NewzIntel.com

Category: Great Britain

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Security Minister observes counter-terrorism exercise in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Security Minister observes counter-terrorism exercise in Wales

    Meeting emergency responders at a counter-terrorism training exercise in Wales, the Security Minister praised their collaboration to keep the public safe.

    The Security Minister re-emphasised the need for close working between national and devolved emergency services and responders to minimise the impact of a terrorist attack in Wales, during a visit to Swansea to observe a multi-agency counter-terrorism exercise on Wednesday (26 April).

    At the exercise at Swansea.com Stadium, he was able to watch emergency responders in Wales, including the police, fire and rescue, ambulance and other responder organisations, test their preparedness for a large-scale attack and ensure they work effectively together to keep the public safe.

    Thanking all those taking part in the exercise for their unwavering commitment to protecting the public, the Security Minister gave a speech to participants, to say that responding to an incident with mass fatalities successfully depends on trust, close working and collaboration between multiple agencies.

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

    It was an immense privilege to witness the dedicated work of the emergency services and responder organisations and their unwavering commitment to keeping the people of Wales safe.

    National security is the foundation of our Plan for Change. This essential training ensures we are prepared for every eventuality and in the best position to save lives and protect our communities.

    It comes after the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill completed its final parliamentary stage this week ahead of Royal Assent. This new legislation will ensure venues across the UK – which will include premises such as sports stadiums – consider the security of the public and take steps to protect them from harm.

    The new law is better known as Martyn’s Law in memory of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life alongside 21 others in the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack.

    Wednesday’s exercise also sought to test the stadium’s internal contingency response plans. Under the Bill, qualifying premises like Swansea.com Stadium will be required to plan how best to respond to a terrorist attack.

    The exercise was part of a routine training exercise between the police, including Counter Terrorism Policing Wales and South Wales Police; and other services, such as the South Wales Fire and Rescue service, health and social care, and the Welsh Government; which work together in partnership to respond to and mitigate the impacts of incidents of this nature.

    The various agencies taking part were able to practice the application of the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) which are widely acknowledged as critical to the success of a response to an incident and are the adopted principles for multi-agency working across the UK.

    The Security Minister also visited the Senedd in Cardiff where he met with the First Minister of Wales to discuss strengthening national security in Wales and remaining prepared for terrorist attacks.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC South East Breakfast with Eddie Williams

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    EDDIE WILLIAMS: Well, tax cuts for all workers. Energy Bill Relief. But Budget deficits as far as the eye can see. They are some of the takeaways from the Federal Budget, with a closer look at what it might mean closer to home. Kristy McBain is the Member for Eden-Monaro and the Minister for Regional Development and Local Government. Good morning. 

    KRISTY MCBAIN: Good morning, Eddie. 

    WILLIAMS: What practical difference will this Budget make in the South East? 

    MCBAIN: As you said, there are two new rounds of tax cuts. They’re modest tax cuts, but when they’re combined with the tax cuts that are already in the system, on average by 2026-27, Eden-Monaro taxpayers will be getting an average tax cut of $2,169. Modest changes for the next two years as those two rounds come in, but when we look at the cumulative total, that is good news for workers right across our communities. Obviously, the new round of Urgent Care Clinics, another 50 to the 87 that are already out there in our communities. One of those areas is going to be in the Bega Valley.

    WILLIAMS: Whether it’s health or whether it’s housing, the challenges that regional and rural Australia face play out a bit differently to those in the city. The National Rural Health Alliance says there’s a lack of a targeted strategy to address those unique health challenges in rural communities. Is the Government taking any specific steps to address those specific issues in regional Australia? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve obviously made an announcement about $8.5 billion to strengthen Medicare. There’s a huge amount of money in there, which is all about the health workforce. $662.6 million, which is about growing our health workforce. There’ll be hundreds more GP and rural generalist training places. There are 100 more Commonwealth supported university places for medical students from next year. There are hundreds of scholarships for nurses and midwives to continue to grow their skill set. There are more incentives for our doctors to work in regional and rural Australia, and that builds on our previous announcement to wipe HECS for doctors and nurse practitioners to work in rural and remote Australia. We know it’s really important to deal with the health workforce side of things. It’s not a quick fix to grow our doctor numbers and make sure that they’re trained up and ready to go in our regions, which is why we’re investing really heavily in it. It’s something that should have been happening for decades and unfortunately wasn’t. We’ve seen the freezing of Medicare rebates, which has significantly hampered GP numbers, but we are seeing more students go through and enter our GP training courses now than we have seen in a number of years. 

    WILLIAMS: The Budget is forecast to remain in structural deficit for the next decade. Net debt is rising. Is the Government making any effort at all to pay down Australia’s debt? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve made some significant inroads into that. We’ve reduced the overall national debt by over $170 billion. It will mean that as taxpayers, we’re paying $70 billion less in interest on that debt. Even in this Budget, there’s been $2 billion worth of savings found. Over the four budgets we’ve done there’s been $90 billion of savings made through cutting wastage and rorts, and making sure our departments are working efficiently and effectively. We’ve seen the fruits of that labour by making sure we’ve got Government departments working well. During Cyclone Alfred, where NEMA did such a fantastic job of coordinating response and recovery efforts. Where Services Australia were out on the ground making sure payments were rolled out to people directly impacted. The national emergency stockpile delivering out sandbags, pre-placing generators, and making sure we had a heavy lift helicopters pre-placed in Queensland and New South Wales. You can see the fruits of better, more effective coordination when it comes to those real time disasters. 

    WILLIAMS: 7:15 on ABC South East. If you want to have your say on the Budget, you can call or text 0467 902 684. Joe raises the issue of Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred, and she says she’s disappointed that the Budget doesn’t seem to have anything new on climate adaptation or emissions reduction. Is that an area where the Government’s dropped the ball? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve been the only Government to really take forward climate action for decades. A legislated emissions reduction target. There’s been significant work on pre-preparing places by having the National Emergency Management Agency set up, which came into effect after we took Government. We’ve had the Disaster Ready fund, which is all about resilience and mitigation in our communities. Something that local governments and insurance companies were calling for to make sure our infrastructure was ready to go. We’ve seen that with the Watergums Bridge in Womboin, a significant investment by the three levels of government to ensure that a community doesn’t get cut off every time it rains and there is a flood. So there’s been some heavy work in that space and that will continue. 

    WILLIAMS: Phil at Bombala asks why Australia can’t build manufacturing again to survive a changing world. The Government’s spoken a lot about its Future Made in Australia policies. How realistic is a manufacturing industry future in Australia? 

    MCBAIN: We’ve said from day one that we need to invest heavily in a Future Made in Australia, and in our last Budget we committed $22 billion towards that very thing. We’ve seen with our National Reconstruction Fund, equity stakes taken in manufacturing mining equipment in Toowoomba, working with some of our defence primes to manufacture more things in this country. There is a significant commitment to making sure we manufacture more in Australia, including the stake that we’ve taken now in South Australian steel manufacturing. It is really important as a country that is a little bit further away from the rest of the world, that we do learn the lessons of COVID, that we are more self-sustainable, and we’re a Government that’s committed to that and putting money into it. 

    WILLIAMS: Will you match the funding commitment that the coalition has made to help upgrade the bigger pool? 

    MCBAIN: I’ll have more to say in the coming days and weeks on my election commitments for the Bega Valley and for Eden-Monaro as a whole, but I’m incredibly proud to have secured tens of millions of dollars in funding for local roads, for community infrastructure, and for other critical projects to date. The way I work is working with our local communities to make sure projects that are funded are key priorities. 

    WILLIAMS: Kristy McBain, appreciate your time this morning. Thank you. 

    MCBAIN: Good to be with you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests Lebanese alien charged with assault, battery, sex crime in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    March 26, 2025Lakeville, MA, United StatesEnforcement and Removal

    LAKEVILLE, Mass—U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended Pierre Maurice Al-Asmar, an illegally present Lebanese national charged with assault and battery and indecent assault and battery on person 14 or over, Jan. 25 in Lakeville.

    “Pierre Maurice Al-Asmar has not only shown a blatant disregard for U.S. immigration laws, but he has been charged with horrifically victimizing a Massachusetts resident,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He represents a significant threat to the people of New England that ICE will not tolerate. We remain dedicated to our mission of prioritizing public safety by arresting and removing criminal aliens.”

    Al-Asmar lawfully entered the United States and later violated the terms of his lawful admission.

    The Lakeville District Court arraigned Al-Asmar Feb. 5, 2024, for the sex crime and assault and battery charges.

    ICE served Al-Asmar with a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge following his arrest.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Every 3 years, we play the election date waiting game. Are fixed terms the solution?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jill Sheppard, Senior Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

    With another election campaign unofficially underway, voters may feel it hasn’t been long since they were last at the voting booth.

    Australia’s Constitution dictates:

    every House of Representatives shall continue for three years from the first meeting of the House, and no longer, but may be sooner dissolved by the Governor-General.

    This allows the sitting government to call an election sooner than three years after taking office, but recent norms are for governments to use the full term length available to them.

    But how do politicians and the public feel about this format, and could this change anytime soon?

    Early elections

    In 1998, the John Howard Liberal government called an early election seeking voters’ support for its ambitious plans to introduce a goods and service tax. It came very close to defeat, but clawed its way to victory and nine more years of power.

    In 2016, the Malcolm Turnbull Liberal government took a similar punt, calling an early double dissolution election ostensibly on the issue of union corruption. Again, it came very close to defeat but clawed its way to victory (and six more years of power).

    Despite their reasons for calling early elections, both Howard and Turnbull faced declining global economic conditions and arguably moved tactically to avoid campaigning in the worst of the headwinds.

    Most governments have less appetite for capitalising on external events – like interest rate cuts – when calling an election. Voters already largely distrust politicians, and cynical early elections will only confirm their beliefs.

    Fixed versus non-fixed parliamentary terms

    The ability of a government to unilaterally decide the election date is unusual.

    The political systems most similar to Australia – New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States – all have fixed election dates. Australian states and territories have also increasingly moved to fixed dates, where the government of the day has no discretion over election timing.

    As prime minister, Julia Gillard effectively relinquished her right to manipulate the 2013 election date in her favour. She announced it more than seven months ahead of time. Her government lost the subsequent election.

    Unsurprisingly, there is little political will to move to fixed dates for federal elections. Only current Special Minister of State Don Farrell has expressed even passing support for the idea (and then, only if voters were clearly in favour).

    Fixed terms would undoubtedly benefit voters, who could plan their calendars well in advance. They would also benefit non-government parties and independent candidates, who could budget and plan campaigns around a known election date.

    Who wants longer terms?

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supports four-year terms, reflecting long-term Labor Party policy.

    The Liberal Party has generally been more ambivalent. Howard was supportive but “not mad keen” in 2005 and supportive, but resigned to failure in 2024.

    Current leader Peter Dutton also backs longer terms, but observes that, among voters, “generally, there is a reluctance to do anything that makes the life of a politician easier”.

    Beyond voters’ reluctance to grant a one-year extension to politicians’ tenure, the issue of senate term lengths is an obstacle to reform.

    Current tradition sets senate terms twice the length of House of Representatives terms, however, Penny Wong has argued that eight-year terms are too long.

    Both New South Wales and South Australia have experience with eight-year terms in their upper houses, but no other states have yet followed.

    How could (and will) terms be changed?

    Any change to federal parliamentary terms would require a successful referendum. The question has been put to Australians once before, in 1988. Only 33% of voters supported the proposal, and no state achieved majority support.

    Polling from April 2024 finds only 38% support, with 18% unsure. Independent and minor party voters – the fastest growing group in Australian politics – were also the most strongly opposed to longer terms.

    As Dutton noted, voters have been reluctant to support “politician-friendly” referendums in the past. There seems almost no chance the 48th parliament would consider a referendum on the issue.

    Would 4-year terms make politics better?

    David Coleman, recently promoted to the Liberal Party’s frontbench, has confidently declared “businesses and consumers tend to hold off on investment during election periods and the phoney war that precedes them”, and so longer terms would improve the domestic economy.

    The business sector seems to agree.

    Are they right? And what about non-economic outcomes?

    Academic research backs up the assumption governments are less likely to announce major tax reforms in the months leading into an election. Shorter terms might also make governments less likely to introduce austerity (strict cost-cutting) measures.

    The weight of academic evidence suggests that whichever party is in power matters far more than the length of the electoral cycle.

    Researchers have struggled to find differences in how politicians with longer terms (usually four years) behave from those with shorter terms (usually two years). Activity levels for the shorter-term politicians appear slightly more frenetic – more fundraising and expenditure, more campaigning – but the outcomes are similar.

    Longer terms do not seem destined to fix Australia’s political malaise.

    Jill Sheppard receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Every 3 years, we play the election date waiting game. Are fixed terms the solution? – https://theconversation.com/every-3-years-we-play-the-election-date-waiting-game-are-fixed-terms-the-solution-250273

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro, Agricultural Leaders Visit Penn England Farms in Blair County to Highlight How His

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    March 26, 2025 – Williamsburg, PA

    Governor Shapiro, Agricultural Leaders Visit Penn England Farms in Blair County to Highlight How His “Lightning Plan” Will Lower Energy Costs and Increase Energy Production for Pennsylvania Farmers and Rural Communities

    Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) Secretary Russell Redding visited Penn England Farms in Blair County to highlight how the Governor’s “Lightning Plan” – a comprehensive, all-of-the-above energy plan to secure Pennsylvania’s energy future – would lower energy costs for farmers and rural communities all across the Commonwealth.

    Penn England Farms, a family-owned dairy operation, uses an on-site manure digester to convert waste into clean energy – reducing nearly 40,000 metric tons of pollution each year while powering the farm and contributing excess energy to the grid. Since building their digester in 2006, Penn England has saved $1.6 million in energy costs – nearly $90,000 on average each year. Under Governor Shapiro’s plan, more farms could access this technology through his community energy proposal, allowing multiple farmers to share a digester, cut costs, and sell excess energy back to the grid.

    List of Speakers:
    Yvette Longenecker, owner of Penn England Farms
    Commissioner Laura Burke
    Mark Heeter, President of the Blair County Farm Bureau
    Steven McKnight, President and CEO of the Altoona Blair County Development Corporation
    Secretary Russell Redding
    Governor Josh Shapiro

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Protecting Workers Who Maintain New York Highways

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today highlighted New York State’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety on New York State’s highways and her proposal to further protect the workers who build and maintain roads and bridges. Included in her FY 2026 Budget, the Governor’s plan would make the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program permanent, expand it to include MTA Bridges and Tunnels and NYS Bridge Authority properties, and enhance penalties for assaults against transportation workers. A group of construction industry officials, labor leaders and safety advocates came together today to advocate for these safety enhancements on the one-year anniversary of the expansion of New York’s “Move Over Law” — a lifesaving piece of legislation requiring all drivers to move over when hazard vehicles, highway worker vehicles and tow trucks are stopped on the roadway.

    “The men and women in labor who have dedicated themselves to improving our roads and bridges risk their lives every day to ensure the safety of all drivers,” Governor Hochul said. “By permanently driving down speeds in work zones and enhancing penalties for assaults against them, I am working to strengthen our laws to ensure these dedicated workers can make it home safe themselves.”

    The Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement (AWZSE) program is the result of legislation signed into law by Governor Hochul in September 2021. The legislation authorized a 5-year pilot program run as a joint effort by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and the New York State Thruway Authority (NYSTA) to enhance the State’s ongoing efforts to slow motorists down in work zones to make New York’s highways safer. More than 420,000 Notices of Liability have been issued statewide, with close to 78,400 repeat offenders since the AWZSE program launched in May 2023. And in locations where the cameras have been present more than once, fewer Notices of Liability are being issued, meaning that people are slowing down when cameras are present.

    In addition to her proposal to make the AWSZE permanent, the Governor’s Budget also includes language to enhance penalties for assaults against transportation workers, extending protections similar to those provided to many MTA and retail workers. These actions will improve safety for both workers and drivers. Just last year, while setting up a work zone on a Long Island Expressway ramp in Syosset, a car veered around Department of Transportation trucks, which were carrying attenuators. The driver got out of his car and accosted the highway maintenance crew for obstructing his trip up the ramp. Video of the beginning of the incident can be found here. The Governor’s proposal would hold bad actors accountable and deter actions like this in the future.

