NewzIntel.com

Category: Great Britain

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Secretary Steve Reed – NFU Conference speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed – NFU Conference speech

    Speech by Environment Secretary Steve Reed at the NFU Conference

    Thank you very much Tom for inviting me to speak today.  

    I’ve been to the NFU Conference before of course – but this is my first time attending as the Secretary of State for Defra. I want to personally thank Tom for our work together since I took up this role last July.  

    You were the first visitor to my office after the election and you’ve been back more since then than anyone else since. That conversation between us is invaluable as we navigate the farming transition together. 

    And I’m grateful for your views Tom – even where we’ve disagreed.  

    You set that out in your speech and I was listening to it, plain speaking as you always do. And I know it’s reflected here today, and the protests in Westminster and around the country. But even if the conversation gets difficult – I will always show up to have it. Because I respect this union and I respect British farming.

    Now, I can’t give the answer I know many of you want on inheritance tax. But I want you to know that I understand the strength of feeling in the room and in the sector, we can see and example of that right in front of me right now. And I am sorry it’s a decision that we’ve had to take.   

    Like I said I am always going to turn up to have the conversation with you, there’s an opportunity to ask questions afterwards and it might be better to ask them in that way because I have an awful lot that I think will be of interest to other people who are here in the room today that might want to hear what I have to say about that.

    Now I’ve heard many farmers describing that decision as ‘the final straw’ – and the truth is those straws have been piling up for many years. Tom you were outlining many of them in your speech.

    This sector is facing high input costs, tight margins, and unfairness in the supply chain. You’ve struggled to get enough workers to pick your fruit and veg. Frankly, you’ve been sold out in past trade deals. Farmland is increasingly at risk from severe flooding and drought.  

    And this all comes as we face the biggest transition for farming in generations, moving away from the Basic Payment Scheme to more sustainable methods of farming. 

    The underlying problem in this sector is that farmers do not make enough money for the hard work and commitment that they put in.   

    I will consider my time as Secretary of State a failure if I do not improve profitability for farmers up and down this country. 

    Today I can announce I will set up a new farming profitability unit within the department to drive that goal. I want to outline what the Government is doing to tackle the deep-rooted problems holding the sector back. Because time and again, I hear farmers say that they do not make a fair profit for the food they produce. And it is only by overcoming these long-standing challenges that we can create the conditions for your farming businesses to succeed. Achieving this starts by treating farms as the businesses they are. That’s something, in my view, the previous government forgot.  

    Farmers have repeatedly told me they want to stand on their own two feet. They are proud people and rightly so. But it is paternalistic and patronising for government to treat farmers as if they are not operating in a marketplace in which they need to turn a decent profit. 

    I worked in business for 16 years, with responsibility every year for driving up profit and driving down cost. British farming has some of the hardest working, most creative people anywhere in the British workforce. But a sector that isn’t profitable doesn’t have a future. I know that from my own long experience in business.   

    My focus is on ensuring farming becomes more profitable – because that is the best way to make your businesses viable for the future. And that’s how we ensure the long-term food security this country needs.   

    This approach will underpin our 25 Year Farming Roadmap and our Food Strategy, where we will work in partnership with farmers to make farming and food production sustainable and profitable. We will work with farmers and stakeholders to build the roadmap together, covering every part of the sector, and the first workshops will start next week. 

    The roadmap stands on three principles. 

    First, a sector that has food production at its core. The role of farming will always be to produce the food that feeds our nation. The instability we see across the world shows us why it’s so important we help farmers to get this right.  

    Second, a sector where farm businesses are more resilient in withstanding the shocks that periodically disrupt farming – severe flooding, drought, animal disease. We will help farmers who want to diversify their income to put more money into their business so they can survive these more difficult times when they come.   

    Third, a sector that recognises restoring nature is not in competition with sustainable food production, but is essential to it. 

    It is only by pursuing all three of these principles – and recognising that farms are businesses that need to be profitable, that we can guarantee national food security and a thriving food production and farming sector.  

    Our New Deal for Farmers is supporting farmers to produce food sustainably and profitably.  

    It won’t all happen overnight, but we are already making changes. 

    Tom has repeatedly told me farmers need certainty about seasonal workers. I’ve listened Tom, and I’m pleased to announce that we’re extending the Seasonal Worker visas for five years. That on it’s own is not the long-term solution. We will reduce the number of seasonal workers coming to the UK in the future.  

    But I recognise your business needs stability over the coming years as we work at pace to embrace innovation, develop the agri-tech and invest in farming practices so you can reduce your reliance on seasonal workers as quickly as possible. 

    We are making the Supply Chain fairer, with new regulations for the pig sector coming in by the end of next month in March to make sure contracts clearly set out expectations and only allow changes if they’ve agreed by all parties. We are engaging with industry on similar proposals for eggs and fresh produce. 

    For the first time ever, we are measuring where the public sector buys food from so we can use the Government’s own purchasing power to back British produce wherever we can. I have worked with my colleague Pat McFadden in the Cabinet Office to create new requirements for government catering contracts to favour high-quality, high-welfare products that British producers are well placed to meet.  

    This means British farmers and producers can compete for a fairer share of the £5 billion pounds a year the public sector spends on food. That’s money straight into farmers’ bank accounts to boost turnover and boost profits.  

    Ours is an outward-facing trading nation. But I want to be clear, we will never lower our food standards in trade agreements. We will promote robust standards nationally and internationally and will always consider whether overseas produce has an unfair advantage. British farming deserves a level playing field where you can compete and win and that is what you’ll get. We will use the full range of powers at our disposal to protect our most sensitive sectors. 

    Innovation and technology will help farmers produce more food more sustainably and more profitably. I’m delighted to announce the legislation to implement the Precision Breeding Act for plants in England has been laid in Parliament today. This offers huge potential to transform the plant breeding sector in England by enabling innovative products to be commercialised in years instead of in decades, and we are reinstating the Precision Breeding Industry Working Group so the whole food supply chain can work together to bring new food and feed products to market faster. 

    We are investing in the UK Agri-Technology sector with a further £110 million pounds in farming grants being announced today. In Spring we will launch new competitions under our Farming Innovation Programme for groundbreaking research that will help the sector transition towards net zero, and unlock opportunities from the Precision Breeding Act.  

    This is not just for the biggest farms. We will help farms of any size access technology that makes a real difference to the bottom-line over the years ahead. Like the chemical-free cleaning for integrated milking equipment by Oxi-Tech – funded through FIP, which boosts profits by lowering energy costs and chemical use. Our new ADOPT programme will fund farmer-led trials that bridge the gap between these new technologies and their use in the real world,  showing farmers that their investments in technology will deliver financial returns and boost profits. And once technologies and equipment hit the market, we are making them available through the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund. Products like the electric weeder developed by Rootwave to reduce chemical use. We will launch another opportunity this Spring to bring more products to the farmgate. 

    Farms must be resilient to future challenges if they are to remain financially viable and strengthen food security. That includes severe flooding and droughts through to animal disease, and geopolitical tensions that increase demands on our land for energy generation. 

    I know new tech doesn’t bring the same benefits for every type of farm. We are investing to help farm businesses build resilience against animal diseases that can devastate livelihoods and threaten our entire economy. Like the Bluetongue Virus, Avian Flu, or the recent case of Foot and Mouth that we saw in Germany. 

    That’s why we’re investing £208 million pounds to set up a new National Biosecurity Centre, modernising the Animal and Plant Health Agency facilities at Weybridge, to protect farmers, food producers and exporters from disease outbreaks that can wipe out businesses in a moment. 

    We are helping keepers of cattle, sheep and pigs in England improve the health, welfare and productivity of their animals by expanding the fully funded farm visits offer. 

    Tom had raised with me, and he just did in his speech, the risk from illegal meat imports. More than 92,000 thousand kilograms of illegal meat products were seized at ports across the UK over the last year. They carry huge risk of diseases such as African Swine Fever and Foot and Mouth getting into the country. We can’t tolerate this.   

    I am working with the Home Office and Border Force on plans to seize the cars, vans, trucks and coaches used by criminal gangs to smuggle illegal meat into our country and crush them so they can’t be used again.   

    I’ve listened to your concerns about other forms of crime as well. Crime damages farm profitability as you are forced to wait for farm or construction machinery to be replaced, or clear rubbish that has been dumped in your gateways or on your land. The National Rural Crime Unit is already supporting forces to tackle rural crime around the country.   

    To strengthen our approach and protect your profits, the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper will lay the legislation this year to better protect agricultural equipment like all-terrain vehicles, by requiring immobilisers and forensic marking as standard.  

    At the Oxford Farming Conference earlier this year, I announced new ways to help farmers remain profitable and viable, even in a challenging harvest. We will consult on national planning reforms this Spring to make it quicker for farmers to build new buildings, barns and other infrastructure to boost food production.  And ensure permitted development rights work for farms to convert larger barns into a farm shop, holiday let, or a sports facility if that suits their business planning. We will get red tape out of the way so you can invest to become more profitable.   

    I’m working with Ed Miliband and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero so more farm businesses can connect their own electricity generation to the grid much faster, so you can sell surplus energy and diversify your income.   

    The third element of our vision is nature. Restoring nature is vital to food production, not in competition with it. It is healthy soils, abundant pollinators and clean water that are the foundations farm businesses that they rely on to produce high crop yields and turn over a profit. Without nature thriving, there can be no long-term food security. 

    I want to thank everyone – upland, tenant, grassland farmers and others – everyone who is involved in our farming schemes. Almost 50 thousand farm businesses are now in schemes and around half of farmed land in England is being managed to enhance nature while producing food. 

    I recognise the frustration when we had to pause the Capital Grants offer last year without proper warning because of unprecedented demand. I promised to update you as soon as I could. And I can confirm today that every application submitted for capital grants before the pause in November will be taken forward, and following this, we will reopen the ELM capital grants offer this summer. 

    I’m also pleased to announce that we’re investing £30 million pounds to increase payment rates in Higher Level Stewardship with immediate effect to bring them more closely in line with our other farming schemes. Something the NFU and others have long called for. You just called for it again, Tom. These farmers are the pioneers of nature-friendly farming, often based in upland areas. They deliver high-quality environmental outcomes; now, finally, they will get a fair price for their work.  

    There’s a lot to be done to make British farming profitable and viable for the long term. I know we can only get there if we build the future together.   

    We will work with Tom, the NFU and farmers around the country to support farmers to keep producing the food we love to eat. This requires a new approach that recognises farms are businesses, and businesses need to turn a fair profit.  

    I’ll play my part in creating the conditions for that to happen. I know you’ll play your part in building resilient businesses that will innovate and succeed. Together, we will overcome the challenges this sector faces and give British farming the bright future this country knows you deserve.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 25 February 2025: The Arrival of the ‘West – East’ Irish Sea Border

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Jim Allister KC MP responds to the commencement of the enforcement of the West – East Irish Sea Border from today, 25 February.

     “For years we were told that the Irish Sea border was a one-way issue and that while goods moving from GB to NI would be subject to fettered access, that at least goods could move freely from NI to GB.

    “That was always a nonsense because if the border was not on the international border there would have to be a way of checking goods to differentiate those coming from the Republic from those coming from Northern Ireland.

    “Today we will begin to see it enforced on goods going from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.”

    In coming to terms with this important date in the division of the UK Mr Allister has highlighted two key implications:

    1. New Export Procedures Dividing the United Kingdom

    “Under the mis-named Windsor Framework (UK Internal Market and Unfettered Access) Regulations 2024, published with the Safeguarding the Union deal, export procedures are to be applied to the movement of NI goods from NI to GB in five different areas for the first time.

    “No matter how minimal the effects, they still amount to cementing in the Irish Sea border because no such export procedures are required for the movement of any goods within the rest of the UK. This is wrong!

    2. Recognition that a Hard Border is Not Necessary

    “It would seem that having submitted their customs and SPS forms electronically in advance, lorries will be told, before leaving home, whether to attend an inland border control posts or other place away from the border, including their destination, for checks.

    “This arrangement removes any justification for the Irish Sea border. It was only imposed because we were told there could not be a hard border on the actual international border and so the border must be moved to the Irish Sea. However, the revelation – through these new arrangements – that it was not necessary to have a hard border across the island of Ireland in the first place, because checks can take place elsewhere, is a game changer.

