NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at Ozempic as treatment for opioid and alcohol addiction

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Addiction looks at the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (Ozempic) for opioid and alcohol addiction. 

    Prof Matt Field, Professor of Psychology, University of Sheffield, said:

    “This study suggests that patients with heroin or alcohol addiction who are prescribed Ozempic (typically for diabetes or obesity) are less likely to be hospitalized for heroin overdose or alcohol intoxication, respectively. The findings add to those from other studies, particularly animal research, which suggest that this and similar drugs might one day be prescribed to help people with addiction.

    “A note of caution is that the outcomes are very extreme instances of substance intoxication.  Those outcomes are very different from the outcomes used when researchers test new treatments for addiction, in which case we might look at whether the treatment helps people to stop taking the substance altogether (complete abstinence), or if it helps people to reduce the amount of substance they consume, or how often they consume it. Those things could not be measured in this study. This leaves open the possibility that while Ozempic may (for reasons currently unknown) prevent people from taking so much alcohol or heroin that they overdose and end up in hospital, it may not actually help them to reduce their substance use, or to abstain altogether. Indeed, one of the trials referred to in the paper (Klausen et al., 2022) reported that a similar medication “did not reduce the number of heavy drinking days compared with placebo”.”

    ‘The Association Between Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide and/or Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Prescriptions and Substance-Related Outcomes in Patients with Opioid and Alcohol Use Disorders: A Real-World Data Analysis’ by Qeadan F, et al. was published in Addiction at 06:01 UK time on Thursday 17th October.

    DOI: 10.1111/add.16679

    Declared interests:

    Prof Matt Field: “I have no conflicts of interest to declare.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Generative AI expected to accelerate entry-level career progress across industries

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Mollie Mellows
    Tel.: + 44 (0) 7342 709384
    E-mail: mollie.mellows@capgemini.com

    Generative AI expected to accelerate entry-level career progress across industries

    • Employees believe generative AI will facilitate a third (32%) of entry level tasks over the next 12 months.
    • 6 in 10 managers and most employees (71%) expect entry-level roles across functions to evolve from creation to reviewing generative AI outputs, over the next 3 years.
    • Over three-quarters (78%) of leaders and managers predict generative AI will augment their problem-solving and decision-making in the next three years, and over half think manager-level positions will evolve towards specialization.

    Paris, October 17, 2024 – The Capgemini Research Institute’s new report on generative AI (Gen AI) in management, ‘Gen AI at work: Shaping the future of organizations’, published today, suggests that Gen AI could have a positive impact on early-stage careers. In the longer-term, the report finds that Gen AI has the potential to create new job roles, transform organizational structures, drive human-AI fusion teams, and make managerial roles more specialist. However, adoption remains low and nascent. The report finds most employees lack the training they need to develop Gen AI skills.

    Whilst the impact of Gen AI on careers has been hotly debated, this new research finds the majority of business leaders believe that entry level roles could become more autonomous and evolve into frontline managerial roles within the next three years. With this in mind, the proportion of managers in teams across functions could expand from 44% to 53% in the next three years; only 18% of leaders and managers believe that Gen AI will reduce middle management.

    Employees think that, over the next 12 months, generative AI tools could lead to an average time saving of 18% for entry-level workers, implying there could be significant productivity improvements for junior employees. However, the cost of the Gen AI tool must also be taken into account, cites the report. Furthermore, 81% of leaders and managers expect new roles such as data curators, AI ethics specialists and algorithm trainers to emerge at the entry level.

    “Generative AI tools are becoming more adept at assisting with complex managerial tasks, which could challenge the status quo of organizational structure and ways of working,” said Roshan Gya, CEO of Capgemini Invent and member of the Group Executive Committee. “Generative AI has the potential to shift from a co-pilot to a co-thinker, capable of strategic collaboration, adding new perspectives and challenging assumptions. This shift could unlock significant value when tailored to specific business use cases but is dependent on several factors, including organizations prioritizing building the skills and readiness of employees, taking proactive steps around talent acquisition and development.”

    Potential to redefine management but still a significant gap on actual usage
    The report finds that Gen AI is transitioning the view of future leadership and managerial roles toward becoming more strategic, focusing on decision making and fostering innovation. In fact, many managers and leaders currently believe that Gen AI tools could act as co-thinkers for them. 65% of the leaders and managers surveyed see high potential in Gen AI for complex strategic tasks, and more than half of leaders believe managers will play a critical role as catalysts of Gen AI-driven change. The technology could also save leaders and managers up to seven hours each week, with nearly 8 in 10 leaders believing that Gen AI will positively impact their productivity in the next 12 months.

    Gen AI has the potential to amplify the strategic scope of leaderships roles. Currently, managers spend more than one-third of their time on administrative tasks. However, AI’s ability to automate much of this work provides opportunities to focus on strategic-planning and problem-solving tasks. In the next three years, over three-quarters (78%) of leaders and managers expect Gen AI to augment their problem-solving and decision-making, and over half believe manager-level positions will evolve towards specialization. 57% of leaders at organizations advanced in their Gen AI implementation already see their roles becoming more strategic.

    While adoption of Gen AI in management has good potential, there is a significant gap between potential and actual usage. Although 97% of leaders and managers say that they have experimented with Gen AI tools, only 15% use Gen AI tools at least once a day in their work.

    Organizational structures need to transform to enable cohesive human-AI collaboration
    For nearly half (46%) of teams, AI is used simply as a tool to enhance existing capabilities and workflows. However, human-machine partnerships are starting to be embraced. One in three teams are currently using AI as a ‘team member’, for example by enhancing human performance or using AI agents to complete predefined tasks without human intervention. According to the research, today AI is used as a supervisor in only 1% of teams i.e., it is directing, allocating, or prioritizing work for humans. Yet, in the next 12 months, 13% of teams expect to use AI in this role. In an AI-led environment, human judgment is increasingly important, and the majority of leaders, managers and employees in the research acknowledge this.

    Training and managerial guidance required to secure the future of Gen AI at work

    Despite the potential of Gen AI to boost productivity across job functions, adoption remains nascent. While almost two-thirds (64%) of workers already use Gen AI tools for their work, only 20% of employees use Gen AI tools daily.

    Employees also lack proficiency in key skills, with only 16% believing they are getting the support they need to develop Gen AI skills. Only 13% of employees say they are well-versed in machine conversational skills; only a third say they can manage Gen AI systemic risks; and less than half claim to have prompt engineering skills. The report suggests that team members should be equipped with the right AI skills, defining rules and responsibilities for cohesive human and Gen AI collaboration, ensuring accountability when Gen AI systems make mistakes, and adapting workflows and processes for the new era of Gen AI.

    Report Methodology
    Capgemini Research Institute conducted a global quantitative executive survey in May 2024 across 15 different countries and 11 key industries, surveying 1,500 respondents from 500 organizations, with annual revenue of more than $1 billion. Each unique organization is represented by three executives, one each at leadership level, middle-management level, and front-line management level (the three respondents can be from different functions or locations). The report is also based on an entry-level employee survey to take their perspective on Gen AI adoption by their managers and leaders. The survey targeted 1,000 entry-level employees from the same 500 organizations as in the executive survey. Hence, overall, each organization, irrespective of location or function, is represented by five respondents – three executive-level (leaders and managers) and two entry-level employees. In addition to these executive and entry-level employee surveys, the report also draws on 15 in-depth interviews with independent experts from various industries across the globe to validate and substantiate findings. Please note, the study findings reflect the views of the respondents and are aimed at providing directional guidance.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2023 global revenues of €22.5 billion.
    Get The Future You Want | http://www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was recently ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts.
    Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Solomon Islands Environment Ministry support waste management education initiatives

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK government’s Ocean Country Partnership Programme and the Solomon Islands government through its Ministry of Environment provide education packs to schools.

    Group photo with students at St Nicholas Anglican College displaying the education packs.

    The Kukum Seventh Day Adventist School, Florence Young Christian School and Saint Nicholas Anglican College in Honiara are the first beneficiaries of primary and secondary education packs to help students understand how to better manage waste and why this is so important for our oceans.

    These education packs are being provided to schools alongside recycling bins, as the Solomon Islands and UK look to tackle marine pollution.

    These have been possible through the UK Government’s Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP) and the Solomon Islands Government through its Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM).

    At the handing over of the education packs to each school on Tuesday 15 October, British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Nauru, His Excellency Thomas Coward said:

    Children are our country’s future and educating them about marine biodiversity, marine pollution and sustainable seafood is important. We are pleased to present these education packs to the students and teachers, and we are hopeful they will learn to protect marine pollution.

    The Literacy Association of Solomon Islands (LASI) was engaged by the Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) to translate the education packs into Solomon Islands pijin making them simple for both teachers and students at the schools.