    State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “This commonsense legislative package put forward by Governor Hochul will provide much needed worker safety protection and peace of mind for thousands of State Department of Transportation highway forces by making the work zone camera program permanent, and increasing punishment against those who threaten to do them harm. Our highway workers deserve the respect of the traveling public every second they are out there doing their jobs in the name of safety. I strongly believe that both pieces of legislation will prompt more New Yorkers to slow down, pay attention and think twice before threatening or physically hitting one of our workers.”

    New York State DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said. “As someone who spends a lot of time in a car driving across the State, I drive past road work zones all the time, and I unfortunately see too many people driving in ways that put road maintenance crews and other drivers at risk. Taking the time to slow down and move over can prevent a tragedy and make sure we all get to our destinations safely.”

    New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program is a critical tool to enhance safety in work zones across the State. We are committed to enhancing safety for all highway workers and strongly support Governor Hochul’s proposal to make this effective program permanent.”

    New York State Bridge Authority Executive Director Dr. Minosca Alcantara said, “There is no excuse for speeding and reckless driving in work zones. All of our fellow New Yorkers who are out working on the roads need to get home safe to their families. Expanding AWZSE to the Bridge Authority and making it permanent across the State is imperative to ensure crews are safe while doing their jobs.”

    MTA Bridges and Tunnels President Catherine Sheridan said, “AWZSE is changing motorist behavior for the better: drivers are slowing down, resulting in fewer work zone accidents and injuries. This successful pilot program has made our roadways safer for both drivers and workers in construction zones. I look forward to this initiative becoming permanent and being expanded for widespread use.”

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Our highway employees work day in and day out to maintain our roads and keep New Yorkers safe, it’s only right that we prioritize their safety while on the job. In my role as Chair of The Senate Transportation Committee, I am always committed to protecting these vital workers, which is why I carry the Senate legislation expanding the automated work zone camera program while making it permanent. I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership on worker safety across New York.”

    Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli said, “Protecting our workers is of utmost importance. The investments are critical and will help reduce fatalities and injuries on New York’s highways.”

    New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said, “Keeping highway workers safe is a priority for the Union Movement. These workers endure hazardous conditions while performing their jobs for our safety; we must protect them. We thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to addressing enforcement and more aggressive repercussions for repeat violators who endanger the workforce that keeps our roads safe and our infrastructure running smoothly.”

    New York State Building and Construction Trades Council President Gary LaBarbera said, “It is well-known that construction sites are inherently dangerous and the added hazards and less-controllable variants of roadways and highspeed traffic only increase the risks for highway workers. This is why we must continue to push forward key legislation that encourages drivers to proceed with more caution and mindfulness around highway work areas and holds them accountable when they act recklessly. We applaud Governor Hochul for her ongoing leadership and action on this important issue. Every hard-working New Yorker, including our brave tradesmen and tradeswomen working on our roadways, deserve to return home safely to their families at the end of each shift.”

    LiUNA Vice President and New England Regional Manager Donato A. Bianco, Jr. said, “The Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program has effectively caused drivers to slow down and pay attention, helping to protect the men and women working tirelessly to keep our highway system operational and properly maintained. LIUNA has proudly and staunchly advocated for this program since its inception, and its inclusion by Governor Hochul and the Senate in their respective proposed budgets demonstrates a strong commitment to prioritizing workers’ safety. We all owe it to the workers that skillfully do this dangerous job to take every possible action to ensure they go home safely at the end of the day, and we look forward to seeing the program included in the final enacted Budget.”

    CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan said, “CSEA applauds Governor Hochul’s leadership on this issue and calls on the New York State Legislature to make the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program permanent.”

    CSEA Thruway Local President Sean Kennedy said, “We must explore all avenues to protecting road and highway workers risking their lives every day. The AWZSE program serves as a deterrent to distracted and reckless driving while boosting safety for workers as well as the traveling public.”

    New York State Public Employees Federation President Wayne Spence said, “PEF believes that all public employees should be able to go to their jobs, perform their duties professionally and return home safely to their families after work. Too often, PEF members are harassed or assaulted on the job or injured unnecessarily at work. PEF supports Governor Hochul’s Budget proposal to expand the use of automated work zone cameras to ensure drivers are alert and maintaining an appropriate speed in work zones. PEF also supports the Governor’s proposal to increase the penalties for assaults and harassment of department of transportation workers and urges the Governor and both houses of the Legislature to expand these increased penalties for assaults against any public employee in the performance of their duties. The time has come to address these issues on behalf of New York’s dedicated public employees.”

    New York Construction Materials Association President and CEO Ron Epstein said, “We wholeheartedly support Governor Hochul’s steadfast commitment to enhancing work zone safety and strengthening protections for transportation workers. The critical safety measures outlined in the Governor’s Budget proposal are essential for safeguarding the lives of the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly on our roads, ensuring they return home safely to their families at the end of each shift. We commend the Governor for her leadership in prioritizing these vital efforts and we stand ready to collaborate to make our work zones safer for everyone.”

    Associated General Contractors of New York State President and CEO Mike Elmendorf said, “Working in a work zone on a road or highway is inherently dangerous, but it is made needlessly so by all too frequent excessive speed and distracted driving. That’s why the construction industry and our partners in government, and labor worked hard to enact New York’s automated work zone speed enforcement program — and it is working. While it has documented shockingly high speeds in work zones, it is succeeding in getting drivers to use caution and slow down in work zones. That keeps both drivers and the men and women working there safer. We commend Governor Hochul for her efforts to make sure construction workers and drivers alike can return safely to their homes and families by creating this important program — and this year proposing to make it permanent and increase penalties for those who are still speeding in work zones. Let’s stick with what works and make this critical program permanent this year.”

    American Automobile Association New York State Safety Committee Chairman John Corlett said, “With the construction season about to get fully underway, work zones and construction zones will be popping up on roads across the Empire State. AAA is supporting the Governor’s plan to make work zone speed cameras permanent. April 21 will mark the beginning of National Work Zone Awareness Week. As the weather gets better, speeds will start picking up, which makes the roads riskier for everyone and we need responsible drivers who will safely navigate work zones to ensure that everyone makes it home to their families at the end of the day.”

    New York State Association of Town Superintendents of Highways President and Town of Elmira Highway Superintendent Matt Mustico said, “The people working on our roads deserve to go home safe at the end of the day. It’s that simple. The Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program is already making a difference — drivers are slowing down and paying more attention. That’s exactly what’s needed. Making this program permanent is common sense. On behalf of town highway superintendents and our association stakeholder members across New York State, we urge the Legislature to include this critical safety measure in the final State Budget. Protecting our highway workers while keeping our roads safe for New Yorkers should be something we can all agree on.”

    Greater Capital Region Building and Construction Trades Council President Michael Lyons said, “The expansion of work zone camera systems in New York reflects the commitment of the State to protecting transportation workers and ensuring their rights and safety on the job. The Greater Capital Region Building and Construction Trades Council represents over 22,000 Union construction workers in the area and the State’s focus on improving working conditions, reducing accidents and ensuring workers are equipped with the necessary safety training and resources is an initiative that we can back unequivocally.”

    New York State Association of Towns Executive Director Christopher A. Koetzle said, “The New York Association of Towns is committed to protecting the dedicated professionals who ensure the safety and maintenance of our roads. We strongly urge state legislative leaders to include transportation worker safety initiatives as part of the State Budget, ensuring a safer work environment for those who keep our infrastructure running smoothly.”

    New York State Conference of Mayors Executive Director Barbara Van Epps said, “NYCOM commends Governor Hochul and Department of Transportation Commissioner Dominguez, for their commitment to prioritizing the safety of our state and local transportation workers. Ensuring a secure work environment is a fundamental responsibility of the State, and no employee should face threats, harassment or physical harm while performing their duties. These proposals are critical to safeguarding the men and women who maintain our roadways and send a strong message that any form of violence against them is unacceptable.”

    Long Island Contractors’ Association Executive Director Marc Herbst said, “Protecting our workers is foundational to every issue we advocate for as an industry. There is no question that we need to do all we can to ensure that the workers who go out to build, repair and maintain our vital infrastructure have every protection we can provide. Both the expansion of the work zone safety camera program and transportation worker protection from harassment and assault are vital to ensure our workers know we have their backs and truly appreciate their contributions to our roadways.”

    Construction Industry Council Executive Director John Cooney, Jr. said, “The Construction Industry Council of Westchester and Hudson Valley Inc. thanks Governor Kathy Hochul for including in her Executive Budget the inclusion of both the expansion of automated work zone camera program and transportation worker protection from harassment and assault. We thank NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Theresa Dominguez and New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank Hoare for standing up for transportation worker safety and highlighting the need for these two important budget worker safety items. The construction and transportation industries deserve to have all workers involved to have a safe and protected work environment. The proposals for the expanded work zone camera program and expanded transportation worker harassment and assault protections deserve to be a final product of this year’s New York State Budget.”

    New York State Association of Counties Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario said, “Our dedicated county highway crews work all hours of the day and night to maintain and improve our local roads and bridges, ensuring the safety of all who travel them. It is imperative that we take every measure possible to protect these essential workers from harassment, assault and reckless drivers. The New York State Association of Counties stands firmly in support of initiatives aimed at safeguarding our transportation workers and enhancing their well-being.”

    Verra Mobility Executive Vice President Jon Baldwin said, “New York State has demonstrated tremendous leadership with the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program, and the results speak for themselves. Drivers are slowing down, paying attention and prioritizing safety in work zones. New York’s continued investment in this initiative reflects a dedication to fostering safer work environments and safer roads for all. As leaders in smart transportation solutions, we applaud the State’s commitment to safety and support a permanent solution for protecting lives.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Successful Intergenerational Partnership in Craigavon brings generations together

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    A recent intergenerational project in Craigavon has successfully brought together young and older generations, fostering a new and meaningful partnership between Eire Og Golden Years and Tullygally Primary School.

    Organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the programme ran from January to March, spanning six weeks of exciting and enriching activities aimed at encouraging interaction and building lasting connections across generations.

    The programme featured a variety of engaging sessions, including clay modelling and painting, bingo, drumming workshops, Ceili dancing and window box making. These activities allowed participants to share experiences, learn from one another, and cultivate strong bonds while having fun.

    The initiative was designed to challenge the traditional boundaries between generations, offering young children the chance to interact with older adults and gain wisdom and life experiences, while providing older people with the joy of connecting with younger members of the community.

    “The success of this intergenerational project highlights the power of community and the positive impact of bringing different age groups together,” commented Councillor Kyle Savage, Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon.

    “The activities have not only provided fun and creativity but also created new friendships and fostered mutual understanding between the young and the elderly. We are proud to support such initiatives that enrich our community and strengthen our social fabric.”

    The partnership between Eire Og Golden Years and Tullygally Primary School has set the stage for future collaboration, with plans for similar projects in the works.

    The programme was organised by the ABC Council’s Community Development department with funding from the Northern Ireland Executive’s ‘Together: Building a United Community’ (T:BUC) Strategy, which is aimed at improving community relations.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council to commence summer opening hours

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council to commence summer opening hours

    26 March 2025

    Visitors to local cemeteries including the City, Ballyoan and Altnagelvin Cemeteries, should note that summer opening times will commence from this weekend.

    The new extended opening times will see sites remain open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, running from Saturday 29th March 2025 until October 24th 2025.

    In line with the clocks going forward this weekend, Recycling Centres will also change to their Summer opening times from Monday March 31st, as follows:

    Pennyburn, Strathfoyle and Strahan’s Road Recycling Centres will open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, Saturday 8am to 6pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm.

    Claudy, Domemana and Glendermot Recycling Centres will also remain the same, opening Tuesday to Friday from 9:30am until 5pm and Saturday 9:30am to 4:30pm.

    Eglinton, Park and Plumbridge will now open on Mondays from 12pm until 7pm and from 11:30am until 7pm on Tuesdays to Fridays.

    Newtownstewart Recycling Centre will open on Tuesday to Friday 11.30am to 7pm and Saturday 9:30am to 4:30pm. Spamount will be open 10am until 5pm on Mondays and from 9:30am to 5pm on Tuesday to Fridays.

    For more information on opening hours, please visit https://www.derrystrabane.com/services/opening-hours

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Updates to major City Centre and Beach Masterplan construction sites

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Progress continues to be made on major construction works across Aberdeen as part of the £150million City Centre and Beach Masterplan (CCBMP), a committee heard today.

    The updates to the Council’s Finance and Resources Committee included that the start of works to the Castlegate will take place immediately after the Tall Ships event finishes in July this year, and updates to continuing works to Union Street Central and the beachfront.

    Finance and Resources Committee convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “Aberdeen City Council is investing in the significant transformation of the city centre and beachfront to make place people want to live, work, study, do business or invest.

    “The Castlegate works will be running alongside the existing construction taking place on Union Street and the beachfront and, once finished, these developments will make a major difference to the city and ensure our city centre is a place both residents and visitors can continue to enjoy.”

    Councillor Ian Yuill, Co-leader said: “The city centre and beach areas will be significantly improved through the agreed construction works. These are major investments to upgrade the city for the benefit of all.

    “The beachfront will experience its biggest redevelopment for 35 years. The new facilities will offer amazing new facilities to young people, families and individuals of all ages. The aim is to make the city centre and beach a more attractive and desirable place for all to enjoy.”

    The report to committee said the works to the Castlegate will mean it will play an important part in delivery of the city’s events programme, capable of hosting a range of small-scale events, as well as being an important gateway to the beach. The project comprises public realm and streetscaping improvements including street furniture, public art, improved lighting, enhanced street greening, and an active travel route towards the beachfront.

    An area of loose flagstones has been lifted in the area and replaced with a temporary tarmac surface for public safety. Further site investigation works will take place so the main construction works can start after the Tall Ships event in July 2025.

    The report said the works to Union Street Central will mean the space will be reapportioned in favour of walking, wheeling, and riding users, and public transport whilst still allowing for service vehicle access. It includes a new two-way 3m wide cycle track on the north side, public seating at key locations, and will offer welcoming amenity to all and opportunities for rest for the less able whilst encouraging a wide range of visitors to the city centre.

    The report said since the start of the project, there has been additional works associated with the removal of tram sleepers embedded within the existing concrete basecourse and an undocumented redundant water main.

    The report said practical completion of phase A of the beachfront works – including a beach park, events park, and Broad Hill – should be reached in late summer 2026.The core play park will create a focus for activity and will act as a key ‘gateway’ into the wider park and the beach.

    The Events Park is intended as a flexible space capable of holding events including festivals, larger concerts and gatherings. The Field will be the central focus of this area, semi-enclosed by woodland planting, providing definition and increased shelter.

    The vision for Broadhill is to enhance the natural environment of this distinctive feature through additional planting, furthering the diversity of habitat, and ecological value.

    The report said works on site to all areas progressing on programme. The updates include:

    Beach park:

    • Drainage well progressed;
    • Foundations work has started on the canopy and gateway building;
    • The hub building consents are now in place;
    • Superstructure orders are being procured by the contractor.

    Events field:

    • Drainage is well progressed across the area;
    • Canopy foundations are in place;
    • Amphitheatre foundations have started;
    • Car park drainage and formation work is complete.

    Broadhill:

    • Access steps from Links Road are in place and moving towards completion;
    • Seating and viewing points are due for installation over the next month;
    • Landscaping work has started.

    The £150million commitment by Aberdeen City Council towards the City Centre and Beach Master Plan includes major improvement works underway at Union Street Central, the new market building, and at the city’s beach area. They will create vibrant and accessible areas to help make the city a destination of choice for the benefit of residents, visitors, and businesses.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Tillydrone primary school to open before the summer holidays

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Good progress on a new primary school for the area of Tillydrone has been made and the new building is expected to open before the summer holidays.

    Members of Aberdeen City Council’s Finance and Resources Committee today (26 March 2025) agreed a report which gave an update on the construction work for the replacement for Riverbank school.

    Finance and Resources Committee convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “Aberdeen City Council is investing significantly in the education estate across Aberdeen, delivering new schools such as the new Tillydrone Primary School, to ensure children and young people have the best learning environment.

    “I am pleased the new Tillydrone Primary School will be completed in the coming weeks and officials are working hard to ensure pupils can access the building from May 2025.”

    Councillor Martin Greig, convener of Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “The new school will provide top-class facilities for all of its pupils including a 3G sports pitch and external outdoor play. The building will be a tremendous boost for the local area as well as being a fantastic learning facility for pupils at the start of their education. It is an excellent and improved asset for the community.”

    A report to committee said the major contractors are confident that practical completion can be achieved with the purpose of achieving an opening in May 2025. This would allow the pupils of the existing Riverbank Primary School to decant to the new school in advance of the summer recess.