    “Going forward the government has to explain why, knowing: i) that such a solution is workable, and ii) that the proportion of goods entering the Republic from Northern Ireland in 2020 was tiny (only worth 0.003% of EU GDP in 2020), they agree with a border ‘solution’ that is giving the EU the right to both make Northern Ireland an EU colony in 300 areas of laws and then imposing a hard border interrupting a far greater flow of goods from one part of the UK, GB, to another, NI.

    “Moreover, the act of running a border, while removing hard infrastructure from that border, constitutes a very significant step towards Mutual Enforcement, the solution proposed by my Bill and which was first set out within the EU by Sir Jonathan Faull who served as EU Commission ‘Director General of the Task Force for Strategic Issues related to the UK Referendum’, together with Prof JH Weiler and Prof Daniel Sarmiento.

    “The Government should now abandon introducing the next part of the border, the Parcels Border, on 31 March and work to replace the Irish Sea border with Mutual Enforcement, the only morally acceptable solution because it avoids a hard border without disenfranchising 1.9 million people and disrespecting the territorial integrity of the UK.”

    Notes to Editors

    Details about the application of the West -East Irish Sea Border from tomorrow can be found:  Moving non-qualifying Northern Ireland goods from Northern Ireland to Great Britain – GOV.UK

    The new export procedures being applied to some goods moving from NI to GB are set out by S. 45B of the Internal Markey Act, inserted by the  Windsor Framework (UK Internal Market and Unfettered Access) Regulations 2024

    The regulations that make provision for a border without hard infra-structure on the border are: The Official Controls (Amendment) Regulations 2024

    Mr Allister’s Mutual Enforcement Bill can be accessed: European Union (Withdrawal Arrangements) Bill – Parliamentary Bills – UK Parliament

    The Five Categories to which export procedures will be applied to goods moving from NI to GB are:

    ‘In respect of all goods moving from Northern Ireland to other parts of the United Kingdom’s internal market, the United Kingdom confirms that export procedures under Regulation (EU) No 952/2013 will apply only where goods:

    1. are placed under a procedure listed in Article 210 of that Regulation,
    2. are in temporary storage in accordance with Article 144 of that Regulation,
    3. are subject to provisions of Union law falling within the second sentence of Article 6(1) of the Windsor Framework1 which prohibit or restrict the exportation of goods,
    4. are placed under the export procedure within the Union in accordance with Title V and Title VIII of that Regulation, or
    5. do not exceed EUR 3 000 in value and are packed or loaded for export shipment within the Union, in accordance with Article 221 of Regulation (EU) No 2015/2447.’

    https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1145715/Unilateral_Declarations_by_the_United_Kingdom_of_Great_Britain_and_Northern_Ireland_and_the_European_Union_in_the_Withdrawal_Agreement_Joint_Committee_on_export_procedures.pdf

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The ‘lab-leak origin’ of Covid-19. Fact or fiction?

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Florence Débarre, Directrice de recherche CNRS, chercheuse en biologie évolutive, Sorbonne Université

    In a January 24 interview with the far-right-wing outlet Breitbart News, newly appointed CIA director John Ratcliffe stated that assessing intelligence on a potential Wuhan lab leak was a top priority. The following day, The New York Times reported that the agency had shifted from an undecided stance to favoring a possible Chinese lab leak, albeit with a “low confidence” rating–the lowest on a three-tier scale (low, medium, high)–indicating the evidence remains inconclusive.

    The CIA has thus joined the ranks of the FBI and the Department of Energy (DOE), which has scientific jurisdiction, in supporting the possibility of a laboratory-related incident.

    Findings from a 2023 reportshow that, among the U.S. agencies that have investigated the pandemic’s origins, one remains undecided, while four others, along with the National Intelligence Council, support the natural origin hypothesis.

    What does ‘laboratory origin’ really mean?

    According to The New York Times, the CIA’s revised assessment is based not on new evidence, but on a reinterpretation of existing data. However, the reasoning behind its reassessment, along with the supporting data, has not been made public, making it impossible to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the agency’s conclusions.

    Adding to the complexity, “laboratory origin” is an umbrella term encompassing multiple, sometimes contradictory, scenarios. Confirming CNN’s 2023 report on the Department of Energy’s revised stance, The New York Times notes that while the DOE identifies the Wuhan Center for Disease Control (WCDC) as the outbreak’s likely source, the FBI attributes it to a lab leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV). As of now, the CIA has not disclosed which scenario it deems most plausible.

    Though WCDC is not an actual research laboratory, some of its employees were participating in wildlife sampling campaigns at the time of the outbreak. In late 2019, WCDC moved to a location close to the Huanan Market. A theory implicating the WCDC confirms evidence that the earliest detected cases are epidemiologically and geographically linked to the market, suggesting the virus emerged naturally.

    In contrast, the WIV is a research institute operating across two campuses–one located 12 kilometers from the market and the other, which houses the P4 laboratory, 27 kilometers away. Scenarios implicating the WIV generally posit that “gain-of-function” coronavirus experiments–intended to enhance a virus’s transmissibility or virulence–were conducted under unsafe biosecurity conditions. The WIV is a biosafety level 2 facility, two levels below the high-security P4 standard.

    The interactive map above highlights Wuhan laboratories–the two WIV campuses in purple and the WCDC in yellow–and the Wuhan Huanan market in red. Click the symbol in the top left corner to view the legend. Since the WCDC is located near the market, please zoom in to see it.

    The Covid-19 virus originated from a single source. If it did escape from a Chinese laboratory, it could not have simultaneously leaked from two separate labs conducting different types of research.

    The lab leak scenario, supported by mutually incompatible hypotheses, doesn’t hold up–even before considering theories that the virus was engineered in a U.S. lab and then sent to Wuhan.

    Beyond determining the virus’s origin, it is equally important to identify the exact nature of the virus–further complicating the lab-accident hypothesis. Was it a natural occurring virus contracted during a sampling campaign? A laboratory-cultivated virus transferred to cells or animals? Or even a directly genetically modified virus?

    Again, SARS-CoV-2 cannot be both a natural virus and the result of lab experiments. Arguments built on conflicting premises do little to strengthen the case for a research-related incident.

    No evidence of a laboratory-related incident

    The lab-incident hypothesis would carry much more weight if definitive proof emerged that, by late December 2019, a Wuhan laboratory possessed a progenitor of SARS-CoV-2–meaning a virus identical or nearly identical to SARS-CoV-2.

    In the case of the 2007 foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in southern England, for example, virus sequencing quickly led investigators to nearby high-security laboratories conducting research on a similar virus. The inquiry ultimately traced the outbreak to faulty effluent pipes at the facilities.

    To date, no virus has been identified that could be used in a laboratory as a direct progenitor of SARS-CoV-2. If the virus did emerge from a research-related incident, two possibilities remain: it was either an uncharacterized natural virus, unknown even to researchers, or it was a previously characterized virus that had not been disclosed–either because it was recently identified or part of a classified program–and is still being kept under wraps by scientists in Wuhan.

    Especially if SARS-CoV-2 were the result of genetic engineering. A lab-modified virus would mean its genetic sequence was known before the pandemic and accessible to researchers. However, by 2021, the U.S. intelligence community had determined that researchers at the WIV had no prior knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 before the outbreak. While absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, concrete data has yet to emerge supporting the hypothesis of laboratory modification.

    Theories about a potential lab outbreak have also fueled speculation about external involvement, both within China and abroad. A U.S. Senate committee report put forward an all-Chinese scenario, citing the suspicious 2020 death of a Beijing-based researcher working on a new vaccine.

    Other theories center on the NGO EcoHealth Alliance, which collaborated with WIV to collect and study natural coronavirus strains before its funding was abruptly cut off at Donald Trump’s request in Spring 2020. The organization’s president has since been banned from federal funding for five years, facing criticism over oversight issues, including delayed reporting of an experiment on a chimeric coronavirus and failure to provide WIV’s laboratory notebooks.

    Among the most high-profile figures implicated in U.S.-based complicity theories is Anthony Fauci, the former White House Covid advisor and head of the agency that funded the EcoHealth Alliance/WIV collaboration. But allegations against Fauci go far beyond simply approving research grants. One narrative claims he deliberately suppressed discussions about the pandemic’s point of origin, pressuring researchers to alter their conclusions in exchange for funding. No evidence has surfaced to support this claim.

    Anticipating potential retribution from his successor and the Republican Party, Former President Joe Biden preemptively granted Fauci a presidential pardon. However, newly elected President Donald Trump has since revoked Fauci’s personal security detail, and Republican Senator Rand Paul has vowed to continue efforts to prosecute him.

    The natural-origin theory faces hurdles as well

    Since these competing lab leak theories have emerged from a lack of conclusive evidence anything is possible. However, available data suggest the virus may have originated naturally from animals sold at the Huanan Market.

    Multiple sources, including research from Chinese institutions, support this hypothesis: two early SARS-CoV-2 strains were detected at the market, with the earliest cases reported in homes within the vicinity, even for patients without direct epidemiological links to it, and findings from the Chinese Center for Disease Control (CCDC) indicate that raccoon dogs and masked palm civets–species implicated in earlier SARS outbreaks–were present in the market’s southwest corner, where traces of SARS-CoV-2 were frequently detected.

    However, by the time the China CDC team arrived at the Huanan Market–just hours after its closure for sample collection–raccoon dogs and civets were no longer present. As a result, no direct traces of infection were detected, and the definitive evidence some are hoping for may never be uncovered.

    But even if such proof were to emerge, it’s unlikely to settle the debate. Additional confirmation would be needed to show that the contamination originated in the animals rather than being a secondary infection transmitted by humans. Moreover, skeptics could argue that the animals themselves came from a laboratory. In other words, the controversy is far from over.

    For now, with the new Trump administration focused on finding a culprit, the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic will remain in the spotlight. Senator Rand Paul, now chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), has made the issue his favorite hobbyhorse.

    While declassifying additional information from the U.S. intelligence community could help clarify competing conclusions, there are concerns that the administration’s efforts may unfairly target researchers, potentially resulting in more innocent victims.

    Florence Débarre received funding in 2022 from the MODCOV19 platform of the National Institute for Mathematical Sciences and their Interactions (Insmi, CNRS) to model the initial dynamics of an epidemic.

    – ref. The ‘lab-leak origin’ of Covid-19. Fact or fiction? – https://theconversation.com/the-lab-leak-origin-of-covid-19-fact-or-fiction-250462

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The First Minister’s challenge to Anas Sarwar on the eve of the Budget

    Source: Scottish National Party

    Dear Anas,

    I welcome the response from the Prime Minister to my call last week for the UK Government to provide support for Grangemouth.

    I know you share my concern that the decision to close the Grangemouth refinery is premature and fundamentally short sighted and the UK Government’s commitment to additional investment is a step in the right direction. We all have a responsibility to work collaboratively to secure Grangemouth’s long-term future, its workforce and Scotland’s transition to net zero.

    My announcement last week that the Scottish Government will make a further £25 million available to enable businesses to bring forward investable propositions for Grangemouth, will be put to Parliament as an amendment at Stage 3 of the Budget Bill tomorrow. This funding will be made immediately available from the beginning of the next financial year without requiring match-funding. I hope that when the UK Government provide more details on the announced £200 million being available through the National Wealth Fund that this will also be available for timely deployment on a similar basis as the funding I have set out and that these funds align to best support a just transition for Grangemouth.

    In that spirit of cooperation, I trust that you and Scottish Labour colleagues will now be in a position to vote for the Budget at Stage 3 tomorrow and work constructively to deliver the nearly £90 million investment for Grangemouth, supporting the jobs, livelihoods and businesses which depend on it.

    Yours sincerely,

    John Swinney

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour must act to stop energy price hikes

    Source: Scottish Greens

    25 Feb 2025 Energy

    It it time to break the link between global gas prices and electricity bills.

    More in Energy

    The Labour government is badly failing in its promise to lower energy bills, says Scottish Green co-leader Lorna Slater.

    Ms Slater’s comments come as Ofgem has announced the energy price cap will rise by 6.4% this April, or £111 a year for an average household.