    Senior Research Scientist at Cefas, Freya Goodsir said:

    Through the Ocean Country Partnership Programme, we are delighted to collaborate with the Solomon Islands and support initiatives to tackle marine pollution. These education packs and recycling bins will make a real difference to the school communities and inspire the next generation to be leaders in protecting their incredible marine environment.

    Chief Environment Officer, Environment and Conservation Division at the Solomon Islands Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Wendy Beti said:

    The ministry is thankful to the British High Commission through its OCPP for publishing the primary and secondary education packs we are giving you. The ministry is actively supporting this programme through various initiatives including the provision of recycling bins with some schools having received them and other schools that will be delivered later. OCPP also supports the ministry through coastal water quality monitoring, awareness campaigns and billboards and provincial workshops. We look forward to collaborating with schools and important stakeholders of the programme.

    The school leaders of Kukum SDA School, Florence Young School and St Nicholas School expressed their gratitude for the education packs saying children are at the core of such initiatives as they are the country’s future.

    Construction of eight recycling bins is progressing, and the three schools are expected to receive theirs this month.

    OCPP is funded by the UK Government International Development and delivered by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), the Joint Nature Conservancy Committee (JNCC) and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Italy suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 17) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Brescia Province and Cremona Province of Lombardy Region in Italy, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

         A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 40 tonnes of frozen poultry meat and about 10 000 poultry eggs from Italy in the first six months of this year.

         “The CFS has contacted the Italian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Lantronix Unveils SmartLV, the First AI-Enabled IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway, Powered by Qualcomm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions, has launched SmartLV, powered by the Qualcomm® IQ-615 processor, the first AI-enabled IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway. This groundbreaking innovation, designed specifically for low-voltage substations and distribution automation applications in next-generation smart grids, utilities and industrial sectors, will debut at Enlit Europe, Oct. 22–24, 2024, in Milan, Italy.

    SmartLV is engineered to revolutionize real-time visibility, control and automation in the energy sector, providing Distribution System Operators (DSOs) with the ability to manage and steer energy precisely when and where it’s needed. Built with advanced cybersecurity protocols and AI capabilities, the SmartLV ensures robust, reliable and secure operations for mission-critical applications, offering unmatched control over low-voltage substations and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).

    “The SmartLV Gateway is a leap forward in empowering utility operators with critical, real-time insights and control over their low-voltage substations,” said Mathi Gurusamy, Chief Strategy Officer at Lantronix. “By utilizing Qualcomm Technologies’ AI technology, this solution helps to address today’s most pressing challenges at the edge of the smart grid.”

    AI at the Edge: Transforming Energy Management

    With growing demand for smarter and greener energy grids, the SmartLV Gateway empowers DSOs to anticipate and respond to real-time grid conditions, optimizing energy flow and ensuring stability even during peak loads. This AI-driven platform doesn’t just monitor; it enables intelligent energy steering and dynamic decision-making at the edge.

    “SmartLV exemplifies the fusion of AI and connectivity in tackling critical challenges within smart grids. Qualcomm® and Lantronix are enabling DSOs to have enhanced control and insights into the distribution network, transforming how energy is delivered and consumed and accelerating the grid transformation in Europe,” added Sebastiano Di Filippo, Senior Director of Business Development at Qualcomm Europe Inc.

    SmartLV Gateway key features include:

    • Multi-protocol communication: Seamlessly integrates with existing infrastructure via Ethernet, Serial, I/O and Industrial Protocol conversion suites, offering flexibility across legacy and modern systems.
    • High-speed connectivity: Future-resilient with LTE and 5G-ready high-speed cellular communication for reliable, low-latency operations.
    • Edge computing for real-time decisions: AI-enabled edge computing that powers low-latency analysis, enabling split-second decision-making directly at the substation.
    • Advanced cybersecurity: Fortified with Lantronix’s InfiniShield™ security framework to defend against cyber threats, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
    • Simplified management with Lantronix’s Percepxion™ IoT Edge Platform: Offers seamless management with global cellular plans, VPN security and an easy-to-use cloud platform to monitor and control deployments.
    • Energy Steering Automation: Provides automated, real-time control of DERs based on actual grid conditions to ensure efficient energy flow.  

    Innovation Fueled by a Long-Standing Collaboration

    The SmartLV Gateway is the latest innovation in a 15-year relationship, combining Qualcomm Technologies’ industry-leading AI and connectivity with Lantronix’s expertise in IoT solutions for industrial and smart grid applications.

    Availability

    The SmartLV Gateway is scheduled to launch in CY 2025, with some trials beginning at the end of CY 2024 for selected DSOs. For more information or to schedule a demo, visit Hall 5, MR10.

    About Lantronix   

    Lantronix Inc. is a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions that target high-growth industries including Smart Cities, Automotive and Enterprise. Lantronix’s products and services empower companies to succeed in the growing IoT markets by delivering customizable solutions that address each layer of the IoT Stack. Lantronix’s leading-edge solutions include Intelligent Substations infrastructure, Infotainment systems and Video Surveillance, supplemented with advanced Out-of-Band Management (OOB) for Cloud and Edge Computing. 

    For more information, visit the Lantronix website. 

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including, without limitation, statements related to the SmartLV AI-Enabled IoT Edge Compute Cellular Gateway for Qualcomm developers. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; our ability to mitigate any disruption in our and our suppliers’ and vendors’ supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other outbreaks, wars and recent tensions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, or other factors; future responses to and effects of public health crises; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Sept. 9, 2024; as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. The forward-looking statements included in this release speak only as of the date hereof, and we do not undertake any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. 

    © 2024 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. 

    Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries
    Qualcomm is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated 

    Lantronix Media Contact:         
    Gail Kathryn Miller 
    Corporate Marketing & 
    Communications Manager 
    media@lantronix.com 
    949-212-0960 

    Lantronix Analyst and Investor Contact:         
    investors@lantronix.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: WHO – Despite health gains, urgent action needed to meet health-related Sustainable Development Goals in the Western Pacific Region

    SOURCE: World Health Organization (WHO)

    Manila, Philippines, 17 October 2024 – According to a new report released today, countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region experienced the smallest decline in life expectancy during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to other WHO regions. Life expectancy in the Western Pacific fell by only 0.07 years during 2020-21, a minimal drop compared to the global average decline of 1.7 years. The Western Pacific now has the highest life expectancy among WHO’s six regions, rising from 72.0 years in 2000 to 77.4 years in 2021.

    However, despite this progress, the Region – comprising 37 countries and areas across Asia and the Pacific – is still grappling with critical challenges and is off-track in achieving the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are the global goals adopted by world leaders to end poverty and inequality, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy health, justice and prosperity by 2030. The new WHO report, Health statistics in the Western Pacific Region 2023: Monitoring health for the SDGs, highlights advancements made across the Region while also emphasizing the urgent need for action. The report shows that while the COVID-19 pandemic may have done less damage to life expectancy in the Western Pacific than other regions, it nevertheless exacerbated health inequalities and disrupted progress in other areas.

    Noncommunicable diseases on the rise

    While infectious diseases and injuries were previously major causes of illness and death in the Western Pacific, the Region is undergoing a significant epidemiological shift. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer now account for nearly nine in 10 deaths. While the probability of premature death from NCDs has declined in the Region by over 25% since 2000, major challenges remain. Moreover, the Region is experiencing rapid population ageing. There are now more than 245 million people aged 65 and older in the Region – a number that is projected to double by 2050. And many older people are living with NCDs.

    A major risk factor for NCDs is alcohol and tobacco use. Consumption of alcohol in the Region has risen by 40% since 2000. Despite a decline from 7.2 litres per capita per year in 2015 to 6.1 litres in 2019, the overall increase highlights an ongoing concern for public health. Similarly, although tobacco use declined from 28.0% of adults smoking in 2000 to 22.5% in 2022, this was still above the global average of 20.9%.

    Mental health issues are also taking their toll on the population, with alarmingly high suicide rates in some countries of the Western Pacific Region, influenced by factors such as stigma, limited access to mental health services and socioeconomic challenges.

    Climate- and environment-related health concerns are yet another major challenge. While air pollution in urban areas of the Region was found to have decreased from 2010 to 2019, air quality levels are still much worse than the WHO-recommended levels. Populations living in urban areas are therefore continuing to breathe unhealthy air.

    Mixed progress towards universal health coverage

    Universal health coverage (UHC) is another important SDG target for which the Western Pacific Region has had mixed progress. The UHC service coverage index measures access to essential health services such as reproductive, maternal, newborn and child care, and prevention and treatment services for both NCDs and infectious diseases. Over the past 20 years, the overall UHC service coverage index in the Western Pacific increased impressively, from 49 to 79 points out of 100 between 2000 and 2021. However, people’s ability to access health-care services varies greatly across the Region. In some countries, the UHC service coverage index score is as low as 30, meaning many people struggle to access basic health care, while in others, it exceeds 80, indicating a much higher level of service availability and coverage. Despite these advancements, progress has slowed and stagnated since the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, and particularly since 2019.

