-annual meetings.
The aim for future meetings is to continue collaborating to ensure greening efforts are coordinated and impactful and that nature is supported to recover and thrive.
Westminster is home to exceptional green spaces, owned and managed by a variety of stakeholders including Royal Parks, and BIDS (Business Improvement Districts) and community and third sector organisations, so there was an emphasis on partnership building, calling on everyone to take collective responsibility for creating a greener and more nature-rich environment. The working group also touched on issues such as strategy and purpose, and case studies of good greening practices including recent improvements to Cardinal Place in Victoria by Landsec.
Westminster City Council is hopeful that this new partnership will play a key role in shaping a greener future for central London.
For more information about the work group is doing as well as how to get more involved by visiting the Environment Hub.
Cllr Ryan Jude, Cabinet member for Climate Action, Ecology and Culture said:
It was great to see different organisations come together in one space to focus on how we can work better together to be more environmentally sustainable, in recognition of the ecological emergency and to help deliver a net zero city by 2040.”
“We all recognise that we can’t do this alone and there is still a lot to be done but by making sure our efforts are coordinated we can bring about meaningful and lasting change in Westminster.”
Social care inspector Chanel Bryant visited Upper Pendeford Farm, which provides short breaks for up to 6 young people at a time, earlier this year and found it to be ‘warmly decorated and homely’.
Leaders and staff are ‘committed to children having the best educational outcomes’. They ensure that children coming to stay at Upper Pendeford Farm are suitably matched, while staff have a good understanding of children’s health needs which ensures they are ‘well met’.
Leaders have a good understanding of children’s progress in the home, while staff speak highly of support from managers. Staff are well trained and enthusiastic about learning key areas relevant to their role to deliver a good level of care.
Staff support children in understanding how to keep themselves safe and help them develop their independence skills, for instance supporting children to cook meals in preparation for adulthood or providing step by step plans for travelling on public transport. As a result, parents praise staff for developing their children’s independence skills.
Staff form good relationships with children and ‘create positive experiences’, providing them trips, including bowling and cinema visits. They also ‘advocate well’ for children with other professionals and support them to voice their own opinions, which has ‘led to their views being listened to and positive changes taking place for children’.
Ofsted concluded that the overall experiences and progress of children and young people, how well children and young people are helped and protected, and the effectiveness of leaders and managers, are all Good.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is a very positive report which demonstrates the good quality service provided by our short breaks service.
“Upper Pendeford Farm offers a home away from home for children and young people who may have experienced childhood adversity that has led to emotional and behavioural difficulties. I am pleased that not only Ofsted, but also the children and young people and their families, speak so highly of the important support it provides.”
