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Category: Great Britain

  • MIL-OSI Global: What autistic people think should be prioritised in education for autistic learners

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laura Gormley, Assistant Professor in Education, Dublin City University

    wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock

    The education of autistic children and young people in western societies has been heavily influenced by a medicalised understanding of autism. This means considering autism as a disorder, with a focus on correcting autistic people’s perceived lacks, rather than building on their strengths.

    Autistic learners’ strengths, interests, preferences, goals and values were typically sidelined. Making the learner appear less autistic was the main focus.

    This included increasing eye contact and building neurotypical social skills. It involved attempting to reduce stimming: self-stimulatory behaviour, which can include chewing on objects, fidgeting, watching moving objects, and making repetitive sounds.



    Read more:
    Autistic stimming explained – and why stopping it can lead to burnout

    However, the neurodiversity movement – a social advocacy movement that promotes the idea that neurological differences are an expected and normal part of human variation – has challenged these assumptions. Instead of the autistic learner being viewed as disabled, it suggests the educational environment can be disabling for the autistic learner.

    This contrasts with the past when school norms typically did not support the strengths and needs of autistic learners. These children were expected to fit in.

    What autistic people want

    The autistic voice has been largely missing from educational research and policymaking. My research study with colleagues, co-produced with autistic researchers, set out to change this. We wanted to identify the educational priorities of adult members of the autistic community, as well as teachers supporting autistic learners, in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

    We did this by carrying out a survey comprising 34 autistic adults with no role in education (non-educators), ten autistic educators, and 65 non-autistic educators who supported autistic learners. We asked them about priority goals to be included in individual education plans for autistic learners.

    The individual education plan is the foundation of inclusive and special education in many countries. It serves as an educational map that charts the learner’s current level of performance and their annual goals. It lays out the steps and resources needed to reach these goals.

    In countries such as Finland, the US and UK, an individual learning plan is legally mandated for all learners who make use of special education services. However, this is not the case in the Republic of Ireland. Provisions were made in the 2004 Education for Persons with Special Education Needs Act. Over 20 years later, though, individual education plans are still not compulsory, regulated or assessed in the Republic of Ireland.

    This lack of oversight has occurred against the backdrop of a 600% increase in special classes in the Republic of Ireland from 2013 to 2023. Autism classes accounted for 89% of these – 2,466 classes out of a total of 2,754.

    Before carrying out the survey, we expected very little overlap in the goal priorities of autistic respondents and non-autistic respondents. We were wrong. Our findings clearly showed significant overlap in the priorities across the groups.

    Our survey respondents prioritised goals that promote autonomy, social inclusion and communication. They saw these goals as contributing positively to autistic wellbeing.

    Learning goals that focused on social inclusion were a priority.
    wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock

    On the other hand, academic goals did not feature as a priority for the vast majority of respondents. Academic goals include reading comprehension, writing skills, critical thinking, time management, problem solving and maths skills.

    It could be argued that this does a disservice to the educational potential of autistic learners. However, while academic goals are important, wellbeing must come first. Without a strong foundation of physical and mental health, meaningful academic success is difficult to achieve.

    Finally, all groups actively discouraged educational goals that focused on improving eye contact and reducing stimming. The overriding consensus was that a focus on changing these aspects of behaviour is detrimental to a learner’s ability to work towards meaningful and functional educational goals including independence, wellbeing and social inclusion.

    Prioritising wellbeing

    There is growing support for prioritising wellbeing, communication, socialisation and daily living skills over more academic goals. However, teachers may not be equipped to design, teach and monitor goals that align with these priorities of the autistic community.

    Teachers in a UK study cited several barriers to supporting autistic learners in their classrooms. Their greatest frustration came from having limited access to autism-specific knowledge and expertise during their initial teacher training.

    Similar frustrations were also reported among Irish teachers. Many teachers in the study thought a specialised qualification should be compulsory for those teaching in autism classes.

    However, autism prevalence rates are on the rise, and there is an international trend towards inclusive education – educating children with special educational needs in mainstream classrooms. This means there is a growing likelihood that teachers will find themselves supporting autistic learners.

    Research shows that teachers’ attitudes, knowledge and skills towards inclusion are improved if they can go on placements during their training to schools that emphasise a culture of inclusion.

    Partnerships between universities and schools could be an important way to make this happen. This could help empower student teachers to go on to design and support effective individual education plans for their autistic learners.

    However, without a legal mandate for individual education plans in the Republic of Ireland, initial teacher education and teacher professional development programmes will continue to struggle to effectively prepare teachers for this part of their role.

    Laura Gormley works as an assistant professor in Dublin City university and received seed funding from SCoTENS (The Standing Conference on Teacher Education, North and South) to carry out this study.

    – ref. What autistic people think should be prioritised in education for autistic learners – https://theconversation.com/what-autistic-people-think-should-be-prioritised-in-education-for-autistic-learners-250195

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster City Council announces more generous payment options for leaseholders | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    The new plans, amongst the most generous in London, will ease the pressure on leaseholders with bills for major works 

    Westminster City Council is introducing new payment options for resident leaseholders facing large major works bills, in response to challenges with the cost of living and increased building costs that have put many residents in a challenging financial situation.

    Those facing invoices of over £30,000 will be able to benefit from an 8-year interest-free payment plan – one of the most generous payment terms available to local authority leaseholders in London. They will also now having the option of paying back over 13 years, with the first 8 interest free.

    Additionally, the Discretionary and Voluntary service charge loans, which are available to leaseholders with bills of over £20,000, will now be interest free for the first 8 years and no longer dependent on the applicant having to show they weren’t able to secure financing elsewhere.

    This is part of the Council’s plans to limit the financial burden on leaseholders and tackle the cost of living crisis in Westminster.

    Cllr Liza Begum, Cabinet Member for Housing Services said: “The council has seen a sharp rise in the cost of essential major works to its buildings and wants to ensure resident leaseholders are supported through loans with more favourable terms. 

    “That’s why we are increasing the number and generosity of repayment options available to resident leaseholders in Westminster, to ensure that they have the best possible financial support. 

    “If you are a leaseholder and you want to know, more contact our housing services team about changing your payment plan” 

    Notes to editor:  

    The full details of the two new repayment options for resident leaseholders with major works bills are as follows:

    • 8 years – If you receive an invoice for more than £30,000 you can spread payments over eight years in 96 equal monthly payments. This option will not be made available where the property is sublet, owned by a company, or owned by a housing association. You must complete an extended payment instalment form. No interest is charged.
    • 13 years – If you receive a bill for more than £30,000 you can spread payments over thirteen years in 156 equal monthly payments. No interest is charged for months 1-96. Interest is charged on the balance remaining at month 96 at 1.5% above the Bank of England Base rate for months 97-156. This option will not be made available where the property is sublet, owned by a company, or owned by a housing association. You must complete an extended payment instalment form.
    • For both of the Discretionary and Voluntary service charge loans, the criteria that leaseholders must have been unable to secure alternative financing has been removed and an interest free period of 8 years has been added. The full terms are now as follows:
      • Discretionary Service Charge Loan – This option is available for residents leaseholders who receive a bill for more than £20,000. It will not be made available where the property is owned by a company or owned by a housing association. Where the property is sublet, we will review the application on a case by case basis. The service charge loan will be secured by a way of a legal charge on the property for a maximum of 25 years. Years 1 to 8 will be interest free. Interest is charged on the balance remaining at the end of year 8 at 1.5% above the Bank of England Base rate for years 9 to 25. Interest is calculated monthly. You will also need to pay the administration costs involved.
      • Voluntary Service Charge Loan – This option is available for residents leaseholders who receive a bill for more than £20,000. This option will not be made available where the property is owned by a company or owned by a housing association. Where the property is sublet, we will review the application on a case by case basis. The service charge loan will be secured by a way of a legal charge on the property. Years 1 to 8 will be interest free. Interest is charged on the balance remaining at the end of year 8 at 1.5% above the Bank of England Base rate until the loan is repaid. Interest is calculated monthly. The administration fees to set up the loan and to register the charge against the property can also be added to the loan.
         
    • Details of the Council’s other interest-free repayment plans for leaseholders with smaller major works bills can be found on the Council’s website (please note that this webpage does not yet reflect the changes to the other plans that have been detailed above): Major Works service charges payment plans | Westminster City Council 
    • If you are a leaseholder who has received a major works invoice for 2025/26, you will have access to the new payment plans on offer when they are implemented. Any leaseholders who are on historic payment plans for invoice issued before April 2025 can contact the council directly about moving to a new plan.
    • The Cabinet Member decision to approve these changes is subject to the usual call-in procedures. You can read the decision report here: HR25-05 CMR – Major Works service charges payment options.pdf 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NH Delegation Slams Trump Administration Funding Freeze on Life-Saving Reproductive Health Care Services

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    The New Hampshire Congressional delegation released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s freeze on federal funding for life-saving reproductive health care services provided by Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE):

    “The Trump administration’s move to freeze federal funding that helps Planned Parenthood of Northern New England deliver basic and often life-saving reproductive health care will be nothing short of disastrous for the communities we represent. Every day, PPNNE provides thousands of Granite Staters with affordable preventative reproductive health care services. By targeting essential care like cancer screenings and family planning services, the administration is sending a clear message: women’s health doesn’t matter to them.”

    The New Hampshire delegation have been unrelenting advocates for women’s reproductive rights. Just last year, the delegation joined PPNNE in Concord to highlight the impact abortion bans and efforts to limit access to medication abortion have had in New Hampshire since Roe v. Wade was overturned. The delegation has pushed for Title X funding, and following obstruction from Republicans on New Hampshire’s Executive Council, the delegation helped secure critical Title X funding for PPNNE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Integrated Settlements 2025 to 2026 grant determination letters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Integrated Settlements 2025 to 2026 grant determination letters

    Copies of the grant determination letters for the Integrated Settlements 2025 to 2026.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Grant determination letter: Greater Manchester Mayoral Combined Authority

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    Grant determination letter: West Midlands Mayoral Combined Authority

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    Details

    On this page we have made available copies of the grant determination letters for the Integrated Settlements 2025 to 2026 provided to Greater Manchester Mayoral Combined Authority and West Midlands Mayoral Combined Authority.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Royal Navy aircraft carrier in final preparation to lead multinational deployment to Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Royal Navy aircraft carrier in final preparation to lead multinational deployment to Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific

    Nearly 4,000 British personnel will support the deployment, which will deliver trade events in Singapore, Japan, and India, promoting Britain’s world-leading industry

    HMS Prince of Wales

    Final preparations are underway for a multinational deployment, led by the Royal Navy flagship HMS Prince of Wales, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to the security of the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific, while providing an opportunity to promote British trade and industry.

    Aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales is scheduled to sail from Portsmouth on 22 April, where it will proceed to join a formation of warships, supply ships, and aircraft off the coast of Cornwall, before departing for the Mediterranean where it will conduct exercises to reinforce European security.

    Around 2,500 personnel from the Royal Navy and 592 from the Royal Air Force will be involved in the eight-month deployment, which will see the group sail through the Indian Ocean to conduct exercises and port visits with partners including the US, India, Singapore, and Malaysia. They will be joined by around 900 personnel from the British Army for exercises during the deployment.

    The deployment, named Operation Highmast, provides an opportunity for the UK’s Armed Forces to conduct a major global deployment and a chance to exercise complex operations alongside partners and allies in the region, with 12 other nations supporting the deployment with ships or personnel.

    The Indo-Pacific is a critical region for UK trade, with imports and exports in the region worth billions of pounds for the UK economy, and the deployment will provide a chance for UK companies to take part in trade events during port visits.

    Trade between the UK and Indo-Pacific accounted for 17% of total trade between the UK and all trading partners in the 12 months to September 2024, with the total amount traded in goods and services between the UK and Indo-Pacific standing at £286 billion in the same period.

    As the biggest class of ship in the Royal Navy, the flight decks of HMS Prince of Wales and her sister ship are roughly the size of three football pitches and defended by advanced weapons. A maritime strike force of this size is composed of multiple types of ship, frigates, destroyers, submarines, and supply ships to support logistics.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:

    I want to thank the thousands of our Armed Forces personnel involved in the delivery of this immensely complex operation, demonstrating the UK’s world-leading capability to deploy a major military force around the world.

    This is a unique opportunity for the UK to operate in close coordination with our partners and allies in a deployment that not only shows our commitment to security and stability, but also provides an opportunity to bolster our own economy and boost British trade and exports.

    As one of only a handful of countries in the world able to lead a deployment of this scale, the Royal Navy is once again demonstrating its formidable capability while protecting British values and sending a powerful message of deterrence to any adversary.

    Of the 12 other nations supporting the deployment, Norway will provide a warship to support the carrier strike group for the entire duration of the deployment. Canada and Spain are among the other nations providing support to the deployment.

    After its compliment of up to 24 Royal Air Force F-35B Lighting fighter jets is embarked on board HMS Prince of Wales, and the departure for the Mediterranean, the group will initially be placed under NATO command as it joins Exercise Neptune Strike – testing the Alliance’s ability to use high-end maritime strike capabilities, including multiple aircraft carrier and amphibious strike groups.

    The group will transit though the Indian Ocean, conducting exercises and port visits with partners including the US, India, Singapore and Malaysia, before joining 19 partner nations for Exercise Talisman Sabre near Australia, and then training alongside the Japanese Self Defence Forces and conducting a port visit to India.

    Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, said:

    Through this deployment of our Carrier Strike Group and 4,000 Service Personnel, we will stand firm with our allies against those who challenge the international order. Reminding the world that the security of the Euro Atlantic and Indo-Pacific are fundamentally indivisible.

    This isn’t just about hard power; it’s about building influence and opening new trade opportunities both for defence and other sectors of our economy which will deliver British jobs and growth.

    This deployment follows the Prime Minister’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, demonstrating this Government’s commitment to keep the UK secure at home and strong abroad.

    Following the inaugural deployment in 2021, the Carrier Strike Group 2025 highlights the strength of the UK’s leadership in seeking to uphold stability in the Indo-Pacific. This has been bolstered by the Royal Navy’s persistent presence in the region through HMS Spey and HMS Tamar, as well as the landmark Global Combat Air Programme collaboration. 

    Keeping the country safe is the Government’s first priority and is the foundation of its Plan for Change. The strength, capability and global reach of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, demonstrated through Operation Highmast, is critical to the security and stability of the UK, supporting the delivery of the Government’s five missions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trump state visit looking more ridiculous with every passing day

    Source: Scottish Greens

    08 Apr 2025 External Affairs

    Donald Trump is no friend of Scotland. He must not be allowed to visit.

    More in External Affairs

    The UK government’s proposed state visit for Donald Trump is looking more ridiculous with every passing day, says Scottish Green Co-Leader Lorna Slater, who has urged Downing Street to cancel it.
     
    The call comes as the White House has imposed tariffs on the UK, and while Keir Starmer and other leaders have tried to cozy up to him.
     
    Ms Slater said:

    “The proposed state visit is looking more ridiculous and misguided with every passing day. There is nothing to be gained by grovelling to Donald Trump and giving him the trappings and prestige that he desires.
     
    “Time and again he has proven he cannot be trusted and has even inflicted tariffs on the UK. What kind of message does it send if we roll out the red carpet for him at the same time as he is doing that?
     
    “Donald Trump is a danger to human rights around the world and a danger to our climate. He represents the worst of politics and the decisions he’s making are having a terrible impact on migrant communities, women’s rights and on the US economy.
     
    “He is not a friend of Scotland, and is not going to change who he is because the Prime Minister asks him to.”

     
    Ms Slater added:

    “Scotland’s future can and must be with a closer Europe. That is where Keir Starmer’s priorities should be.
     
    “We can’t wait silently while Trump does even more damage. We should be looking to build our green economy and reach out to countries like Canada that have also been targeted by the White House.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Security and renewal at heart of plans for steel sector

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Security and renewal at heart of plans for steel sector

    The Government has hosted the second meeting of the Steel Council today, and reiterated its commitment to British steelmaking.

    • Steel sector, union and trade body leaders meet Government to drive forward development of its steel plan as part of drive towards industrial renewal.
    • Industry Minister restates the Government’s commitment to British-made steel, including energy cost relief for businesses expected to be worth over £300m in 2025 alone.
    • Government is reviewing nearly 100 responses to its steel consultation as it brings forward plans to help the industry secure jobs and deliver economic growth across the UK, as part of its Plan for Change.

    Steel sector leaders were reassured about the Government’s plans to revitalise British steelmaking today (8 April) at the second meeting of the Steel Council, bringing together industry leaders to feed into amid global concerns around US tariffs on steel and aluminium.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones hosted the meeting earlier today after the Government’s steel plan green paper consultation closed on 30 March, receiving almost 100 responses and recommendations from business leaders and industry experts.

    The meeting follow’s the Prime Minister’s speech yesterday where he pledged to do the right thing by the UK’s national interest, prioritising security and renewal in a changing world.

    Minister Jones reiterated the Government’s firm support for industry and its role in delivering economic growth, as well as in the context of global tariffs on steel and aluminium imposed by the US. She assured Steel Council members the Government is continuing to do all it can to stand up for the sector.

    The meeting comes as the Government continues to work round the clock to protect jobs at British Steel in Scunthorpe.

    CEOs of steel firms including Tata, Liberty, British Steel and others joined leaders from trade unions and the industry’s trade association UK Steel to discuss the sector’s future and the challenges facing it.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

    We know this is a concerning time for our steel industry in the face of global challenges. That’s why we’re working in lockstep with industry to drive forward our steel plan so it can help the sector secure jobs, deliver growth and power the modern economy.

    This government will always stand up for UK steelmaking, and where others may talk tough, we are acting, with money ready to go to back up British industry. With our steel plan we’re placing it at the heart of our growth mission, and we’ll keep all options on the table to help steel in the UK thrive and deliver on our Plan for Change.

    The Steel Council’s second meeting comes as the final measure in the Government’s British Industry Supercharger package – the Network Charging Compensation (NCC) scheme – comes into force, bringing energy costs for steel companies and other energy-intensive industries closer in line with other major economies worldwide.

    The first payments to industry from the NCC scheme will be made next month and provide over 15 million in energy price relief for businesses in May alone.

    Once fully implemented, the total value of reduced electricity prices from the Supercharger package is expected to be between 320 million and 410 million in 2025, and more than 5 billion over the next 10 years.

    Background:

    A full list of attendees for the Steel Council meeting is below:

    • British Steel
    • Celsa Steel UK
    • Liberty Steel
    • Marcegagalia Stainless Sheffield Ltd
    • Sheffield Forgemasters
    • TATA Steel
    • UK Steel
    • British Metals Recycling Association
    • Materials Processing Institute
    • WMG High Value Manufacturing Catapult
    • Community Union
    • GMB Union
    • Scottish Government
    • Welsh Government
    • Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investing in community safety

    Source: Scottish Government

    Almost £200,000 to support dog control measures

    Funding for new police vans and training for officers and dog wardens has been agreed following a Responsible Dog Ownership Summit hosted by the Scottish Government.

    Police Scotland has received £166,000 to train officers to identify banned breeds and buy specially-equipped vans to transport dangerous and out of control dogs. The National Dog Warden Association (NDWA) has received £30,000 to train wardens.

    The actions were recommended in a report following the Responsible Dog Ownership Summit last September. The summit brought together Police Scotland, local authorities, veterinary bodies, public health and third sector organisations to consider improvements to dog control and public safety measures.

    Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown said:

    “The vast majority of dog owners are responsible but it is important that the public are protected from any dogs who do pose a danger.

    “This Scottish Government funding for Police Scotland and the National Dog Warden Association will improve public safety and the control of dangerous dogs. The NDWA training fund will support training for dog wardens who work in our communities to promote responsible dog ownership, advise on dog welfare and enforce legislation.

    “I am grateful to those who took part in the Responsible Dog Ownership Summit and I look forward to continuing to work with partners to explore further steps to improve dog safety and control.”

    Jim Ferguson, Chair of the National Dog Warden Association said:

    “The National Dog Warden Association are proud partners of the Scottish Government and our organisation, which represents Scotland’s local authorities dog wardens, welcomed the Scottish Government Responsible Dog Ownership Summit report and recommendations.  Building on the summit, the NDWA is committed to working with the Scottish Government and other key partners to look at opportunities to review existing policy and pinpoint any opportunities to enhance and strengthen policy in order to better protect people and pets together.”

    Background

    Report on Scottish Government Responsible Dog Ownership Summit – Discussions with key stakeholders on approaches to dog control and dog welfare 20 September 2024 – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plaid Cymru urges UK Government to “step up” and provide direct support to protect Welsh car sector jobs

    Source: Party of Wales

    Liz Saville Roberts slams past governments for leaving Welsh livelihoods exposed to global market forces

    Plaid Cymru’s Westminster leader, Liz Saville Roberts MP, highlighted how Trump’s 25% tariffs on machinery and transport equipment will threaten Wales’ car sector.