    Ms Slater said:

    “The fossil fuel giant executives are laughing their way to the bank and toasting eye watering profits, but households and families across our country are being plunged into poverty by a broken energy market.

    “Scotland has renewable resources that any country would envy, but bill payers are not seeing the benefit of them.

    “Labour promised to cut costs, but this is the third increase in a row since Keir Starmer took office. It simply isn’t good enough. People want to know when they will stop being hit with one increase after another.

    “We need radical and urgent reform of our energy markets and to break the link between global gas prices and electricity bills. Renewables have helped cut the cost of generating electricity, this should be reflected in household bills.

    “The shift to clean, green renewable energy is crucial for our environment, and it is key to lowering bills and building a system that works for people and planet.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Historic road to World Heritage site transformed

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Historic road to World Heritage site transformed

    Published: 25 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Minns and Albanese Labor Governments have partnered with Balranald Shire Council to deliver a major road upgrade which is improving safety and access to the World Heritage Mungo National Park and Willandra Lakes Region.

    Marma Box Creek Road is a critical link to the World Heritage listed sites in remote south-western New South Wales and historically, around 26 kilometres of the road was dirt.

    Now thanks to a $3.25 million investment from the NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads program and $900,000 from Balranald Shire Council, a 23.1 kilometre stretch of the road has been sealed.

    Additionally, with investment from the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program of over $1.35 million, council is working to seal the final 2.9 kilometres of Marma Box Creek Road before the end of 2025, weather permitting.

    These upgrades will significantly reduce road closures during wet weather and improve safety for local farmers, families and school students.

    Tourists who visit the site will also benefit from safer journeys in the world-famous region where Mungo Lady and Mungo Man were discovered.

    For the Mutthi Mutthi, Paakantji and Ngyimpaa people, the 40,000-year-old remains, and other evidence of their ancestors found in the area are an important part of their communal history.

    The remains of Mungo Lady were returned to Lake Mungo in 1992, while Mungo Man’s remains were repatriated in 2017, both via Marma Box Creek Road.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison:

    “The upgraded Marma Box Creek Road represents more than just improved tourism and freight infrastructure; it signifies a crucial link to the ancient cultural heritage of First Peoples.

    “This investment not only enhances access to the area but also supports the preservation and sharing of Indigenous history dating back over 40,000 years.

    “By facilitating safer and more accessible travel, this initiative promises to enrich tourism experiences and foster greater appreciation for the profound cultural significance of this unique landscape.”

    Quotes attributable to Deborah O’Neill, Senator for New South Wales:

    “This is a very special part of the world and a place that all Australians can be proud of.

    “The Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program provides critical funding directly to local councils for maintenance and upgrades like these works for Marma Box Creek Road. Investments like this mean better local roads for residents, and for tourists – and less pressure on councils and ratepayers.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Murray, Helen Dalton:

    “Government investment in maintaining and upgrading rural and remote transport infrastructure is vital to keeping our communities connected, and for their economic growth. It’s reassuring to see continued investment in rural and remote NSW.

    “Mungo National Park is a spectacular location in my electorate, a significant cultural site and hidden gem.

    “It’s fantastic that the government is making this incredible part of the world more accessible for us to improve our knowledge of the heritage, culture and history of our First Nations people.”

    Quotes attributable to Balranald Shire Council Mayor, Cr Louie Zaffina:

    “This road is ‘the gateway’ to major tourism attractions in the area and an integral freight route for the area’s mining interests and local farms.

    “Ensuring the road’s safety and resilience supports the longevity of the significant economic benefits and employment opportunities that are fed back into the nearby communities through these industries.”

    Quotes attributable to Tanya Charles, Discovery Ranger at Mungo National Park:

    “The improved all weather access to Mungo National Park and the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area brings added safety for visitors, tour operators, local and staff using the new road.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government to increase Higher Level Stewardship payments and re-open Capital Grants Offer

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government to increase Higher Level Stewardship payments and re-open Capital Grants Offer

    The government is increasing payment rates for those in existing Higher Level Stewardship and confirming the ELM standalone Capital Grants offer worth £45m in 2025/26 will re-open in the summer.

    Farmers and land managers who have been at the forefront of nature-friendly farming in England will see an uplift to Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) payment rates, the government has announced today (Monday 24 February).   

    The increased payment rates, which will apply for agreement holders across a range of HLS options will provide a boost for farmers – often living and working in upland areas – who have been the pioneers of nature-friendly farming.  

    It will bolster support for farmers delivering high-quality environmental outcomes to maintain species-rich grasslands, managing our most important habitats and delivering a range of high-quality environmental outcomes.  

    In a further boost for nature recovery and the environment, the popular standalone ELM Capital Grants scheme will re-open in the summer, worth around £45 million in 2025/26. 

    The Rural Payments Agency is now processing the remaining 4,000 applications held when the scheme paused. These agreements will be worth £120 million over their lifetime. 

    We are also supporting farmers to improve productivity and protect the environment with a £110 million investment in equipment and technology grants.  

    The newly designed grant competitions launching this spring will focus on helping the sector transition to net zero and unlock opportunities from the Precision Breeding Act. 

    Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner said:   

    This government’s focus is on ensuring farming becomes more profitable and businesses are viable for the future – delivering the long-term food security this country needs. 

    Investing in innovation and technology will help farmers produce food more sustainably and profitably, and get the equipment they need to help their bottom line. 

    And with nature being so crucial to long-term food security, we’re rewarding the pioneers of nature-friendly farming – including many upland farmers.

    Our £110 million investment in innovation, equipment, technology includes:  

    • The launch of one round of the Farming Equipment and Technology (FETF) Fund in the spring, providing grants of between £1,000 and £25,000. 
    • New Farming Innovation Programme (FIP) grants worth more than £42.5 million, including competitions focussed on unlocking the benefits of precision breeding and supporting the net zero transition. 
    • Our new ADOPT fund will provide £20 million of additional funding for farmer-led trials that bridge the gap between new technologies and their real-world application, giving farmers the confidence investments in tech will deliver the returns they need. 

    Alongside these grants, we are also extending the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme to continue to support and improve England’s most precious areas of natural beauty, and improving animal health and welfare through government funded vet visits.  

    Through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway farmers will be able to apply for visits to cover every eligible species they have from this week, and from summer they will also be able to apply for a visit for every eligible herd or flock of the same species. 

    Additionally, the recruitment campaign for the Commissioner for Tenant Farming Sector role is now live. The Commissioner will encourage behaviour in the sector to meet standards set out in the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice for England.   

    As part of the government’s Plan for Change, we are delivering on the Government’s New Deal for Farmers, with the first steps set out by the Secretary of State at the Oxford Farming Conference.

    We will work with the sector to boost profitability through fair competition across the supply chain, use planning reforms to support food production and monitor food currently bought in the public sector and where it is bought from. 

    We will help farmers diversify income streams and make additional money from selling surplus energy from solar panels and wind turbines by accelerating connections to the grid.

    We are going further to develop a 25-year farming roadmap to make the sector more profitable in the decades to come.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Communities to get chance to shine in once-in-a-lifetime People’s Parade

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    People’s Parade events image

    Published: Tuesday, 25th February 2025

    This landmark event will take place on Saturday, 7 June, in the city centre, as part of the celebrations for the first ever Stoke-on-Trent day.

    Communities across Stoke-on-Trent are invited to take part in the People’s Parade – a spectacular celebration of Stoke-on-Trent’s past, present, and future.
     

    The city council is working in partnership with Stoke Creates, to launch the major community event which has the theme of From the Cradle to the Rave – 100 Years of Stoke-on-Trent.

    This landmark event will take place on Saturday, 7 June, in the city centre, as part of the celebrations for the first ever Stoke-on-Trent day.
     

    It will bring together people of all ages and backgrounds. The parade will feature themed sections that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and creative spirit.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: “The People’s Parade is an opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Stoke-on-Trent unique. Our Centenary year is a chance for communities to come together and take pride in the city’s creativity, diversity, and resilience.
     

    “We want to see the streets lined with people, all coming together to celebrate the Centenary year.

    “We’ve had a tough decade, but what continues to shine through is the love for Stoke-on-Trent. Let’s harness that and do something monumental.”
     

    Professor Carola Boehm, Chair of Stoke Creates said: “The People’s Parade will be a dynamic, inclusive celebration that reflects the energy and talent of the city.
     

    “From Bhangra to Northern Soul, cricket to ceramics, every tradition, passion, and art form will have a place in this event. It will be a true representation of what makes Stoke-on-Trent exceptional.
     

    “Whether you march, dance, roll or rave, this your chance to shine in a once-in-a-lifetime centenary celebration.”
     

    The parade is made possible through funding from Arts Council England, supporting a city-wide Centenary programme designed to honour Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage while looking towards the future.

    The money follows a successful funding bid from Stoke Creates Cultural Compact and will support an exciting programme of cultural events to mark the city’s 100th anniversary and celebrate its status as a World Craft City.

    Anyone who wants to get involved can fill in the short form at: https://sot100.org.uk/events/event/91/the-people-s-parade

    For any questions, contact Stoke Creates on Stoke100@stokecreates.org.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rail reform: a railway fit for Britain’s future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Written statement to Parliament

    Rail reform: a railway fit for Britain’s future

    Outlines the next steps to reform Britain’s railways through a recently launched consultation.

    On Tuesday 18 February, I launched the public consultation for the government’s upcoming Railways Bill. This consultation sets out our proposals for the most comprehensive reform of Britain’s railways in 30 years, ending decades of fragmentation and inefficiency and delivering a simplified model built from the ground up to serve its users.

    Our country needs an efficient, modern railway that kickstarts growth and realises the potential of our towns, cities and businesses. An affordable, reliable railway brings new markets and job opportunities closer to those who stand ready to make the most of them. It makes education, healthcare, public services and even just the support of family and friends more accessible to those who need it. A railway that offers a genuine alternative to road travel, combined with a thriving rail freight sector, means cleaner air and less congestion for everyone.

    As you are aware, this government is delivering our Plan for Change with investment and reform driving growth, putting more money in people’s pockets, and rebuilding Britain. Reforming our railways is central to this and will drive improved performance, bringing more people back to rail, generating greater revenue and reducing costs. This consultation document sets out our vision for the future of Britain’s railways and the transformative changes that are already underway to make it a reality.

    Our manifesto commitment to put passengers and communities back at the heart of the railways by establishing Great British Railways (GBR) is central to achieving this plan. We have already delivered the legislation to bring our railways back into public ownership, set up Shadow GBR, and reset industrial relations with the trade unions. The publication of this consultation marks our next step in fixing the railways once and for all.

    The consultation sets out our plans to establish GBR as a new arm’s length body, bringing responsibility for train services and rail infrastructure together into one integrated organisation. This means most passengers will travel on GBR trains, running on GBR tracks, and arrive at GBR stations – all delivered by a single organisation in line with the clear strategic direction set by government. GBR will be empowered with the expertise and authority to run the railway in the public interest, delivering reliable, affordable, high-quality, and efficient services; alongside ensuring safety and accessibility.

    The private sector will continue to play a vital role under the new model, from freight and open access services to ticket retailing, rolling stock and the wider supply chain. GBR will leverage the best of both the public and private sectors to unlock growth and drive innovation. GBR will follow fair, efficient and transparent processes when allocating access to the network, with a robust set of protections for third-party operators enshrined in law. There will also be a statutory duty on GBR to promote the use of rail freight, recognising the sector’s growth potential and helping to deliver on the government’s commitment to net zero.

    GBR will have a new customer-focused culture, ensuring passengers are at the heart of everything it does. This will be reinforced by the establishment of a powerful new independent passenger watchdog that will monitor standards, champion improvements, and ensure passengers feel they have a clear voice within the industry standing up for them.

    A reliable, affordable, and efficient railway is vital to supporting the government’s growth mission, not only in connecting people to jobs and opportunities but also contributing to the regeneration and integration of local communities. The proposals in this consultation protect and enhance the roles of devolved leaders, both in Scotland and Wales and within England, in shaping how the railway serves their communities. Existing devolution settlements will be protected and devolved leaders will benefit from new statutory roles, drawing on their experiences and expertise to manage, plan and develop a network that delivers for communities. We will continue to work closely with these leaders as we shape this role to ensure the benefits of our reforms are felt across Britain. In addition, established mayoral strategic authorities will have a right to request further rail devolution within England, bringing decision-making closer to those who use the railways.