    Despite the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases, access to essential health services for NCDs did not improve significantly, increasing only slightly from 52 points in 2000 to 58 points in 2010. Even more troubling, there has been no further progress since 2010, and access to services remains low, particularly in Pacific island countries and areas.

    In contrast, access to services for infectious diseases improved significantly, rising from just 18 points in 2000 to 82 points in 2021. Immunization coverage for the WHO-recommended three doses against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, or DTP3, showed mixed results from 2000 to 2023: coverage increased in 15 countries, while four countries experienced no change and eight saw a decrease.

    In the Western Pacific Region, average health spending has increased substantially, tripling from around US$ 383 per person in 2000 to US$ 1336 in 2021. On average, health spending accounted for 6.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) at country level in 2000, and rose to 8.2% by 2021. However, despite efforts to increase public spending for health, the proportion of people in the Western Pacific experiencing catastrophic health expenditure − defined as spending more than 10% of their income on health-care − has nevertheless doubled, rising from 9.9% in 2000 to 19.8% in 2019.

    Critical action needed to achieve SDGs

    “While we celebrate the significant health gains that the Western Pacific Region has achieved, we must also acknowledge urgent challenges in sustaining progress,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “We are living longer than ever, and more than any other region of the world, but this isn’t enough. We’re off-track to meet many of the SDG targets, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated health disparities. Now is the time for concerted action to address these issues. We look forward to working with health leaders from across the Region next week to finalize our new vision to weave health for families, communities and societies.”

    New vision for health in the Region

    Ministers of health and other senior officials are preparing for discussions at the seventy-fifth session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific in Manila on 21−25 October 2024. The meeting will focus on the most pressing health needs in the Region and chart a course to address them.

    Weaving health for families, communities and societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025-2029): Working together to improve health, well-being and save lives is the proposed new vision for the Region. The vision centres on the analogy of weaving a mat – a traditional activity across Asia and the Pacific – symbolizing the collaborative efforts required by WHO, governments and partners to improve population health and well-being. The vision centres on five vertical strands of action led by governments interwoven with three horizontal strands of action by WHO.

    The five vertical strands of action led by governments, working with WHO and other stakeholders include:

    Transformative primary health care for UHC
    Climate-resilient health systems
    Resilient communities, societies and systems for health security
    Healthier people throughout the life course
    Technology and innovation for future health equity.

    The three horizontal strands of action by WHO are:

    Country offices equipped with skills for scaling up and innovation
    Nimble support teams in the Regional Office
    Effective communication for public health.

    These strands reflect the reality that the Western Pacific Region faces complex health challenges that cannot be addressed by the health sector alone. Achieving the goals of SDG 3 − Good health and well-being – will require a concerted effort from multiple sectors. Social determinants of health, including education, housing, employment, social protection, gender equality and the environment, significantly impact health outcomes. Therefore, collaboration between the health, education, urban planning, agriculture and environmental sectors, to name but a few, is crucial. Collaboration can create synergies and co-benefits for all these sectors while accelerating progress towards achieving SDG 3.

    “The commitment of governments, WHO and partners to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 is a commitment to health and well-being for all,” added Dr Piukala. “We must work together to ensure that no one is left behind as we weave a healthier future.”

    In addition to the vision, the Regional Committee will also consider new regional action frameworks on digital health and on health financing to achieve UHC and sustainable development. There will be panel discussions on climate-resilient health-care facilities, transformative primary health care and oral health, as well as a special event on the Investment Round to resource WHO’s work for 2025–2028.

    Notes:

    The seventy-fifth session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee will run from Monday, 21 October through Friday, 25 October, at the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines. The Agenda and timetable are available online. A livestream of proceedings, all other official documents, as well as fact sheets and videos on the issues to be addressed can be accessed here. For real-time updates, follow @WHOWPRO on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube and the hashtag #RCM75.

    Working with 194 Member States across six regions, WHO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for public health. Each WHO region has its regional committee – a governing body composed of ministers of health and senior officials from Member States. Each regional committee meets annually to agree on health actions and to chart priorities for WHO’s work.

    The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas: American Samoa (United States of America), Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Guam (United States of America), Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, Kiribati, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Macao SAR (China), Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, New Caledonia (France), New Zealand, Niue, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (United States of America), Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Pitcairn Islands (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), the Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam, Wallis and Futuna (France).

    Related links:

    Health statistics in the Western Pacific Region 2023: Monitoring health for the SDGs
    Draft vision Weaving health for families, communities and societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025−2029): Working together to improve health and well-being and save lives
    WHO data on progress towards universal health coverage (UHC)
    Other WHO data which can be searched by country.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grave of lost World War Two soldier located in Italy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The grave of a Royal Tank Regiment soldier who lost his life in Italy during World War Two has been identified 81 years after his death.

    Padre David Anderson leads the service for Tpr Stobart (Crown Copyright)

    The rededication service for Trooper (Tpr) Frederick Stobart was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’. 

    The service was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Bolsena War Cemetery in Italy this afternoon (16 October). 

    Frederick Stobart was born in Sunderland in 1916. He lived with his maternal grandparents for some of his childhood, but no records exist to tell us about his young life or schooling.  

    He joined the Army in 1935, listing his previous occupation as a steel grinder. He served at home, and in India during the years immediately before war broke out in 1939, and then joined the British Expeditionary Force in May 1940. By August 1940 he was in the Middle East, and he remained there until June 1943, when he was sent to take part in the invasion of Italy. He appears to have been captured around Tobruk in North Africa in late June 1943 and to have become a prisoner of the Italians at Camp 54 at Fara in Sabina, in the Lazio region of Italy.   

    In September 1943 when Italy capitulated, many prisoners found themselves without guards and took the opportunity to escape, Stobart was one of these. He travelled north, with fellow escapee, Pte Robert Quinn of the Durham Light Infantry, into the hills where they relied on local people for help. Unfortunately, their freedom was short-lived, and they were recaptured by the Germans within a few days.  According to contemporary reports, both men were shot whilst trying to escape from a transport taking them to a new camp. Quinn was hospitalised but Stobart died.  

    Stobart was buried in a civilian cemetery at Monte Libretto by two German soldiers, a local policeman and four other prisoners. The notes recorded on the grave register show that there were no documents or means of identifying the body, and that the other prisoners burying him did not seem to know him. After the war Stobart’s remains were recovered and moved to the war cemetery at Bolsena where he was buried as an unknown casualty of the 1939 – 45 war, with a date of death in September 1943. 

    Recently an independent researcher submitted evidence to the CWGC hoping to have located the final resting place of Tpr Stobart. The research included excerpts from a Red Cross interview with Stobart’s fellow escapee Pte Quinn which was conducted whilst he was a POW in hospital. Quinn had described the escape and what had happened to his Stobart, without naming him. It was his testimony along with other supporting documents which were crucial in proving this case. The researcher’s evidence was reviewed and extra work conducted by the National Army Museum and  JCCC which concluded that now, 80 years after his death, it is possible to clearly identify where Tpr Stobart is buried. 

    The military party, representatives of the CWGC, and the researcher who submitted the original identification case for Tpr Stobart, stand behind his headstone (Crown Copyright)

    JCCC Caseworker, Alexia Clark, said: 

    It has been a privilege for me to have been involved in restoring Tpr Stobart’s name to him,  and to have organised the service of rededication for him today. I am grateful to the researcher who submitted the original evidence and thus started this process off, and to Tpr Stobart’s military family for attending today to honour his sacrifice. 

    Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said:  

    We are honoured to now be able to commemorate, by name, Trooper Stobart. It is a privilege to care for his grave and all those that lie here at Bolsena War Cemetery, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grave of missing World War Two soldier identified in Italy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The grave of a Scottish soldier who lost his life in Italy during World War Two has been identified and rededicated 80 years after his death.

    A bugler and piper from the Royal Regiment of Scotland at Bolsena War Cemetery (Crown Copyright)

    Today’s service for Private (Pte) George Alister Walker Ewan was organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’. 

    The service was held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) Bolsena War Cemetery in Italy. 

    George Alister Walker Ewan was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in 1915 to Scottish parents Thomas Ewan, a farmer, and his wife Christina Walker Alister. George was their second, and youngest child – having a sister called Catherine, who was five years older than him.  

    The family returned to Scotland in the summer of 1916, living initially in Dollar with Thomas’ mother. Sadly, Christina died in 1919 and following this the family were separated for a time with George and Catherine living away from their father.