    The automative sector employs 30,000 people in Wales.

    Just last week, Ms Saville Roberts urged the UK Government to use economic common sense and accelerate scrapping trade barriers with Europe in the face of Trump’s tariffs to protect the Welsh economy.

    Liz Saville Roberts MP also criticised previous Labour and Conservative Governments for failing to protect Welsh livelihoods in the past, who were “swept away” by global market forces.

    The Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP claimed that the Government would give British car-makers “certainty and support” in the face of global economic headwinds. However, the Welsh Automative Forum have called for direct support for the car sector, claiming that the UK Government’s commitments aren’t enough.

    Speaking in the House of Commons, Liz Saville Roberts MP said:

    “Previous Labour and Conservative Governments did little when Welsh livelihoods were swept away by global market forces in places like the Ford plant in Bridgend and the steel works in Port Talbot.

    “Wales’s car sector is now facing 25% tariffs, thanks to President Trump, threatening an industry which employs 30,000 people.

    “The Welsh Automotive Forum have said the Government’s commitments are not enough. They’re calling for direct support.

    “Recycled fines are hardly direct support. Is her Government prepared to step up and provide it?”

     

    The Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander responded:

    “We have a £2 billion automotive transformation fund. We’re investing hundreds of millions of pounds in other forms of support as well.

    “I work closely with the Welsh Government on these issues, and we won’t leave any stone unturned in our attempts to protect the car manufacturing industry and ensure that those high skilled jobs are there in communities in Wales and across the rest of country.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: We must get disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction right — here are 5 ways to deliver results

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    We’ve done well in raising the profile of disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction — now it’s time to deliver results on the ground.

    As Sendai implementation picks up pace, I suggest five areas that could offer lasting wins for persons with disabilities – a group that comprises 15% of the global population.

    In early April 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Global Disability Summit in Berlin, which was hosted by the Governments of Germany and Jordan. Held at Station Berlin, at historic Potsdamer Platz, the event brought together more than 4,000 participants from across the world to explore how we can put persons with disability at the heart of every aspect of human life, to ensure that they are fully included in our collective flourishing.

    The atmosphere was truly inspiring, charged with hope, optimism and a palpable “can do” attitude. The phrase, “nothing about us, without us” rang out clearly as a powerful, heartfelt dictum. I was particularly glad to see disaster risk reduction (DRR) featuring prominently at the Summit.

    While the global, national, and local discourse on the topic has come a long way, specific on-the-ground actions still need to catch up. As one speaker said during the Opening Ceremony, we need to cultivate a sense of “radical curiosity about the experiences of persons with disability.”

    We’ve seen in several recent disasters that mortality and morbidity rates among persons with disability have been several times higher than the general populace – a reminder of the urgent work ahead. In the remaining five years of the Sendai Framework, if we pursue the following five strands with urgency, we will show the concrete results that we need:

    1. Embed disability inclusion in DRR plans and strategies

    A decade into the Sendai Framework’s implementation, the most progress has been on Target E – plans and strategies for disaster risk reduction. Yet many of these still fall short of addressing the specific needs and capacities of persons with disabilities.

    These strategies must be informed not only by data and evidence – such as census information on persons with different types of physical and intellectual disabilities – but also by the lived experience of persons with disabilities themselves. To make this happen we need to build an institutional culture that is responsive to specific individual needs, especially those of the most vulnerable people.

    2. Gather data on disaster impacts on persons with disabilities

    The Sendai Monitor calls for disaster loss data that is disaggregated by gender, age, and disabilities. However, only a few dozen countries presently collect and report such data for persons with disabilities. In some data-scarce contexts, this may be a challenging task – especially when the baseline data on persons with disabilities don’t exist.

    However, we must start somewhere. If we begin collecting data on disaster impacts on persons with disabilities now, in a few years this will throw up rich insights that can help us refine our strategies for persons with disabilities.

    3. Move from policies and guidelines to specific actions:

    In recent years, several countries – and sub-national bodies – have developed and adopted policies and guidelines for disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction – a close-to-home example (for me) is India, with guidelines at the national level and the sub-national level(Kerala State as one instance).

    What specific actions flow from these instruments? In the context of early warning systems, we’ve seen examples of standard operating procedures developed to ensure a suite of disability inclusive actions – from accessible warning and inclusive evacuation plans to suitable evacuation infrastructure. However, such concrete actions should also extend to address comprehensive disaster risk reduction efforts.

    Let’s take flood risk management as an example: if a community has to relocate away from a flood-prone settlement, how can it ensure that the new location is suitable for persons with disabilities? Or if houses are being retrofitted and being raised on stilts, how can these meet the needs of persons with disabilities? Similarly, what does it mean for persons with disabilities to “build back better” after disasters? We need to stretch our imagination of risk reduction to turn policies and guidelines into concrete inclusive actions.

    4. Extend access to assistive technologies

    The last decade has seen great progress in assistive technologies for persons with disabilities. Rapid advances in fields such as AI, neurosciences, and synthetic biology promise an even brighter future. But access to these technologies is highly unequal – between men and women, between developing and developed countries, between rural and urban areas, and so on.

    Governments must take a proactive policy stance to address these inequalities. Could disability-disaggregated census data be used to incentivize both public and private sector investments in developing assistive technologies that are cost-efficient and affordable?

    5. Ask: is it really working?

    And finally, we must find smarter ways to asses our impact. A good start would be for every post-disaster “after action review” to include this key question for persons with disabilities: “Did the systems work for you?”

    At UNDRR, we have made disability-inclusive DRR a priority. In my recent missions to Australia, Finland, Fiji and Germany, I was struck by deep commitment to this cause – and a rising sense of urgency – from governments. In Berlin, I had rich discussions with ministers from Italy and Scotland – both are serious about making real changes in their countries.

    UNDRR has endorsed the Amman-Berlin Declaration, the fruit of the Global Disability Summit. This declaration calls for all international development programmes to be inclusive of and accessible to persons with disabilities, and for at least 15% of country-level development programmes to explicitly pursue disability inclusion as an objective: “15 percent for the 15 percent.”

    We are making steady progress on disability inclusion in disaster risk reduction. With accelerated action and wider mobilization, transformational change is within reach!

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland’s Carbon Footprint: 1998-2021

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland

    This publication provides estimates of Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions on a consumption basis; that is emissions that are associated with the spending of Scottish residents on goods and services, wherever in the world these emissions arise, together with emissions directly generated by Scottish households.

    Key points

    • Between 2020 and 2021, Scotland’s carbon footprint (emissions from all greenhouse gases) increased by 14.6 per cent from 51.6 to 59.2 million tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e) in 2021.
    • Between 1998 and 2021, Scotland’s carbon footprint fell by 19.9 per cent from 73.9 MtCO2e in 1998 to 59.2 MtCO2e in 2021

    Scotland’s carbon footprint rose continuously from 2001 to a peak of 81.7 MtCO2e in 2007 before falling sharply after 2007 (coinciding with the recession) and, with the exception of 2012, 2018, and 2021, has fallen each subsequent year. However, the 2021 value is highest seen since 2015. The overall reduction between the 2007 peak and 2021 is 27.6 per cent.

    NOTES FOR NEWS EDITORS

    1. The full statistical publication can be accessed at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-carbon-footprint-1998-2021
    2.  The data cover the period up to 2021 and show increased emissions compared to 2020.  Emissions in 2020 were supressed by the effect of the national lockdowns and travel restrictions associated with COVID-19 pandemic.

      3. This statistical report meets the requirements under Section 37 of the Climate Change      (Scotland) Act 2009 and the updated requirements under Section 21 of the Climate   Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) Act 2019.  The data contained within this report are also used to inform National Indicator 47: “Carbon Footprint”.

      4. Published territorial emissions are available in the Official Statistics publication Section B. Results – Scottish Greenhouse Gas Statistics 2022 – gov.scot

      5. Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff –  more information on the standards of official statistics in Scotland can be accessed  http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/About     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two-year pay offer to Agenda for Change staff

    Source: Scottish Government

    8% pay increase for nurses, midwives and NHS workers in 2025-26 and 2026-27.

    Nurses, midwives and other healthcare staff across Scotland have been offered a pay increase of 8% over two years to ensure they continue to be the best paid in the UK, Health Secretary Neil Gray has announced.

    The offer guarantees the pay increase will be one percentage point above inflation over same period.

    If accepted by trade unions, it will see pay raises of 4.25% in 2025-26 and 3.75% in 2026-27. It involves an investment of more than £700 million over the two-year period and will ensure almost 170,000 NHS Agenda for Change staff – including nurses, midwives, paramedics, allied health professionals, porters and others – benefit from the pay rise which will be backdated to 1 April 2025.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “This is a strong two-year pay offer that has been agreed following constructive engagement with trade union representatives. It is guaranteed to remain above CPI inflation, which gives added reassurance to staff, and will ensure Scotland’s nurses, midwives and NHS staff have the best pay in the UK.

    “This comes on the back of increased employer national insurance contributions following the UK Government announcement in October 2024. It directly increases the overall cost of pay by an estimated £191 million for Scotland’s NHS.

    “I want to express my thanks again to Scotland’s hardworking healthcare staff for their continued hard work and commitment.

    “The unions will now consult their members and I hope this offer will be accepted.”

    BACKGROUND

    A total of £701 million has been committed for Agenda for Change pay in 2025-26 and 2026-27. This equates to an uplift of 8% for all staff, 4.25% in 2025-26 and 3.75% in 2026-27.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Companies House starts to verify identities

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Companies House starts to verify identities

    The voluntary period for identity verification is open for business. More than 6 million individuals will need to comply in the 12 months after identity verification becomes a legal requirement later this year. This phased approach reduces the burden on companies.

    Today (8 April 2025) sees the launch of a new service that allows individuals to verify their identity directly with Companies House through GOV.UK One Login. People can also verify their identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

    The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This landmark legislation gave Companies House new and enhanced powers to help disrupt economic crime and support economic growth. 

    Identity verification will provide more assurance about who is setting up, running, owning and controlling companies in the UK. There will be the same level of assurance whether individuals are verifying their identity directly with Companies House or through an ACSP.

    Companies House CEO Louise Smyth CBE said:

    Identity verification will play a key role in improving the quality and reliability of our data and tackling misuse of the companies register.

    To save time later, we encourage directors, people with significant control of companies (PSCs) and those filing information with Companies House to verify their identity during the voluntary window.