    The publication of this consultation marks the next milestone in delivering the legislation needed to transform our railways, unlocking their potential to drive growth, and contribute to a decade of national renewal under this government. We are therefore seeking the views of passengers, freight customers, industry suppliers and experts, and the public at large ahead of the introduction of the Railways Bill later in this session. Only once we have these views can we deliver a system that truly serves its customers, provides better value for hardworking taxpayers, acts as an engine for growth and opportunity, and that stands once again as a point of pride for modern Britain.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New powers for police to tackle neighbourhood crime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New powers for police to tackle neighbourhood crime

    In one of the biggest legislative updates to policing for decades, a package of new laws will tackle antisocial behaviour, shop theft and street crime.

    The Crime and Policing Bill, which is central to the government’s Plan for Change and Safer Streets mission, will be introduced in Parliament today and begins its journey to becoming law.

    It will also include measures to address the highest-harm crimes impacting society, such as knife crime, violence against women and girls, cybercrime, child sexual abuse, and terrorism.

    In new measures announced today, police will be given enhanced powers against theft of mobile phones – no longer needing a warrant to search properties where stolen items have been electronically geolocated.

    Under the new warrantless powers of entry, officers will be able to enter premises identified by electronic mapping if stolen items are believed to be there and it is not practicable to obtain a warrant from a court. This can be done through a ‘find my phone’ app, WiFi access points, Bluetooth, mobile network technology or tracking devices attached to any other possession or vehicle.

    It will support the police to act swiftly in the ‘golden hour’ of investigations, which is particularly crucial for investigations into theft, helping to provide swifter seizures of stolen property and providing a better service to victims.

    Sitting at the heart of the government’s Safer Streets mission and Plan for Change, the new bill will help tackle the crimes that matter most to communities but have been ignored for too long. The new laws will be backed up by the recruitment of 13,000 extra neighbourhood policing roles, with a named officer in every community. 

    On the introduction of the Crime and Policing Bill, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    This flagship Crime and Policing Bill is at the heart of our mission for safer streets and this government’s Plan for Change. 

    For too long communities have had to put up with rising town centre and street crime, and persistent antisocial behaviour, while neighbourhood police have been cut. And for years too little has been done to tackle the most serious violence of all including knife crime and violence against women and children. 

    That is why the new Crime and Policing Bill is about taking back our streets and town centres, restoring respect for law and order, and giving the police and local communities the support and tools they need to tackle local crime.

    On the new warrantless powers of entry, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    For the last few years, our towns and cities have seen street theft shoot up, as organised gangs have been targeting mobile phones.

    But it is extremely frustrating for victims when they can see exactly where their stolen phone has gone but nothing is done.

    That is why we are determined to give the police the powers they need to move fast to crack down on these crimes that are blighting our communities.

    It places significant focus on protecting high streets. The effective immunity for shop theft of goods below £200 will be scrapped and retail workers will be better protected from assault. 

    There will also be increased powers to crack down on repeat antisocial behaviour offenders, with new Respect Orders banning those prolific offenders from our town centres.

    Police will be given the power to seize vehicles that cause havoc to communities, allowing them to deal with the scourge of off-road bikes in public parks and dangerous e-scooters on pavements.

    The bill will treat VAWG as the national emergency it truly is, ensuring tougher enforcement action against perpetrators and better protection for victims. It will strengthen Stalking Protection Orders, introduce a new criminal offence covering spiking and bar registered sex offenders from changing their name where they continue to pose a threat.

    Implementing a flagship recommendation of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, the bill will create a new duty to report child sexual abuse, backed up by criminal sanctions for those who seek to cover up abuse.

    To help rebuild confidence in police, chief constables will be enabled to remove officers who are unfit to serve by allowing them the right to appeal the result of misconduct boards to the Police Appeals Tribunal. 

    In the year ending September 2024, police recorded one million incidents of antisocial behaviour. In the same period, they recorded over 490,000 shop theft offences, an increase of 23 percent over the previous 12-month period. Instances of theft from a person increased by 22 percent, while there were also over 55,000 recorded offences involving a knife or sharp instrument.

    Other measures that have already been announced by the government, such as the presumption of anonymity for firearms officers facing criminal proceedings relating to the use of lethal force in the line of duty, will be introduced later in the parliamentary process. This also includes Ronan’s Law clamping down on the online sales of knives, announced last week.

    Clare Sumner, Chief Policy & Social Impact Officer at the Premier League said: 

    The Premier League welcomes the government’s commitment to making communities safer for all through the introduction of the Crime and Policing Bill. The Premier League and our clubs – together with our partners across the game – are committed to using the power of football to provide positive opportunities for young people.  

    Launched in 2006 with the Home Office and the Metropolitan Police, Premier League Kicks is one of our flagship programmes delivered by 93 professional football club charities across the country to support young people in high-need areas. The programme provides free, weekly football sessions in safe environments offering mentoring, personal development opportunities and positive pathways for young people.

    Asda Chief Commercial Officer (Non-food and Retail), Liz Evans, said:

    The Crime and Policing Bill is a major step forward, which builds on the measures that this government has already introduced to deliver the Safer Streets mission. Recent interventions, like the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, will help us to directly tackle two significant challenges that we are facing as a business – incidences of assault and shoplifting are daily challenges across our estate, which have a devastating impact on colleagues and customers.

    More police working in our communities will have a positive impact as we continue to mitigate those challenges. That is why we warmly welcome this bill and recognise it as a key milestone in combatting retail crime and antisocial behaviour. As I have said before, Asda is ready to work in partnership with our new neighbourhood officers to help reduce crime and improve safety in the areas we serve.

    Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman said: 

    We strongly welcome the introduction of the Crime and Policing Bill, which we hope will send a clear message that shop theft and assaults on retailers will be taken seriously by both the police and the justice system. 

    People running and working in shops deserve to be treated with respect, and we believe this bill takes important steps toward that goal.

    CEO of Neighbourhood Watch, John Hayward-Cripps,  said:

    Neighbourhood Watch is delighted that the government is continuing to show its commitment to neighbourhood policing. The focus on addressing and reducing the epidemic of antisocial behaviour, theft, and shoplifting that we all witness in our town centres and communities will play an important role in increasing feelings of confidence in the police, and feeling safer in our local communities. 

    The reduction in police funding over the last 15 years has been particularly felt in neighbourhood policing, resulting in low public confidence and crimes going unreported, due to the perception that the police do not have the resources to investigate. 

    The Crime and Policing Bill combined with the additional resources being introduced will enable the police to do the job they want to do, rather than only focusing on their biggest priorities, and signals the government’s commitment to improving our communities and making us all feel safer and more connected.

    Dawn Dines, the CEO of Stamp Out Spiking welcomes the introduction of the Crime and Policing Bill with its clear indications that government policy is addressing violent crime, antisocial behaviour, and spiking, as a matter of priority.

    Increasing public confidence and the sense that people will be safer on our streets, without the fear of being attacked, together with enhanced police visibility, will go a long way to create community cohesion and confidence in Home Office strategies.

    Dawn said:

    The key to combatting predators of these spiking crimes, to enhance public protection and to reduce antisocial behaviour, is proactive education. A collaborative approach is essential to satisfy the needs of different communities, environments and changing trends. It is paramount for service providers to have the confidence of receiving current, concise information from key stakeholders, who deal with victims and security, in the day and nighttime economy.

    Clearly the detection and prevention of crime is not only a matter for the police. It is the duty of us all, as caring, compassionate citizens, not tolerating a culture of violence where these acts can be committed.

    This bill will create a positive impact on encouraging victims – especially of spiking – to come forward, to report, clearly indicating that offending is not acceptable and will have severe consequences.

    The full scope of legislation at introduction includes:

    Tackling antisocial behaviour by:

    • giving the police and others stronger powers to tackle antisocial behaviour by introducing Respect Orders
    • removing the need for police to issue a warning before seizing vehicles, such as off-road bikes being used antisocially
    • strengthening the use of existing antisocial behaviour powers. The bill also gives ministers the power to issue statutory guidance to councils in England on the enforcement of fly-tipping

    Tougher action on knife crime, including:

    • creating a power to seize, retain and destroy bladed articles found on private property
    • increasing the maximum penalty for sale of dangerous weapons to under-18s
    • creating a new criminal offence of possessing a bladed article with the intent to cause harm

    Protecting retail workers by:

    • introducing a new offence of assaulting a retail worker, giving workers in shops up and down the country the protection they need
    • removing the legislation which makes shop theft of and below £200 a summary-only offence, sending a clear message that any level of shop theft will be taken seriously

    Protecting vulnerable children and adults by:

    • introducing a new offence of child criminal exploitation, alongside a civil preventative order designed to stop the abhorrent exploitation of children by criminals
    • making cuckooing a specific offence, protecting the most vulnerable people whose homes are used by others to commit criminal activity
    • extending the current offence of exposure and creating a new child abduction offence  

    Tackling child sexual abuse, including implementing recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse by:

    • banning AI-models optimised to produce child sexual abuse material, and extend existing law criminalising ‘paedophile manuals’ to include material instructing how to use AI to generate child sexual abuse material
    • criminalising moderators and administrators of websites that host child sexual abuse material
    • granting Border Force officers the power to search the digital devices of individuals arriving in the UK for child sexual abuse material
    • introducing a new duty in England for adults working in relevant activities to report instances of child sexual abuse
    • introducing a new statutory aggravating factor covering grooming behaviour.

    Tackling violence against women and girls by: 

    • creating new offences criminalising the taking or recording of intimate images or videos without consent or a reasonable belief in consent
    • creating a new offence capturing spiking
    • empowering the police to release the identity online stalkers to victims, alongside strengthening the use of stalking protection orders whilst issuing guidance to agencies on combatting stalking

    New powers to tackle serious crime, including: 

    • banning the possession or distribution of electronic devices used in vehicle theft
    • strengthening the ability to apply corporate criminal liability to the makeup of modern corporations

    Strengthening the supervision of offenders in the community by:

    • reforming the ability of the police to manage registered sex offenders, including restricting their ability to change their name where there is a risk of sexual harm
    • giving probation officers the power to polygraph test more serious offenders who have committed sexual or terrorism-motivated crimes

    Introducing new public order and safety powers, including:  

    • banning the possession of fireworks, flares and other pyrotechnics at protests
    • criminalising the climbing of specified war memorials, making it clear that such disrespectful behaviour is unacceptable
    • banning the use of face coverings to conceal a person’s identity at protests designated by the police

    Tackling fraud and economic crime by:

    • prohibiting possession and supply of “SIM farms” with no legitimate purpose
    • reforming the confiscation powers used to strip convicted criminals of their proceeds of crime
    • introducing cost protections for law enforcement agencies to protect them from the risk of adverse costs when investigating kleptocrats and high-net worth individuals and corporations

    Giving police the powers they need, including: 

    • creating a new targeted power for the police to enter premises to search for and seize electronically tracked stolen goods, ranging from mobile phones to stolen vehicles and agricultural machinery
    • expanding the lawful purposes by which law enforcement agencies can access the DVLA driver licence records

    Tougher action on drugs, including: 

    • expanding police powers to drug test more suspects on arrest, helping direct more drug users into treatment and away from illegal drugs

    Enhancing public confidence in policing by: 

    • reforming the Independent Officer of Police Conduct’s (IOPC) investigative processes and giving chief officers of police the right to appeal the result of misconduct boards to the Police Appeals Tribunal
    • putting the IOPC’s victims’ right of review on a statutory footing.

    Update counter-terrorism powers by: 

    • implementing recommendations of the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation, such as introducing youth diversion orders to divert young people away from terrorism-related activity

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extra energy bill support for the country

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Extra energy bill support for the country

    The government is bringing forward strengthened support for millions of households to help pay their energy bills next winter.