    George Ewan joined the army in June 1940 and spent two years on home defence duties with a Territorial battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. In late 1941 he was transferred to the 8th Battalion and embarked with them for North Africa in October 1942. He was posted as missing in November 1942 during the second battle of El Alamein but was able to rejoin his battalion a few weeks later.   

    Padre David Anderson leads the service for Pte George Ewan at Bolsena War Cemetery (Crown Copyright)

    Pte Ewan was wounded in an action in the Vaiano area in late June 1944, he was initially posted as missing, but this was later revised to record that he was presumed to have died of his wounds on or soon after 21 June 1944.  He was buried at the civilian cemetery at Castiglione del Largo, possibly by the German army or by local civilians though the records are not clear. Either way, his name was not recorded, and he was listed in the cemetery records as an unknown British soldier.  

    Following the war, his remains were recovered from Castiglione del Largo and moved to the war cemetery at Bolsena, his cap badge showed that he had been a member of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, but no other identifying artefacts were found. 

    Recently an independent researcher submitted evidence to the CWGC hoping to have located the final resting place of Pte Ewan. This research was reviewed, and extra work was conducted by the National Army Museum and the JCCC which concluded that now, 80 years after his death, it was possible to clearly identify where Pte Ewan was buried and notify his family that he had been found. Pte Ewan’s cousins were in attendance at the service. 

    Pte Ewan’s cousins stand at his graveside with members of the military party (Crown Copyright)

    JCCC Caseworker, Alexia Clark, said: 

    I am grateful to the researcher who submitted this case. Their work has led us to recognise the final resting place of Pte Ewan, to restore his name to him and to allow his family to honour his sacrifice. It has been a privilege for me to have contributed to this case and to have organised the service for the rededication of Pte Ewan’s grave today. 

     Director for Central and Southern Europe at the CWGC, Geert Bekaert, said:  

    We are grateful to everyone involved in identifying the grave of this brave soldier, who died 80 years ago today. It is our duty – and privilege – to care for the grave of Private Ewan, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pål Jonson attends NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Pål Jonson attends NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels – Government.se

    Please enable javascript in your browser

    Press release from Ministry of Defence

    Published

    On 17–18 October, Sweden’s Minister for Defence Pål Jonson will meet with his colleagues from other NATO member countries in Brussels. Part of the meeting will also be attended for the first time by the defence ministers of Australia, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand – NATO’s partners known as the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4).

    The agenda includes discussions on continuing and deepening NATO’s cooperation with the IP4.

    At the meeting in Brussels, the NATO defence ministers will also discuss deeper cooperation between NATO and the EU, and reinforcements of NATO’s deterrence and defence capabilities.

    They will also discuss continued support to Ukraine and the support being provided to Russia by Iran, China and North Korea.

    This is the first NATO ministerial meeting led by new Secretary General Mark Rutte. 

    Press contact

    More about the Meeting of NATO Defence Ministers on 17–18 October

    More information about the Meeting of Defence Ministers on 17–18 October is available on the NATO website. Images and video material from the meeting will also be published on the website as they become available.

    About the North Atlantic Council (NAC)

    The North Atlantic Council (NAC) is the principal political decision-making body within NATO. For the NAC’s day-to-day work, member countries are represented by their NATO Ambassadors.

    The NAC meets a number of times a year at the levels of defence ministers, foreign ministers and heads of state and government. Normally, one NATO summit, two meetings of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs and three meetings of NATO Defence Ministers are held each year. The NATO Secretary General chairs the NAC.

    About Sweden in NATO

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering a skills passport for the Clean Energy Transition

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Joint letter from Secretary of State and Gillian Martin MSP to the Chief Executives of Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and Renewable UK on the department’s involvement in the Energy Skills Passport project.

    Documents

    Energy Skills Passport: joint ministerial letter

    PDF, 209 KB, 2 pages

    Details

    A joint letter from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Scottish Government to David Whitehouse, Chief Executive of Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and Dan McGrail, Chief Executive of Renewable UK announcing that the department will be coming onboard to assist with the industry-led Energy Skills Passport project.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wheelyboat 123 report published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Capsize of a recreational craft on Roadford Lake, Devon with the loss of two lives.

    Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the capsize of Wheelyboat 123 on Roadford Lake, Devon, England on 8 June 2022, resulting in two fatalities.

    Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, said:

    Trips on the wheelyboat were beneficial for the continuing wellbeing and therapy of the residents of the care home; however, no-one had taken time to properly consider the risks associated with taking the wheelchair users afloat, either before the accident or on the day itself.

    The condition of the wheelyboat had been allowed to deteriorate so water could enter it, and on the day no-one recognised the implications of carrying vulnerable people who were strapped into heavy motorised wheelchairs around a lake in an open boat. In short, no-one had their eye on the risk, and tragically Alison Tilsley and Alex Wood lost their lives.

    As well as the catalogue of failings highlighted by the report, the investigation has also uncovered a worrying lack of oversight which must be seen as an impetus for urgent action. Charitable activities such as this seem to fall into a grey zone with no organisation or authority in a position of oversight. This meant that no-one stepped in to question what had become custom and practice. Addressing this is not simple and may only be possible with a change in the law; however, the current situation is not something that should be tolerated.

    The report, available via this link, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations.

    Media enquiries (telephone only)

    Media enquiries during office hours 01932 440015

    Media enquiries out of hours 0300 7777878

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and New Zealand agree blueprint for satellite removal and servicing missions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and New Zealand space agencies have signed a blueprint for the removal and servicing of operational satellites that are very close together or making contact with one another.

    Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data, processed by ESA

    The arrangement, signed at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, is designed to support missions in the fast-growing areas of in-orbit servicing, space debris removal and satellite refuelling, known as ‘rendezvous and proximity’ operations.  

    Modern society is increasingly reliant on satellite technology and the Earth’s orbits are more crowded than ever before. There is an urgent need to invest in new technologies that can help remove debris from space and keep satellites operating for longer.  

    However, these complex missions involve moving spacecraft close to one another, and the novel nature of these missions raises difficult questions around the application of international rules and guidelines, particularly if launched and operated by more than one nation. Given the importance of improving space sustainability, New Zealand and the UK have been exploring ways to reduce the legal, policy, and regulatory barriers, and uncertainty associated with multistate rendezvous and proximity missions. 

    The work between the UK and New Zealand is designed to demonstrate how international corporation in this area can keep space sustainable for current and future generations. It provides a set of principles for allocating liability between different states involved in the different stages of these missions. It does this within the framework set out in the Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects (the ‘Liability Convention’), as well as principles around licensing and information sharing.  

    As the Liability Convention was established in 1972, when most space missions were led by governments rather than companies, the UK and New Zealand are hoping to make its application to the current space age easier to navigate, reducing barriers for industry to carry out these important mission types.    

    Iain Cossar, Head of the New Zealand Space Agency and Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency sign the arrangement at IAC 2024 in Milan.

    Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency said:  

    As space leaders from across the world gather in Milan this week, we’re pleased to agree with our partners in New Zealand a world-first arrangement to help ease the way for future missions that can help keep space sustainable.  

    In-orbit servicing and manufacturing and space debris removal are high-growth areas for the global space sector, and we hope our work with New Zealand can act as a blueprint for other nations to follow and benefit from.

    Iain Cossar, Head of the New Zealand Space Agency said: 

    We place a lot of importance on space sustainability in New Zealand, and this agreement with the UK demonstrates our commitment to ensuring our space environment is safe and sustainable.  

    The arrangement outlines how we will cooperate on active debris removal and in-orbit servicing missions.  

    The principles and guidance we have developed could apply more broadly to other states, and like the UK, we hope this work can serve as a blueprint to enable these important activities internationally as we look to address the challenges posed by orbital debris.

    New Zealand is home to the world’s first private spaceport which has conducted 49 launches to date. The UK is due to host its first vertical orbital launches from spaceports in Scotland in 2025, following the first horizontal launch attempt from Spaceport Cornwall last year.  

    Independent research published in 2022 estimates the global market for In-Orbit Services and Manufacturing to be $14.3 billion. A 2023 report from the UKspace trade association puts the opportunity for the UK at £2.7 billion.

    Joanne Wheeler, Managing Director of the Earth & Space Sustainability Initiative, said:

    This agreement between the UK and New Zealand space agencies for the removal and servicing of satellites shows real leadership in this important area of space sustainability and is an excellent example of the all-important international collaboration that is vital to the sustainability of space.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds parks set to serve up tennis courts refurbishment

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds City Council and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) have been working over the summer to breathe new life into local park tennis courts across the city.

    In total, 42 tennis courts at eight public parks have been renovated, with investment of over £654,000 ensuring that top quality facilities are available for local communities.