    We expect identity verification to become mandatory from autumn 2025.

    To reduce the burden on business, the identity verification requirement for existing directors will be integrated into the annual confirmation statement update process.

    Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets Justin Madders MP said:

    In a time where economic crime has become too common, it is imperative that we bring in measures to prevent identities being stolen online and today marks a significant milestone in our plans to require identity verification for those setting up and running companies on the Companies House register later this year.

    This is good for business, lenders and transparency and will give companies, consumers and lenders more certainty about who they are doing business with.

    AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark MP said:

    Ensuring trust and transparency in the digital age is vital and today marks an important step forward. Identity verification at Companies House through our GOV.UK One Login service will make it easier to do business with confidence – protecting entrepreneurs, consumers, and the UK economy from fraud and financial crime.

    By embracing digital identity checks, we’re reducing red tape while strengthening our defences against abuse of the system. This is a win for businesses, a win for transparency, and a win for economic growth – a key driver for our Plan for Change.

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:

    The introduction of these new security measures will be welcomed by the thousands of genuine businesses who want to know that fraudsters and criminals cannot masquerade as legitimate concerns.

    Protecting the names of good firms and making it harder for those with dishonest motives to set up a business can only be a good thing.

     Thom Townsend, Executive Director, Open Ownership said:

    Open Ownership welcomes the introduction of identity verification for individuals listed on Companies House. This will make the information on Companies House more accurate, reliable, and ultimately more useful, and ensures the UK meets international standards.

    Ben Cowdock, Senior Investigations Lead, Transparency International said:

    We welcome the introduction of ID checks at Companies House, which should make it harder for criminals to hide behind false identities. Having greater assurance over who owns and controls companies is a vital step towards defending the UK against money laundering and building confidence in the business environment.

    Glenn Collins, Head of Technical and Strategic Engagement at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) said:

    At ACCA, we welcome the moves to improve and strengthen the integrity of the register, which includes the introduction of identity verification for anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company in the UK.

    We recognise that businesses, including agents will take some time to get used to the changes and extra requirement. We expect our members to be busy advising and helping companies of all sizes adapt to these new regulations and we look forward to continuing to work with Companies House to make sure of a good transition.

    Overall identify verification will help to reduce economic crime and improve corporate transparency. In doing so, it will contribute to the growth of the UK economy by helping businesses make better decisions.

    Patrick Walsh, Chair of the Business Informational Providers Association (BIPA) said:

    BIPA welcomes Companies House’s launch of the new identity verification measures, as set out in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. These are crucial steps towards realising the enhanced security and transparency that the Act aims to achieve.

    The implementation of these robust checks will deter fraud and bolster confidence in Companies House as the custodian of reliable business data.

    We believe these measures will strengthen the UK’s economy by fostering transparency and accountability across business sectors.

    BIPA remains committed to engaging with Companies House to ensure successful adoption and implementation of these important changes.

    The Law Society of England and Wales Company Law Committee said:

    The Law Society of England and Wales has been working closely with Companies House on the development of the new procedures for identity verification. We are pleased that Companies House is introducing the procedures on a staggered basis, which will give companies and LLPs the option to ensure their directors (or, in the case of LLPs, members) and PSCs complete the necessary checks ahead of time if they wish.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rwanda’s image abroad: how western countries are beginning to turn their backs

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By David E Kiwuwa, Associate Professor of International Studies, University of Nottingham

    Rwanda enjoyed good relations with the western world for many years. This was due to systematic and intentional efforts to build its profile as a constructive regional actor, especially through the UN peacekeeping framework.

    It also set out to improve its national brand through sports sponsorships of some of the biggest football clubs in the world. These include Arsenal (England), PSG (France) and Bayern Munich (Germany).

    Since the end of the 1994 genocide, countries such as the UK, the US and France were willing to give Rwanda a less than critical pass when it was accused of destabilising its bigger neighbour, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They averted their gaze from its domestic heavy handedness, particularly its constraining of democratic space and human rights.

    But there has been a sharp turn in sentiment. For the first time, the western powers, as well as China, have begun to call out Rwanda on its behaviour.

    Read more: Rwanda and Belgium are at odds over the DRC: what’s led to the latest low point

    Western actors have grown exasperated with Rwanda’s impunity and have been forced to change tack. Quiet shuttle diplomacy, notably by the Biden administration and the EU, has failed to achieve Rwandan restraint. And as a humanitarian crisis grew, they saw more forceful and overt actions as necessary.

    Concerned about the rising level of violence and humanitarian catastrophe in the DRC, western powers through the UN general assembly and security council called for restraint, dialogue and de-escalation. France, Belgium, Germany, the US, Canada and the EU also condemned the escalating violence and Rwanda’s role. The growing consensus culminated in firmer and direct sanctions against individual Rwandan actors and entities and suspension of economic and trade cooperation.

    I have been a long time scholar of and commentator on African regime types, political governance and conflict, with a focus on Rwanda. It’s my view that Rwanda’s escapades in eastern DRC have had a detrimental impact on the goodwill long extended to the Kigali regime. What happens next will depend on its response.

    Rwanda’s role in the DRC

    There is little doubt about Rwanda’s involvement in conflict and instability in the eastern DRC. The reports from the security council and UN bodies have provided sufficient evidence of this.

    Since 2012, Rwanda has been accused of being the patron behind the Movement of March 23 (M23) rebel group. The M23 and its associated alliances have been fighting the DRC government, purportedly to protect the rights of Congolese Tutsis.

    For its part, Rwanda has pointed to the danger posed by remnants of security forces involved in the 1994 genocide. The forces fled into the DRC and are still hell bent on causing instability in Rwanda, Kigali claims. The other grievance is that the forces are backed by the DRC regime and have been responsible for persecuting Congolese Tutsis.

    Between 2012 and 2018, the M23 group had a limited level of military success. In 2012 it captured the eastern DRC city of Goma but was forced to relinquish it after just 10 days.

    In the latest escalation of fighting the group has made significant gains, recapturing Goma and capturing the bigger Bukavu and other areas.

    M23’s success has been attributed to the sustained and systematic support Rwanda has given the group, according to the UN report and security council resolution 2773.

    Support has included sophisticated weaponry and boots on the ground, conservatively estimated at over 4,000 soldiers. Faced with demotivated, ill-trained and poorly coordinated DRC military capabilities, the M23 success was almost inevitable.

    Read more: DRC conflict: talks have failed to bring peace. Is it time to try sanctions?

    The turnaround

    In August 2023 and again on 20 February 2025, the US slapped sanctions on key players in Rwanda and the M23 Alliance. The EU and the UK then paused some economic support for Rwanda. This was a strategic signal from the big powers.

    Germany then froze aid, Belgium’s rebuked the country and the EU called for stronger penalties, among them a ban on Rwanda’s mineral industry. This was to force Rwanda to rein in or rethink its activities in the DRC and be a constructive rather than disruptive partner.

    Belgium has had historical relations with both Rwanda and the DRC, having been the last colonial authority. Rwanda took specific exception to Belgium’s action by cutting diplomatic relations. It also took a more belligerent posture in the UN security council.

    Read more: M23: Four things you should know about the rebel group’s campaign in Rwanda-DRC conflict

    While this is seen as a non-compromising stance, it is against a lesser western power than the US or the UK. This could be taken as Rwanda saving face while working out an exit strategy to avoid escalating tensions with western powers or provoking far reaching coordinated action.

    It is notable that Qatar (and not a western or African power) has taken a lead in chaperoning talks between the conflict parties. This couldn’t have been without the blessing of the US, given the close relationship Qatar enjoys with the US as conflict resolution partners. Qatar is also an investor in Rwanda. This allows Rwanda to avoid being dragged to the negotiating table by critical western powers.

    Next steps

    The intensity of the conflict has slowed down somewhat, with the M23 rebel alliance having announced a ceasefire and unilateral action to “withdraw” from some of the areas they have recently captured.

    Whether this is a strategic compromise in response to the now forceful demand for Rwanda to cease its active support and intervention is unclear. It is notable that Qatar has now directly invited the rebels to the table.

    Once known as the darling of the west, most notable for clean and efficient government, a good business environment and unquestioned security and stability, Rwanda may have reached an inflection point with its flagrant DRC intervention. The change in western attitude may mark a more critical epoch in relations.

    – Rwanda’s image abroad: how western countries are beginning to turn their backs
    – https://theconversation.com/rwandas-image-abroad-how-western-countries-are-beginning-to-turn-their-backs-253663

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Rwanda’s image abroad: how western countries are beginning to turn their backs

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By David E Kiwuwa, Associate Professor of International Studies, University of Nottingham

    Rwanda enjoyed good relations with the western world for many years. This was due to systematic and intentional efforts to build its profile as a constructive regional actor, especially through the UN peacekeeping framework.

    It also set out to improve its national brand through sports sponsorships of some of the biggest football clubs in the world. These include Arsenal (England), PSG (France) and Bayern Munich (Germany).

    Since the end of the 1994 genocide, countries such as the UK, the US and France were willing to give Rwanda a less than critical pass when it was accused of destabilising its bigger neighbour, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They averted their gaze from its domestic heavy handedness, particularly its constraining of democratic space and human rights.

    But there has been a sharp turn in sentiment. For the first time, the western powers, as well as China, have begun to call out Rwanda on its behaviour.



    Read more:
    Rwanda and Belgium are at odds over the DRC: what’s led to the latest low point

    Western actors have grown exasperated with Rwanda’s impunity and have been forced to change tack. Quiet shuttle diplomacy, notably by the Biden administration and the EU, has failed to achieve Rwandan restraint. And as a humanitarian crisis grew, they saw more forceful and overt actions as necessary.

    Concerned about the rising level of violence and humanitarian catastrophe in the DRC, western powers through the UN general assembly and security council called for restraint, dialogue and de-escalation. France, Belgium, Germany, the US, Canada and the EU also condemned the escalating violence and Rwanda’s role. The growing consensus culminated in firmer and direct sanctions against individual Rwandan actors and entities and suspension of economic and trade cooperation.

    I have been a long time scholar of and commentator on African regime types, political governance and conflict, with a focus on Rwanda. It’s my view that Rwanda’s escapades in eastern DRC have had a detrimental impact on the goodwill long extended to the Kigali regime. What happens next will depend on its response.

    Rwanda’s role in the DRC

    There is little doubt about Rwanda’s involvement in conflict and instability in the eastern DRC. The reports from the security council and UN bodies have provided sufficient evidence of this.