    • Nearly 3 million more families would be eligible to receive the £150 Warm Home Discount next winter under new proposals to help people with their energy bills
    • 1 in 5 families in Britain would get help with their bills through these proposals, giving households a helping hand to deal with an unpredictable international energy market
    • comes alongside plans to accelerate a debt relief scheme which will help tackle debt and reduce households’ energy costs

    Almost 3 million more households, including almost 1 million households with children, would get support to pay their energy bills next winter, as the government consults on proposals to offer more support to consumers across the country.  

    Due to global gas price spikes this winter and the continued impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the energy regulator Ofgem has announced today (Tuesday 25 February) an increase in the energy price cap for April to June 2025. This price is set independently of the government, reflecting changes in wholesale prices and global markets. 

    In response, the government is acting to protect billpayers by consulting on the expansion of the Warm Home Discount, giving eligible households £150 off their energy bills. This would bring around 2.7 million households into the scheme – pushing the total number of households that would receive the discount next winter up to an estimated 6.1 million.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    This is worrying news for many families.

    This government is determined to do everything we can to protect people from the grip of fossil fuel markets. Expanding the Warm Home Discount can help protect millions of families from rising energy bills, offering support to consumers across the country.

    Alongside this, the way to deliver energy security and bring down bills for good is to deliver our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower- with homegrown clean power that we in Britain control.

    The government will also work closely with Ofgem to accelerate proposals on a potential debt relief scheme, first consulted on last year, to target unsustainable debt built up during the energy crisis.  

    The proposed debt support scheme, alongside the Warm Home Discount, is an important first step to cut the costs of servicing bad debt, which is currently contributing to higher bills for all billpayers. Under these plans, the target would be to reduce the debt allowance to pre-crisis levels, with Ofgem estimating that these plans could lower these costs by £25 to £30 per year. 

    This additional support for households complements the government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower, delivering energy security and bringing down bills for good. The expected rise in the price cap shows once again the cost of remaining reliant on the unstable global fossil fuel markets that are driving price increases. Three years on from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, wholesale gas prices have now risen by 15% compared to the previous price cap period, which is directly affecting the cost of generating power and heating of homes. Moving to a power system based on homegrown, clean energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on volatile markets and protect billpayers. 

    To achieve this, government has set out the most ambitious reforms of the UK’s energy system in a generation. Within its first 8 months in office, the government has lifted the onshore wind ban, established Great British Energy, approved nearly 3 GW of solar, delivered a record-breaking renewables auction and kickstarted the carbon capture and hydrogen industries in the UK. Reforms to nuclear planning rules have also been introduced to clear a path for smaller, and easier to build nuclear reactors – helping to deliver energy security, grow the economy and deliver clean, cheap energy.

    Ofgem CEO Jonathan Brearley said:

    Energy debts that began during the energy crisis have reached record levels and without intervention will continue to grow. This puts families under huge stress and increases costs for all customers.

    We’re developing plans that could give households with unmanageable debt the clean slate they need to move forward. We welcome the government’s support for these plans, and their plans to expand the Warm Home Discount, which will also offer financial help to nearly 3 million more households that need it most.

    While the government presses on with the clean power mission, swift action has already been taken to shield energy consumers from high prices. These measures include:

    • extended the Household Support Fund to provide help through local councils to struggling households with essential costs, including energy bills
    • worked with energy suppliers to negotiate a £500 million winter support package for consumers
    • rolled out the next steps of the Warm Homes Plan, which will upgrade 300,000 homes this financial year
    • consulting on boosting living standards in the private rented sector by requiring all private landlords in England and Wales to meet Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C or equivalent in their properties by 2030, which will help a million renters out of fuel poverty
    • announced a comprehensive review of the energy regulator Ofgem, empowering it to facilitate growth and innovation and become a stronger champion for consumers
    • driving forward with pro-consumer reforms: 

      • challenging unlawful back billing; taking action on inaccurate bills
      • driving the smart meter rollout
      • giving every family the option of a zero standing charge tariff, so they have more choice in how they pay for their energy
      • ensuring compensation for wrongful installation of prepayment meters

    In addition, government has also moved quickly to protect working people from wider cost of living pressures, including:

    • helping to keep prices down at the pumps by freezing fuel duty for an additional 12 months, saving motorists £3 billion in 2025 to 2026
    • targeting support with the largest increase to the Carer’s Allowance earnings limit since it was introduced in 1976 – worth £41 a week
    • capping the amount that can be deducted cut from Universal Credit payments when repaying short-term loans and debts, saving 1.2 million of the poorest families in the UK £420 a year on average
    • through the government’s commitment to the Triple Lock, millions will see their State Pension rise by up to £1,900 over this parliament

    Taken together, these reforms will help to improve the lives of working people and put more money in their pockets, secure home-grown energy and kickstart economic growth, as part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change. Through this ambitious programme, the government will deliver a decade of national renewal and fix the foundations of the country.

    Notes to editors

    The consultation sets out proposals to expand the reach of the Warm Home Discount Scheme by removing the high-cost-to-heat threshold in the current Warm Home Discount (England and Wales) Regulations 2022 (for winter 2025 to 2026) and increasing the level of spend available in Scotland for suppliers to allocate through the Broader Group. All households in receipt of means-tested benefits would then be eligible to receive the £150 electricity bill rebate. 

    If you live in England and Wales, you currently qualify for the Warm Home Discount if you either get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, are on a means tested benefit and have high energy costs.

    If you live in Scotland, you currently qualify if you either get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, are on a means tested benefit in Scotland and / or meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme.

    Further information on the Warm Home Discount scheme can be found here: Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview 

    Ofgem’s confirmation that they would progress work on the proposed debt relief scheme can be found here: Debt Strategy.

    Ofgem’s consultation on establishing a debt relief scheme closed on Thursday 6 February. The consultation document can be found here: Resetting the energy debt landscape: the case for a debt relief scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recorded Crime in Scotland, year ending December 2024

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

    Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released Recorded Crime in Scotland, year ending December 2024.

    In the year ending December 2024:

    The police in Scotland recorded 298,308 crimes. This was 1% lower than the 302,076 crimes recorded in the year ending December 2023, but 1% higher than the 296,263 crimes recorded in the year ending December 2020.

    Non-sexual crimes of violence were 2% lower compared to the year ending December 2023 (decreasing from 71,900 to 70,637 crimes), but 10% higher compared to the year ending December 2020 (increasing from 63,938 to 70,637 crimes).

    Sexual crimes were 2% lower compared to the year ending December 2023 (decreasing from 14,894 to 14,539 crimes), but 11% higher compared to the year ending December 2020 (increasing from 13,106 to 14,539 crimes).

    Crimes of dishonesty were less than 1% lower compared to the year ending December 2023 (decreasing from 111,682 to 111,265 crimes), but 16% higher compared to the year ending December 2020 (increasing from 96,286 to 111,265 crimes).

    Damage and reckless behaviour was 7% lower compared to the year ending December 2023 (decreasing from 42,124 to 39,249 crimes), and 12% lower compared to the year ending December 2020 (decreasing from 44,419 to 39,249 crimes).

    Crimes against society were 2% higher compared to the year ending December 2023 (increasing from 61,476 to 62,618 crimes), but 10% lower compared to the year ending December 2020 (decreasing from 69,241 to 62,618 crimes).

    The number of offences recorded by the police in Scotland was 177,172. This is 1% lower than the 179,616 offences recorded in the year ending December 2023, and 6% lower than the 187,752 offences recorded in the year ending December 2020.

    Background

    1. The full statistical publication can be accessed at: Recorded Crime in Scotland: year ending December 2024.
    1. The statistics provide information on recorded crimes up to year ending December 2024, and the previous four years. For additional and more detailed commentary on the recording of crimes and offences, we recommend users refer to the 2023-24 (or year ending March 2024) Accredited Official Statistics bulletin. This includes time series analysis over the longer term (back to 1971), statistics on cyber-crimes and clear-up rates.
    1. Contraventions of Scottish criminal law are divided for statistical purposes into crimes and offences. ‘Crime’ is generally used for the more serious criminal acts. The less serious termed ‘offences’, although the term ‘offence’ may also be used in relation to serious breaches of criminal law. The distinction is made only for statistical reporting purposes and the ‘seriousness’ of the offence is generally related to the maximum sentence that can be imposed.
    1. Further information on Crime and Justice statistics within Scotland can be accessed at: Crime and justice statistics – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
    1. Accredited Official Statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff – more information on the standards of Official Statistics in Scotland can be accessed at: Statistics and research – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

    Contact: Susan Carsley : 0131 244 1451

    Internet: Recorded Crime in Scotland: year ending December 2024.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secure Care Statistics: 2023-24

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication.

    Secure Care Statistics for the period from 1 August 2023 to 31 July 2024 have been published today.

    Key findings include:

    • During 2023-24, there were an average of 60 children in secure care accommodation – up 2% from an average of 59 children in 2022-23.
    • 149 admissions to Secure Care Accommodation took place during 2023-24 – a 3% decrease from the previous year (154).
    • On average, 48 children were from within Scotland (up 30% on 2022-23) and 12 were from outside Scotland (down 45% on 2022-23).
    • Emergency beds were used for a total number of 11 nights – continuing the noticeable reduction starting in 2020, in total, six residents used an emergency bed during the 2023-24.

    Background

    The full statistical publication is available on our website.

    This report is part of the Children’s Social Work Statistics publication series. The statistics include data collected from four secure care accommodation services in Scotland: Good Shepherd Secure Unit, Kibble Safe Centre, Rossie Secure Accommodation Services and St. Mary’s Kenmure. These figures relate to the reporting year 01 August 2023 to 31 July 2024.

    Secure accommodation is a form of residential childcare that restricts the freedom of children under the age of 18. It is for the small number of children who may be at significant risk to themselves, or others in the community, and whose needs and risks can only be managed in secure care’s controlled settings. It aims to be a nurturing environment that is able to address specific needs and behaviours whilst providing care, including health and education. There are various legal routes to secure care, but the majority of children are placed there via the children’s hearing system or the court.

    Accredited Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Consultation event on plans for housing at former school site

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    A public consultation event on Perth and Kinross Council plans to build housing at the former Balhousie Primary School site in Perth will be held on Thursday 6 March.

    The drop-in event will be held between 6pm to 8pm at the Assembly Hall, Perth Grammar School, Gowans Terrace.

    Members of the public can drop-in to speak to members of Council staff about the proposal.

    Last modified on 25 February 2025

    Share this page

    Print

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New chair appointed at the Office for Nuclear Regulation

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New chair appointed at the Office for Nuclear Regulation

    The Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western, has announced today that Dr Nicola Crauford will take up the role of chair of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) on 1 March 2025.

    • Dr Nicola Crauford has been appointed as the new Chair of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR)
    • As part of her role, she will ensure ONR continues to regulate the nuclear industry efficiently and effectively on behalf of the public

    ONR is the UK’s independent nuclear regulator for the 36 nuclear sites in Great Britain, including the existing fleet of operating reactors, fuel cycle facilities and waste management and decommissioning sites. It also regulates the design and construction of new nuclear facilities including the supply chain as well as the transport of civil nuclear and radioactive materials.

    ONR also plays a crucial role in delivering the government’s energy security and growth missions 

    This is done principally through their approach to regulation, being open to innovation and new, efficient cost-effective ways of working, being ready to regulate new projects and providing trusted, timely, independent advice and guidance to Government.

    Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western, said:

    I am pleased to confirm Dr Nicola Crauford as the next chair of the Office for Nuclear Regulation. She brings a wealth of experience to this challenging but rewarding role.

    I would also like to thank Dame Judith Hackitt for all she has done as interim chair and her valuable contribution to nuclear safety and security.

    Dr Nicola Crauford said:

    I am delighted to join ONR at a time when the nuclear sector embarks upon significant growth, diversification and change.

    As the UK’s independent nuclear regulator, ONR has a vital role in holding the industry to account on behalf of the public, but it also needs to continue to strive for the most effective ways of working and regulatory excellence in order to help the sector to succeed.

    Dr Crauford’s appointment comes as the government announces more nuclear power plants will be approved across England and Wales. 

    These reforms will clear a path for smaller, and easier to build, nuclear reactors – known as Small Modular Reactors – to be built for the first time ever in the UK. This will create thousands of new highly skilled jobs while delivering clean, secure and more affordable energy for working people.