    The report also said the building works have been affected by a number of factors, including poor weather and new utility connections which are out with the control of the main contractor.

    The three-stream primary school with Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) provision will also include a 3G sports pitch and external outdoor play and learning facilities.

    The new school is being built on the site of the former Tillydrone Infant School and on part of the former St Machar Primary School site. 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor delivers security and national renewal for Northern Ireland in new era of global change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Chancellor delivers security and national renewal for Northern Ireland in new era of global change

    The UK Chancellor delivered the Spring Statement today (Wednesday 26 March 2025)

    • Chancellor vows to bring about “new era of security and national renewal” as she delivered a Spring Statement to kickstart economic growth, protect working people and keep Britain safe. 

    • People across the UK to be on average £500 a year better off by the end of this parliament compared to under the previous government, putting more money in people’s pockets. 

    • Growth at the heart of Plan for Change as £13 billion of additional capital spend allocated alongside £2.2 billion defence funding boost next year will get Britain building. 

    People across the UK will be on average £500 better off from 2029, relative to OBR’s autumn forecast, helping to deliver the Plan for Change as the Chancellor today (Wednesday 26 March) announced a Spring Statement to grasp the opportunities in a changing world. 

    The OBR also confirmed that the UK economy is expected to grow faster than expected from 2026 and will be larger by 2029 compared to its autumn forecast – up to 9.5% compared to 9.2%.  

    The Chancellor also set out how the government is protecting national security and maximising the growth potential of the UK defence sector by confirming a £2.2 billion increase in the UK-wide defence budget in 2025-26. 

    The Spring Statement delivers UK Government spending plans focused on its core objectives, bringing security and stability for working people across the UK.  

    It follows the Budget in the autumn where the Chancellor announced that the Northern Ireland Executive will be provided with an £18.2 billion settlement in 2025/26 – the largest in real terms in the history of devolution. This includes an additional £1.5 billion through the Barnett formula, with £1.2 billion for day-to-day spending and £270 million for capital investment.  

    The measures taken today top these Barnett consequentials up by a further £14 million in 2025/26. The Northern Ireland Executive are receiving over 24% more per person than equivalent UK Government spending in the rest of the UK, including the 2024 restoration financial package. 

    The Northern Ireland Executive’s block grant funding from 2026-27 onwards will be confirmed at Phase 2 of the Spending Review, which concludes on 11 June 2025. The Chief Secretary to the Treasury will meet with his counterparts from the devolved governments to discuss their priorities ahead of its conclusion.  

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said:  

    I welcome the fact that Northern Ireland will receive a £14 million boost in Barnett consequentials as a result of today’s announcements, building on the record £18.2 billion settlement which was confirmed by the UK Government last Autumn. 

    This also follows a  £235 million package to transform public services in Northern Ireland, which will support the transformation of key public services which make a real impact on people’s lives, including health, education, planning and justice. 

    Importantly, today’s announcement reinforces the economic growth potential of the UK defence sector, and follows  the Prime Minister’s announcement of a £1.6bn deal to provide air defence missiles for Ukraine, which will create 200 jobs in Northern Ireland and demonstrates the strength of the local defence industry. 

    From next week, working people across Northern Ireland and the UK will also benefit from an increase to the National Living Wage, putting more money into the pockets of hard-working people. 

    And the UK Government continues to provide support  across Northern Ireland through City and Growth deal packages, having confirmed the Mid-South West and Causeway Coast and Glens City deal last year.    

    Taken together, these measures will foster growth in Northern Ireland, creating jobs, supporting public services, and boosting the quality of life for local people.” 

    Growth 

    Kickstarting economic growth is the number one mission of this government, putting more money in people’s pockets. 

    The UK Government has already made considerable progress on growth in Northern Ireland, including confirming the Mid-South West and Causeway Coast and Glens City deal. Earlier this month, the Prime Minister also announced a £1.6bn deal to provide air defence missiles for Ukraine, which will create 200 jobs in Northern Ireland. In February we launched Intertrade UK which will advise on how businesses can take advantage of the full opportunities of the UK internal market.   

    The actions of this government across the Autumn Budget and Spring Statement, if sustained, lead to a 0.6% rise in the level of real GDP by 2034-25. 

    The OBR concluded that the stability rule is met by £9.9 billion and the investment rule is met by £15.1 billion. Both rules are met two years early, meaning from 2027-28 the government is only borrowing for investment and net financial debt is falling. 

    The government is not satisfied with short-term growth figures, and is going further and faster today to improve this. 

    The Chancellor has announced a further £13 billion of capital investment over the Parliament to go further on growth, on top of the £100 billion uplift announced at Autumn Budget. This will deliver the projects needed to catalyse private investment, boost growth and drive forward the UK’s modern industrial strategy. 

    Taken together, this greater capital investment more than offsets the modest savings on day-to-day spending and means the total departmental spending will increase over the next five years, when compared with plans in the Autumn. 

    Defence 

    The world is changing before our eyes, reshaped by global instability, including Russian aggression in Ukraine. Europe is facing a once-in-a-generation moment for its collective security, with conflicts overseas undermining security and prosperity at home.  

    A month ago, the Prime Minister announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War as a result of the changing global picture, now reaching 2.5% of GDP by April 2027, and with an ambition to reach 3% in the next Parliament subject to economic and fiscal conditions.  

    We are going further and faster to protect our national security and maximise the economic growth potential of the UK defence sector.  

    • Increasing the defence budget by £2.2 billion in 2025-26, taking additional spending on defence to over £5 billion since the Autumn Budget. 

    • This raises spending on defence to 2.36% next year and will be invested in fitting Royal Navy ships with Directed Energy Weapons five years earlier than planned, providing better homes for military families and modernising His Majesty’s Naval Base Portsmouth.  

    • Setting a minimum 10 percent ringfence for equipment spending on emerging technologies like drones and autonomous systems, dual-use technology, and AI-powered capabilities, so that British troops have the tools they need to fight and win in modern warfare.   

    • Getting this new tech into the hands of our armed forces quicker by cutting away bureaucracy, with a new UK Defence Innovation unit within the Ministry of Defence spearheading efforts to identify promising technology and ensure these get to the frontline at speed, while also bolstering the UK tech sector and crowding in private investment.  

    • Creating bespoke procurement processes for different types of military equipment, learning lessons from our rapid support for Ukraine to drive faster timescale targets for operationalising new tanks, aircraft and other essential tools for modern warfare.  

    • This government is determined to transform the defence sector into an engine for growth by focusing this investment on where it boosts the productive capacity of the economy such as investment in innovation and novel technologies. As a result of the increase in defence spending to 2.5%, the government estimates this could lead to around 0.3% higher GDP in the long run, equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in today’s money. 

    • The government’s investment in defence will also support its number one mission to deliver economic growth. UK citizens will be protected from threats at home whilst creating a stable environment in which businesses can thrive, and supporting highly skilled jobs and apprenticeships across the whole of the UK. 

    Reform 

    The UK Government is determined to make the public sector more productive and to improve services for working people. But the changing world means we need to go further and faster to ensure we can deliver the public services that working people care most about. 

    The government has shown its commitment to taking the difficult decisions required to drive efficiencies and reform the state – reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and duplication; and driving out wasteful government spend through cancelling thousands of government credit cards. 

    Getting more people into jobs is also central to the government’s growth mission. The broken welfare system is letting people down by asking them to prove what they can’t do, rather than focusing on what they could do with the right support – trapping people due to fear of trying work, lack of support and poor financial incentives. 

    The Chancellor has confirmed the creation of a £3.25 billion Transformation Fund to support the fundamental reform of public services, seize the opportunities of digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), and transform frontline delivery to release savings for taxpayers over the long-term. 

    The UK Government provided £235 million to transform public services in Northern Ireland as part of the £3.3 billion restoration package for the Executive. This month we agreed to allocate £129 million of that funding to projects across several priority public services including health, education, planning and justice. The funding will see £61 million go towards expanding the multi-disciplinary teams in GP clinics across Northern Ireland, and support five other projects across justice, special education and infrastructure which represent key priorities in the Executive’s Programme for Government. 

    Looking Forward 

    This Spring Statement builds on the Autumn Budget and the decisions taken since required to deliver stability to the British economy and kickstart economic growth. 

    The government will set out its plans for spending and key public sector reforms at the Spending Review which will conclude on 11 June 2025. 

    Notes to editors 

    • Government calculations for the long-run impacts of higher defence spending are based on estimates from Antolin-Diaz and Surico (2025), forthcoming in the American Economic Review (AER), of the GDP impact of higher defence spending on GDP. Their estimates of the GDP multiplier stabilise after ten years at around 1.6, which is assumed to reflect an appropriate long-run multiplier for potential output, as any demand-side effects are likely to have dissipated at the ten-year horizon. 

    • Defence spending as a share of GDP is set to rise from 2.3% to 2.5%, an increase of 0.2 percentage points. Applying an elasticity of 1.6 to this change implies a long-run increase in the level of potential output of approximately 0.3%. A long-run increase to the level of potential output of 0.3% is equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in the long run, in today’s prices.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reserved places policy for Perth and Kinross schools to be agreed

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Reserved places are the spaces held back in schools to accommodate children from families moving into new catchment areas, ensuring that pupils can attend their nearest schools.

    Reserved places are crucial for managing school admissions, particularly in areas experiencing population growth or residential developments.

    By holding back a designated number of spaces, Perth and Kinross Council aims to ensure that families moving into the catchment area during the year can enrol their children in their local school.

    If children have to attend school outside the catchment area it can incur additional transport costs for the Council and create inconvenience for families.

    Historical patterns of migration, residential developments, and anticipated population shifts have been carefully analysed to determine the reserved places for the next school year.

    While the reserved places system has been in place since 1997, it is reviewed annually to reflect changing demographics and ensure fairness. The success of this system is evident in the high percentage of pupils able to attend their first-choice schools in recent years.

    Councillors will also discuss adjustments to reserved places at certain schools due to fluctuations in rolls, new housing developments, and changes to school infrastructure.

    Councillor John Rebbeck, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Learning and Families Committee, said: “Planning for reserved places is essential to ensuring pupils can attend their nearest school.

    “It is a hugely complicated but vital process and I am sure parents and carers appreciate this work as much as I do.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New mobile phone policy for Perth and Kinross Schools

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Digital technology is an integral part of the lives of many children, young people and families across Perth & Kinross.   

    Used responsibly, devices such as phones and tablets can be powerful tools to support learning and teaching, communication and social experiences.  

    However, they can also cause disruption to learning and when used inappropriately can impact children and young people’s health and wellbeing.  

    This policy is designed to provide clear information and guidance on the safe, responsible and legal use of mobile technologies in schools, while protecting staff, children and young people from the consequences of inappropriate use or abuse.  It will support calm and inclusive learning environments that are fully focussed on learning and teaching. 

    Learning and Families Committee convener Councillor John Rebbeck said: “This policy will allow our school leaders to work with their individual communities to ensure that everyone is clear on if, when and how mobile technology can be used.

    “Safeguarding the wellbeing of our children and young people is our priority and this policy provides a framework to support the development of responsible citizens, recognising and respecting children and young people’s rights, and will support the development of positive relationships and behaviour. 

     “We can’t uninvent mobile phones but it is important we set boundaries for behaviour during class. 

    “We spoke to teachers, parent councils and, importantly, pupils themselves about mobile phones and what sort of learning environments are best for our children and young people. 

    “This new policy gives schools the flexibility to adopt an approach that is right for them.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Quadient SA: FY 2024 results: Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Quadient FY 2024 results:
     Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Key highlights

    • FY 2024 financial targets achieved
    • Two operating profitability milestones reached:
    • Digital EBITDA margin at 17.5%, up 5.7pts yoy, reflecting strong profitability improvement
    • All three solutions are EBITDA positive
    • Consolidated sales of €1,093 million, up +2.8% on a reported basis, including the contribution of the latest acquisitions
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue up +10.2% in Digital and up +11.5% in Lockers
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue of €777m, representing 71% of total revenue, up +€30m yoy,
      vs. +      €90m 2026 target
    • FY 2024 Group current EBIT of €146 million, up +2.2% organically
    • Proposed dividend of €0.70 per share, up by €0.05 for the fourth consecutive year
    • FY 2025 outlook: acceleration both in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth vs. 2024

    Paris, 26 March 2025

    Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT), an Intelligent automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, today announces its 2024 fourth-quarter consolidated sales and full-year results (period ended on 31 January 2025). The full year 2024 results were approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting held on 25 March 2025.

    Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated: “We have delivered a solid first year of our Elevate to 2030 strategic plan.

    Our Digital Automation platform has reached the record level of c.€270 million in revenue thanks to both the addition of 2,600+ new customers and the contribution from the increased usage and upsell from our existing 16,500 customer base. This strong revenue increase has been delivered together with a significant improvement in profitability with EBITDA rising by 61% to reach €47 million. We are now in a good position to exceed the 20% EBITDA margin ambition set for 2026.

    2024 also saw the highest level of Digital cross-sold deals into our Mail customer base while at the same time our Mail business continues to outpace competition. In Lockers, investments made over the past couple of years are paying off, contributing to a strong performance in H2 with double digit growth in revenue thanks to increased usage of the locker base across all regions. In addition, Lockers have reached EBITDA breakeven over the full year and profitability will further improve as we continue to increase the size of our network, grow its usage and take advantage of the recent addition of Package Concierge in the US residential sector.

    At Company level, this solid performance translates into a €30 million increase in annual recurring revenue, well on track to deliver the €90 million increase targeted by 2026. Based on this solid start to the strategic plan, we are confident in our ability to continue building a €1bn recurring revenue platform by 2030, generating €250 million current EBIT. Therefore, we are proposing to increase our dividend for the fourth consecutive year in a row, to €0.70.

    While macro uncertainties have recently been growing, we are expecting an acceleration of organic growth in revenue and current EBIT in 2025 against 2024 levels.”

    Comments on FY 2024 performance

    Group sales came in at €1,093 million in FY 2024, a +2.8% increase on a reported basis, and +0.4% organic growth compared to FY 2023, in line with Quadient’s expectations. The reported growth includes a positive currency impact of €2 million and a positive scope effect of €24 million, which is related to the acquisitions of Daylight (September 2023), Frama (February 2024) and Package Concierge (December 2024).

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, reported revenue growth stood at +4.1% and organic revenue growth was broadly flat, at -0.2%, compared to Q4 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue reached €777 million in FY 2024, growing +1.6% organically, and representing 71% of total sales. This represents a €30 million increase year-on-year (compared to the +€90 million target by 2026), progressing toward the €1 billion subscription-related revenue target by 2030. Performance in the fourth quarter of 2024 was steady, up 2.1% organically against Q4 2023, driven by a double-digit organic increase in Digital and in Lockers. Non-recurring revenue declined by 2.4% organically in FY 2024, including a 5.1% decline in Q4 2024, essentially due to a high comparison basis in Mail hardware sales.

    By geography, North America (58% of revenue) continued to outperform other regions with a +2.8% organic growth achieved in FY 2024.

    Consolidated sales and EBITDA by Solution

    FY 2024 consolidated sales

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 267 245 +9.1% +7.7%
    Mail 732 729 +0.4% (2.5)%
    Lockers 94 88 +5.7% +4.3%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%

     

    EBITDA and EBITDA margin

      FY 2024 FY 2023
    In € million EBITDA EBITDA margin EBITDA EBITDA margin
    Digital 47 17.5% 29 11.8%
    Mail 200 27.4% 218 29.9%
    Lockers 1 0.6% (3) (3.0)%
    Group total 247 22.6% 244 23.0%
     

    Digital

    In FY 2024, revenue from Digital reached €267 million, up 7.7% organically (+10.1% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023) and up 9.1% on a reported basis (including the contribution from Daylight) compared to FY 2023.

    This solid performance was driven by a strong 10.2% organic growth in subscription-related revenue in FY 2024 (+10.5% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), including a good contribution from North America and continued positive commercial trends across the platform with further solid cross-selling and up-selling. In FY 2024, subscription-related revenue was representing 82% of Digital total sales, a further increase compared to 80% in FY 2023.

    At the end of FY 2024, annual recurring revenue (ARR), which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached €232 million, up from €206 million at the end of FY 2023, representing a 12.7% organic growth.