    The parks included are Beckett Park in Headingley, Burley Park, Chapel Allerton Park, Grove Road Recreation Ground near Temple Newsam, Harehills Park, Roundhay Park, Springhead Park in Rothwell and The Hollies in Weetwood.

    The project is part of a £30m nationwide investment supported by the LTA Tennis Foundation and delivered by the LTA, to refurbish public tennis courts across Great Britain and open up the sport to more people.

    This investment will see thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country through renovation works and improved court accessibility with new gate-access technology and booking systems.

    Tennis courts within Leeds’ parks are free to use and provide opportunities for children and adults to get active and enjoy time outdoors.

    Locally, investment is also being provided by several Leeds City Council ward members for the tennis courts in their area. 

    As part of the project, Leeds City Council will work with the LTA to deliver a range of activities across the renovated parks. This will include weekly organised Barclays Free Park Tennis sessions for all ages, playing levels and experience, with equipment provided. Local Tennis Leagues will also provide opportunities to get active through local competitions.

    The courts, which were closed during the refurbishment works, are now all back open (with the exception of at Roundhay park where the work is due to commence shortly) and providing a much-improved user experience.

    It is now possible to book courts to ensure there is one available before turning up. From late November, visitors will need a booking to gain access to the courts with a pin code. Bookings can be made for free online at https://www.lta.org.uk/play.  

    Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “This is a fantastic scheme to improve tennis courts across our city’s parks and we’re pleased to be working together with the LTA to deliver it.

    “Investing in these facilities will ensure that we have good quality public tennis courts available across the city for people of all ages to use free of charge for many years to come. This is particularly important given that health and wellbeing is a high priority for Leeds City Council.”

    Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “We are delighted to be working with Leeds City Council to improve their park tennis facilities and provide more opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and get active. This investment is part of the LTA’s Parks Tennis Project and courts will be available for people to use for years to come. We will also be working closely with Leeds City Council to ensure that the local community have a range of accessible opportunities to get on court and open up our sport to many more people.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning approval for the redevelopment of 38-40 George Street

    Source: City of Oxford

    Thursday, 17 October 2024

    At the planning committee meeting held on 15th October Oxford City Council approved the plans for Marick Real Estate to redevelop 38-40 George Street

    At the planning committee meeting held on 15th October Oxford City Council approved the plans for Marick Real Estate to redevelop 38-40 George Street for a new 145 room aparthotel operated by Staycity for their premium brand Wilde. The development with also include a new 400m2 community space developed in partnership with Makespace Oxford, which will be used for a wide range of community activities.  

    “We are delighted to see these proposals, which will improve the Gloucester Green area and contribute towards the city’s need for more overnight accommodation and community space, and reduce the pressure to turn family homes into short term lets. It will also provide 24 new cycle spaces and public realm enhancements, alongside generating employment and apprenticeship opportunities, which will pay the Oxford Living Wage as a minimum.” Councillor Ed Turner, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management 

    “This is fantastic news for Oxford and supports the Council’s policy to encourage more hotels to open in Oxford city centre to boost the city centre’s economy.” Andrew Heselton of Marick

    For any further information please visit the project website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Collyhurst welcomes opening of Community Construction Skills Centre

    Source: City of Manchester

    A new centre dedicated to developing and uplifting the skills of its local community has opened in Collyhurst.

    The Community Construction Skills Centre will offer a series of training courses and hands-on classes that will give learners vital work experience and confidence in order to create employment opportunities. 

    The learning hub, which will advance “community upskilling,” will make Collyhurst residents’  accessibility and travelling needs easier with training delivered on site. 

    The employability training will take place in a 4-week period and equip learners with accredited qualifications in health and safety and construction skills, including Trade Techniques and Health Safety and Welfare in the Workplace. Over 50 new students are expected to enrol on training courses running up until December. 

    The centre boasts a unique training model that is adaptable to people who are unemployed, ex-offenders and ex-military members as part of learning basic, but crucial DIY skills  to increase employability.

    The Community Construction Skills Centre project was initiated in partnership with FEC and Manchester City Council who identified the need for construction skills to support local people to access training into the sector. 

    Working in collaboration with YES and the ​​Construction Skills People and their Greater Manchester Skills Academy, the project first opened to students in September as part of wider investment through the Victoria North Development. The project will significantly transform and advance the North of Manchester by developing 15,000 homes over the next 20 years with new and improved transport links, parks, healthcare facilities and retail spaces.

    The region has been hit the hardest by unemployment and mental-health related illness. Long-term and embedded worklessness has affected over 16,500 working-age adults receiving out-of-work benefits. 

    In Manchester, workers are on low wages with a median annual earning of £24,055 while the worst family poverty rates are in North Manchester and East Manchester with over 43% of children and young people growing up in poverty.

    To ensure training at the Community Skills Centre continues to work for the needs of Collyhurst residents, the model has been localised which means that partner groups are required to undertake employability assessments and adequately advise and support those who want to take part in training. 

    Following this, successful candidates will be invited to attend civil engineering and groundworks Bootcamps which will enhance employability and training with the Ride on Roller, Forward Tipping Dumper and Plant Vehicle Marshall certifications.

    There are also opportunities to undertake trade specific training such as Bricklaying, Plastering and Joinery, while being guaranteed an interview with local contractors. 

    Community days will also be held at the centre to encourage residents to learn new skills such as painting preparation and general DIY.

    More information about training opportunities at the Community Construction Skills Centre is available at Construction Skills People. 

     John Hacking, Executive Member for Employment, Skills and Leisure, said: “I’m thrilled to see the opening of the Community Skills Centre in Collyhurst which has been created to upskill residents and build confidence as they enter into the workforce.

    “This has been a significant collaborative effort with important partners who are all working towards the same goal of advancing Collyhurst residents and fully recognise the struggle the North Manchester region has had to deal with poverty and unemployment.

    “By increasing the accessibility for hands-on training, this centre gives eager learners the encouragement and support they need to work through the training to employment pipeline with robust skills and confidence.”

    Rebecca Kirkland, Community Liaison Manager for FEC, said: “The Community Construction Skills Centre will provide local residents with a first hand insight into the construction industry and give them access to unique employment opportunities.

    The Centre has been in the works for a long time and we couldn’t have opened its doors without the support of our partners who will continue to help us find the next generation of talent from right across the community.”

    James Broome, 38, from Moston, said: “The Collyhurst Community Skills Centre has been a brilliant learning experience. I’m in the final week of training for a CSCS Greencard which is giving me important skills in labouring. Once I’ve completed that I will then go on to train for the Bootcamp Dump Truck License.

    “The course has been really helpful, it’s opened my eyes and broadened my horizons massively. My tutor on the course is fantastic; she’s really clear and easy to understand when she’s teaching and is also helping me write my CV for jobs. 

    I’ve been working in production and in warehouses too so my confidence has really grown with my hands-on skills and with all the different types of people you meet, it has really boosted my self-esteem socially.

    “For anyone considering joining a course, I’d say give it a go and throw yourself into it to get the most out of it.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Warm and welcoming spaces to open soon this winter

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Venues across Plymouth are opening their doors again this winter to offer people a safe, warm space, as part of the city’s cost of living support for residents.

    Household Support Funds have been distributed to the Council by the Government to help those who are struggling to afford energy, water, food and other essentials because of the rise in cost of living, as part of this funding, businesses have the opportunity to apply to become a Welcoming Space this winter.

    The warm, welcome spaces were a success last year, many locations stayed open all year round, running regular community cafes or events to help bring people together and support them.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “The Welcoming Spaces are not just a place to keep warm but somewhere for people to come together as a community during the winter months.

    “The aim of the Welcoming Spaces is to help build individual and community resilience which could include signposting or providing some information and advice, encouraging the development of mutual aid and connecting people, and sharing and increasing skills and knowledge.

    “We understand the rise in the cost of living, and I am really pleased to see that more places will be opening their doors to support residents this winter.”

    For more information about Welcoming Spaces, visit: Welcoming spaces | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK.

    Organisations that are interested in registering as a Welcoming Space can also do so via this link, this must be submitted by 5pm on Friday 1 November 2024.

    The website will be updated once grants have been awarded in mid-November.

    Applications should be for additional provision, not funding existing activity.

    Applications are welcome that include activities to connect people and encourage volunteering and the sharing of food or skills.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Alderney Ferry Services Licence Application Thursday 17 October 2024

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Media Release

    Date:  17th October 2024

    States of Alderney clarifies progress on new ferry operation

    Concerns that the States of Alderney is dragging its feet on the issuing of a passenger licence for Alderney Ferry Services’s new vessel Dart Fisher have been strenuously denied.