    Additional Information

    • Dr Nicola Crauford takes up her five-year appointment as ONR Chair from 1 March 2025. The current Interim Chair, Dame Judith Hackitt stands down on 28 February 2025.
    • Dr Nicola Crauford has extensive governance and senior management experience in infrastructure and engineering. She has a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne and a doctorate in applied science from the University of Southampton and has worked in the oil and gas, energy and banking sectors.
    • Dr Crauford’s governance portfolio has spanned utilities (particularly electricity and water), ports and logistics, science research and development, environmental protection, fire and emergency management, housing/urban development and regulation.
    • More on the government’s plans for nuclear power: Government rips up rules to fire-up nuclear power – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Budget: Greens secured vital action for people and planet

    Source: Scottish Greens

    25 Feb 2025 Finance

    The Scottish Greens have secured investment in our climate and communities.

    More in Finance

    The Scottish Greens have secured cheaper bus travel, expanded free school meals and increased funding for schools, says the party’s finance spokesperson Ross Greer ahead of the final budget vote taking place today.

    Through budget negotiations the Scottish Greens secured record investment in climate action, more money for local services including schools, social care and bin collections, free ferry travel for young islanders and free bus travel for people seeking asylum.

    The party also secured the expansion of free school meals for thousands more S1-S3 pupils, more funding for nature restoration and a year-long trial where bus fares in one region of the country will be capped at £2. They also increased the tax paid when buying a second or holiday home, giving a boost to first-time home buyers and raising more money for public services.

    Mr Greer said:

    “More children will be fed and lifted out of poverty, buses will be cheaper and nature will be protected because of Scottish Green MSPs.

    “We want to build a fairer and greener Scotland where no child is hungry at school and where public transport is always affordable and accessible. This budget is an important step in that journey.

    “Scotland’s Green MSPs worked to deliver record funding for nature restoration, building on the huge progress we delivered when we were in government. That money will create more well-paid jobs across the country, especially in rural communities.”

    Mr Greer added:

    “There is a stark contrast between what Green MSPs have achieved and the antics of Scottish Labour, who asked for nothing and got nothing.

    “Other parties may have been happy to play silly games, but the Scottish Greens worked to support families in poverty, create jobs and protect the world around us.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Greens to bring vote on cutting the cost of rail

    Source: Scottish Greens

    25 Feb 2025 Transport

    A people’s railway has to be accessible and affordable for all.

    More in Transport

    The Scottish Greens will use debate time tomorrow to bring a vote on halting the above inflation rail fare hikes that are set for April and permanently removing peak rail fares.

    The debate, which will be led by the party’s transport spokesperson, Mark Ruskell MSP, will focus on making rail a cheaper and easily accessible option for workers, students and regular commuters.

    When in government the Scottish Greens secured a landmark scheme to remove peak rail fares for 12 months, with the SNP reintroducing them last year.

    Mr Ruskell said:

    “Train fares in Scotland are among the highest in Europe, with peak fares being particularly punishing.

    “If we want more people to leave their cars at home then rail has to be affordable and accessible for all.

    “Particularly at a time when so many people are struggling, it is wrong to be asking them to pay even more just to get to work or study.

    “When the Scottish Greens were in government we removed peak rail fares, only for the SNP to bring them back once we were out of the room. It is time to scrap them permanently.

    “It was right to take ScotRail into public ownership, but there is no point in having a people’s railway if nobody can afford to use it.”

    Mr Ruskell added:

    “The Scottish Parliament has the chance to stand with households, families and regular commuters who are being stretched to their limit.

    “I hope that MSPs from across our parliament will back my motion and join the call for cheaper, greener and more accessible rail across Scotland.”

    Wording of Mr Ruskell’s motion

    Mark Ruskell: Cheaper Rail Fares—That the Parliament believes that rail fares in Scotland must be cheaper; regrets the decision by the Scottish Government to end the off-peak all-day pilot in September 2024, despite an increase of passenger demand by 6.8% and an average 17% cost saving to passengers; understands that expensive and complex ticketing deters passengers from choosing to travel by train; acknowledges that, in order to fulfil the Scottish Government’s ambition of reducing car kilometres by 20% by 2030, rail services and public transport must be cheaper and more accessible, and calls, therefore, on the Scottish Government to reverse the 3.8% increase to rail fares coming into effect from 1 April 2025, to permanently remove peak-time rail fares, and to simplify public transport fares, through the introduction of integrated ticketing, as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Her Majesty The Queen to unveil iconic statue in Canterbury city centre

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Her Majesty The Queen to unveil iconic statue in Canterbury city centre

    Her Majesty The Queen will visit Canterbury in Kent today (Tuesday 25 February) to unveil a statue of the first full-time professional woman writer in the English language, Aphra Behn.

    Her Majesty will then visit The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge and Canterbury Library to help celebrate the city’s passion for heritage and literature.

    The statue has been given to Canterbury City Council, and therefore to the city, by the Canterbury Commemoration Society.

    Its Chair, Stewart Ross, said: “We’re very excited to be able to welcome Her Majesty to our wonderful city in the heart of the garden of England.

    “The A is for Aphra campaign started five years ago when members of the community began asking why one of Canterbury’s most famous literary heroes was not celebrated in the city where she grew up.

    “The campaign group joined forces with the Canterbury Commemoration Society to celebrate Aphra and to raise the statue back in the same streets Aphra knew as a child.

    “Over the course of the campaign, many people from the community have worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for a sculpture to be placed in the city.

    “This included an academic conference at the University of Kent, a revival of Behn’s play The Amorous Prince by the Canterbury Players and a public exhibition about Behn at The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge last year.

    “Canterbury City Council’s successful Levelling Up Fund bid was able to support this project and The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge was chosen as a location that highlights the city’s passion for heritage and literature.”

    Aphra (1640–1689) was baptised in Harbledown, just outside Canterbury, and spent her formative years in the city during the English Civil War.

    The creation of the bronze statue by sculptor Christine Charlesworth followed an extensive period of research, consultation and fundraising.

    After an international design competition, four shortlisted maquettes were toured across the UK and the public asked which they thought would be the most fitting memorial.

    The design by Christine Charlesworth won the public vote.

    The winning design presents a 17-year-old Aphra, book in hand and theatrical mask behind her back, looking wistfully about her as she sets out for London with her family.

    After the unveiling, Her Majesty will be treated to a tour around The Beaney, one of Canterbury City Council’s museums, and Canterbury Library which is run by Kent County Council (KCC).

    The city council’s Head of Culture, Leisure and External Development Michelle Moubarak said: “The Beaney is home to the museum collection, art galleries, the city’s visitor information centre, the library and registration services.

    “It underwent an extensive renovation in 2012 to enable more people to enjoy it especially among those who have been underrepresented in the past.

    “Since its transformation, it has attracted 3.5million visitors including almost 50,000 schoolchildren, seen more than 7,000 people take part in health and wellbeing activities and has benefited from 360 volunteers giving up 12,245 hours of their time.”

    KCC’s Head of Libraries, Registration and Archives James Pearson said: “Canterbury Library stands as one of our most popular libraries in the county.

    “It is a cherished cornerstone of the community offering a warm and welcoming environment for people to sit, relax, read and learn.

    “It currently houses 50,215 books and continues to expand including a Home Library Service with dedicated volunteers delivering books to those in need that are unable to access our physical or mobile library network.

    “The service has recently introduced a collection of books in Ukrainian to support those who have temporarily relocated to Canterbury at such a difficult time for Ukraine.

    “There is a dedicated community hub for reading groups, Talk Time sessions and literacy groups.

    “The local studies collection boasts a wealth of materials, ranging from maps to books of local interest.

    “Among these treasures is our oldest book, Somner’s Antiquities of Canterbury, published in 1640.

    “The modern Canterbury Library continues to evolve in step with the ever changing and diverse needs of the community – forever fostering a love for reading, community, connection to others, inclusivity and lifelong learning. It is a place where everyone is truly welcome.”

    The Queen’s visit, which will celebrate the work both councils undertake around health and wellbeing, will include:

    • an Aphra Behn workshop with Year 3 children from St Peter’s Primary School
    • a look around the library with a focus on community engagement, volunteering, its collection of literature from Ukraine, its Book Club and Reading Well group
    • a look around The Beaney’s Curious Stories exhibition and the different ways of experiencing it with the Sensing Culture visually impaired group and their assistance dogs and the Power of the Object group which supports people living with dementia and their carers
    • a performance of an excerpt from the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Behn’s play The Rover directed by Loveday Ingram
    • a reading by Pilgrims Way Primary School pupil Ahmad Raza of his poem All About Me which won the five to eight-year-old category in the Canterbury Festival’s Poet of The Year competition
    • a reading by St Anselm’s School pupil Emily Corbett of her poem Counting Stars which won the nine to 11-year-old category in the same competition
    • a reading of a Behn poem by Gyles Brandreth, President of the Aphra Behn Society of Canterbury

    Her Majesty will also be invited to view the first edition of Behn’s novel Oroonoko and meet its donor, Anna Astin, before signing the visitors’ book at the end of the visit.

    Music for the statue unveiling will be provided by the 2nd Whitstable Sea Scout Band, led by Bandmaster Mark Wilkins.

    Published: 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – media conference – Eastern Creek Truck Stop

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    CHRIS BOWEN [FEDERAL MEMBER FOR MCMAHON]: Well, thanks for coming, everyone. Australia lives on trucking, and western Sydney relies on trucking more than anywhere else because western Sydney is the industrial heartland of Sydney, the home to the biggest industrial estate in the southern hemisphere, the Smithfield Wetherill Park, Erskine Park Industrial Estate. Even more so with the development of the M7, of course, which has made our area a distribution centre for New South Wales. And the M7, M4 is the first freeway to freeway intersection in Australia. And of course, just as we rely on our truckers, our truckers deserve nothing but the best. We rely on them and they rely on us to provide world class facilities.

    So I’m very, very excited for this announcement today here in my community, but one which has implications beyond this community for truckers to ensure they’re getting the very best support so that they can stay on the road safely and can keep our economy moving. So I’m delighted to welcome my friend Catherine King to my community, together with John Graham, for a very significant announcement. Catherine.

    CATHERINE KING [MINISTER]: Thanks, Chris, and it’s terrific to be here in your part of the world, but also here alongside my state colleague John Graham, who’s been doing terrific work. Can I also acknowledge the state MPs who are here with us as well, as well as Senator Glenn Sterle and Senator Tony Sheldon, who know very well how important this is. Well, this is a terrific announcement, not just for western Sydney. You can see just how busy the M4 is. With the amount of freight that is moving on, it is one of the busiest freight networks in the country. But this is actually important for the whole country. We know how important it is for truck drivers to be able to rest. We know that there is no dedicated rest area for truck drivers along this incredibly busy stretch of this freight route. And what we also know is that when truck drivers have access to decent rest areas, decent areas to shower and to toilet and to eat, that they are much safer driving on our roads. So this is very much a win for road safety as well. Our roads, our trucks, are truck drivers’ workplaces and they deserve to have safe, proper places that they can actually rest and safe workplaces in the same way every single other working Australian does.

    This announcement today that an Albanese Labor Government will be partnering with the New South Wales Government, 40 million from us, 40 million from the New South Wales Government here at Eastern Creek, at the intersection of the M4 and M7, building the first dedicated truck rest stop area. Hard stand shade areas, showers, toileting facilities for a substantial number of trucks into this region making sure that we actually provide the safety that truck drivers need. This is very much part of our over $18 billion of investment that is coming from the Albanese Labor Government into infrastructure in western Sydney. We know that our freight task is only going to be increasing and actually investing here, investing in this truck rest stop area is incredibly important.

    I want to particularly acknowledge Senator Glenn Sterle and Senator Tony Sheldon, but also all of the truck drivers in our country. When we came to government, we set up a fund to look at how can we better get rest stops on our great freight networks. And Glenn has been sharing that alongside. He called together truck drivers and trucking companies because they are the people who will use these areas and they know where they need to stop and where the rest areas are best located. This is very much part of the advocacy that we’ve had, trying to bring truck drivers in to make sure that we actually build these where people will stop, and that we make sure that our freight routes are as safe as possible.