    EBITDA for Digital was €47 million in FY 2024, up +61% year-on-year. EBITDA margin was at 17.5%, a strong improvement of 5.7 points compared to FY 2023. In H2 2024, EBITDA margin further improved, reaching 19.1%, after 15.7% in H1 2024. This positive evolution in profitability reflects the combination of subscription-related revenue growth and platform maturity. The Digital solution is well on track to reach its target of EBITDA margin greater than 20% in 2026.

    As part of its customer acquisition strategy, Digital continues to demonstrate strong commercial momentum. Over
    2,600 new customers were added     in FY 2024 thanks in particular to robust cross-selling with Mail, especially in North America. Digital experienced a dynamic fourth quarter, with several key deals secured in the US. Additionally, a new partnership was established with Avaloq to deliver Customer Communications Management capabilities to the financial services industry.

    As part of the customer expansion process, the focus continues to be on further increasing up-selling, notably in financial automation process. Several platform innovations have been made, to bring added value to customers, including the ramp-up and extension of Repay for direct supplier invoice payments in the US and Canada, and new electronic invoice formats (UBL, CII, Factur-X) to align with upcoming European e-invoicing regulation.

    In Quadient’s core geographies, the addressable demand for its Digital automation platform is set to grow from
    c.€6 billion in 2023 to c.€9 billion in 2027, representing a +10% CAGR, creating substantial growth opportunities in both communication and financial automation.

    To capture this growth, Quadient is strongly positioned, leveraging on:

    • a sound base of highly predictable business, with over 16,500 customers, 82% subscription-based revenue,
      and a churn rate well below 5%,
    • a highly recognized platform in financial & communication automation, and 84.5% of Saas customers,
      across three regions,
    • a fully scalable and modulable platform, for small to large customers, driving new client acquisition (+2,600 in FY 2024) and record cross-sell of Digital solutions into Quadient Mail customers and increased upsell opportunities among existing customers,
    • an efficient go-to-market organisation that driving a 34% year-on-year increase in bookings in Q4 2024 and +12.7% growth of ARR at the end of the year.

    Mail

    Mail revenue reached €732 million in FY 2024, down 2.5% on an organic basis (-4.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023). The reported growth stood at +0.4%, including the contribution of Frama.

    Hardware sales recorded a minor -1.7% organic decline in FY 2024, despite a 7.3% drop registered in Q4 2024, mainly reflecting a high comparison basis related to deals signed in H2 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue (68% of Mail sales) recorded a 2.9% organic decline in FY 2024.

    EBITDA for Mail was €200 million for FY 2024. EBITDA margin reached 27.4%, down 2.5 points compared to FY 2023. Mail EBITDA margin was impacted by the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, including integration costs. Frama’s performance is due to improve significantly from 2025 onward, with positive current EBIT already reached in FY 2024 and payback of the acquisition expected in FY 2025.

    Thanks to its strong focus on customer acquisition, Quadient’s Mail business continues to outperform the market. In Q4 2024, commercial performance remained resilient in North America, particularly in highly regulated industries where secure mail communications are key.

    As part of the customer expansion focus, outlook remains strong driven by a high customer satisfaction rate of 95.7% and robust cross-selling performance, especially in the US where a record-breaking performance in placement of Digital solutions was recorded in Q4 2024. Mail business also benefited from the positive impact of the ongoing US mailing systems decertification, though this impact is expected to conclude in Q1 2025. Lastly, Quadient aims at upgrading Frama’s installed base and initiating some cross-selling to promote its Digital offer to Frama’s customers.

    At the end of January 2025, already 42.4% of Quadient installed base has been upgraded with its newest technology.

    Lockers

    Lockers revenue reached €94 million in FY 2024, a +4.3% increase on an organic basis, with strong momentum in the latter part of the year (+8.0% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023, after a strong Q3 2024, up +14.3% year-on-year) and a +5.7% increase on a reported basis compared to FY 2023, including a marginal contribution from Package Concierge.

    Subscription-related revenue was up 11.5% organically in FY 2024 (+19.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), benefiting from:

    • the continued strong volumes ramp up in the British and the French open networks;
    • the sustained strong momentum in the US, driven by higher monetization of usage fees;
    • a resilient performance in Japan, despite an unfavorable e-commerce environment.

    Overall, subscription-related revenue stood at 64% of total revenue in FY 2024, up from 61% in FY 2023.

    Non-recurring revenue (license & hardware sales and professional services) were down 6.8% organically in FY 2024. Hardware sales were still impacted by slower new installations in North America.

    Quadient’s global locker installed base reached c.25,700 units at the end of FY 2024, including c. 3,000 units from Package Concierge, vs. c.20,200 units at the end of FY 2023. This is reflecting an acceleration in the pace of installation of new lockers, notably in the UK, fueled by the partnerships signed by Quadient to host parcel lockers in new suitable locations.

    EBITDA for Lockers was above breakeven, at €1 million in FY 2024. EBITDA margin stood at 0.6%, up by 3.6 points compared to FY 2023. This significant profitability improvement, illustrated by a 6.7% EBITDA margin in H2 2024, was driven by growing recurring revenue and increased usage. Additionally, the revised commercial agreement with Yamato for the Japanese installed base was implemented at the beginning of H2 2023.

    As part of the customer acquisition focus, Quadient is accelerating the pace of installation for new lockers in its open networks in Europe, mostly in France and the UK, with installed base up 145% year-on-year. This is supported by the additional deals signed for premium locations (including Morrisons Daily Stores and ScotRail…). Additionally, the trend for new installations in North America has turned positive in Q4, where market share leadership position in Residences and Universities remains robust.

    As part of the customer expansion strategy, volumes from both pick-up and drop-off in European open networks saw a significant increase, growing sevenfold between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The momentum in North America for the locker network, particularly across the multifamily sector and higher education campuses was strong in Q4 2024. In Japan, macroeconomic conditions have impacted parcel volumes, but new initiatives, such as the new partnership with Japan Post, are aimed at driving volume growth and increasing adoption.

    REVIEW OF 2024 FULL-YEAR RESULTS

    Simplified P&L

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change
    Sales 1,093 1,062 +2.8%
    Gross profit 818 788 +3.7%
    Gross margin 74.8% 74.2%  
    EBITDA 247 244 +1.2%
    EBITDA margin 22.6% 23.0%  
    Current EBIT 146 147 (0.5)%
    Current EBIT margin 13.4% 13.8%  
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15) +58.0%
    EBIT 123 132 (7.0)%
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31) +24.8%
    Income before tax 84 101 (16.8)%
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0) n/a
    Income taxes (17) (17) +2.8%
    Net income of continued operations 68 84 (19.4)%
    Net income from discontinued operations (0) (14) (98.7)%
    Net attributable income 66 69 (3.4)%
    Earnings per share 1.94 2.02  
    Diluted earnings per share 1.94 2.01  
     

    Gross margin stood at 74.8% in FY 2024 slightly up compared to FY 2023, due to lower cost of sales.

    EBITDA(1) for the Group reached €247 million in FY 2024, up €3 million compared to FY 2023. EBITDA grew by 3.0% organically, driven by strong growth of 80% in Digital and improved profitability in Lockers, which more than compensated for the softer EBITDA performance in Mail. The EBITDA margin reached 22.6% in FY 2024. It was almost stable compared to FY 2023: despite the impact of the change in revenue mix and the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, the Group EBITDA margin was supported by significant profitability gains in Digital and Lockers.

    Depreciation and amortization stood at €101 million in FY 2024, compared to €98 million in FY 2023. This slightly higher depreciation mainly reflects the increase in Lockers’ asset base.

    Current operating income (current EBIT) reached €146 million in FY 2024 compared to €147 million in FY 2023, up 2.2% on an organic basis. Current EBIT margin stood at 13.4% of sales in FY 2024 compared to 13.8% in FY 2023.

    Optimization costs and other operating expenses stood at €23 million in FY 2024, versus €15 million in FY 2023. This increase mainly relates to the write-off of an IT project, additional office optimization and Frama restructuring costs.

    Consequently, EBIT reached €123 million in FY 2024, versus €132 million recorded in FY 2023.

    Net attributable income

    Net cost of debt was up from €29 million in FY 2023 to €39 million in FY 2024, impacted by higher interest rates. The currency gains & losses and other financial items was broadly flat in FY 2024, compared to a loss of €2 in FY 2023. Overall, net financial result was a loss of €39 million in FY 2024 compared to a loss of €31 million in FY 2023.

    Income tax expense was stable year-on-year at €17 million.

    Net income from discontinued operations of the Mail Italian subsidiary was null in FY 2024, compared to a €14 million loss in FY 2023. This loss included exceptional charges related to the sale process for this subsidiary, which was sold to a local mail distribution company in October 2024.

    Net attributable income after minority interests amounted to €66 million in FY 2024 compared to €69 million in FY 2023.

    Earnings per share(2) stood at €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.02 in FY 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share(2) was €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.01 in FY 2023.

    Cash flow generation

    The change in working capital was a net cash inflow of €9 million in FY 2024 compared to a net cash outflow of €6 million in FY 2023, mostly reflecting the positive impact from timing on prepaid expenses and customers deposits.

    The leasing portfolio and other financing services stood at €623 million as of 31 January 2025, compared to €598 million as of 31 January 2024, up on an organic basis (i.e. excluding currency impact of €18 million) for the first time in several years thanks to good hardware placements in Mail. While generating future subscription-related revenue, this increase in lease receivables resulting from the good performance in the placement of new equipment translates into a cash outflow of
    €7 million in FY 2024. At the end of FY 2024, the default rate of the leasing portfolio stood at around 1.1% compared to c.1.3% at the end of FY 2023.

    Interest and taxes paid increased to €67 million in FY 2024 versus the amount of €55 million paid in FY 2023. The difference was mostly explained by higher interest rates in FY 2024.

    Capital expenditure reached €108 million in FY 2024, up €7 million compared to FY 2023, mostly due to UK locker open network deployment. Capex for Digital reached €24 million in FY 2024, slightly up compared to €22 million in FY 2023 and was mainly focused on R&D and platform development. Capex for Mail remained at fairly high level of €51 million
    (vs. €53 million in FY 2023), due to continued high placement of machines related to the US decertification, which is expected to end in Q1 2025. Capex for Lockers increased from €26 million to €33 million to support the ramp-up of the deployment of the open network in the UK. The sale of Frama real estate in Switzerland generated €6 million in cash inflows in FY 2024.

    All in all, cash flow after capital expenditure (free cash flow) reached €66 million in FY 2024, compared to €64 million in FY 2023.

    Leverage and liquidity position

    Net debt stood at €741 million as of 31 January 2025, a slight increase against €709 million as of 31 January 2024. In FY 2024, Quadient successfully raised approximately €325 million in new facilities, including the following transactions in H2 2024:

    • in October 2024, the Company secured EBRD financing, including a €25 million Schuldschein;
    • in December 2024, the Company secured a USD 50 million bank loan;
    • in January 2025, Quadient further strengthened its financial position with the issuance of a USD 100 million USPP.

    These new facilities enabled Quadient to repay post-closing its €260 million bond due in February 2025 and settle the repayment of Schuldschein loans for €29 million, also due in early 2025. As a result of these transactions, the Company’s average debt maturity has been extended to four years as of the end of February 2025, compared to three years at the end of FY 2023.

    The leverage ratio (net debt/EBITDA) remained broadly stable at 3.0x(3) as of 31 January 2025 compared to 2.9x(3) as of 31 January 2024. Excluding leasing, Quadient leverage ratio remained stable at 1.7x(3) as of 31 January 2025, despite the acquisitions of Frama and Package Concierge in 2024, as well as the implementation of a share buyback programs.

    As of 31 January 2025, the Group had a strong liquidity position of €667 million, split between €367 million in cash and a €300 million undrawn credit line, maturing in 2029.

    Shareholders’ equity stood at €1,113 million as of 31 January 2025 compared to €1,069 million as of 31 January 2024. The gearing ratio(4) stood at 66.6% as of 31 January 2025.

    SHAREHOLDER’ RETURN

    Proposed dividend for FY 2024 stands at €0.70 per share, representing an 8% increase against FY 2023, and a payout ratio of 36.1% of net income, higher than Quadient’s minimum 20% pay-out ratio of net income as per the Group’s dividend policy. This represents a €0.05 year-on-year increase, for the fourth consecutive year. The dividend is subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting, scheduled for 13 June 2025, and will be paid in cash in one instalment on 6 August 2025.

    In addition, Quadient’s announced in September 2024 the launch of a share buyback program for a total consideration of up to €30 million. To date, €10 million worth of shares have been repurchased, with the program set to be executed over an
    18-month(5) period. This operation demonstrates Quadient’s confidence in the value creation potential of its “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, its ability to reach its FY 2026 leverage ratio target(6) and is in line with the capital allocation policy of the Company, while improving shareholders’ return.

    OUTLOOK

    The evolving dynamics within Quadient’s business portfolio, characterized by strong growth in Digital and Lockers revenue alongside a moderate decline in Mail revenue, will naturally drive a year-on-year acceleration in the Company’s total revenue growth.

    As Digital and Lockers continue to expand their share of Quadient’s revenue and profit, while simultaneously improving their profitability, this shift is expected to contribute to a higher growth in current EBIT

    As a result, Quadient targets an acceleration in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth in 2025 compared to 2024.

    Quadient also confirms its 3-year guidance for the 2024-2026 period of minimum 1.5% organic revenue CAGR and minimum 3% organic current EBIT CAGR.

    Q4 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    Avaloq and Quadient Partner to Elevate Client Communications for Financial Services
    On 3 December 2024, Quadient and Avaloq announced today their partnership to offer unrivaled customer communications management (CCM) capabilities for the financial services industry. Avaloq has selected Quadient Inspire as its standard CCM solution, seamlessly integrating it into the Avaloq platform.

    Quadient Launches SimplyMail in Europe to Help Small Businesses Leverage Digital Solutions to Enhance Efficiency in Mail Operations
    On 11 December 2024, Quadient announced the launch in Europe of SimplyMail, a solution designed to address the growing needs for smaller businesses to automate and optimize their mail operations with ease.

    Quadient Named a Worldwide Automated Document Generation and CCM Leader by IDC
    On 12 December 2024, Quadient announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Automated Document Generation and Customer Communication Management 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Recognized in Two IDC MarketScape Reports for Accounts Receivable Automation Applications
    On 16 December 2024, announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for Small and Midmarket 2024 Vendor Assessment. Additionally, Quadient has been recognized for the first time as a Major Player in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for the Enterprise 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Surpasses 25,000 Global Locker Installations with US Package Concierge Acquisition, Setting Sights on Exceeding €100M of Locker Revenue in 2025
    On 18 December 2024, Quadient announced the acquisition of US-based parcel management solutions provider Package Concierge®, exceeding the 25,000-unit mark in its global installed base. Package Concierge provides innovative digital locker technology that addresses the growing challenges of package management in residential, commercial, retail and university campuses across the United States.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position with a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America
    On 20 December 2024, announced a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America. This new credit facility, which comes with a 3-year maturity at a variable rate, strengthens Quadient’s financial position ahead of debt maturities due in 2025.

    Report by Leading Analyst Firm Shows Quadient Recorded the Fastest Growth in 2023 Among CCM Market Leaders
    On 10 January 2025, Quadient announced that a newly released report by market research and consulting firm IDC shows Quadient rapidly closing the gap on the top position. Quadient’s 13.7% year-on-year revenue growth in 2023 has accelerated from its 11% growth in 2022. This is also the fastest growth among the major Customer Communications Management (CCM) vendors globally, outperforming the overall market growth.

    Quadient Secures New c.$1.6 Million Contract to Enhance US Government Agency’s Mail Automation Capacity
    On 14 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has been selected by a US government agency to modernize its mail automation infrastructure in a contract valued at c.$1.6 million. This follows a previous announcement in October 2024, where Quadient was awarded a contract worth nearly $1 million for a similar modernization project with another federal agency.

    Leading Human Resources Technology Company Selects Quadient for Accessibility Compliance in Customer Communications
    On 16 January 2025, Quadient announced that a leading US provider of integrated benefits, payroll, and human resources cloud solutions has selected customer communications management (CCM) platform Quadient Inspire to ensure accessibility compliance for its US federal agency client.