    The States of Alderney meeting on October 16th was told that the Harbour Authority has provided full guidance and assistance to Alderney Ferry Services (AFS) on the practical and safe operation of the vessel.

    The Authority has assessed options for mooring the vessel in various wind and weather conditions and the most suitable areas and methods for the safe embarking or disembarking of passengers.

    AFS been made aware of the legislative and operational frameworks which the States of Alderney expects all locally licenced commercial vessels to comply with.

    To date, the process has included berthing trials for the Dart Fisher and the training and examination of four candidates put forward by AFS to serve as Master of the vessel. One of those candidates was successful in obtaining a pilotage licence and the reassessment of the remaining three can take place in due course.

    Following the pilotage examinations, the Harbour Master confirmed the results with AFS and reiterated the requirement to apply for a passenger licence. These licences are issued by the General Services Committee (GSC) under section 3 of The Licencing of Passenger Boats (Alderney) 1954 Ordinance.

    The Chief Clerk has now received an application and a report will be brought to GSC for determination at its meeting on November 1st. The outcome will be communicated to AFS immediately.

    The following statement was given at the States meeting:

    “The perception has been created that the States of Alderney is one of the reasons for the delay to the Dart Fisher being a licenced vessel and also being responsible for the need to put [AFS vessel] Causeway Explorer up for sale.

    “The States have been supportive of AFS through provision of subsidies, extending the cost cap of those subsidies to provide additional rotations for our community, extending the tourism season into the shoulder months, and assisting in resolving the challenges that have been posed by the Dart Fisher’s arrival in Alderney.

    “Since the announcement of the purchase of the vessel, the Harbour Authority has liaised closely with AFS to discuss practical operational matters and ensure safe operations. Therefore, to suggest the States have been the cause of delay to licencing and suggested as a reason for the sale of Causeway Explorer is unfounded.”

    Ends

    Media enquiries:Alistair.Forrest2@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Humanitarian aid for Middle East

    Source: Scottish Government

    Emergency donation of £250,000 to support relief efforts.

    Humanitarian aid efforts in the Middle East will receive funding of £250,000 in response to a Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Appeal.

    DEC, Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) and Mercy Corps will use the funding to support humanitarian activities as the situation in the region continues to deteriorate.

    £200,000 will contribute to a fund shared between DEC’s 15 member organisations helping to provide food, water, medical assistance and shelter to displaced people in the region. SCIAF and Mercy Corps will each receive £25,000 to support aid activities.

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Thousands of innocent people have been killed in the crisis in the Middle East, with millions more displaced and left without certainty about how to access to shelter, food, clean water and medical care.

    “The humanitarian crisis in the Middle East continues to deepen and spread, and an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation of conflict is needed to prevent more innocent lives being lost and bring an end to the unimaginable suffering this conflict has caused.

    “Urgent humanitarian aid must be provided to all those who need it, and this contribution from the Scottish Government will assist the Disasters Emergency Committee, SCIAF and Mercy Corps in ensuring it reaches as many people as possible. Members of the public can also pledge support and make donations to the DEC Appeal in a variety of ways and I would urge everyone to consider donating if they are in a position to do so.”

    Background

    The DEC appeal for the Middle East will launch on 17 October 2024. Details are available on the DEC website for how to donate to the Appeal.

    Humanitarian response – International development – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Viability risks intensifying for some landlords, warns Regulator of Social Housing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has today set out the main risks facing the social housing sector.

    Its annual sector risk profile report shows that viability risks have intensified over the last year, and social landlords are facing significant and competing pressures to deliver both more and better social homes against a backdrop of higher borrowing costs.

    Though the sector remains resilient overall, many landlords have less capacity to deal with new challenges. This requires more active management from boards, with less margin for error in decision making.

    It is a fundamental responsibility of all landlords to ensure that tenants are safe in their homes. They must prioritise essential safety work, including issues with cladding on high-rise buildings, and tackle other issues like damp and mould. It is absolutely critical that landlords continue to be well run and financially viable, so they can carry out this important safety work, identify issues before they happen, and build new homes for people on waiting lists.

    London and other urban areas are experiencing the most acute financial pressures particularly where large numbers of flats need building safety works.

    These challenges are expected to persist for the foreseeable future, as social housing undergoes a long-term shift, with higher borrowing costs and an ongoing need to maintain and invest in tenants’ existing homes and build much needed new homes for the future.

    Fiona MacGregor, Chief Executive at RSH, said:

    Most housing associations are investing record amounts in new and existing homes without threatening their financial viability.

    However, some individual landlords face particular pressures, and we expect those to sustain for some time before the position eases.

    There is very little margin for error, and it is absolutely critical that landlords are well run, with robust  systems for identifying and mitigating risks.  

    Boards must maintain a real clarity of purpose to successfully navigate these competing demands while remaining financially viable.

    For the first time since 2009, the cost of servicing debt for private registered providers (PRPs) exceeded net earnings last year. In aggregate terms, forecast sector interest cover over the next five years is just 111%.

    RSH has a range of tools – including inspections, yearly stability checks and quarterly surveys – to identify emerging risks and work with landlords to mitigate these as far as possible.

    RSH has already identified a number of individual landlords who were not financially viable and who have since merged with others to protect tenants’ homes and lenders’ capital. RSH expects that more individual landlords will fail to meet the outcomes in its economic standards over the coming months, as this challenging environment continues.

    Notes to editors

    1. The Sector Risk Profile sets out the regulator’s view of the most significant risks to providers’ ongoing compliance with its regulatory standards. The report is aimed primarily at boards of housing associations and other private registered providers and, where relevant, the councillors forming the governing bodies of local authority registered providers.
    2. The Sector Risk Profile has a particular focus on risks to delivering the outcomes required by RSH’s economic standards. RSH’s annual consumer regulation review provides examples from recent casework that providers can learn from to help strengthen their approach.
    3. The Regulator of Social Housing promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver and maintain homes of appropriate quality that meet a range of needs. It does this by undertaking robust economic regulation focusing on governance, financial viability and value for money that maintains lender confidence and protects the  taxpayer. It also sets consumer standards and may take action if the outcomes in these standards are not delivered.
    4. Local authorities must meet RSH’s new consumer standards but RSH does not regulate their governance or financial viability.

    For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stormont has no idea how many times Michael McMonagle entered Stormont since being charged

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “While there has been justified focus on the pay arrangements for Michael McMonagle, something which has received relatively little attention is the fact that because Sinn Fein, and specifically North Antrim MLA Philip McGuigan, failed to cancel his pass he could come and go as he pleased from Parliament Buildings.

    “In order to probe this issue I asked the Assembly Commission to detail the number of times, including dates, that Michael McMonagle entered Parliament Buildings since being charged with sexual offences against children; and any groups, including schools and youth groups, that visited Parliament Buildings on the dates Michael McMonagle was in Parliament Buildings during this period.

    “The Commission has now confirmed, as I suspected they would, that they have no idea.

    “We therefore have a situation where someone suspected of sexual offences against children – who has since admitted his guilt – was left with the means to come and go from Parliament Buildings while charged with serious offences and no one has any idea if he availed of the opportunity, facilitated by Philip McGuigan, to do so.

    “There are profoundly serious child protection issues involved here – issues which should not be ignored merely because the political and media establishment believe that the rotten institutions of the Belfast Agreement are more important than child safety.”

    Note to editors

    Mr Gaston’s question and the Commission’s answer are as follows:

    To ask the Assembly Commission to detail (i) the number of times, including dates, that Michael McMonagle entered Parliament Buildings since being charged with sexual offences against children; and (ii) any groups, including schools and youth groups, that visited Parliament Buildings on the dates Michael McMonagle was in Parliament Buildings during this period.
    (AQW 16576/22-27)

    Data relative to the use of Assembly ID passes is retained on the Assembly’s Visitor Management System for a period of 90 days after use. The pass issued to Michael McMonagle was cancelled on 1 October 2024, and there is no record of it being used in the preceding 90 days which extend back until 4 July 2024. It has been widely reported that Mr McMonagle attended a publicity event in the Great Hall on 14 February 2023.

    When Mr McMonagle attended the Great Hall on 14 February 2023, he used a visitor pass. These passes are valid for one day and are issued to any visitor to Parliament Buildings.

    Yours sincerely
    Trevor Clarke MLA

    (On behalf of the Assembly Commission)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry sends congratulations to Nobel Peace Prize winners

    Source: City of Coventry

    A message from Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader of Coventry City Council.

    The City of Coventry sends its congratulations to the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize winners Nihon Hidankyo.

    The grassroots movement of atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, also known as Hibakusha, is a worthy recipient of the Prize for its dedicated work towards creating a world free of nuclear weapons.