    I’m going to hand over to John, and then I think we’re going to hear from TWU, from Glenn and also the representative of the freight truck industry here in New South Wales as well. And then we’ll be happy to take some questions. Thank you.

    JOHN GRAHAM [NSW ROADS MINISTER]: Thanks so much, Catherine. I’m here with Kylie Wilkinson, with Karen McKeown and Stephen Bali from the state parliament. You can see how important this announcement is from the support it’s got today. People turning up backing in this plan for a rest stop here in the heart of Sydney. I want to thank firstly, the Federal Government, Minister Catherine King and the team, Glenn Sterle, Tony Sheldon and Chris Bowen. As soon as we raised this with the federal government, they were instinctively on board. They could see how important this was to Sydney. And there is a big problem. Sydney’s got a reputation as the least friendly city for truckies in the country, and that’s something that we want to change. You can understand why. It’s not just the tolls and the traffic. You expect those, but you also expect to be able to find a toilet. And the truth is, you can’t do that between Wyong and Pheasants Nest. That’s a couple hours’ drive. That’s 180 kilometres between dedicated rest stops for truck drivers moving through Sydney. That’s not safe. It’s not dignified. It needs to change. You can see why Sydney’s got that reputation. It’s the least friendly city for trucks in the country.

    We’re going to change that. This will be a crucial part of that plan to change that. Having this large site with dedicated stopping areas. We’ve talked about 800 members of the freight community to be able to work out what’s required here. And it really is a place to stop and sleep, toilets, a hot shower, maybe a little bit of shade. These are reasonable things to ask for, but they’re things that simply don’t exist in a place that can be used in the Sydney Basin. And that has to change. That’s why I’m so excited to be here with the federal government working hand in hand to really change that.

    I particularly want to give a shout out to Tony Sheldon and to Glenn Sterle. Glenn in particular, during COVID, led the fight to make sure that drivers were able to pull over and get access to restrooms up and down New South Wales, also around the country. It was a real moment to realise just how the basics matter, and we’ll deliver on the basics here. It’ll make a real difference not just to these drivers but also to the community around these areas. This will mean trucks off suburban streets in western Sydney. That’s great news for the residents and the community as well.

    So thanks to the Federal Government, thanks to Richard Olsen and the TWU team who’ve argued the case for this strongly, passionately over a long period. Simon O’Hara from Road Freight New South Wales. This has been a call for a long time. Finally, we’re delivering on it.

    SENATOR GLENN STERLE: Thank you very much, John. Thank you. Catherine, can I just come to- have the opportunity to share this with you as a semi-retired, long distance interstate truck driver, I cannot stress the importance of this announcement. I want to sincerely thank Minister Graham. John, when you were in opposition alongside Premier- now Premier Chris Minns, you had made it very clear in the lead up to the election, not just in the last couple of days, how important it was to progress proper facilities for long distance truckies to get the rest they need. So John, thank you so much and thank you for carrying the can.

    To Minister King, Catherine, my very dear friend and close colleague. I can’t thank you, Catherine, enough. Not only the work that you’ve done, bringing the voice of the Australian truck driver and the voice of the Australian truck operator to the halls of that great place down in Canberra, where you’ve created the opportunity for truckies and trucking operators to share with you, Minister, where we need these rest areas. I do applaud you. Thank you so much.

    I tell you what, I’m so jealous. I’m from Western Australia, but I know in 2025 we still expect men and women in the trucking industry to carry around a roll of toilet paper and to try and just find a bush somewhere here in Sydney or Melbourne in our capital cities. This facility will provide up to 100 truck drivers a safe haven to pull over and manage their fatigue.

    So once again to the New South Wales Government, once again to the Federal Government, and special call out: Simon O’Hara. Simon, the work that you and I did together in the pandemic, mate, yes, it seemed like it was- where are you, Simon? It was you and I against the world where we actually realised just how important our truckies are and our transport operators and our supply chains and our logistics operators to the betterment of this nation. We were shut out of toilets. We were not allowed to even use them to have a shower. And didn’t that highlight in 2022 at the time, Simon, just how disrespected we were as an industry. Well, thank goodness we’ve got the grown-ups in charge. Thank goodness we’ve got magnificent state and federal governments now putting an end to that. I applaud you. And please can we roll you out to Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland, Victoria, the Northern Territory, and heck even Tasmania? Thank you John. Thank you Catherine.

    RICHARD OLSEN [NSW FREIGHT TRANSPORT ADVISORY COUNCIL]:  Thank you so much. And I’ll just answer that question, Glenn, no. We’re here in New South Wales and we are delighted to be a part of this announcement. We’ve been advocating, as has been previously said, and we’ve been working hard behind the scenes for many years and decades to get where we’re at today and today is a remarkable day for the transport industry as a whole. We have been subject to- having to drive as has been previously stated from Pheasants Nest up to Wyong in a truck that is three hours plus on any given bad day on our freeways, expressways, transurban ways if you like, and that needed to stop. That put a whole amount of pressure on the driver in relation to their fatigue and rest in which they are required to have by law, and what they are required to have because they are in charge of 60 to 80 tonne of equipment.

    When you’re driving along that, you want to know that the truck driver has been given a decent rest and is free of fatigue as far as reasonably possible, and that we can do and we can do that now in this great city of Sydney when this establishment opens very shortly. It’s been waiting here for quite a while, a long time for us to get to this base. And we don’t want to waste a minute in getting this established, and get it so that the drivers both coming through this great state or this city, but also local drivers who need to utilise this space as well. It’s for everyone within the transport industry, and I’m very delighted to be a part, and partnering up with both federal and state government, employer organisations. This is the transport community coming together and winning for drivers. Thank you so much.

    SIMON O’HARA [CEO, ROAD FREIGHT NSW]: Good morning all, and thank you Richard Olsen. It’s with such delight that we’re here today. This is a really positive announcement about the announcement relating to the heavy vehicle rest area here in western Sydney. This is a terrific development. For generations, the trucking industry has sought a rest area within metro Sydney, and now we’re looking at an announcement that will make that a reality. This is a terrific announcement today. This means that truckies will be able to rest. We’ve got members who come in from Wagga, come in, go out every day. This allows them to be able to rest, get some food, use the toilet facilities, have a shower. Over the course of the next couple of years, this will lead to greater results in terms of road safety on the roads.

    This means as well that truckies particularly- and Glenn mentioned before the point about dignity and respect. We are absolutely committed to dignity and respect for truckies. This is part and parcel of a key step to being able to make that a reality. During COVID, we had a lot to say, particularly around truckies not having any rest areas, having to keep moving all the time. And what this does today- and I’d like to particularly acknowledge Minister Graham, Minister King, Minister Bowen, Senator Sterle and Senator Tony Sheldon, this makes what we’ve been seeking for some time- we’ve advocated for this for a significant amount of time. This makes it a reality. Thanks very much.

    CATHERINE KING: Happy to take questions, for John or me. No one?

    JOURNALIST: Question for Minister Graham. What were the other sites being considered and why did this one get the nod?

    JOHN GRAHAM: Yeah. So we’ve done a big search across the Sydney basin to look at a range of sites, and we’ve also talked extensively to the freight community, 800 people involved in that consultation. The key really was accessibility. It’s no use having the best site in the world that’s too far from the M4 and the M7. So we’ve looked intensively around this area for the best site. And here we are five minutes from the M7, ten minutes from the M4. That really is the key to be able to allow drivers to get off those freeways, rest, and then get back on their journey as fast as possible. Of course, there’s a limited number of sites- their sites had a premium. That’s why this hasn’t happened before, but that’s why we’re so pleased that we’ve now found the site and this process can unfold.

    JOURNALIST: One more question. Sorry. In ‘22, you came out and said Sydney was the worst city in Australia for truckies. And here we are in ’25, we’ve got an announcement but still no work. Why did it take so long?

    JOHN GRAHAM: Oh look, this has been a tough problem to crack for generations. This has been a call from the industry. Now we’re here, where truckies will be resting as they come off the M4, come off the M7 as they’re delivering to the communities around Sydney. Even better news, they won’t be parked on suburban streets in these communities. So this isn’t an easy problem to solve. We never said it would be, but I’m so pleased to get to this moment today.

    CATHERINE KING: All good. Beautiful. Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Active transport boost for New South Wales

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    People living in NSW will have more opportunities to walk, cycle and actively move through their communities thanks to support from the Albanese Government. 

    $16 million will be invested in 10 projects across NSW to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths.

    Lake Macquarie City Council will receive $1.3 million to construct a shared path from Soldiers Road to Lake Macquarie Airport via Pacific Highway. The approximately 280m of shared path will provide the missing link between existing shared user paths and will deliver improved road safety with a designated path for pedestrian  and cyclists separate from traffic on the road.   

    Further north, in Bellingen $3.36 million will be invested to design and construct 2940m of shared paths and footpaths from South Urunga Urban Release Area to Urunga CBD. A favourite location for tourists and locals, the new paths will make the area safer and more accessible.   

    The Brewarrina Shire Council will receive $3 million for the design and construction of four pedestrian and cycle paths to connect the Brewarrina Township to the Barwon River. The project will also include solar-powered lighting, shaded rest areas and seating. 

    Other projects receiving funding include:

    • Over $2 million for Blue Mountains City Council to construct a shared path from White Cross Road, Winmalee to Hawkesbury Heights Lookout.
    • $88,000 for Port Macquarie Hastings Council to construct a footpath at St Agnes Primary School.  
    • $877,000 for Canterbury-Bankstown Council to design and construct a cycleway at Phillips Avenue, Canterbury. 
    • $2.9 million for the Wilson Street West Cycleway in Newtown to be delivered by Transport for NSW. 
    • $781,000 for Lake Macquarie City Council to design and construct a shared path in Cooranbong. 
    • $1 million for the Goodooga Town Centre to Bore Baths Connection Project in Brewarrina. 
    • $596,000 for the design and construction for a footpath and pedestrian crossings along Palace Street, Petersham. 

    The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns. 

    Our new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that are good for the planet and good for ourselves.  

    This program supports the Government’s commitment to invest in infrastructure planning, design and construction that improves safety outcomes for vulnerable road users under the National Road and Safety Strategy 2021-2030. 

    For more information visit: investment.infrastructure.gov.au/resources-funding-recipients/active-transport-fund-resources

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “From the Blue Mountains to Bellingen, we’re investing in active transport options right across New South Wales to shape the way locals and visitors move around our great towns. 

     “Whether you’re on a motor scooter, pushing a pram, walking or cycling, we’re making it easier for people to get to school, work or local services, without having to jump in the car. 

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy: 

    “This is about so much more than bike lanes and footpaths, it’s about increasing mobility for all our citizens. It will also improve safety and accessibility for the residents of Pelican and everyone who visits our beautiful part of the world.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $28 million for life-saving road upgrades in NSW

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Local roads across New South Wales will receive important safety upgrades thanks to more than $28 million in new Albanese Government funding.

    The Albanese Government recognises that local governments are crucial to maintaining and upgrading transport infrastructure.

    That’s why we’ve been progressively doubling our Roads to Recovery funding for councils to fix their local roads, and why we’ve lifted and back-dated the freeze on road maintenance indexation instated by the former Coalition Government. 

    Today’s significant investment will help fund 14 new projects under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) throughout the state.

    This includes more than $3.7 million for Maitland City Council for upgrades to Haussman Drive in Thornton.

    The project will involve lane duplication between Raymond Terrace Road and Taylor Avenue to provide dual carriageways each direction, shared path and bicycles lanes and improved property accesses.

    These improvements will deliver significant benefits for the residents and visitors of Maitland and its surrounds by alleviating traffic congestion, reducing travel times and increasing road safety. 

    The SLRIP is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to strengthen investment to support the delivery of safer and more productive roads across Australia. 

    For more information and the list of projects, visit Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

    Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “The Albanese Government recognises that local governments are crucial to maintaining and upgrading transport infrastructure.

    “We have increased funding under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program to make sure we continue to invest in better, safer local roads across New South Wales and Australia. 

    “We are committed to delivering the funding local councils need to improve road safety and in a way that reduces the burden on them, allowing more money to be spent on projects and less on administration.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson:

    “I welcome this announcement of $3.7million for the duplication of Haussman Drive, Thornton as I have had many community members voice their safety concerns about this road.