    Since 2012, Rwanda has been accused of being the patron behind the Movement of March 23 (M23) rebel group. The M23 and its associated alliances have been fighting the DRC government, purportedly to protect the rights of Congolese Tutsis.

    For its part, Rwanda has pointed to the danger posed by remnants of security forces involved in the 1994 genocide. The forces fled into the DRC and are still hell bent on causing instability in Rwanda, Kigali claims. The other grievance is that the forces are backed by the DRC regime and have been responsible for persecuting Congolese Tutsis.

    Between 2012 and 2018, the M23 group had a limited level of military success. In 2012 it captured the eastern DRC city of Goma but was forced to relinquish it after just 10 days.

    In the latest escalation of fighting the group has made significant gains, recapturing Goma and capturing the bigger Bukavu and other areas.

    M23’s success has been attributed to the sustained and systematic support Rwanda has given the group, according to the UN report and security council resolution 2773.

    Support has included sophisticated weaponry and boots on the ground, conservatively estimated at over 4,000 soldiers. Faced with demotivated, ill-trained and poorly coordinated DRC military capabilities, the M23 success was almost inevitable.



    Read more:
    DRC conflict: talks have failed to bring peace. Is it time to try sanctions?

    The turnaround

    In August 2023 and again on 20 February 2025, the US slapped sanctions on key players in Rwanda and the M23 Alliance. The EU and the UK then paused some economic support for Rwanda. This was a strategic signal from the big powers.

    Germany then froze aid, Belgium’s rebuked the country and the EU called for stronger penalties, among them a ban on Rwanda’s mineral industry. This was to force Rwanda to rein in or rethink its activities in the DRC and be a constructive rather than disruptive partner.

    Belgium has had historical relations with both Rwanda and the DRC, having been the last colonial authority. Rwanda took specific exception to Belgium’s action by cutting diplomatic relations. It also took a more belligerent posture in the UN security council.



    Read more:
    M23: Four things you should know about the rebel group’s campaign in Rwanda-DRC conflict

    While this is seen as a non-compromising stance, it is against a lesser western power than the US or the UK. This could be taken as Rwanda saving face while working out an exit strategy to avoid escalating tensions with western powers or provoking far reaching coordinated action.

    It is notable that Qatar (and not a western or African power) has taken a lead in chaperoning talks between the conflict parties. This couldn’t have been without the blessing of the US, given the close relationship Qatar enjoys with the US as conflict resolution partners. Qatar is also an investor in Rwanda. This allows Rwanda to avoid being dragged to the negotiating table by critical western powers.

    Next steps

    The intensity of the conflict has slowed down somewhat, with the M23 rebel alliance having announced a ceasefire and unilateral action to “withdraw” from some of the areas they have recently captured.

    Whether this is a strategic compromise in response to the now forceful demand for Rwanda to cease its active support and intervention is unclear. It is notable that Qatar has now directly invited the rebels to the table.

    Once known as the darling of the west, most notable for clean and efficient government, a good business environment and unquestioned security and stability, Rwanda may have reached an inflection point with its flagrant DRC intervention. The change in western attitude may mark a more critical epoch in relations.

    David E Kiwuwa does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Rwanda’s image abroad: how western countries are beginning to turn their backs – https://theconversation.com/rwandas-image-abroad-how-western-countries-are-beginning-to-turn-their-backs-253663

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stormont spending £1,000 a week on photographers

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “Some weeks ago, I exposed the fact that Stormont departments were spending over £35,600 a week on hospitality.

    “Due to a more recent set of questions, I have established that since the restoration of the Executive £60,675.40  has been spent on photographers by government departments.

    “Importantly, this figure does not represent the entire spend as one Department particularly fond of photographs – that of the First and deputy First Minister – has failed to respond. The Executive Office was required by Assembly standing orders to respond a month ago. However, as so often happens with the Executive Office Ms O’Neill and Ms Pengelly have simply ignored their duty to respond to the question within the required time frame. This lack of response shows contempt for the people of North Antrim who I represent in the Assembly and it is a common occurrence when it comes to the Executive Office.

    “In terms of the departments which did reply it is noteworthy that while some of the figures spent by departments are relatively modest, there are other Ministers who appear to be very fond of photographers. Agriculture, for example, has spent just £5,211 with the majority of that (£2,903) going on “publicity material essential for the promotion and marketing of a variety of events including Careers Fairs and Open Days to encourage student enrolment and courses for the wider community and industries.”

    “Minister Mur’s party colleague Mrs Long, however, heads a department which spent £11,311 with no such explanation offered for a much larger sum.

    “The full breakdown of answers by Departments can be accessed here.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia and Fibrus announce five-year deal for Nokia Deepfield solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia and Fibrus announce five-year deal for Nokia Deepfield solution

    • 100,000 customers already connected to the network, with plans for further expansion.
    • The scalability of Nokia Deepfield applications will allow Fibrus to control and expand its network cost-effectively.

    8 April 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia and Fibrus, a leading provider of broadband services across Northern Ireland and Cumbria, have signed a five-year agreement to deploy the Nokia Deepfield solution across its growing network following a successful trial. This partnership will enhance Fibrus’ ability to protect its network from cyber threats like DDoS attacks and manage the increasing demand for high-quality broadband services.

    As Fibrus expands its network, which has already connected over 100,000 customers and delivered connectivity to almost 400,000 premises, the Nokia Deepfield solution will provide critical network analytics capabilities, giving Fibrus greater insight into the nature of the traffic flowing through its infrastructure. This will allow Fibrus to optimize network resources, ensuring that customers continue to receive reliable, high-performance broadband.

    “Our commitment to guarantee exceptional service for our customers means that we’re always looking for ways to innovate and improve our network. The Deepfield solution from Nokia gives us the tools to understand our traffic better, protect against potential threats, and reduce operational costs. This partnership allows us to futureproof the digital infrastructure in the areas we serve, maintaining the highest level of service and security for our 100,000-strong customer base,” said Shane Haslem, COO at Fibrus.

    Fibrus will proactively manage the rapid growth of its network, driven by a 50% take-up rate of FTTH services, including 2 Gbps products. Additionally, the scalability of the Nokia Deepfield solution will enable Fibrus to cost-effectively manage future service expansions, such as 25/50/100G PON technologies.

    “The Nokia Deepfield solution brings advanced network analytics, ensuring that Fibrus can maintain a secure and reliable network. As a full-solution provider for FTTH operators, Nokia delivers high-performance, purpose-built technologies that integrate seamlessly into existing infrastructure, offering long-term support for smart, scalable operations. This successful rollout with Fibrus demonstrates the reliability and robustness of Nokia’s technology in supporting the company’s goal of delivering an enhanced customer experience,” added Paul Alexander, Vice President and Country General Manager of UK&I at Nokia.

    In 2020, Nokia was selected by Fibrus to support the delivery of high-speed broadband services to underserved rural and regional homes and businesses in some of the hardest to reach areas of Northern Ireland. The company has been a key provider of Access Technology and resources to deliver future-proofed and industry-leading connectivity, which underpins Fibrus’ service offering.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news 
    Product Page: Nokia Deepfield
    Product Page: Deepfield Cloud Intelligence
    Product Page: Deepfield Defender

    About Nokia 
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. 

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation. 

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Fibrus
    https://fibrus.com/

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green Party to appeal to disillusioned voters as they head for “record breaking” local election results 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    The Green Party of England and Wales will today (Tuesday 8th April) launch their local elections campaign for what they predict will be a “record-breaking” year for them. The launch will take place in Warwickshire, one of the places where Greens are expecting to make gains leaving them with a record number of local councillors.  

    Green Party co-leader, Adrian Ramsay, is expected to say: 

    “We know that politics in this country isn’t providing people with what they need – that disillusionment is high and morale is low. But up and down the country Greens are making a difference. We are smashing through records getting more and more hard-working councillors elected.  

    “We are taking votes from the old tired parties to offer something different – the positive change so desperately needed.  

    “Meanwhile, Reform is trying to make gains on the back of a weak and lacklustre political old guard. It’s a party that uses the politics of fear to divide our communities. And whose policies are explicitly designed to only benefit a small number of the very richest people. Importantly for these local elections, Reform has no track record of delivering at any level of government.” 

    The Green Party has been breaking records in recent years and has increased their councillors nearly fivefold over the last five elections to over 800 in 170 councils. Greens lead 14 councils, including Bristol, Warwick and Mid Suffolk and, in total, are part of running over 40. In the general election in 2024, almost two million people voted Green, electing four new MPs to Parliament. 

    Speaking alongside Ramsay, Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer is expected to say: 

     “The over 800 Green councillors across England and Wales between them already represent millions of people in this country. They are working hard every day to make a difference for their communities, working all year round on practical solutions, not just turning up on the doorstep when it’s election time. 

    “Here in Warwick where we lead the council, we have invested millions into making council housing warmer and cheaper to run. In Mid Suffolk, another Green run council, in one year we have prevented hundreds of people from becoming homeless.  

    “Green councillors are embedded in their communities, listen to the needs and concerns of their residents – their neighbours! – and take action to improve their quality of life every day. Offering hope, not division; community not chaos.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: If Australia switched to EVs, we’d be more reliant on China’s car factories – but wean ourselves off foreign oil

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of Technology

    Prapat Aowsakorn/Shutterstock

    Australia has huge reserves of coal and gas – but very little oil. Before the 20th century, this didn’t matter – trains ran on local coal. But as cars and trucks have come to dominate, Australia has become more and more reliant on imported oil.

    Imports now account for around 80% of total refined fuel consumption, the highest level on record.

    If the flow of oil stopped due to war or economic instability, Australia would have about 54 days worth in storage before we ran out. That would be a huge problem.

    But as more drivers switch from petrol and diesel to electric cars, this equation will change. We can already see this in China, where a rapid uptake of electric vehicles has seen oil demand begin to fall.

    On one level, ending Australia’s dependence on foreign oil makes sense at a time of great geopolitical uncertainty. But on the other, going electric would lead to more reliance on China, now the world’s largest manufacturer of EVs.

    Reducing reliance on oil makes clear sense for climate and national security reasons. But going electric has to be done carefully, to ensure Australia isn’t reliant on just one country.

    If the oil tankers stopped, Australia would have just one month of fuel.
    Ryan Fletcher/Shutterstock

    Importing oil makes us vulnerable

    In recent years, almost all of Australia’s refineries have closed. The government spent billions keeping the Geelong and Brisbane refineries open, as well as other fuel security measures, such as boosting domestic fuel reserves and building more storage.