    Coventry has formed strong links with the city of Hiroshima over the years, and we are very proud of that friendship. Hiroshima Day is marked every year in our city on 6 August as we remember those who lost their lives when atomic bombs were dropped on the two cities in 1945.

    Since those dark days of war, our cities have worked tirelessly for peace and have formed friendships with others around the world to try and prevent such horrors ever happening again.

    We are delighted that the efforts of Nihon Hidankyo have been recognised with this great honour.

    Their dedication and resolve to banish nuclear weapons to the pages of history have helped to spread a message of peace.

    These historical witnesses have helped to generate and consolidate widespread opposition to nuclear weapons by drawing on personal stories and creating educational campaigns based on their own experience.

    The core of Alfred Nobel’s vision was the belief that committed individuals can make a difference, and that is clearly shown by Nihon Hidankyo and the survivors who have bravely chosen to use their terrible experiences to bring peace to others.

    Next year will mark 80 years since those terrible weapons caused such pain and devastation, and yet they are still a threat to our world today.

    The city of Coventry thanks Nihon Hidankyo for its work to combat that threat, and we renew our promise to the cities and people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that we will always continue our work for peace by their sides.

    Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader, Coventry  City Council

    Thursday, 17th October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ohio Man Who Concealed Croatian War Crime Charge Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    An Ohio man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to immigrating to the United States.

    According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 56, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989, when, in fact, he fought with the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent resident status and received a green card.

    “Jugoslav Vidic lied about war crimes charged against him in an attempt to escape his past and live in the United States unlawfully,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time in the United States followed by his removal. His sentence demonstrates that human rights violators will not be allowed to hide from their crimes in the United States.”

    “Vidic committed serious human rights violations and was convicted of war crimes in Croatia as a result. Yet, he lied to U.S. immigration officials about his conviction and participation in a violent military force to claim refugee status and obtain a green card — becoming a permanent legal resident of our country — when he was not eligible to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Those who run away from violent crimes they commit elsewhere in the world and then enter our country by brazenly lying about their past will be held to account, as yesterday’s sentence demonstrates. Vidic’s deceitful actions are detestable, and unfairly hurt people in need who legitimately seek refuge to flee real harms in their home countries.”

    “Our communities here in Ohio and across the United States are not safe havens for war criminals to escape accountability in their home countries,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “It is my hope that this sentencing provides some measure of solace to the victims’ families with the knowledge that despite the passage of time, the United States will seek justice.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic intentionally circumvented the laws of the United States by lying on his green card application about his war crimes conviction in Croatia,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case should serve as a warning to others that the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those like Vidic who seek to violate U.S. law by fraud of any kind.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic knowingly avoided the truth of his past to enjoy the freedoms and liberties of the United States for over two and a half decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “Yesterday’s sentence underscores the work of the FBI and its local, state, federal, and international partners and sends a clear message that people in the United States who take part in war crimes, regardless of when or where they occurred, or by masking their involvement, will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted.”

    Vidic admitted in his plea agreement that he was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic further admitted that he knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.

    Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States.

    HSI and the FBI investigated the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.

    Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

    Members of the public who have information about human rights violators or immigration fraud in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pupils become Flu Fighters as vaccinations continue in schools

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    This year, all children from Reception to Year 11, including those who are home educated, are eligible for the vaccination. For the majority of children, the vaccine will be given via a nasal spray. For children who require a pork gelatine free alternative, or who are unable to have the nasal spray for medical reasons, an injectable vaccination is available on request.

    Parents are urged to return their child’s consent forms as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss out. Consent can be given online at Flu Immunisation 2024/25. Verbal consent can be given by calling Vaccination UK on 01902 200077. Requests for the injectable vaccination can be made when giving consent.

    Vaccinations are scheduled to take place throughout the autumn term and each school will be visited twice by Vaccination UK, giving children who may have been off the first time the chance to have their vaccination.

    Any child who misses their free vaccine in school will be able to get it at catch up clinics which will be arranged in the coming weeks, or by contacting their GP.

    John Denley, Wolverhampton’s Director of Public Health, said: “The flu vaccination campaign is well underway in local schools and it’s vital that you ensure your child doesn’t miss out.

    “Flu can be deadly and easily spread by children and adults. The vaccine is the best way to protect your children and other family members from becoming ill with the flu, particularly more vulnerable relatives like grandparents or those with underlying health conditions.

    “I would urge parents to return their consent forms as soon as they receive them so that their children can have their free vaccine and become a Flu Fighter!”

    Children aged 2 and 3, and children with some long term health conditions, are also eligible for the nasal spray, with their vaccinations given at their local GP surgery. Parents or guardians who have not yet received a letter or text from their GP inviting them for a vaccination are encouraged to contact their surgery to arrange an appointment.

    To find out more about the flu vaccine for children, read the answers to frequently asked questions and enjoy the 4 exciting Flu Fighters stories for children, Flu Fighters Versus Chilly, Achy and Snotty, Flu Fighters in The Battle of Planet Bogey, Flu Fighters in Close Encounters of the Germed Kind and Flu Fighters on a Vacc-tastic Voyage, please visit Bugbusters.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SLC pays over £5billion in student finance since the start of the academic year

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    By Jackie Currie, SLC Executive Director, Business Operations

    At the Student Loans Company, we remain at the forefront of supporting the education sector by providing trusted, transparent, and accessible student finance services.  SLC enables more than 1.5 million students each year to invest in their futures by providing financial support to access further and higher education.  And we have marked another significant milestone in the 24/25 delivery of student finance to the education sector, paying more than £2 billion pounds in tuition fees to higher education colleges and universities this week.

    On Wednesday, 16 October, we paid £2.3 billion in tuition fees to education providers on behalf of almost students. This follows the almost £3 billion that was paid in maintenance loans to students since the start of academic term in September.

    In total, SLC has paid over £5 billion* in student finance in the 24/25 year so far.

    Currently, our primary focus is on providing additional financial support to students who applied after the deadlines and have received the minimum level of student finance.  We’re also processing application from students who are still applying and for those on courses starting in January.

    Where a student applied late for funding, we awarded the minimum maintenance loan and their tuition fee loan to ensure they had funding to start their term, their remaining funding is paid to them as a top-up payment once all necessary application details are confirmed.

    For students who are still applying for their finance, or yet to apply such as those starting courses in January there’s a range of advice on applying at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/students-from-england-can-find-answers-to-their-questions–2

    *Please note these are provisional figures. Full year figures are published in our Student Support for Higher Education statistical release which will be published on 28 November 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth annual firework display returns to Southsea Common

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth’s annual fireworks will be held for the second year at Southsea Common on Tuesday 5 November.

    The site opens at 4pm, with stalls and entertainment for the whole family. Then, the big event itself is scheduled to take place from 7pm.

    There will be a variety of hot food and refreshments available on site, including food such as burgers, loaded fries, hog roast, gyros, sweets, hot drinks, and toasted marshmallow pits.

    Careful planning for your journey is advised. Given the expected high levels of attendance, attendees are encouraged to plan their journey and allow extra time. Consider taking the bus, renting an e-scooter, cycling or walking to the event site for a hassle-free experience.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said: “The annual firework display is a much-loved tradition in Portsmouth.

    “As always, we’ll have the fireworks, great entertainment, live music, and a good choice of food and refreshments for everyone to enjoy.”

    Facilities will be onsite including toilets, first aid, visitor information point and a separate welfare tent including a lost child point, lost and found, ear defenders, and seating space for anyone feeling overwhelmed.

    The event will end at 8pm.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Passengers to enjoy cleaner travel between UK and Europe  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    New green corridors could boost use of sustainable fuels, secure green jobs of the future and advance environmentally friendly travel within Europe.

    • world’s first ‘green shipping corridors’ to be created between the UK and Europe, accessing prime destinations like Amsterdam, Oslo, Copenhagen and Dublin  
    • up to £9 million investment to decarbonise shipping and turbocharge green jobs of the future  
    • 30 projects across the country will also receive a share of funding to make smarter, cleaner shipping a reality 

    Passengers could reap the rewards of greener travel by sea thanks to the development of new shipping routes only accessible to zero emission vessels. 

    Maritime Minister Mike Kane today (17 October 2024) announced the new projects which will receive funds to develop these future routes, including the Port of Tyne to the Port of Ijmuiden (Netherlands) and the Port of Holyhead to the Port of Dublin.   

    The Department for Transport (DfT) is also funding the development of green shipping routes from the UK to Norway and Demark – the organisations that will lead these are soon to be announced.   

    Green corridors are zero emission maritime routes between 2 or more ports. The UK led the development of green corridors through the launch of the Clydebank Declaration at COP26.

    Once developed, should the world’s biggest shipping companies operate along these greener routes, it could transform the ‘fast shopping’ industry, making the global shipment of goods more environmentally friendly.