    Quadient Partners with ScotRail to Introduce Parcel Lockers at Stations Across Scotland
    On 21 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with ScotRail to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers across Scotland’s rail network. ScotRail, Scotland’s national rail operator, is enhancing its passenger experience and operational efficiency with the installation of parcel lockers in its stations.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position through a USD100 million US Private Placement from MetLife
    On 22 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has signed a new USD100 million US Private Placement (USPP) with MetLife Investment Management (“MIM”), reinforcing its financial position. This new USPP of USD 100 million senior notes has a
    7-year average maturity and comes with an additional shelf facility allowing the issue of senior notes for a maximum aggregate principal amount of USD50 million.

    Quadient Teams Up with Buzz Bingo to Bring Convenient Parcel Lockers to Bingo Clubs Across the UK
    On 28 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with Buzz Bingo to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers in 35 of its 81 bingo clubs across the UK, with plans for further installations in the future. This collaboration enhances parcel collection, delivery, and return convenience while improving the customer experience at Buzz Bingo locations.

    Leading US Law Firm Chooses Quadient in a Deal Over $1M to Streamline Mailing, Shipping, and Accounting Processes
    On 30 January 2025, Quadient announced a new contract with one of the largest injury law firms in the US, transitioning the firm from its long-standing provider to Quadient. Under the new agreement, worth over 1 million dollars, the firm is rolling out nearly 100 Quadient iX-Series mailing systems at offices across the country, all seamlessly integrated with Quadient’s cloud-based S.M.A.R.T. accounting and shipping software.

    Quadient Reports Strong Year-End Locker Usage Growth in Multifamily and Higher Education Campuses in North America
    On 31 January 2025, Quadient announced strong year-end momentum in the adoption and usage of its Parcel Pending by Quadient locker network across multifamily and higher education campuses in North America.

    POST-CLOSING EVENTS

    Morrisons Partners with Quadient for Convenient Parcel Delivery at its Morrisons Daily Stores
    On 18 February 2025, Quadient announced a new partnership with Morrisons. The partnership will see Parcel Pending by Quadient parcel lockers installed at 230 Morrisons Daily stores by spring 2025.

    Quadient Enables New Shipping Service with Japan Post on its Open Locker Network, Driving Convenience and Increased Parcel Volume
    On 3 March 2025, Quadient announced an expanded partnership between Japan Post and Packcity Japan, a joint venture between Quadient and Yamato Transport. Thanks to the extended partnership, consumers will not only receive Japan Post deliveries at Packcity Japan’s nationwide open network of automated parcel lockers, but they will also now be able to ship parcels from the lockers, called PUDO stations. Consumers using Japan Post’s Yu-Pack parcel service use a mobile app to ship from a PUDO station, eliminating the need to wait at delivery counters or manually handling shipping slips.

    Quadient Maintains Leader Position on Aspire Leaderboard for Customer Communications and Interaction Experience Software
    On 13 March 2025, Quadient announced it has maintained its leadership position on the Aspire Leaderboard. Produced by independent advisory firm Aspire CCS, the Aspire Leaderboard highlights and compares vendors in the customer communications management (CCM) and customer experience management software space. It is updated in real-time as vendors release enhancements and adjust strategies.

    To know more about Quadient’s news flow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en/newsroom.

    CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST

    Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time).

    To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast.

    To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers:

    ▪ France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66.
    ▪ United States: +1 786 697 3501.
    ▪ United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200.

    Password: Quadient

    A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient’s Investor Relations website for 12 months.


     

    Calendar

    • 3 June 2025: Q1 2025 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market)
    • 13 June 2025: Annual General Meeting

    About Quadient®

    Quadient is a global automation platform provider powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

    For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en/.

    Contacts

    APPENDIX

    Digital: New name for Intelligent Communication Automation

    Mail: New name for Mail-Related Solutions

    Lockers: New name for Parcel Locker Solutions

    FY 2024 and Q4 2024 consolidated sales

    FY 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million 2024 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 632 607 +4.0% +2.8%
    Main European countries(a) 369 354 +4.5% (2.0)%
    International(b) 92 101 (9.7)% (5.4)%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by Solution

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 73 65 +11.5% +10.1%
    Mail 196 196 (0.3)% (4.6)%
    Lockers 27 22 +20.2% +8.0%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
     

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 171 160 +7.0% +2.5%
    Main European countries(a) 100 97 +3.3% (2.9)%
    International(b) 24 27 (10.7)% (6.9)%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Financial statements – Full-year 2024

    Consolidated income statement

    In € million FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Sales 1,093 1,062
    Cost of sales (275) (274)
    Gross margin 818 788
    R&D expenses (63) (63)
    Sales and marketing expenses (287) (275)
    Administrative and general expenses (187) (176)
    Service and support expenses (116) (109)
    Employee profit-sharing, share-based payments and other expenses (10) (7)
    M&A and strategic projects expenses (8) (11)
    Current operating income 146 147
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15)
    Operating income 123 132
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31)
    Income before taxes 84 101
    Income taxes (17) (17)
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0)
    Net income from continued operations 68 84
    Net income of discontinued operations (0) (14)
    Net income 67 70
    Of which:

    • Minority interests
    		 1 1
    • Net attributable income
    		 66 69

    Simplified consolidated balance sheet

    Assets
    In € million    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Goodwill 1,131 1,082
    Intangible fixed assets 119 121
    Tangible fixed assets 170 156
    Other non-current financial assets 65 65
    Other non-current receivables 2 2
    Leasing receivables 623 598
    Deferred tax assets 38 17
    Inventories 75 67
    Receivables 240 228
    Other current assets 79 84
    Cash and cash equivalents 367 118
    Current financial instruments 1 2
    Assets held for sale 0 9
    TOTAL ASSETS 2,910 2,550
    Liabilities
    In € million    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Shareholders’ equity 1,113 1,069
    Non-current provisions 12 12
    Non-current financial debt 722 715
    Current financial debt 347 66
    Lease obligations 38 46
    Other non-current liabilities 3 2
    Deferred tax liabilities 101 104
    Financial instruments 5 5
    Trade payables 104 79
    Deferred income 223 212
    Other current liabilities 242 225
    Liabilities held for sale 0 15
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,910 2,550

    Simplified cash flow statement

     

    In €millions

    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    EBITDA 247 244
    Other elements (15) (19)
    Cash flow before net cost of debt and income tax 233 225
    Change in the working capital requirement 9 (6)
    Net change in leasing receivables (7) (0)
    Cash flow from operating activities 235 219
    Interest and tax paid (67) (55)
    Net cash flow from operating activities 168 165
    Capital expenditure (108) (101)
    Disposal of assets 6 0
    Net cash flow after investing activities 66 64
    Impact of changes in scope (37) (5)
    Net cash flow after acquisitions and divestments 29 59
    Dividends paid (22) (21)
    Change in debt and others 219 (39)
    Net cash flow after financing activities 226 (1)
    Cumulative translation adjustments on cash (6) (2)
    Net cash from discontinued operations (1) (9)
    Change in net cash position 219 (11)

    ([1]) EBITDA = current operating income + provisions for depreciation of tangible and intangible fixed assets.
    ([2]) For the FY 2024, the average compounded number of shares is 34,114,060. Diluted number of shares is 34,486,288.
    ([3]) Including IFRS 16
    ([4]) Net debt / shareholder’s equity
    ([5]) Subject to the renewal of the share buyback authorizations at the 2025 AGM
    ([6]) FY 2026 leverage ratio excluding leasing target of 1.5x

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Artwork wows the public and highlights road technology

    Source: City of Liverpool

    A massive glow-in-the-dark painting has been unveiled at Liverpool ONE in the City Centre.

    Commissioned as part of the The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) Live Labs 2: Decarbonising Local Roads in the UK programme, the painting has been installed at the intersection of Hanover Street and College Lane in Liverpool ONE.

    Liverpool City Council is a key partner in ADEPT Live Labs 2, a three-year, UK-wide £30 million programme funded by the Department for Transport that aims to decarbonise the local highway network.

    The Council is pioneering the use of smart road and highway technologies with a series of experiments across the city on roads, pedestrian crossings and cycle paths.

    The hope is that these new technologies will reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, alleviate congestion, and create more sustainable neighbourhoods.

    The striking artwork, titled ‘Harmony’ created by the esteemed artist collective Reskate Studio, uses Luminokrom, a photoluminescent paint that can be used for highway marking on roads.

    This material absorbs ambient light during daylight hours and emits a luminous glow during periods of darkness. The artwork undergoes a dynamic transformation from day to night, providing a compelling demonstration of the paint’s capabilities.

    The paint absorbs natural or artificial light and glows in the dark for 10 hours without any power supply or CO2 emissions.

    The artwork is part of Reskate’s Harreman Project – a series of glow-in-the-dark artworks across Europe.  

    The design represents the poetic connection between the arts, nature and innovation on the path to a more hopeful and sustainable future.

    Reskate art collective aims to foster awareness, engagement, and proactive involvement in environmental stewardship through this public installation.

    Comprised of artists Minuskula and Javier de Riba, Reskate is renowned for its site-specific murals and installations that integrate with their surrounding environments. Their work is characterised by a commitment to conveying meaningful messages through thoughtful aesthetic choices.

    ADEPT represents local authority county, unitary and metropolitan directors across England. Live Labs 2 includes seven projects, grouped by four interconnected themes, led by local authorities working alongside commercial and academic partners. Each project is testing new solutions to decarbonise construction and maintenance across the whole life cycle of the local highway network. The programme is overseen by an independent Commissioning Board, which includes the Department for Transport and other experts from across the public and private sectors.

    Cllr Daniel Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said: “This is a great artwork that will bring lots of pleasure and fun to people who see it. It’s really striking how the piece changes from daytime into night, and lights up in an incredible way.

    “It’s an exciting way of telling the story about ADEPT Live Labs 2 and how roads can become net zero contributors in the years ahead.

    “I’d urge everyone to pop along to Liverpool ONE to have a look at an iconic piece of art.”

    Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said: “Supporting art and culture is at the heart of what we do at Liverpool ONE. This striking display now in place not only enhances the city’s landscape but will also sparks conversation on important topics while inspiring visitors.

    Artist Minuskula, said: “This collaboration with our city partners is a fantastic example of how art can highlight important themes like sustainability while making Liverpool an even more exciting place to visit.

    “This is a site-specific work that belongs to our “Harreman project”, murals that feature glow in the dark paint. This mural is part a series of works, which represent youth’s worries that are often silenced. We’re very proud to be able to create a poetic and inspiring image that helps to make visible a better future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nobody should be destitute in a modern Scotland

    Source: Scottish Greens

    26 Mar 2025 Human Rights

    Scotland has the keys to ending destitution – it is time our government unlocked the doors.

    More in Human Rights

    The Scottish Government must do more to end destitution for people living under the thumb of the hostile environment, says Scottish Greens MSP Maggie Chapman.
     
    The Green MSP will use a Member’s Business Debate today to call on the Scottish Government to go further in its work to end destitution.
     
    Ms Chapman will call for commitments to five tangible actions to end destitution, including: widening access to universal services and benefits, expanding support for Fair Way Scotland – a partnership that provides advice and accommodation for people with restricted or uncertain eligibility to public funds, creating a new Scottish crisis or hardship grant, and increasing funding for housing, immigration and asylum legal aid.
     
    Ms Chapman said:

    “Right now in Scotland, thousands of people who live in dire conditions are shut out of services and left struggling. Without support, they regularly go cold and hungry. Many are forced into precarious work and dangerous situations to make ends meet, often ending up homelessness.
     
    “We cannot undo all of the damage being done by Westminster, but we have the power to alleviate some of these challenges and change these lives for the better. Unfortunately the Scottish Government isn’t doing nearly enough.
     
    “If we don’t intervene, the cycle of destitution, suffering and exploitation will simply continue.”

    No Recourse to Public Funds is a condition attached to work, family and study visas which restricts access to a lot of aspects of social security, including Universal Credit and child benefit and a range of other support like homelessness assistance.
     
    Ms Chapman added:

    “The No Recourse to Public Funds policy is yet another arm of the UK government’s hostile and racist immigration system. We already know how to mitigate the cruelty of this policy – so we cannot continue to justify blocking people’s access to crucial services in times of desperate need.
     
    “We have universal human rights obligations to help our fellow humans, irrespective of immigration status. Our governments must go further to support those who risk fleeing from one hostile environment to simply enter another, cloaked as a sanctuary.
     
    “Tragically, people in Scotland are dying from destitution as the doors remain closed to those in need. Our government can, and must, widen access to universal services to include people who are stranded by the widest inequality and cut off by the deepest destitution.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK spending cuts ‘risk harm to most vulnerable’

    Source: Scottish Government

    Finance Secretary responds to Spring Statement.

    Spending cuts announced by the Chancellor risk harming some of the most vulnerable people in society, Finance Secretary Shona Robison has said.

    Responding to the Spring Statement, Ms Robison said:

    “Today’s statement from the Chancellor will see austerity cuts being imposed on some of the most vulnerable people in our society. The UK Government appears to be trying to balance its books on the backs of disabled people.

    “Not content with these cuts, the UK Government is still expected to short-change Scotland’s public services on additional employer National Insurance costs to the tune of hundreds of millions of pounds. This will be felt in public services that people rely on up and down the country – services such as our NHS, GPs, dentists, social care providers, and universities.

    “The UK Government’s choice to increase defence investment is welcome, but its choices to shortchange public services and deliver austerity cuts to some of the most vulnerable are deplorable.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ESFA Update: 26 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    ESFA Update: 26 March 2025

    Latest information and actions from the Education and Skills Funding Agency for academies, schools, colleges, local authorities and further education providers.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    ESFA Update further education: 26 March 2025

    HTML

    ESFA Update academies: 26 March 2025

    HTML

    ESFA Update local authorities: 26 March 2025

    HTML

    Details

    Latest for further education

    Article Title
    Information Transfer of Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) functions to the Department for Education (DfE)
    Information Updated adult skills fund – funding rates and formula guidance 2024 to 2025
    Information 16 to 19 funding rates and formula 2025 to 2026
    Information Provider data self-assessment toolkit updated
    Information New college financial framework documents for the financial year 2024 to 2025
    Information Good practice guidance for colleges and academy trusts on novel, contentious and repercussive transactions
    Information Publishing the 2025 to 2026 apprenticeship funding rules

    Latest information for academies

    Article Title
    Information Transfer of Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) functions to the Department for Education (DfE)
    Information Pupil premium conditions of grant and technical note for the 2025 to 2026 financial year
    Information 16 to 19 funding rates and formula 2025 to 2026
    Information Academy national non-domestic rates claims guidance updated for 2025 to 2026
    Information Academies Accounts Direction for 2024 to 2025
    Information Good practice guidance for colleges and academy trusts on novel, contentious and repercussive transactions
    Information Related Party Transactions (RPTs) online form portal downtime
    Events and webinars Risk protection arrangement members only – stress workshop

    Latest information for local authorities

    Article Title
    Information Transfer of Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) functions to the Department for Education (DfE)
    Information Pupil premium conditions of grant and technical note for the 2025 to 2026 financial year
    Information Updated adult skills fund – funding rates and formula guidance 2024 to 2025
    Information 16 to 19 funding rates and formula 2025 to 2026
    Information Updated dedicated schools grant (DSG) management plan template and accompanying guidance for 2025 to 2026
    Information The national non-domestic rates (NNDR) operational guidance for billing authorities updated for 2025 to 2026
    Events and webinars Risk protection arrangement members only – stress workshop

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 March 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fast Stream opens doors for North East civil servant Keiron

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Fast Stream opens doors for North East civil servant Keiron

    Meet Keiron Ringwood who is among the one in nine fast streamers in 2024 who joined the accelerated development scheme from within the Civil Service.

    Keiron Ringwood

    For Keiron Ringwood, being able to build a career on his home turf has always been a big priority.

    So, after joining the Civil Service straight from university, he wanted to be able to grow his career while continuing to live in his beloved North East of England.

    After working as an administration officer for HMRC in Durham and an executive officer for DEFRA in Newcastle, he applied for the Civil Service’s prestigious Fast Stream accelerated development scheme and secured a place on his second attempt.

    Though it’s best known as one of the UK’s top graduate employers, the Civil Service’s Fast Stream is also open to existing civil servants who made up around one in nine of successful applicants in 2024.

    Keiron’s role as a Fast Stream policy advisor in His Majesty’s Treasury in Darlington has broadened his horizons in ways he never imagined.

    Its combination of formal training and enriched workplace opportunity has set him on a path which should see him become a Grade 7 at the end of three years.

    “What I enjoy most is the chance the Fast Stream gives you to learn about the way the government works and to meet people from different backgrounds and from different parts of the country,” he said.