    The last two refineries rely on imported crude oil, as Australian oil from the North-West Shelf largely isn’t suitable for local refining.

    As a result, Australia is more reliant than ever on importing fuels from large refineries in Asia such as South Korea, Singapore and Malaysia. In 2023, around 45,000 megalitres of fuel were imported from these nations.

    Almost three-quarters (74%) of these liquid fuels are used in transport, across road, rail, shipping and air transport. But road transport is the big one – our cars, trucks and other road vehicles use more than half (54%) of all liquid fuels.

    This reliance presents clear energy security risks. If war, geopolitical tension, economic turmoil or price volatility slows or stops the flow of oil, Australia’s cities and towns would grind to a halt.

    In January, Australia had 30 days worth of petrol. Our stores of all types of oil are a bit higher, at 54 days worth. But that’s still well short of the 90 days the International Energy Agency (IEA) requires of member nations.

    Electricity made locally

    Shifting to electric vehicles promises cleaner air and far lower ongoing costs for drivers, as electricity is much cheaper than petrol or diesel and maintenance is far less.

    But there’s another factor – the energy source. Australia’s electricity is all produced and consumed inside its borders, using local resources (sun, wind, water, coal and gas).

    In this respect, electric vehicles offer much greater energy security. A war in the Middle East or a trade war over tariffs would not bring Australia to a halt. This is one reason why China has so aggressively gone electric – to end its soaring dependence on foreign oil.

    Mainstreaming EVs in Australia will mean accelerating production of renewable electricity further so we can power not just homes and industry but charge cars, trucks and buses, too.

    Doing this would boost our energy security, break our dependency on imported oil and drive down emissions.

    EV manufacturing is expanding rapidly with more models, lower purchase prices, improved battery charging times and increasing consumer adoption.

    Globally, over 17 million EVs (battery and plug-in hybrids) were sold in 2024, including 91,000 battery and 23,000 plug-in hybrids in Australia.

    IEA data shows electric vehicles are already reducing oil demand globally, as are electric bikes and mopeds.

    Ending our dependence on oil will be slow. Australia Institute research estimates 8% of imported fuels could be replaced by local electricity once EVs make up 25% of the passenger car fleet. At 100% EVs, we would reduce oil demand by 33%.

    The other two-thirds of demand is largely from trucks, planes and ships. Electric trucks are coming, but the sector isn’t as mature as electric cars. It’s a similar story for planes and cargo ships.

    All electricity in Australia is produced locally. For transport, that’s a boon to energy security.
    Marian Weyo

    Energy security and EVs

    Australia doesn’t manufacture EVs at scale. As a result, we import EVs from the top manufacturing nations. China is far and away the leader, building 80% of Australia’s new EVs.

    Australia is a major producer of critical minerals essential to the manufacture of EVs, as well as other green technologies such as lithium, cobalt and nickel. But China dominates much of the global supply chain for refining these minerals and manufacturing batteries.

    There’s a risk in relying largely on one country for EVs, especially given the present geopolitical instability.

    Australia’s EVs are imported from the top EV nation China and other suppliers.
    Rangsarit Chaiyakun/Shutterstock

    Balancing security and sustainability

    EVs unquestionably offer large benefits for Australia’s energy security by steadily reducing our reliance on imports from volatile global oil markets.

    But this has to be balanced with other security concerns, such as a heightened reliance on China, as well as the privacy and security risks linked to data collection from digitally connected EVs.

    A balanced approach would see authorities emphasise energy independence through renewables and strong support for vehicle electrification through legislative and regulatory frameworks.

    Under this approach, policymakers would work to diversify supply chains, strengthen cybersecurity and encourage local manufacturing of EV components.

    This approach would reduce new security risks while unlocking the environmental and economic benefits of widespread EV adoption.

    Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

    – ref. If Australia switched to EVs, we’d be more reliant on China’s car factories – but wean ourselves off foreign oil – https://theconversation.com/if-australia-switched-to-evs-wed-be-more-reliant-on-chinas-car-factories-but-wean-ourselves-off-foreign-oil-252388

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank Gov Appointed – Christian Hawkesby appointed as Governor of the RBNZ for 6 months

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    8 April 2025 – Christian Hawkesby has been appointed as Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand for a six-month term by the Minister of Finance, upon the recommendation of the RBNZ Board.  

    Mr Hawkesby has been acting Governor since 5 March and will be Governor from 8 April for six months while the recruitment of a Governor to serve for a five-year term takes place. Mr Hawkesby’s appointment may be extended by the Minister of Finance for up to three additional months.  

    “I am proud to step into the role of Governor and continue contributing to our mission of working to enable economic prosperity and wellbeing for all New Zealanders,” Mr Hawkesby says.

    Board Chair Neil Quigley says, “Mr Hawkesby’s leadership and expertise have been invaluable to Te Pūtea Matua since he joined the RBNZ in 2019. His appointment reflects both his contributions and our confidence in his ability to continue strengthening New Zealand’s financial system, chair the Monetary Policy Committee and be CEO of RBNZ.”  

    The RBNZ board has commenced the recruitment process to nominate for appointment a Governor who will serve for five years. During the recruitment process the MPC will consist of 3 internal RBNZ staff and 3 external members. The MPC Chair holds a casting vote.

    More information

    For further information on making a temporary appointment, please see:

    https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2021/0031/latest/LMS287123.html  

    For further information on the MPC’s quorum, please see: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2021/0031/latest/LMS287133.html

    RBNZ Governor Adrian Orr resigns: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=18640a250c&e=f3c68946f8

    Christian Hawkesby – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=ed7e50fcfa&e=f3c68946f8

    Mr Hawkesby joined Te Pūtea Matua in 2019 and was appointed Deputy Governor/General Manager of the Financial Stability Group after serving as Assistant Governor. He previously helped establish Harbour Asset Management and spent nine years in senior roles at the Bank of England. He holds a Master of Commerce (Hons) in Economics from the University of Canterbury.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged with assault in relation to alleged incidents in Granton and South Hobart

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Man charged with assault in relation to alleged incidents in Granton and South Hobart

    Tuesday, 8 April 2025 – 11:10 am.

    A 31-year-old man has been charged with assault in relation to isolated incidents at two locations on Sunday night.
    Police will allege the man assaulted a woman who is known to him, at residences in Granton and South Hobart.
    The victim was transported to hospital for medical treatment and has since been discharged.  
    The man was detained to appear before the Hobart Magistrates Court today. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The City’s inaugural forum on heritage for future generations

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Innovative technology to document heritage for future generations will be among the topics presented at a public forum on Thursday May 8 as part of the National Trust’s Australian Heritage Festival.

    From Pick to Pixel: Unearthing Bendigo’s Tech Heritage is a City of Greater Bendigo hosted public forum, organised by community members from the Heritage Advisory Committee. This forum merges the topics of technology and tradition to explore how innovation keeps heritage alive.

    The event will be held at Dja Dja Wurrung’s stunning new cultural venue, Larnangurrak – Dja Dja Wurrung Corporate & Community Centre in Golden Square. Arrival and registration is at 5.30pm with the forum starting at 6pm until 8.30pm.

    Manager Strategic Planning Anthony Petherbridge said the forum was free and open to residents, businesses and visitors with a keen interest in heritage and its place in the 21st century in Greater Bendigo.

    “The forum has been designed to be fast paced, featuring short presentations from local experts about the new technology being used to help preserve Greater Bendigo’s heritage, combining heritage and sustainability, and the addition of the Victorian Goldfields to Australia’s World Heritage Tentative List,” Mr Petherbridge said.

    “This forum offers a rare opportunity for discovery, discussion, and connection. Whether you are passionate about heritage and history, fascinated by technology, or simply curious, this event promises to inspire and engage.”

    The forum will include:

    • 3D laser scanning and digital tools helping to document and preserve Bendigo’s heritage
    • How heritage inspires new generations and enriches communities
    • Updates on the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Listing

    To register for the forum, head to:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Promoting Scottish business and expertise

    Source: Scottish Government

    Strengthening ties across Asia.

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead has begun a visit to China and Japan aimed at deepening economic, social and cultural ties and emphasising that Scotland is open for business.

    He will meet government representatives, potential investors and leading companies in both countries. The Minister will also explore opportunities for further collaboration between Scottish and Chinese academic institutions.

    China and Japan are increasingly important export markets for Scottish goods, with whisky and seafood exports to China tripling since 2005 and whisky exports to Japan up 7% last year, making it the seventh largest global market in terms of value.

    In Japan Mr Lochhead will support eight Scottish gaming companies aiming to capture a portion of Japan’s $50 billion market, backed by the Scottish Government’s business accelerator programme, Techscaler, as they meet potential customers and investors in Tokyo.

    He is also launching the first of three days of Scottish activity at Expo 2025 Osaka. The event will showcase Scotland’s gaming sector as well as consumer-focused businesses including distilleries, skincare companies and seafood specialists.

    Mr Lochhead said:

    “Scotland is open for business and China and Japan are vitally important markets for Scottish companies.

    “Over the next two weeks I will champion Scotland’s world class products, universities and technical expertise. I will also be promoting the many investment opportunities that our drive for Net Zero is delivering.

    “In an increasingly volatile global economy, it is even more important that we help Scottish companies access new markets and deepen existing trading relationships.”  

    Background

    The Minister is visiting China from 8-12 April and Japan from 12-18 April.

    Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai takes place from 13 April to 13 October and is expected to attract about 28 million visitors and more than 150 participating countries.

    The Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise are supporting the three events at the Expo, beginning with a focus on gaming and consumer industries on 17 April at the UK Pavilion. A list of Scottish companies attending is available on Scottish Development International’s website.  Further events focusing on the health and offshore wind industries take place in June and September

    In China, Mr Lochhead will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Government Office which opened in 2005. It joined Scottish Enterprise’s international team, which established a presence in China in 2003.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Securing a successful future for the University of Dundee

    Source: Scottish Government

    Expert group convened to support institution.

    A team of experts from across academia, industry and local and national government will be convened to advise on the future success of the University of Dundee and its impact across the city region.

    Sir Alan Langlands, formerly Chief Executive of the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the NHS in England, will chair the University of Dundee Strategic Advisory Taskforce. Sir Alan was also Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds.

    The group will meet for the first time this month to develop recommendations which will support the future of the University and its role in the wider city region. The Taskforce will focus on key issues linked to the recovery of the University, such as its teaching offering and its research strengths in key fields such as the life sciences.