    Maritime Minister, Mike Kane, said:   

    Shipping is a big contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, so these new green corridors could be a real game changer for industry.   

    This is exactly the direction we need to be going in to achieve our mission of becoming a clean energy superpower.   

    These new corridors could turbocharge the use of sustainable fuels, secure the green jobs of the future and advance environmentally friendly travel to major European capitals like Amsterdam and Dublin.

    The funding comes from the  fifth round of the government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC5), which focuses on driving innovative solutions and new technologies to decarbonise the industry and grow the economy.    

    Matt Beeton, CEO of the Port of Tyne, said:

    Today’s funding announcement will support the development of port infrastructure for electrification and the refuelling of state-of-the-art clean powered vessels. This important green infrastructure will ensure that the Port of Tyne and the Port of Ijmuiden are supporting decarbonised routes between the North East of England and Europe with the aim of saving up to 850,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.

    Bolstered by the Maritime Innovation Hub, the Port of Tyne continues to drive sustainable innovation and act as a focal point for a growing European decarbonised distribution network for green trade and passenger journeys.

    The River Tyne fuelled the industrial revolution and now it’s at the forefront of greening international logistics.

    Visiting the Port of Tyne, the Maritime Minister also announced separate funding to help make sea travel cleaner and smarter.   

    Up to £8 million of match funding will be given to 30 projects across the UK to accelerate plans to develop smart technologies, such as autonomous systems, AI, robotics and sensors.   

    These technologies will help position the UK as a world leader in maritime decarbonisation and will support economic growth and coastal communities by delivering local jobs and boosting local businesses.  

    Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK, said:

    Like so many industries, the maritime sector is under immense pressure to decarbonise its transport and process methods. Innovate UK is proud to be a key delivery partner for DfT’s UK SHORE programme, which provides a unique platform for innovators and collaborators to demonstrate real-world solutions to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.

    With this year’s round of competitions delivering a host of exciting prospective technologies, from smart shipping drones to methanol-fuelled vessels, UK SHORE looks to accelerate the adoption of these sustainable solutions and help the UK drive towards its net zero targets.

    This latest round of funding comes from the £206 million UK SHORE programme which is focused on decarbonising the UK maritime sector through tech innovation.

    Maritime media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Added value of patent-intensive industries over 15 trillion yuan

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A staff member shows a China Telecom 5G antenna during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, Feb. 27, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The added value of China’s patent-intensive industries in 2022 reached 15.32 trillion yuan (about 2.15 trillion U.S. dollars), contributing 12.7 percent to its GDP, according to a report released by the country’s top intellectual property regulator.

    The latest data shows that China’s patent-intensive industries exhibit strong innovation capabilities and development potential, supporting the country’s commitment to pursuing new quality productive forces and high-quality development, the China Intellectual Property Administration noted in a recent monitoring report.

    The report highlights that from 2018 to 2022, the added value of China’s patent-intensive industries saw an average annual growth rate of 9.36 percent, surpassing the average annual GDP growth rate by 2.37 percentage points during the same period.

    The information and communications technology (ICT) service and ICT manufacturing, as representatives of emerging industries, achieved double-digit growth in added value with annual growth rates of 14.86 percent and 10.23 percent, respectively.

    Other patent-intensive industries include manufacturing of new equipment and materials, medicine and the medical industry, as well as the environmental protection industry.

    High investment in research and development is an important factor driving growth. According to the report, the internal R&D expenditure for patent-intensive industries in China reached 1.14 trillion yuan in 2022, marking an increase of 11.28 percent compared to the previous year and totaling 2.23 times that of non-patent-intensive industries.

    In 2022, more than 49 million people were employed in China’s patent-intensive industries, accounting for approximately 6.7 percent of overall employment within the entire society.

    However, the report noted a gap between China and Western patent leading countries. It cited the latest report from the United States and Europe, revealing that patent-intensive industries contributed 24 percent to the U.S. GDP, with employment accounting for 13 percent. Additionally, the EU’s figures that year stood at 17.4 percent and 11 percent, respectively, “significantly surpassing China’s levels.”

    The patent-intensive industries in China still have immense growth potential, and greater efforts should be made to support the development of these industries, the report said.

    China has set a target for patent-intensive industries to contribute 13 percent of GDP by 2025.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cabinet agrees to kick start engagement on options for iconic City Hall

    Source: City of Norwich

    Cabinet have agreed to continue work to explore the future use of City Hall which will include gathering public thoughts and opinions.

    Last night (Wednesday, 16 October), they considered a report setting out options to transform the historic, Grade 2* listed, heritage building.

    The report recommends that Norwich City Council business and its civic activities remain at City Hall.

    The first option would see the building refurbished to provide better public access, fit for purpose council office space, grade A lettable space and event and conference opportunities.

    The second option would go a step further by adding an extension to the rear, as intended in the original 1938 plans for the building, that could be used for offices, homes, or a hotel.

    This option also proposes a new, publicly accessible, landscaped courtyard to the rear and improvements to the public spaces around City Hall. 

    Cabinet agreed they would like the next stage of work to be done to develop a business case around these options.

    Council Leader, Cllr Mike Stonard, said: “We’re still at an early stage and a significant part of what comes next will be gathering feedback from our residents, businesses, partners, and the voluntary and creative sectors.

    “It’s vital that we hear from the people of Norwich on this so we can make the best decisions for the city about how we continue to move forward.

    “We’re taking the time to plan this now and expect to be getting underway with these conversations early next year.

    “We have a huge opportunity here to create a future for the building that boosts the entire city, with the potential to create up to £102million in economic benefits, depending on the scale of the option eventually taken forward.

    “These benefits for Norwich would come from creating improved amenities that attract more use and increase spending in the city over the lifetime of the development.”

    The agreement to develop a business case will also now see the council obtain the many architectural, technical, and financial reports needed to prepare for any change to a listed, heritage building like City Hall.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged in connection with Tottenham murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met detectives have charged a man with murder following the death of a man that was shot in Waltheof Gardens, N17 on Tuesday, 15 October.

    Mahmut Sahindal, 56 (20.5.68), of no fixed abode, was charged with murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He has been remanded to appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court today (Thursday, 17 October).

    Sahindal was arrested on Tuesday, 15 October.

    An investigation was launched after police were called to reports of a shooting on Tuesday, 15 October, in Waltheof Gardens, N17.

    Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and found a man with a gunshot injury. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he died at the scene.

    The victim’s family have been informed of this update and will continue to be supported by specialist officers.

    Enquiries into the circumstances remain ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives name the victim of the Newham fatal collision as they thank people who helped at the scene

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives from the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) investigating a fatal road traffic collision in Newham have named the victim as they continue to appeal for witnesses and anyone with footage to come forward.

    At around 15:40hrs on Tuesday, 15 October, a Nissan Juke mounted the pavement at Barking Road, E16 colliding with 18-year-old Maryam Nabil Shuwey who was from Stratford. Despite the actions of off-duty police officers, members of the public and medics, Maryam sadly died from her injuries at the scene.

    Chief Superintendent Dan Card, leading policing in Newham, said: “I know that local people will be feeling shocked and distressed by the tragic loss of a young woman’s life in such horrific circumstances. Please know that we share those feelings, and we are doing everything we can to support our SCIU colleagues as they investigate the full circumstances of the incident.

    “The actions of two off-duty officers close to the scene when the collision happened were commendable – despite the chaotic situation, they managed the incident in its early stages and attempted to help the victim until medics arrived. Members of the public also rushed to see if they could help as Newham pulled together to try to save a young life. While the outcome was not what anyone would have wished for, I would like to extend my thanks to those people.

    “Local residents and businesses will notice a more visible police presence in the area in the coming days and I urge anyone with concerns to speak with officers as they patrol or contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.”

    The driver of the Nissan Juke – a 45-year-old man – was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He was taken to hospital for treatment before being taken into police custody. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

    The victim’s family were notified and they continue to be supported by specialist officers.

    Road closures and cordons were established. These have since been lifted.

    Chief Superintendent Thomas Naughton, of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “This is a tragic and deeply upsetting incident for everyone concerned. We are doing everything we can to support the victim’s family and we ask that their privacy be respected as they struggle to come to terms with unimaginable loss.

    “I am aware of footage of the incident circulating online and ask that consideration be given the victim’s loved ones and that footage not be shared further on social media. Not least because it could prejudice any future criminal proceedings.

    “We are working hard to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and ask that anyone who has information or footage contact us without delay.”

    Anyone who witnessed this incident or has footage should call the Serious Collision Investigation witness line direct on 020 8597 4874, call 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting 4765/15OCT.

    MIL Security OSI –