    “I’m making the most of the experience and learning as much as I can from the people, the training and workplace opportunities I’m getting.” 

    Keiron was brought up in Hartlepool. After getting Cs and Bs in his GCSEs at his local comprehensive school, he came into his own during his Sixth Form years and achieved distinctions in BTEC business and law qualifications. Throughout his studies he also managed to support himself through hospitality jobs at his local McDonalds and Hartlepool Catholic Club.

    Despite gaining a First Class degree in journalism at nearby Sunderland University, he decided against a career in the media and opted instead to follow his parents into the Civil Service.

    “My mum and step dad have been administration officers in DWP for more than 30 years and I was attracted to the structure and security of a Civil Service role,” he said.

    “I put a lot into all my posts, but securing a place on the Fast Stream gave me confidence that the Civil Service was an organisation in which I could progress. If it hadn’t been, I would have left and gone elsewhere.”

    While Keiron did not get into the Fast Stream on his first try, he succeeded on his second attempt and could not have been more delighted to learn the scheme could, in his case, accommodate his request for a local placement 

    “My friends and family are in the region so staying where my roots are is a non-negotiable for me,” he said.

    Keiron currently leads on the policy relating to tax-free childcare, developing the policy in a way that improves take-up.

    Being on the Fast Stream has set him on a steep development path that has seen his confidence increase.

    “I used to feel inferior because of my background and accent,” he said.

    “But I’m learning alongside people with very different upbringings and feel I fit in as I am just fine.”

    Find out more about the Fast Stream here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sod cutting at site of new Derry Cemetery

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Sod cutting at site of new Derry Cemetery

    26 March 2025

    The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Barr, accompanied Council officials, and representatives of the contractor and design team at the sod cutting for the development of Derry’s new municipal cemetery at Mullenan Road earlier this week.

    The site, located on the outskirts of the City on the Mullenan Road, will provide 3,500 new burial plots as well as a memorial garden, administration building, public toilets, storage buildings and parking.

    As well as main access to the site from Mullenan Road, the cemetery will be linked to the city via a new footway to Balloughry Road, which will facilitate a pedestrian and cycling connection to the greenway stretch know as ‘The Line’, subject to land acquisition.

    Much work has gone into selecting and assessing a suitable location for the new cemetery as space at the City Cemetery nears full capacity. It is envisaged that the new cemetery will facilitate up to 20 years burial capacity with the potential for further expansion on to adjoining lands

    Full planning permission was granted for the development of the site in September 2024, and the company behind the delivery of the £3.73m contract is E Quinn Civils Ltd, from Pomeroy Co. Tyrone. Ground works are now on site and it is anticipated that the first phase of the development of the overall site will take approximately a year to complete.

    The overall cemetery facility will be developed on a phased basis with a view to the first interments taking place at the conclusion of the first phase of development, but the plans can accommodate burials sooner than this if required.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two-way traffic returns to North Bridge ahead of schedule

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Northbound traffic will return to North Bridge from Friday 28 March at 10am.

    The northbound closure in mid-February has allowed for essential resurfacing works to be carried out on both the southbound approach to the bridge (both lanes outside Waverley Gate toward Princes Street) and the southbound departure of the bridge (both lanes from the entrance to the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton on North Bridge to the junction at High Street).

    Work had been due to finish next week but the project team has completed the resurfacing ahead of schedule.

    The wider work on the Category A Listed Structure in the heart of the city centre, has included structural steelwork repairs, installing cathodic protection and structural health monitoring systems to the reinforced concrete deck and fitting permanent platforms to improve access provisions for future inspection and minor maintenance. These are just a few of the host of other improvements.

    Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said:

    I’m pleased that we’ve been able to complete these works slightly ahead of schedule. I appreciate that this temporary closure will have been frustrating for our residents and businesses, and I want to thank them once again for their patience.   

    We’re now in the final phase of the project and, while I acknowledge that it’s taken longer than we first anticipated, we’re preserving this majestic and hugely complex structure for future generations, and we owe it to them to make sure the job is completed to a high standard

    Published: March 26th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spring Statement 2025 speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    Spring Statement 2025 speech

    Spring Statement 2025 speech as delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

    Mr Speaker, [political content redacted]. 

    To provide security for working people. 

    And to deliver a decade of national renewal. 

    That work began in July – and I am proud of what we have delivered in just nine months. 

    Restoring stability to our public finances…  

    … giving the Bank of England the foundation to cut interest rates…  

    … three times since the General Election.  

    Rebuilding our public services… 

    … with record investment in our NHS… 

    … bringing waiting lists down for 5 months in a row.   

    And increasing the National Living Wage… 

    … to give 3 million people a pay rise from next week.  

    Now our task is to secure Britain’s future… 

    … in a world that is changing before our eyes.  

    The threat facing our continent was transformed when Putin invaded Ukraine. 

    It has since escalated further…  

    … and continues to evolve rapidly.  

    At the same time, the global economy has become more uncertain…  

    … bringing insecurity at home… 

    … as trading patterns become more unstable… 

    … and borrowing costs rise for many major economies.  

    Mr Speaker, the job of a responsible government is not simply to watch this change. 

    This moment demands an active government. 

    A government not stepping back, but stepping up.  

    A government on the side of working people…  

    … helping Britain to reach its potential.  

    We have the strengths to do just that… 

    … as one of the world’s largest economies … 

    … an ally to trading partners across the globe…  

    … and a hub for global innovation.  

    These strengths… 

    … and the progress we have made so far… 

    … mean we can act quickly and decisively in a more uncertain world… 

    … to secure Britain’s future… 

    … and to deliver prosperity for working people. 

    Mr Speaker, as I set out at the Budget last year… 

    … I am today returning to the House to provide an update on our public finances… 

    … supported by a new forecast from the independent Office for Budget Responsibility… 

    … ahead of a full Spending Review in June. 

    I will then return to the House in the autumn to deliver a budget… 

    … in line with our commitment to deliver just one major fiscal event a year. 

    So let me turn now to the OBR’s forecasts… 

    … and I want to thank Richard Hughes and his team for their dedicated work. 

    The increased global uncertainty has had two consequences. 

    First, on our public finances. 

    And second, on our economy. 

    I will take each in turn.  

    In the autumn, I set out new fiscal rules that would guide this government. 

    These fiscal rules are non-negotiable. 

    They are the embodiment of this government’s unwavering commitment… 

    … to bring stability to our economy… 

    … and to ensure security for working people. 

    [political content redacted]

    But we must earn that trust every single day.  

    The two fiscal rules that I set out at the Budget were… 

    First, our “Stability Rule”, which ensures that public spending is under control… 

    … balancing the current budget by 2029-30… 

    … so that day-to-day spending is met by tax receipts.  

    Second, our “Investment Rule” to drive growth in the economy… 

    … ensuring that net financial debt falls by the end of the forecast period…  

    … while enabling us to invest alongside business. 

    Turning first to the Stability Rule, the OBR’s forecast shows that… 

    … before the steps that I will take in this statement…  

    … the current budget would have been in deficit by £4.1bn in 2029-30… 

    … having been in surplus by £9.9bn in the autumn…  

    … as the UK, alongside our international peers like France and Germany… 

    … has seen the cost of borrowing rise during this period of heightened uncertainty in global markets. 

    As a result of the steps that I am taking today… 

    … I can confirm that I have restored in full our headroom against the “stability rule”…  

    … moving from a deficit of £36.1bn in 2025-26 and £13.4bn in 2026-27… 

    … to a surplus of £6.0bn in 2027-28, £7.1bn in 2028-29 and a surplus of £9.9bn in 2029-30. 

    [political content redacted]

    That means that we are continuing to meet the Stability Rule two years early…  

    … building resilience to shocks in this, a more uncertain world.  

    The OBR forecast that the “investment rule” is also met two years early… 

    … with net financial debt of 82.9% of GDP in 2025-26 and 83.5% in 2026-27… 

    … before falling from 83.4% in 2027-28, to 83.2% in 2028-29 and 82.7% in 2029-30…  

    … providing headroom of £15.1bn in the final year of the forecast… 

    … broadly unchanged from the autumn.  

    [political content redacted]

    … debt interest payments now stands at £105.2bn this year… 

    … Mr Speaker, that is more than we allocate on Defence, the Home Office and Justice combined. 

    [political content redacted]

    So the responsible choice is to reduce our levels of debt and borrowing in the years ahead… 

    … so that we can spend more on the priorities of working people. And that is exactly what this government will do. 

    Mr Speaker. 

    I said that our fiscal rules were non-negotiable. 

    And I meant it. 

    I will always deliver economic stability. 

    And I will always put working people first.  

    [political content redacted]

    I said it at the Budget. 

    And I say it again today. 

    Let me now set out the steps the government has taken.  

    At the Budget we protected working people… 

    … by keeping our promise not to raise their rates of National Insurance, income tax or VAT. 

    At the same time, we began to rebuild our public services…  

    [political content redacted]

    Ours were the right choices, the right choices for stability and the right choices for renewal… 

    … funded by the decisions that we took on tax.  

    As I promised in the autumn, this Statement does not contain any further tax increases.  

    But when working people are paying their taxes, while still struggling with the cost-of-living…  

    …it cannot be right that others are still evading what they rightly owe in tax.  

    In the Budget, I delivered the most ambitious package of measures that we have ever seen… 

    … to cut down on tax evasion… 

    … raising £6.5bn per year by the end of the forecast.  

    Today, I go further… 

    … continuing our investment in cutting-edge technology … 

    … investing in the HMRC’s capacity to crack down on tax avoidance… 

    … and setting out plans to increase the number of tax fraudsters charged every year by 20%. 

    These changes raise a further £1bn… 

    … taking the total revenue raised from reducing tax evasion under this [political content redacted] government to £7.5bn… 

    … figures verified by the Office for Budget Responsibility…  

    … and I want to thank my Honourable Friend the Exchequer Secretary for his continued work in this area.  

    Mr Speaker, last week my Right Honourable Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, set out this government’s plans to reform the welfare system.  

    [political content redacted]

    We believe that if you can work, you should work… 

    … but if you can’t work, you should be properly supported.  

    This government inherited a broken system.  

    More than 1,000 people are qualifying for Personal Independence Payments. 

    And 1 in 8 young people are not in employment, education or training. 

    If we do nothing, we are writing off an entire generation.  

    That cannot be right and we will not stand it.  

    It is a waste of their potential and it is a waste of their futures and we will change it. 

    As my Right Honourable Friend said in her statement last week… 

    … the final costings would be subject to the OBR’s assessment. 

    Today, the OBR have said… 

    … that they estimate the package will save £4.8bn in the welfare budget… 

    … reflecting their judgements on behavioural effects and wider factors. 

    This also reflects final adjustments to the overall package… 

    … consistent with the Secretary of State’s statement last week… 

    … and the government’s Pathways to Work Green Paper. 

    The Universal Credit Standard Allowance will increase from £92 per week in 2025-26 to £106 per week by 2029-30… 

    … while the Universal Credit Health element will be cut for new claimants by 50% and then frozen.  

    On top of this, we are investing £1bn to provide guaranteed, personalised employment support to help people back into work… 

    … and £400m to support the Department for Work and Pensions and our Job Centres to deliver these changes effectively and fairly… 

    … taking total savings after that for the package to £3.4bn. 

    Whilst spending on disability and sickness benefits will continue to raise, these plans 

    mean that welfare spending as a share of GDP will fall between 2026-27 and the end of the forecast period.  

    [political content redacted]

    We are reforming our welfare system… 

    … making it more sustainable… 

    … protecting the most vulnerable… 

    … and supporting more people back into secure work lifting them out of poverty.  

    Mr Speaker, at the Budget, I fixed the foundations of our economy to deliver on the promise of change. 

    That work has already begun. 

    2 million extra appointments in our NHS. 

    Waiting lists down.  

    New breakfast clubs opening across England. 

    The largest settlements in real terms for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in the history of devolution.  

    Asylum costs, falling. 

    Promises made, promises kept.  

    [political content redacted]

    At the Budget… 

    … alongside providing an increase in funding for this year and next… 

    … I set the envelope for the Spending Review… 

    … which we will deliver in June… 

    led by my RHF the Chief Secretary to the Treasury 

    … to set departmental budgets until 2028-29 for day-to-day spending… 

    … and until 2029-30 for capital spending.  

    Today, I am reflecting two steps that we have taken in our spending plans.  

    First, because we are living in an uncertain world… 

    … as the Prime Minister has set out… 

    … we will increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, reducing overseas aid to 0.3% of Gross National Income. 

    This means we save £2.6bn in day-to-day spending in 2029-30… 

    … to fund our more capital-intensive defence commitments.  

    Second, in recent months, we have begun to fundamentally reform the British state… 

    … driving efficiency and productivity across government… 

    … to deliver tangible savings… 

    … and improve services across our country. 

    Earlier this month, the Prime Minister set out our plans to abolish the arms-length body NHS England… 

    … and ensure that money goes directly to improving the service for patients. 

    My Right Honourable Friend the Health Secretary is driving forward vital reforms to increase NHS productivity… 

    … bearing down on costly agency spend… 

    … to save money so that we can improve patient care. 

    And my Right Honourable Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is taking forward work to significantly reduce the costs of running government… 

    … by 15%, worth £2bn, by the end of the decade. 

    This work shows that we can make our state leaner, and more agile… 

    … delivering more resources to the frontline…  

    … while ensuring we control day-to-day spending to meet our fiscal rules. 

    Today, I build on that work… 

    … by bringing forward £3.25bn of investment… 

    … to deliver the reforms that our public services need…  

    … through a new Transformation Fund.  

    That is money brought forward now… 

    … to bring down the costs of running government by the end of the forecast period…   

    … by making public services more efficient, more productive and more foucssed on the user. 

    I can confirm today the first allocations from this fund… 

    … including funding for Voluntary Exit Schemes to reduce the size of the Civil Service… 

    … pioneering AI tools to modernise the state… 

    … investment in technology for the Ministry of Justice to deliver probation services more effectively… 

    … and up-front investment so we can support more children in foster care… 

    … to give them the best possible start in life… 

    … and reduce cost pressures in the future. 

    Our work to make government leaner… 

    … more productive… 

    … and more efficient… 

    … will help deliver a further £3.5bn of day-to-day savings by 2029-30. 

    Overall, day-to-day spending will be reduced by £6.1bn by 2029-30…  

    … and it will now grow by an average of 1.2% a year above inflation…  

    … compared to 1.3% in the Autumn. 

    Mr Speaker, I can confirm to the House that day-to-day spending will increase in real terms, above inflation, in every single year of the forecast.  

    And in the Spending Review, apart from the reduction in overseas aid… 

    … day-to-day spending across government has been fully protected.   

    I can also confirm our approach to capital investment.  

    In the Autumn Budget I announced £100bn of additional capital spending…  

    … to crowd in investment from the private sector… 

    … to fix our crumbling infrastructure…  

    … and to create jobs in every corner of our country. 

    [political content redacted]

    Today, I am instead increasing capital spending … 

    … by an average of £2bn per year compared to the Autumn…  

    … to drive growth in our economy… 

    … and to deliver in full our vital commitments on defence. 

    This government will ensure that every pound we spend will deliver for the British people… 

    … by increasing productivity… 

    … driving growth in our economy… 

    … and improving our frontline public services.  

    Mr Speaker, let me turn now to the impact of increased uncertainty on our economy. 

    To deliver economic stability, we must work closely with the Bank of England… 

    … supporting the independent Monetary Policy Committee to meet their 2% inflation target.  

    There have been three interest rate cuts since the General Election and today’s data showed that inflation fell in February. 

    [political content redacted]

    … the OBR forecast that CPI inflation will average 3.2% this year… 

    … before falling rapidly to 2.1% in 2026 and meeting the 2% target from 2027 onwards… 

    … giving families and businesses the security that they need… 

    … and providing our economy with the stable platform it needs to grow. 

    Mr Speaker… 

    … earlier this month, the OECD downgraded this year’s growth forecast for every G7 economy, including the UK. 

    And the OBR have today revised our growth forecast for 2025… 

    … from 2% in the autumn… 

    … to 1% today. 

    I am not satisfied with these numbers. 

    That is why we on this side of the house are serious about taking the action needed to grow our economy.  

    Backing the builders, not the blockers…  

    … with a third runway at Heathrow Airport… 

    … and the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.  

    Increasing investment… 

    … with reforms to our pension system… 

    … and a new National Wealth Fund.  

    And tearing down regulatory barriers… 

    … in every sector of our economy. 