    It will include representation from the University, Dundee City Council, business, trades unions, local further and higher education institutions and the Scottish Government.

    Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said:

    “We are establishing this Taskforce to ensure the University of Dundee has all the important advice and expertise needed to recover and build a strong, secure and sustainable future.

    “The impact of the University’s teaching and world-leading research is profound, and its success is interwoven with the success of the Dundee city region. Ministers are determined that the institution – with a vibrant community of staff and students at its heart – will thrive long into the future.

    “We will draw on the expertise of the Taskforce to identify credible solutions and do everything possible to protect the interests of current and future students and staff. We will take account of all potential sources of funding and support, and we will continue to carefully consider any further asks of Government.”

    Sir Alan Langlands said:

    “It is a privilege to chair the University of Dundee Strategic Advisory Taskforce, and to advise Ministers, the University, the Scottish Funding Council and the City on this important matter.

    “These are very challenging times for a great many universities. At its core Dundee is a great University in a great City, transforming people’s lives and life chances through education, research and innovation, and contributing so much to the economic, social and cultural life of the city and beyond.

    The Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring its long term future and impact, and protecting the interests of students and staff provides a strong foundation for the work of the Taskforce.”

    Professor Shane O’Neill, Interim Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, said:

    “We welcome the announcement of the Strategic Advisory Taskforce and the appointment of Sir Alan Langlands as its Chair.

    “Sir Alan of course has a longstanding connection to the University of Dundee and a strong understanding of its importance to the city, Scotland and the wider higher education and research environment.

    “We are committed to engaging fully with the Taskforce to ensure the future success and sustainability of the University.”

    Background

    • The Scottish Government has provided additional support for the universities sector this year totalling £25 million, on top of the £1.1 billion in the 2025-26 budget for university teaching and research.
    • The Scottish Funding Council has already provided £22 million to University of Dundee as support for liquidity, which is giving them the space and time to work through a plan for financial stability.
    • In addition to the advisory Taskforce, the Deputy First Minister is chairing a cross-Ministerial group to consider what further action the Scottish Government may be able to take to support the University as it continues to develop its Financial Recovery Plan.
    • The final membership of the Taskforce is currently being confirmed by the chair and will be announced in due course.
    • The Taskforce will advise the University, the Scottish Funding Council, Ministers and the City region. The University remains the legally responsible decision maker.

    Sir Alan Langlands FRSE Hon FMedSci

    Now semi-retired, Alan’s career spanned five decades in the NHS and universities. This included leadership roles in teaching hospitals in Edinburgh and London and as the Chief Executive of the NHS in England, Chief Executive of the Higher Education Funding Council for England, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds.

    He has served as the inaugural chair of UK Biobank, chair of the Health Foundation, and is now the Chair of Trustees for Yorkshire Cancer Research. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and an Honorary Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences and five Medical Royal Colleges, with honorary doctorates awarded by a number of leading universities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigating firearms incident in Rocherlea

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigating firearms incident in Rocherlea

    Tuesday, 8 April 2025 – 9:17 am.

    Police are calling for information in relation to an incident in Rocherlea on Sunday morning (6 April).
    About 6.30am on Sunday, police received a report that a firearm had been discharged into a residence on Russell Plains Road, Rocherlea.
    Several people were inside the property, thankfully, no one was injured.
    Witnesses observed a silver Peugeot 207 leaving the area.
    Police are investigating the matter, and initial information suggests that the incident is targeted.
    If you were in the area around the time and witnessed suspicious activity or have dash cam or CCTV footage of the silver Peugeot, please phone 131 444 or contact Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
    Information can be provided anonymously. Please quote OR771480.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environmental permit reforms to empower regulators to slash business red tape

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Environmental permit reforms to empower regulators to slash business red tape

    UK and Welsh Governments launch joint consultation to reform environmental permitting regulations, supporting UK Government’s Plan for Change

    Streamlined environmental permitting will drive economic growth and help tackle crime while continuing to safeguard the environment, under reforms unveiled by Environment Minister Emma Hardy today (Tuesday 8 April). 

    The UK and Welsh Governments have today launched an eight-week consultation on reforming environmental permitting for England and Wales to speed up the work of regulators and the industries they support, demonstrating rapid delivery of a commitment in the UK Government’s Regulatory Action Plan to consult on reforms to permitting legislation before Easter. 

    Reforming the process for exemptions could empower regulators – the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales – to use the proposed powers in the following ways, among others: 

    • Taking speedy action: simplifying processes such as for bringing suitable land back into beneficial use for new housing or infrastructure, strongly supporting regional growth.   
    • New permitting exemptions for certain flood risk activities: which could make it easier to install survey equipment for monitoring river flow and water quality.  
    • Potential greater flexibility around the use of scaffolding in or alongside rivers: supporting the UK Government’s key mission of growing the economy for communities across the country.   
    • Changes to exemptions abused by rogue waste operators: the proposals could enable regulators to clamp down on illegal activity that blights communities and causes environmental harm. 
    • Stringent safeguards: the proposals look to ensure effective controls apply where there is a high risk of environmental harm and to keep the regulatory system open and accountable. 

    The proposals cover a wide variety of activities undertaken by businesses or individuals operating within guardrails that protect the environment, such as managing flood risk, handling waste, and the discharging of water – ensuring that exempt activities relating to the latter do not pollute inland freshwaters, coastal waters, or relevant territorial waters. 

    Making environmental permitting more agile and responsive through the UK Government’s Plan for Change will empower regulators to slash red tape for businesses, putting an end to delays that can slow down the decisions needed to get spades in the ground.  

    The proposed changes would also allow a quicker and more flexible response to new technologies and emerging risks, benefitting businesses while protecting the environment.   

    The consultation has been recommended by economist and former charity leader Dan Corry in his landmark review into the regulators and regulation at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. 

    Environment Minister Emma Hardy said:

    This Government is committed to delivering streamlined, hassle-free regulation that protects the environment while also driving economic growth. 

    As part of the Plan for Change, we are rewiring Defra and its arms-length bodies to boost economic growth and unleash an era of building, while also supporting stringent environmental safeguards. 

    I encourage all interested parties to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of the environmental permitting regime.

    Jo Nettleton, Chief Regulator at the Environment Agency, said:

    The Environment Agency firmly believes protecting the environment and sustainable development go hand-in-hand and we support the Government’s aim to get the economy growing. 

    We welcome the proposed reforms to environmental permitting, which will empower us to carry out our role as a fair and proportionate regulator for people and the environment while supporting business and sustainable economic growth.

    Environmental permitting plays an important role in protecting the environment and human health from a wide range variety of risks, such as from flooding, water and air pollution, and contamination from waste. 

    While a review of the regulations in 2023 found them to be functioning effectively, it also identified potential improvements, such as making the framework more responsive to changes on the ground and the needs of operators. 

    Operators of exempt activities are not required to hold a permit, but there are still specified conditions with which operators must comply.  

    The current process for changing which activities are exempt and the conditions that apply is lengthy and subject to disruption, which has led to delays in bringing forward changes in the past.  

    The proposed reforms will speed up work to update the regulations, allowing the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales to make decisions proportionate to the level of environmental risk on which activities should be exempt from environmental permits.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government invests nearly £38 million to bring 319 new green buses to communities across England

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government invests nearly £38 million to bring 319 new green buses to communities across England

    Funding will make bus travel cleaner and more affordable for passengers, while helping the UK to meet its zero emissions goals.

    • funding will create jobs in engineering, construction and green manufacturing, boosting regional economies and delivering the government’s Plan for Change
    • nearly £38 million will deliver 319 new zero emission buses by spring 2027, supporting cleaner and greener public transport
    • comes as the Bus Services Bill progresses through Parliament, as government continues to drive growth in the industries of the future and put passengers back at the heart of services

    Passengers across England will enjoy greener, smoother and quieter bus journeys thanks to a £37.8 million government investment to propel forward green transport, with 319 new zero emission buses. 

    Every pound of government funding is set to be topped up by at least £3 of private investment.

    The funding has been allocated to 12 successful local authorities across England – following bids to expand their zero emission bus fleets – and will see 319 cleaner, more comfortable vehicles serving passengers by spring 2027. 

    It comes as the government made changes to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate yesterday, including increasing flexibility of the mandate up to 2030 and allowing hybrid vehicles to be sold until 2035, all with the aim of supporting UK electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers.

    Today (8 April 2025), the Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, will visit Hull to see how the funding will bring improved journeys for passengers and discuss how highly skilled engineering and construction jobs will be created locally as electric bus infrastructure is delivered.  

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:  

    I’m thrilled to announce this £38 million investment, which will deliver 319 new zero emission buses to communities across England by 2027. This funding will not only make bus travel cleaner, greener and more comfortable, but it will deliver on our Plan for Change, creating jobs, supporting local economies and accelerating our journey towards a zero emission future. 

    By backing local councils and UK manufacturers, we are putting the power in the hands of communities, while helping to deliver on our vision of a sustainable, green transport network.

    From Hull to Hove, there’s an electrifying future on the way for our buses.

    Among the biggest winners are Nottinghamshire County Council, which will benefit from £2.6 million to launch 42 new electric buses, Hull City Council, where £3.9 million has been allocated to provide 42 vehicles and the West of England Combined Authority, which will receive nearly £20 million for 160 buses.  

    This funding comes on top of the Zero Emission Bus Regional Area 2 (ZEBRA 2) programme, which has funded a further 995 zero emission buses.  

    Funding will see vital bus routes given a new lease of life, for example in Bristol, where funding will be used to expand zero emission bus services across 22 different routes through the city, connecting passengers with vital services including hospitals and universities. 

    Matt Cranwell, Stagecoach East Midlands Managing Director, said: 

    Stagecoach prides itself on the importance of putting sustainability at the core of our business strategy. We’re delighted to be working with local authorities and the government to invest in a further 78 new electric buses to play our part in improving air quality in those regions where we operate.

    This new government funding, supported by significant investment by bus operators, will play a key role in Stagecoach’s transition to green bus fleets, helping us to meet our goal of having a zero emission UK bus fleet nationally, by 2035.

    The government is encouraged that UK-based manufacturers are well placed to benefit from these new bus orders. 60% of buses funded by previous ZEBRA investments are being procured from domestic firms, supporting highly skilled jobs and growing regional economies to improve living standards, as per the government’s Plan for Change.  

    Regional leaders and leading manufacturers are also being given a voice on zero emission plans – through the UK bus manufacturing expert panel – which seeks to put local people at the heart of bus building.