    That is a serious plan for growth. 

    That is a serious plan to improve living standards.  

    That is a serious plan to renew our country.  

    Mr Speaker, a changing world presents challenges.  

    But it also presents new opportunities.  

    For new jobs. 

    … and new contracts… 

    … in our world-class defence industrial centres… 

    … from Belfast to Deeside, and from Plymouth to Rosyth. 

    In February, the Prime Minister set out our government’s commitment to increase spending on defence to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027… 

    The biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War 

    …and an ambition to spend 3% of GDP on defence in the next parliament. 

    That was the right decision in a more insecure world… 

    … putting an extra £6.4bn into defence spending by 2027. 

    But we have to move quickly in this changing world. 

    And that starts with investment. 

    So today I can confirm that I will provide an additional £2.2bn for the Ministry of Defence in the next financial year… 

    … a further downpayment on our plans to deliver 2.5% of GDP by 2027.  

    This additional investment is not just about increasing our national security…  

    … but increasing our economic security, too.  

    As defence spending rises, I want the whole country to feel its benefits. 

    So I will set out the immediate steps that we are taking to boost Britain’s defence industry… 

    … and to make the UK a defence industrial superpower.  

    We will spend a minimum of 10% of the Ministry of Defence’s equipment budget on novel technologies … 

    … including drones and AI enabled technology… 

    … driving forward advanced manufacturing production in places like Glasgow, in Derby and in Newport… 

    … creating demand for highly skilled engineers and scientists… 

    … and delivering new business opportunities for UK tech firms and start-ups.  

    We will establish a protected budget of £400m within the Ministry of Defence… 

    … a budget that will rise over time for UK Defence Innovation… 

    … with a clear mandate to bring innovative technology to the front line at speed. 

    We will reform our broken defence procurement system… 

    … making it quicker, more agile and more streamlined…. 

    … and giving small businesses across the UK better access to Ministry of Defence contracts. 

    Something welcomed by the Federation of Small Businesses. 

    We will take forward our Plan for Barrow, a town at the heart of our nuclear security… 

    … working with my Honourable Friend the Member for Barrow and Furness…  

    … and providing £200m, supporting the creation of thousands of jobs there. 

    We will regenerate Portsmouth naval base, securing its future…   

    … as called for by my Honourable Friend the Member for Portsmouth South. 

    We will secure better homes for thousands of military families… the homes that they deserve [political content redacted]. 

    … homes for our military families in the constituencies of my Honourable Friends for Plymouth Moor View, Plymouth Sutton & Devonport, York Outer and in Aldershot.  

    That is the difference that this [political content redacted] government is making.  

    Finally, Mr Speaker, we will provide £2bn of increased capacity for UK Export Finance… 

    … to provide loans for overseas buyers of UK defence goods and services… 

    Because I want to do more with our defence budget so we can buy and make and sell things here in Britain.  

    … giving further opportunities for our world leading defence companies and those who work in them… 

    … to grow and create jobs here in Britain… 

    … as military spending rises right across Europe.  

    To oversee all of this vital work… 

    … my Right Honourable Friend the Defence Secretary and I will establish a new Defence Growth Board… 

    … to maximise the benefits from every pound of taxpayers’ money that we spend. 

    And we will put defence at the heart of our modern industrial strategy… 

    … to drive innovation that can deliver huge benefits back into the British economy. 

    Mr Speaker, that is how we make our country a defence industrial superpower… 

    … so the skills of the future… 

    … the jobs of the future… 

    … and the opportunities of the future… 

    … can be found right here in the United Kingdom.  

    Mr Speaker, [political content redacted] there are no shortcuts to economic growth. 

    It will take long-term decisions.  

    It will take hard yards. 

    It will take time for the reforms that we are introducing to be felt in the everyday economy. 

    It is right that the Office for Budget Responsibility consider the evidence… 

    … and look carefully at measures before recognising a growth impact in their forecast.  

    But, Mr Speaker, I can announce to the House…  

    … that the OBR have considered – and have scored – one of the central planks of our plan for growth.  

    In my first week as Chancellor, I announced that we were pursuing the most ambitious set of planning reforms in decades… 

    … to get Britain building again. 

    And in December – we published changes to the National Planning Policy Framework… 

    … driven forward tirelessly by my Right Honourable Friend the Deputy Prime Minister…  

    … reintroducing mandatory housing targets… 

    … and bringing “grey belt” land into scope.  

    The OBR have today concluded that these reforms will permanently increase the level of real GDP… 

    … by point 0.2% by 2029-30… 

    … an additional £6.8bn in our economy… 

    … and by point 0.4% of GDP within 10 years… 

    … an additional £15.1bn in our British economy. 

    Mr Speaker, that is the biggest positive growth impact that the OBR have ever reflected in their forecast, for a policy with no fiscal cost.  

    And taken together with our plans to increase capital spending that we set out in the Budget last year… 

    … this government’s policies will increase the level of real GDP by point 0.6% in the next ten years.  

    Mr Speaker, that is the difference that this [political content redacted] government is making. 

    Policies to grow our economy.

    [political content redacted]

    The OBR have concluded that our reforms will lead to housebuilding reaching a forty-year high… 

    …  of 305,000 a year by the end of the forecast period.  

    And changes to the National Planning Policy Framework alone… 

    … will help build over 1.3 million homes in the UK over the next five years… 

    … taking us within touching distance…  

    … of delivering our manifesto promise to build 1.5 million homes in England in this parliament. 

    [political content redacted]

    The impact on our economy goes further still.  

    [political content redacted]

    We need economic growth.  

    So I can today confirm… 

    … that the effect of our growth policies… 

    … including our planning reforms… 

    … means an additional £3.4 billion to support our public finances and our public services by 2029-30. 

    The proceeds of growth. 

    [political content redacted]

    Mr Speaker, earlier this week…  

    … we provided an additional £2bn of investment in social and affordable homes next year… 

    … delivering up to 18,000 new homes… 

    … and allowing local areas to bid for new developments across our country… 

    … including sites in Thanet, in Sunderland and in Swindon.  

    More security for families across our country. 

    [political content redacted]

    And to build these new homes… 

    … we need people with the right skills. 

    Earlier this week, my Right Honourable Friend the Education Secretary announced more than £600m… 

    … to train up 60,000 more construction workers…  

    … including with 10 new Technical Excellence colleges across every region of our country… 

    … giving working people the chance to fulfil their potential.  

    New opportunities for our young people. 

    [political content redacted]

    Mr Speaker, all this is just the start.  

    The Planning and Infrastructure Bill passed its second reading on Monday. 

    [political content redacted]

    Once this Bill completes its passage… 

    … it will help deliver the homes and infrastructure our country badly needs. 

    [political content redacted] 

    And today, I can confirm to the House… 

    … that the OBR have upgraded their growth forecast next year… 

    … and every single year thereafter…  

    … with GDP growth of 1.9% in 2026, 1.8% in 2027, 1.7% in 2028, and 1.8% in 2029.  

    Mr Speaker, 

    By the end of the forecast… 

    … our economy is larger compared to the OBR’s forecast at the time of the Budget.

    [political content redacted]

    But Mr Speaker, this isn’t just about lines on a graph. 

    It is about improving people’s lives. 

    Working people are still feeling the pinch after a cost of living crisis [political content redacted] that saw prices spiral. 

    So I am pleased that the OBR confirm today … 

    … that Real Household Disposable Income…  

    … will now grow this year at almost twice the rate expected in the autumn.  

    [political content redacted]

    … and after taking into account inflation… 

    … the OBR say today… 

    … that people will be on average over £500 a year better off under this [political content redacted] government. 

    That will mean more money in the pockets of working people. Higher living standards. 

    [political content redacted]

    Mr Speaker, the world is changing. 

    We can see that… 

    … and we can feel it. 

    A changing world demands a government that is on the side of working people. 

    Acting in their interest. 

    Acting in the national interest.  

    Not retreating from challenges.  

    Not stepping back.  

    But a government with the courage to step up…  

    … to secure Britain’s future…  

    … and to seize the opportunities that are out there before us. 

    I am impatient for change, the British people are impatient for change, [political content redacted].

    And we are beginning to see change happen.  

    Our Plan for Change is working. 

    Defence spending is rising. 

    Waiting lists are falling. 

    Wages are up.  

    Interest rates are cut. 

    [political content redacted]

    And today, Mr Speaker… 

    … the OBR confirm… 

    … that our plan to get Britain building… 

    … will drive growth in our economy… 

    … and put more money in people’s pockets. 

    There are no quick fixes. 

    But we have taken the right choices.  

    [political content redacted]

    Delivering security for our country and security for working people.  

    That is what drives this government. 

    That is what drives me as Chancellor. 

    And that is what drives the choices that I have set out today.  

    And I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: All pain and no gain from Labour’s Spring Statement

    Source: Scottish Greens

    26 Mar 2025 Economy

    Scottish Greens react to Rachel Reeves Spring Statement

    More in Economy

    The Chancellor has confirmed that Labour is on the side of the super rich, the arms dealers and the corporations who are raking in obscene profits, says Scottish Green Co-Leader Lorna Slater.

    Ms Slater’s comments follow the Labour Party’s Spring Statement, which saw £5 billion worth of social security cuts.

    Ms Slater said: 

    “Labour has made clear whose side it is on, and that is the super rich, the arms dealers and the corporations who are raking in obscene profits.

    “They have chosen super-charged austerity and cuts for millions of people while their millionaire friends enjoy business as usual. This isn’t what Scotland waited 14 years for.

    “Labour promised change but what they have delivered is all pain and no gain, with obscene cuts to social security and international aid.

    Ms Slater added: “Labour has totally ignored the climate emergency. This should have been the start of a major green investment programme, but instead they left a giant climate-shaped hole.

    “Scotland deserves so much better than this. In everything they say and do, Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer are underlining how essential it is that the people of Scotland get to decide our own future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spring statement targeting ill and disabled is “morally repugnant”

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    Responding to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, the Co-Leader of The Green Party, Adrian Ramsay MP, said, “The Chancellor had a choice today. To rebalance our economy by asking the very wealthiest to contribute more, or to remove vital support from ill and disabled people. That she chose to take from the most vulnerable to balance her books is a damning reflection of how out of touch this government is. It is morally repugnant.”  

    He continued, “And it’s not just ill and disabled people who will suffer as the Chancellor doubles down on cuts to frontline services. This will weaken our communities and leave us all poorer. Labour once claimed that they were for the many, not the few – it’s clear now that this is no longer the case.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gaston writes to Unionist members of the Executive calling for action to prevent Sinn Fein solo run on Irish signage

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “I have today written to all unionist Ministers calling on them to take action on the decision to impose Irish language signage at Grand Central Station. A loyalist part of Belfast, which has already been treated abominably by the whole saga around the station, should not suffer the added indignity of Grand Central being branded with Irish language signage. It is now incumbent on Unionists to unitedly show that they will not tolerate this.”

    The text of Mr Gaston’s letters to the deputy First Minister, the Communities Minister, the Education Minister and the Health Minister reads as follows:

    Dear Minister,

    I write in respect of the decision to impose Irish Language signage on Belfast Central Station. This decision has been taken, it appears, without approval from the Executive committee operating on a cross-community basis.

    It is beyond any rational dispute that the imposition of this decision, given the ongoing controversy around Irish language signage being imposed without any cross-community consent, particularly in the Belfast area, is significant and controversial within the meaning of section 20 (4) of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, read in conjunction with the Ministerial Code made pursuant to section 28A (5) of the 1998 Act.

    The consequence is that as a matter of law pursuant to section 28A (10) of the 1998 Act the Infrastructure Minister is deprived of lawful authority to take the decision.

    Therefore, I ask that each unionist Executive Minister take steps to ensure the Infrastructure Minister understands clearly that there is no lawful power to continue with the imposition of the relevant decision. Whilst it is not determinative, and even if unionist Ministers somewhat extraordinary shirked their responsibility to stand together on this issue and meekly rolled over to the latest aggressive Irish language demands, nevertheless the views of other Ministers as to whether a matter is significant and controversial is a weighty factor (see paragraph [13] Re Bryson’s application [2022] NIQB 4 and Re Safe Electricity A&T Ltd and Woods’ Application [2021] NIQB 93, at paragraphs [76] and [82]). Therefore, I trust unionist Ministers will take the necessary steps in respect of this matter to require referral to the Executive committee, notwithstanding that TUV has ourselves lodged a petition to require such a referral. This ensures that even if unionist Ministers roll over on this issue, every unionist MLA has the power to nevertheless require the matter to be referred to the Executive.

    However, of importance, it is unionist Ministers in the Executive who ultimately have the power to prevent this decision having legal effect.

    Yours sincerely,
    Timothy Gaston MLA

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Perth to host Youth Tour of Scotland in April

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Sunday will see the streets of Perth’s city centre welcome the final stage of the Youth Tour of Scotland, before welcoming a new elite circuit race – the Perth Grand Prix.

    The Perth Grand Prix will showcase the best circuit racing in Scotland, with elite races being held for open and female racers, with a total prize pot of £2,000 on offer. Support races for Under 12 and senior riders will also take place.

    The new-look Youth Tour of Scotland will start on Saturday, with the day’s racing seeing over 220 young riders from across the UK & Ireland compete in four youth categories.

    The racing will commence with a short 3.5km time trial against the clock in the morning, followed by a road race of between one hour and 90 minutes in length, dependent on age categories. Sunday’s circuit race, starting and finishing at Perth Concert Hall, will take place over a 1km circuit in the heart of Perth with each race lasting one hour in duration.

    Former alumni of the Youth Tour of Scotland include Olympic, World and Commonwealth Champions including Tom Pidcock, Emma Finucane, and Zoe Backstedt.

    Local graduates of the race include UCI World Junior & Under-23 Mountain Bike Champion Charlie Aldridge, Tour Down Under stage winner Oscar Onley and current Junior Track World Champion Erin Boothman.

    Nick Rennie, Chief Executive Officer – Scottish Cycling said: “Scottish Cycling is grateful to receive the support of Perth and Kinross Council. The Youth Tour of Scotland is an incredibly important event in our calendar and offers young riders from across the UK such a unique opportunity to race with the infrastructure of a professional bike race.

    As we enter a new decade of its running, we are excited to return to Perth City Centre and deliver extra racing opportunities for senior, junior and U12 riders through the Perth Grand Prix and are very much looking forward to the 12th & 13th April.”

    Provost of Perth and Kinross Xander McDade said: “We are looking forward to welcoming so many talented athletes to Perth and Kinross for this fantastic event.

    “I am sure it will be an unforgettable day for riders and spectators alike.”

    Perth and Kinross Council Leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “This will be a brilliant event that builds on the success of the UCI Gran Fondo held in Perth two years ago.

    “We will see some fantastic races and, I am sure, some future Olympic and World champions too.”

     Sponsorship packages are still available, with options starting from £100, interested parties should contact pete.matthews@scottishcycling.org.uk  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor delivers security and national renewal in a new era of global change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Chancellor delivers security and national renewal in a new era of global change

    Chancellor vows to bring about “new era of security and national renewal” as she delivered a Spring Statement to kickstart economic growth, protect working people and keep Britain safe.

    • People to be on average £500 a year better off by the end of this parliament compared to under the previous government, putting more money in people’s pockets.

    • OBR forecast concludes government’s landmark planning reforms will result in a £6.8 billion boost to the economy and housebuilding at its highest level in over 40 years by 2029-30.

    • Growth at the heart of Plan for Change as £13 billion of additional capital spend allocated alongside £2.2 billion defence funding boost next year.

    People will be on average £500 a year better off from 2029, relative to OBR’s autumn forecast, helping to deliver the Plan for Change as the Chancellor today (Wednesday 26 March) announced a Spring Statement to grasp the opportunities in a changing world.

    The OBR has also today concluded that the government’s landmark planning reforms will result in UK housebuilding reaching its highest level in over 40 years, bringing the UK one step closer to its Plan for Change mission to build 1.5 million homes.

    The economy will be 0.2% larger in 2029-30 because of the reforms – worth around £6.8 billion in today’s money – growing to 0.4% over the next ten years. This represents the biggest positive growth effect it has ever forecasted for a policy that comes at zero-cost to taxpayers. The reforms will secure over 170,000 new homes for hard working families and leave borrowing £3.4 billion lower in 2029-30.

    The Chancellor also set out how the government is protecting national security and maximising the growth potential of the UK defence sector by confirming a £2.2 billion increase in the defence budget in 2025-26 while ensuring UK defence is on the cutting-edge of technology and innovation.

    But growth is still not where it should be, so at this Spring Statement, this government has gone further and faster to kickstart growth by training up to 60,000 young people to get Britain building again; increasing capital investment by £13 billion over this parliament; and fixing public services by tearing out waste from its roots.

    Growth

    Kickstarting economic growth is the number one mission of this government, putting more money in people’s pockets. The government has already made considerable progress; supporting a third runway at Heathrow; revitalising the Oxford Cambridge Growth Corridor, launching the National Wealth Fund and making the right choices on public investment to drive growth across the UK.

    The actions of this government across the Autumn Budget and Spring Statement, if sustained, lead to a 0.6% rise in the level of real GDP by 2034-35, signalling the government’s growth plan is working.

    The OBR concluded that the stability rule is met by £9.9 billion and the investment rule is met by £15.1 billion. Both rules are met two years early, meaning from 2027-28 the government is only borrowing for investment and net financial debt is falling.

    The government is not satisfied with short-term growth figures, and is going further and fast today to improve this.

    • To go further and faster to get Britain building, the Chancellor has today announced a further £13 billion of capital investment over the Parliament to go further on growth, on top of the £100 billion uplift announced at Autumn Budget. This will deliver the projects needed to catalyse private investment, boost growth and drive forward the UK’s modern industrial strategy – unlocking the potential of the Oxford Cambridge Growth Corridor which could add up to £78 billion to the UK economy by 2035.

    • Taken together, this greater capital investment more than offsets the modest savings on day to day spending and means the total departmental spending will increase over the next five years, when compared with plans in the Autumn.

    • Over this Parliament, the government is funding a £625 million package to boost skills in the construction sector, which is expected to provide up to 60,000 more skilled construction workers to support the government’s plans to deliver 1.5 million homes in England over the parliament and progress vital infrastructure projects,

    • As part of this, the government is providing further support to scale up existing construction skills pathway over this Parliament through £100 million for 35,000 additional training places in construction-focused Skills Bootcamps, supporting trainees, ‘returners’, and existing employees to succeed in the sector. Building on the £40 million investment in the new Growth and Skills Levy at Autumn Budget 2024, the government is also providing a further £40 million to support up to 10,000 more young people to access new construction Foundation Apprenticeships, which will provide a key entry route into a thriving industry.

    • The government is ensuring there are enough skilled construction workers in the system, with £100 million to deliver 10 Technical Excellence Colleges specialised in construction across every region in England, and £165 million to increase funding for training providers delivering construction courses for 16-19-year-olds and adults.

    • The government is committed to supporting employers to unlock further investment in training to deliver more skilled construction workers, and is providing £100 million, alongside a £32 million contribution from the Construction Industry Training Board to deliver up to 40,000 industry placements in construction each year.

    • Supported by the construction skills package, the government confirmed this week that there will be a £2 billion injection of new grant funding to deliver up to 18,000 new social and affordable homes. The new funding will only support developments on sites that will deliver in this Parliament, getting spades in the ground quickly to build homes in places such as Manchester and Liverpool.

    Defence

    The world is changing before our eyes, reshaped by global instability, including Russian aggression in Ukraine. Europe is facing a once-in-a-generation moment for its collective security, with conflicts overseas undermining security and prosperity at home. 

    A month ago, the PM announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War as a result of the changing global picture, now reaching 2.5% of GDP by April 2027, and with an ambition to reach 3% in the next Parliament subject to economic and fiscal conditions.

    We are going further and faster to protect our national security and maximise the economic growth potential of the UK defence sector.

    • Increasing the defence budget by £2.2 billion in 2025-26, taking additional spending on defence to over £5 billion since the Autumn Budget.

    • This raises spending on defence to 2.36% next year and will be invested in fitting Royal Navy ships with Directed Energy Weapons five years earlier than planned, providing better homes for military families and modernising His Majesty’s Naval Base Portsmouth.

    • Setting a minimum 10 percent ringfence for equipment spending on emerging technologies like drones and autonomous systems, dual-use technology, and AI-powered capabilities, so that British troops have the tools they need to fight and win in modern warfare.

    • Getting this new tech into the hands of our armed forces quicker by cutting away bureaucracy, with a new UK Defence Innovation unit within the Ministry of Defence spearheading efforts to identify promising technology and ensure these get to the frontline at speed, while also bolstering the UK tech sector and crowding in private investment.

    • Creating bespoke procurement processes for different types of military equipment, learning lessons from our rapid support for Ukraine to drive faster timescale targets for operationalising new tanks, aircraft and other essential tools for modern warfare.

    • This government is determined to transform the defence sector into an engine for growth by focusing this investment on where it boosts the productive capacity of the economy such as investment in innovation and novel technologies. As a result of the increase in defence spending to 2.5%, the government estimates this could lead to around 0.3% higher GDP in the long run, equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in today’s money.

    • The government’s investment in defence will also support its number one mission to deliver economic growth. UK citizens will be protected from threats at home whilst creating a stable environment in which businesses can thrive, and supporting highly skilled jobs and apprenticeships across the whole of the UK.

    Reform

    The government is determined to make the public sector more productive and to improve services for working people. But the changing world means we need to go further and faster to ensure we can deliver the public services that working people care most about.

    The government has shown its commitment to taking the difficult decisions required to drive efficiencies and reform the state – including announcing that the world’s largest quango, NHS England, will be brought back into the Department for Health and Social Care, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and duplication; and driving out wasteful government spend through cancelling thousands of government credit cards.

    Getting more people into jobs is also central to the government’s growth mission. This broken welfare system that is letting people down by asking them to prove what they can’t do, rather than focusing on what they could do with the right support – trapping people due to fear of trying work, lack of support and poor financial incentives.

    The social security system will always protect those who can never work, that is why this government is proposing an additional premium that will safeguard their incomes. And will end reassessments for people with the most severe, life-long conditions to give them dignity and security.

    Helping more people into work is a central aim of these reforms and which is why the government is tackling incentives to be inactive by abolishing the WCA, rebalancing Universal Credit, and investing more into employment support.

    We will always support those with long term health conditions through the Personal Independence Payment, which will remain an important non-means tested benefit for disabled people and people with long term health conditions.  But these reforms will make the system more targeted and sustainable to ensure the safety net is there for those who need it most.

    The OBR have now set out their final assessment of costings and confirmed this welfare package will reduce welfare spending by £4.8 billion in 2029-30.

    The government will modernise the Civil Service into a more productive and agile organisation that can effectively deliver the Plan for Change, underpinned by a digital revolution, while cancelling thousands of government procurement cards. Today, the Chancellor has gone further.

    • The Chancellor has confirmed the creation of a £3.25 billion Transformation Fund to support the fundamental reform of public services, seize the opportunities of digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), and transform frontline delivery to release savings for taxpayers over the long-term.

    • The Fund will invest in vital public services and accelerate the modernisation of the state by taking the next step to reform the children’s social care system through an additional £25 million for the fostering system. This will include funding the recruitment of a further 400 new fostering households, providing children with stability and addressing cost pressures on local government.

    • The fund will also support the managing offenders in the community, by providing £8 million for new technology so probation officers can focus on reducing reoffending, rather than filling out forms.

    • In addition, it will provide £42 million for three pioneering DSIT-led Frontier AI Exemplars. These Exemplars will test and deploy AI applications to make government operations more efficient and effective and improve outcomes for citizens by reducing unnecessary bureaucracy.

    • To create an agile and productive state we are also providing £150 million for government employee exit schemes. This will support a leaner and more efficient Civil Service, helping to reduce administration costs by 15% by the end of the decade.

    • The Chancellor also announced a package of measures to close the tax gap, raising £1 billion per year by 2029-30. The UK tax gap was estimated to be around £40 billion in 2022-23.

    • The Spring Statement earmarks around £80 million in new money for third party debt collectors to bring in £1.3 billion over the next five years – a return of around £16 for every pound spent for UK public services and investment projects. HMRC will also receive £4 million in new funding to pilot a new test and learn programme with the private sector to improve the tax collection agency’s approach to recouping older unpaid tax debt. Ministers will decide whether to proceed with a larger exercise later this year based on the results of this test.

    • An additional 600 staff will also be recruited into HMRC’s debt management teams. This means that for every £1 spent on these staff, over £13 of debt is expected to be recovered. The staff will work with the private sector to make collecting tax debt more efficient including through automating admin processes.

    • The Spring Statement also announces £100 million in new funding for HMRC to recruit a further 500 compliance officers from April 2025. This will raise £241 million in unpaid tax over the next five years.

    • Late payment penalties for VAT and Making Tax Digital for income tax Self Assessment will increase to incentivise taxpayers to pay on time. This will be from 2% to 3% at 15 days, 2% to 3% at 30 days, and 4% to 10% from day 31. This will take effect from April 2025.

    • As announced in the autumn, Making Tax Digital for income tax Self Assessment will be extended to sole traders and landlords with income over £20,000. The Spring Statement confirms that this additional group will join Making Tax Digital from April 2028. This will build on the existing plan which will see sole traders and landlords with income above £50,000 joining from April 2026, and those with income above £30,000 joining from April 2027.  Around 4 million businesses have an income below the £20,000 threshold.

    Looking Forward

    This Spring Statement builds on the Autumn Budget and the decisions taken since required to deliver stability to the British economy and kickstart economic growth.

    The government will set out its plans for spending and key public sector reforms at the Spending Review which will conclude on 11 June 2025.

    This will not be a business-as-usual Spending Review. The government has fundamentally reformed the process to make it zero-based, collaborative, and data-led, in order to ensure a laser-like focus on the biggest opportunities to rewire the state and deliver the Plan for Change.

    At the Spending Review, the Budget in the autumn and across the Parliament, the government will continue to prioritise growing the economy to deliver change.

    More information

    • The OBR concludes planning reforms will bring housebuilding to its highest level in 40 years.

    • Government calculations for the long-run impacts of higher defence spending are based on estimates from Antolin-Diaz and Surico (2025), forthcoming in the American Economic Review (AER), of the GDP impact of higher defence spending on GDP. Their estimates of the GDP multiplier stabilise after ten years at around 1.6, which is assumed to reflect an appropriate long-run multiplier for potential output, as any demand-side effects are likely to have dissipated at the ten-year horizon.

    • Defence spending as a share of GDP is set to rise from 2.3% to 2.5%, an increase of 0.2 percentage points. Applying an elasticity of 1.6 to this change implies a long-run increase in the level of potential output of approximately 0.3%. A long-run increase to the level of potential output of 0.3% is equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in the long run, in today’s prices.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Madis Toomsalu expresses will to resign as CEO of LHV Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Madis Toomsalu, the Chairman of the Management Board of AS LHV Group, has informed the company’s Nomination Commitee and the Supervisory Board of his will to resign by the fall of this year. Preparations are underway to find a new Chairman of the Board for the financial group.

    Mr Toomsalu has worked in LHV since 2007 when he arrived as an intern. He became the first credit analyst in LHV Pank and afterwards led the field as Head of Credits and Chairman of the Credit Committee. Since 2016 he has held the position of Chairman of the Management Board of LHV Group. Additionally he is the Chairman of the Supervisory Boards of AS LHV Pank, AS LHV Kindlustus, AS LHV Varahaldus and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of LHV Bank Ltd. 

    Under his leadership LHV’s loan portfolio has increased tenfold, reaching nearly EUR 5 billion today. In addition to the rapid growth of LHV Pank in Estonia, LHV Bank, operating in England, and LHV Kindlustus, providing insurance services, have been established during this time. LHV has remained the best bank in Estonia, the most attractive employer, and the company with the best investor relations.

    The LHV’s Nomination Committee has started the process of finding a new CEO. The roles of the group and its CEO need to be re-mapped, taking into account future challenges. A suitable candidate must be approved by the LHV Group’s Supervisory Board and also by the financial supervision authorities.

    “A big thank you to Madis for his invaluable contribution to the development of LHV over the past 18 years. These have been remarkable and successful years. Madis’s impact is firmly embedded in today’s LHV. We wish him all the best and much success in his new challenges, whatever they may be,” Rain Lõhmus, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of LHV Group commented.

    “LHV is a living organism that needs more creativity and inspiration than orders and restrictions. It’s thanks to this approach that we’ve been able to achieve strong results. At the same time, the role of the CEO of LHV Group has changed. Back in 2016, when I started, it was important to understand which regulations needed to be considered when running a banking business. Today, the question is what kind of business can even be done in the context of existing regulations. I believe this role should therefore be redefined, with a new focus on the upcoming technological revolution. Adding to that a previously made personal family commitment, it makes sense to conclude my work and continue observing LHV’s rapid development from the position of a shareholder,” Madis Toomsalu commented.

    LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. The main subsidiaries of LHV Group are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs more than 1,160 people. As at the end of February, the banking services of LHV are used by 462,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 113,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 174,000 clients. LHV Bank, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a UK banking licence and offers banking services to international fintech companies and loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.

    Priit Rum
    Communications Manager
    Phone: +372 502 0786
    Email: priit.rum@lhv.ee 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Girls Active leaders aiming to ‘up the game’ for girls in sport

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Kyle Savage and Richard Archibald, Interim CEO at Sport NI pictured with Girls Active Ambassadors at the recent Girls Active Inspiration Day at Dromore Community Centre.

    ‘Girls Active’ is an initiative developed by the Youth Sport Trust, which supports schools to increase girls’ engagement and enjoyment in PE, school sport and physical activity.

    The programme encourages teachers and girls to work together, empowering them to take positive action through influencing, leadership and inspiring their peers.

    Joining over 60 primary school girls aged 9-12 years at the recent ‘Girls Active Inspiration Day’ at Dromore Community Centre, was Irish Olympian Kerry O’Flaherty, who shared her own personal journey in sport from competing at the Commonwealth Games to the European and World Championships in the 3000m. Kerry encouraged each girl to believe in themselves and reinforced the message that “it’s never too late to take part in sport!”

    With funding from Sport NI, through the Community Planning Investment Programme 24/25, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough (ABC) Council has once again teamed up with the Youth Sport Trust to deliver this programme with local primary schools.

    Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage said: “We are seeing a very welcome popularity in female sports across our borough. Physical fitness and mental wellbeing go hand-in-hand with academic achievement, and as such, ‘Girls Active’ offers girls the chance to get involved in the design and delivery of activities that will appeal to their peers and boost interest and participation in sports within their schools. I wish all the girls involved in the programme every success.”

    Throughout the event, the girls took part in a range of activities including dance and exercises, team building games and workshops focusing on leadership, marketing and action planning. The action plans developed on the day will help the girls and teachers work together to engage more girls to be active within their schools.

    Richard Archibald, Interim CEO at Sport NI said: “We are delighted to support Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council with their Girls Active programme. Our Community Planning Investment programme is supporting councils across Northern Ireland to provide more opportunities for people to participate in sport and physical activity in their local areas. 

    “Sport has the power to change lives; it supports our physical and mental health, boosts confidence and provides an environment to make new friends. At Sport NI we want girls to find their place and Be Seen, Be Heard and Belong in sport and I hope this programme kickstarts a lifelong involvement in sport for the girls who took part.”

    For more information, please email Amanda Mogey, Sports Development Officer,

    *protected email*

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stay Safe on Shared Paths

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    26/03/25

    With weather improving over spring, people using shared paths in Dundee are being urged to show consideration for others as more walkers, wheelers and cyclists take to the network. 

    The reminder is being issued by a senior councillor, who is encouraging people to get out and make the most of Dundee’s shared paths, which include the 26-mile Green Circular. 

    Councillor Siobhan Tolland, depute convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure, said: “Dundee has many shared paths that are a great way of travelling round the city and I hope as many people as possible get out and enjoy them during the coming months.  

    “I’d like to take this opportunity to remind them to show consideration to other users of these paths. 

    “This network is a great asset to help improve health and wellbeing and I would like it to remain a safe environment for everyone.” 

    Top tips for shared paths include: 

    • When it’s dark, or in dull conditions, make sure you are visible to others, cyclists should use lights at night. 

    • Be particularly careful at junctions, bends, entrances onto the path, or any other ‘blind spots’ where people could appear in front of you without warning. 

    • Please be aware, especially of more vulnerable users such as older people, people with small children, people in wheelchairs, or the hearing or visually impaired.   

    • When riding a bike, ring a bell well in advance if approaching people from behind, but remember, this might not always be enough to alert people that you’re coming. 

    More details on Dundee’s shared paths can be found on the City Council’s website here  

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