    The first event was hosted by the Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, in Sheffield last month and saw experts from Alexander Dennis and Wrightbus speak with Metro Mayors Oliver Coppard (South Yorkshire) and Tracy Brabin (West Yorkshire), about how local transport ambitions could link hand in hand with zero emission ambitions. 

    Matt Carney, CEO, Go-Ahead Bus, said:

    We’re very grateful to the Department of Transport for this continued partnership. Together we’re investing in even more zero-emission buses so that customers across the UK can access cleaner, greener public transport. This funding will support new zero-emissions buses in Hull, Salisbury, Brighton and Hove, Plymouth and Isle of Wight.

    The incoming Bus Services Bill will not only hand power back for local authorities to operate their own services, but also include a measure to ultimately end the use of new diesel and petrol buses across England. It is expected to progress into the House of Commons shortly.  

    The Local Transport Minister also visited Wrightbus’ site in Ballymena last week, to continue engagement around the green future of bus manufacturing and mark the significant milestone of their fleet passing 50 million green miles travelled.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than 100,000 Baby Loss Certificates have now been issued 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    More than 100,000 Baby Loss Certificates have now been issued 

    More than 100,000 baby loss certificates have now been issued to parents who have lost a pregnancy, allowing them to formally recognise their loss.

    • Thousands more parents have benefited from the scheme since it was extended in October 2024
    • Over 100,000 certificates have now been issued, helping parents formally recognise the loss of baby during pregnancy
    • The government remains committed to improving healthcare services and strengthening support for women and their families

    More than 100,000 baby loss certificates have now been issued to parents who have lost a pregnancy, allowing them to formally recognise their loss.

    Baby loss certificates offer a way of providing comfort and support to bereaved parents, who have gone through an unimaginable loss. They provide acknowledgement that their baby existed and mattered.

    Support groups have long campaigned for these certificates and have welcomed this news.

    The government is also committed to ensuring bereaved parents are better supported, and that the impact and importance of their loss is recognised. 

    Work to improve women’s health services and maternity outcomes in ongoing with thousands more midwives trained, and we are committed fulfilling our commitment to closing the Black and Asian maternal mortality gap.

    We are making progress already – cutting gynaecology waiting lists through our Plan for Change, boosting menopause support in the workplace, and revolutionising AI cancer screening for breast cancer through our £11 million AI EDITH cancer trial.  We are also utilising the independent sector to cut down waiting lists and provide more appointments – this includes for women’s health conditions such as endometriosis and breast cancer.

    Health Minister Baroness Gillian Merron said: 

    Losing a pregnancy can be devastating, and it is important that bereaved parents have the option to formally recognise the existence of their babies.  

    I would like to pay tribute to the bravery of countless women who have spoken up about their experiences, and to campaigners for their perseverance and great work promoting this service. From meeting with them, I know there is much to do to improve services on the ground. 

    We will always listen to women and families as we reform our NHS and maternity services, to make sure everyone gets the care and compassion they deserve.

    Baby loss certificates were first launched in February 2024 but were only available to those who had experienced a loss since September 2018. 

    The voluntary service was extended by this government in October 2024 to allow all parents to apply, no matter when they lost their baby.

    Sands’ Chief Executive Clea Harmer said:

    It’s wonderful that baby loss certificates have enabled so many bereaved parents in England whose lives have been touched by pregnancy loss to get official recognition that their babies existed and matter.

    The certificates are an important part of many people’s bereavement journey, and while we recognise they are not something everyone wants, we would like all bereaved parents to have that choice. Sands is here to offer understanding and emotional support for every bereaved parent and family, for as long as they need this.

    Baroness Floella Benjamin OM DBE said:

    The success of ‘Certificates of Loss’ is heartwarming as this was the vision of  Zoe Clark-Coates, founder of the Saying Goodbye charity, almost a decade ago. In parliament I was proud to work with her during those years as I personally knew what it was like to suffer several miscarriages. So applying for my certificates, like thousands of others, brought a great sense of comfort and formal recognition of our babies and I encourage others to so. 

    I hope this successful initiative will continue to provide solace to millions of parents long into the future.

    Lead Bereavement Midwife, George Eliot Hospital, Nuneaton and Co-lead and co-author of the ‘Independent Pregnancy Loss Review’, Samantha Collinge said:

    The announcement today that 100,000 baby loss certificates have been issued to parents is a significant milestone, not just for Zoe and myself, the co-chairs and co-authors of the ‘Independent Pregnancy Loss Review’ which recommended this scheme to the government but for the millions of people who have experienced pre-24 weeks baby loss.

    The huge number of certificates issued serves to demonstrate the real need for bereaved parents to have official recognition that their babies did exist and that their lives, however brief really do matter.

    Being able to signpost families in our care to the certification scheme is a huge step forward for myself and my colleagues in the care that we deliver along the pre -24 week loss pathway and it is truly heartwarming when parents tell me how receiving a certificate in recognition of their precious baby has really helped them in their grief journey.

    Zoe Clark-Coates MBE, Co-Chair & Author of The Pregnancy Loss Review 

    I am deeply moved by the overwhelmingly positive response from bereaved families to the new certificates of loss.

    After nearly a decade of leading the campaign for their introduction with Mariposa International (sayinggoodbye.org) and dedicating 5.5 years to co-chairing and authoring the pregnancy loss review where we were able to bring them to pass, I am profoundly relieved and honoured that this vital recognition is now in the hands of those who need it most.

    It is heartening to see that our efforts have provided comfort and acknowledgment during the most challenging times, and knowing these certificates will offer solace for decades to come is incredibly moving. We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting every family on their grief journey.

    Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of the Miscarriage Association, said:

    This is an important milestone and one that shows the vital role that recognition, support and understanding play in helping bereaved parents cope with their loss.

    However early a pregnancy is lost, it can be felt as a bereavement like any other as people try to come to terms with the end of a very special set of hopes, dreams, and plans for the future.

    These certificates provide official recognition that their baby existed, mattered, and will never be forgotten. The positive difference that makes to so many at an extremely distressing time cannot be overstated.

    In November, the government announced new regulations which will fortify bread with folic acid, reducing neural tube defects by 20% in the UK. Alongside this, an extra £57 million has been allocated for Start for Life services to help expectant and new mothers with a range of services, from breastfeeding and mental health support. 
    Background information

    Any parent can apply for a certificate following a loss before 24 weeks, or 28 weeks for a loss that happened before October 1992. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and live in England.

    Request a baby loss certificate

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 1,500 extra GPs recruited to fix front door of the NHS

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Over 1,500 extra GPs recruited to fix front door of the NHS

    New figures show an extra 1,503 GPs have been recruited since 1 October thanks to government action.

    • New figures show over 1,503 extra GPs have been hired through new scheme since 1 October
    • Major recruitment boost comes after government removed red tape which made it difficult for surgeries to hire doctors
    • Increased GP capacity will help fix the front door of the NHS and increase appointments to bring back the family doctor
    • Milestone builds on Plan for Change’s progress, which has delivered two million appointments seven months early, and cut waiting lists by 193,000

    New figures show an extra 1,503 GPs have been recruited since 1 October – thanks to government action.

    The recruitment boost, part of the government’s Plan for Change will help to end the scandal of patients struggling to see a doctor – easing pressure on GPs and cutting waiting lists. Alongside changes to the GP contract for 2025-26, these additional GPs will help end the 8am scramble for appointments which so many patients currently endure every day.

    When the government came into office, unnecessary red tape was preventing practices from hiring newly qualified GPs, meaning more than 1,000 were due to graduate into unemployment. At the same time, there were also 1,399 fewer fully qualified GPs than a decade prior, showing how years of underfunding and neglect had eroded GP services.

    The government cut the red tape and invested an extra £82 million to allow networks of practices to hire the GPs, with the funding continuing past this year thanks to the extra funding announced at the Budget.

    People in communities across England will be more readily able to receive the timely care they deserve, helping to shift healthcare from hospitals to the community.

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said:

    Rebuilding our broken NHS starts with fixing the front door. We inherited a ludicrous situation where patients couldn’t get a GP appointment, while GPs couldn’t get a job. By cutting red tape and investing more in our NHS, we have put an extra 1,503 GPs into general practice to deliver more appointments.

    The extra investment and reforms we have made will allow patients to book appointments more easily, to help bring back the family doctor and end the 8am scramble.

    It is only because of the necessary decisions we took to increase employer National Insurance that we are able to recruit more GPs and deliver better services for patients. The extra investment and reform this government is making, as part of its Plan for Change, will get the NHS back on its feet and make it fit for the future.

    Dr Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services, said:         

    I would like to thank the general practice teams that have employed significantly more than the 1,000 extra GPs promised to provide care for patients.

    Improving access to general practice is an NHS priority and GP teams are delivering 29 million appointments every month – up a fifth since before the pandemic.  

    But we have more to do to make it easier for patients to see their local GP, so practice teams should continue to use this funding to best effect by recruiting more GPs, so more patients can be seen more quickly.

    The recruitment of an additional 1,503 GPs was made possible by the tough but fair decisions the Chancellor took at the Budget to fix the foundations of the NHS, enabling the government to provide almost £26 billion to get the NHS back on its feet and make it fit for the future.

    Thanks to these decisions, the government has already delivered over two million extra appointments since July, meeting its target seven months early, and brought the waiting list down by 193,000.

    Last year, the department added GPs to the additional roles reimbursement scheme (ARRS) and provided extra funding, meaning that GPs could be recruited more quickly by primary care networks (PCNs).

    The government has since provided the biggest boost to GP funding in years – an extra £889 million on top of the existing budget for general practice in 2025-26.

    The investment comes alongside new reforms to modernise general practice. GP surgeries must now allow patients to request appointments online throughout working hours from October, freeing up the phones for those who want to book over the phone, and making it easier for practices to triage patients based on medical need. More patients will also be able to book appointments with their regular doctor if they choose to, to bring back the family doctor.

    Cutting waiting times and improving access to health care for patients is one of the government’s top priorities in its Plan for Change which is driving forward reform of the health service to rebuild our NHS and improve living standards, which are growing at their fastest rate in two years.

    Notes to editors:

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash Nullarbor

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police and emergency services are responding to a serious crash on the Nullarbor.

    About 6am on Tuesday 8 April, police received a report of a serious crash involving a truck and car on the Eyre Highway. The crash is about 75km’s from the Western Australian border.

    Motorists travelling across the border on the Eyre Highway should expect lengthy delays.

    Further information will be provided when known.

    MIL OSI News –