    “This significant investment to upgrade Haussman Drive will alleviate congestion, reduce travel times and improve road safety for all who use this transport corridor.

    “As more families move into Thornton, Chisholm, and the broader Maitland area, these road upgrades will enhance connectivity and provide safer travel options across our region.”

    Funded projects:

    Local Council

    Project 

    AG Funding 

    Moree Plains Shire Council

    Terry Hie Hie Road Upgrade

    $ 5,000,000

    Bogan Shire Council

    Remove and replace the existing informal low-level crossing with Box Culvert at Monkey Bridge Bypass at Bogan River, Coolabah

    $ 412,000

    Wentworth Shire Council

    Design and upgrade of Milpara Road, Anabranch South

    $ 559,417

    Goulburn Mulwaree Council

    Glynmar Road Causeway Design and Upgrade Project 

    $ 1,219,092

    Gwydir Shire Council

    Design and Construction to upgrade Buckie Road, Croppa Creek.

    $ 5,000,000

    Lismore City Council

    Chelmsford Rd – Bridge Renewal

    $ 1,676,000

    Waverley Council

    Construction of Continuous Footpath Treatments on Mitchell Street, Bondi Beach 

    $ 121,750

    Lismore City Council

    Channon Rd, Dunoon Upgrade

    $ 2,015,708

    Mid-Coast Council

    Replacement of Mt. Coxcomb Rd Bridge No.1, Upper Lansdowne

    $ 1,433,225

    Waverley Council

    Construction of Raised Pedestrian Crossing on Newland Street at Walter Street, Bondi Junction 

    $ 96,250

    Waverley Council

    Construction of Bourke Street Upgrades, Bondi Junction

    $ 444,299

    Maitland City Council

    Thornton North Road Infrastructure Lane Duplication of Haussman Drive 

    $ 3,745,400

    Goulburn Mulwaree Council

    Lansdowne Street Heavy Vehicle Route Pavement Rehabilitation Project 

    $ 1,909,687

    Shellharbour City Council

    Yellow Rock Road Safety Upgrades, Tullimbar

    $ 5,000,000

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The Most Important Fact Schools Don’t Teach

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    The Chinese navy has made a big mistake. Sending what Defence Minister Judith Collins called a ‘formidable ship’ so close to Sydney, and interrupting Air New Zealand domestic flights, shows the New Zealand public we need to spend more on defence. ACT supporters have been alone in voting for two per cent of GDP on defence, we predict there will now be more.

    We remember the Ukrainians who’ve lost their lives and their homes in the three years since the Russian invasion. Free Press remains resolute. There are basic facts that cannot be changed. Russia is the aggressor. The war is not just or legal. The breach of borders by force is dangerous to free people everywhere. We must never accept might is right, but we must build our strength so the world doesn’t end up that way.

    The Most Important Fact Schools Don’t Teach

    Schools are teaching children all sorts of things, but so far as we are aware they are not teaching the most important fact of human life. The fact they’re not teaching this fact tells us how mindless education has become, and it limits children’s thinking.

    The fact we’re talking about is the astonishing growth of human life expectancy in the last two centuries. For 100,000 years, people lived to thirty on average. Now, the global average is 72 years.

    People have different ideas about what a good life is. But (except for a few terrorists and cults), everyone agrees being alive is better than being dead. Something in the last 200 years gave us a whole extra life.

    If the education system teaches children nothing else, it should teach that something happened in the last 200 years and it doubled life expectancy. Once they know that, they can learn what works.

    We think the answer might be the problem. The education bureaucracy, academics, and teacher unions don’t want to teach that capitalism is a raging success.

    They’d have to teach about the genesis of the free market in the swamps of the Netherlands. People driven to the lowlands by violence decided to make something of themselves. They drained swamps and built dykes, creating usable land that was theirs.

    The result was a society where ordinary people could make a difference in their own lives. They demanded property rights because they’d literally created their own property. If you couldn’t take then you had to trade, and tribalism gave way to the market. It was around this time Abel Tasman discovered New Zealand for Europe.

    William of Orange, a Dutchman who became King of England, helped take the revolution across the sea, where it germinated on an island buffered from invasion. The common law and the market, along with the enlightenment made the industrial revolution possible.

    In turn the British Navy opened up the world’s sea lanes to trade, and spread their system of democracy and capitalism to the new world, ensuring it would endure for centuries even when they themselves came under attack from fascism.

    All the while ordinary people could get enough calories to be healthy, live in cities with sanitation free of disease, and medical care would stop children and their mothers dying in childbirth or shortly after. Violence that was normal for most humans most of the time, and shortened many lives, is now an exceptional event for most people most of the time.

    The revolution spread further after the Cold War, lifting billions from poverty in the East the same way they had thrived in the west. That same prosperity has raised their life expectancy too. Now the whole world lives twice as long on average as it did before the industrial revolution, but your teacher won’t dwell on that basic fact in most of the world’s schools.

    Instead we have an epidemic of anxiety and depression amongst young people. The tremendous gains of the last two centuries are barely understood. Instead the gains are banked and forgotten while children worry about comparatively small problems.

    We spend a lot of time worrying about differences between people living today when, in reality, everyone is doing vastly better than everyone was even a few generations ago. So much division, so little reality, and not enough hope.

    Imagine if the most important thing children learned was that we’ve doubled our lives in 200 years after 100,000 years of misery. That could be springboard for asking what works and building a much more hopeful future. We just need the Left to make peace with capitalism.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW records first death of person with Japanese encephalitis since 2022

    Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

    NSW Health continues to urge the public to be vigilant and take precautions against mosquitoes as NSW records its first death of a person with Japanese encephalitis (JE) since May 2022.
    A man aged in his 70s from northern Sydney died on 23 February in a Sydney hospital, where he had been receiving care for JE since early February.
    It is likely the man acquired JE while holidaying in the Murrumbidgee region in January. This is the state’s third confirmed death from JE since the virus was first detected in NSW in 2022.
    NSW Health expresses its sincere condolences to his loved ones.
    Further, an additional case of JE has been identified in a woman in her 60s in northern NSW. She likely acquired the infection on her rural property in Tenterfield Shire and is receiving care in hospital.
    NSW Health’s Executive Director of Health Protection Dr Jeremy McAnulty said these developments are a reminder of the importance for people to take precautions against mosquitoes, including vaccination.
    “These two cases of JE virus, one of which was infected while travelling for a holiday, shows it is very important all people take precautions against mosquitoes, not just those living in affected regions,” Dr McAnulty said.
    “If you plan on travelling west of the Great Dividing Range, whether for work or holiday, and you plan to spend time outdoors, JE is a risk you must consider.
    “Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take to avoid mosquitoes, and there is also a safe and effective vaccine available.”
    JE vaccine is available through local general practitioners, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists to anyone who lives or routinely works in various inland LGAs or high-risk occupations.
    People who meet the eligibility criteria should make an appointment and let the provider know it is for the JE vaccine, as they may require a few days’ notice to order the vaccine.
    JE virus is spread by mosquitoes and can infect animals and humans. The virus cannot be transmitted between humans and it cannot be caught by eating pork or other pig products.
    There is no specific treatment for JE which, in some cases, can cause severe neurological illness with headache, convulsions, reduced consciousness and death.
    The best thing people throughout the state can do to protect themselves and their families is to take steps to avoid mosquitoes.
    Simple actions you can take include:

    Applying repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times
    Re-applying repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Be sure to apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent
    Wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear. and socks
    Avoiding going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk
    Using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas)
    Covering windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps
    Removing items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed
    Using repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions
    Protecting infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges
    While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net.

    Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available on Japanese encephalitis vaccination.
    For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself visit Mosquito borne diseases.
    ​

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Radio 2SM Sydney – Breakfast with Ron Wilson

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    RON WILSON [HOST]: Truck drivers in western Sydney are set to benefit from the city’s first dedicated heavy vehicle rest stop. It’s considered a crucial infrastructure project aimed at improving safety and reducing fatigue for long haul truckies. It’s located at Eastern Creek and the site is strategically placed near key motorway junctions. It comes with a $40 million investment price tag from both the Albanese and Minns Labor governments. The project was part of an election promise by the New South Wales Labor government, and marks a significant step in enhancing road safety and ensuring truck drivers have the facilities they need to rest and recharge during their long journeys.

    Catherine King is the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Local Government in Australia as well. She’s on the line right now. Catherine, good morning.

    CATHERINE KING [MINISTER]: Hi, Ron. It’s great to be with you.

    RON WILSON: Tell us about this truck stop. How important is it in the overall scheme of transport?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, it’s incredibly important. We know just how much- how busy that freight route is between Melbourne right the way through to Brisbane. Truck drivers are required under our law to actually have rest and rest stops. We can’t have fatigued drivers on the road. But in that area, particularly where there is such a high volume of freight going through, there just really isn’t anywhere for truck drivers to safely rest. And this will be the first dedicated area specifically for trucks ever in western Sydney and at Eastern Creek. We often hear, you know, truck drivers are parking on suburban roads. They’re parking on the side of the road, trying to make sure that they comply with their rest hours. And that is not safe for anybody. It’s certainly not safe for them.

    The other thing we know is that we’re seeing increasing numbers of female drivers. They want, as should anyone in their workplace, access to decent toilet facilities, decent shower facilities, safe places to be able to rest and shaded places to be able to rest as well. So this is a really important project. 40 million from the Albanese government, 40 million from the Minns government. They took it to the last state election. We’re saying we’re going to back this in. This is budgeted funding. This is not an election commitment. This is something we want to fund, really as part of the infrastructure program.

    It’s been identified by truck drivers as the area- really a missing spot. So this is a really important announcement both for truck drivers but also for road safety. We want drivers who are on our roads that have had- you know, have got decent workplaces that are well rested and have places where they can rest and actually shower and recover from what is a really gruelling and difficult job.

    RON WILSON: Boy, a total of over $80 million. It must be some truck stop.

    CATHERINE KING: Well, it takes a lot to, you know, build roads to actually get the hard surfacing, but also to get the services out there. You obviously need electricity, you need water, you need sewerage out there as well. Unfortunately, it just does take that amount of money to be able to do that and to build those proper dedicated facilities. Unfortunately, infrastructure is expensive.

    RON WILSON: Well, that’s one truck stop. It’s an awful big country. Have you got more of these planned?

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. Well, what we’ve done, I’ve had a $180 million fund. And Senator Glenn Sterle, who might be known to all of you, he’s still driving trucks himself. Every now and again, he gets behind the wheel. He’s from over in the west. I asked him to chair- basically to bring trucking companies together and truck drivers together to identify sites to fund that. And we’ve put the first tranche out of that. There’s smaller stops, often in the regional areas, because we wanted truck drivers to identify, well, where are you stopping? Where are the facilities that are needed? How can we actually fund these? So that’s been part of the government- we took that to the last election, and that’s been steadily rolling its way out, as well as as we build big scale infrastructure. So you’d be aware, you know, there’s big projects up in the Hunter. We look at opportunities there to partner with state and local government to also build those facilities in at the same time. But there’s no doubt that we could have more. And we need to continue to look at opportunities to do that, which is why we’ve got the funding program to try and roll them out. But this will be a single biggest one, and it’s a really big missing area. Like there just isn’t anywhere in that area really. And often you’ll see truck drivers just trying to plough- keep going. But they’ve got to, you know, make sure that they’ve stopped within the hours that [indistinct] drive a certain number of hours.

    RON WILSON: [Talks over] Yeah, that’s right.

    CATHERINE KING: So it’s really difficult for them to then, you know, get that push through to get to the next stop where they can. And there’s really just nothing in that area for them to stop at.

    RON WILSON: Yeah. Minister, this is such good news for all road users, not just the trucking industry. So very pleased that you’re able to come on and have a chat to us about it this morning, I appreciate it.

    CATHERINE KING: Really good to be with you.

    RON WILSON: The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government in Australia, Catherine King, talking about this new truck stop. It’s located at Eastern Creek. It comes at a cost of over $80 million.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Professor Sir Ian Chapman appointed next CEO of UK Research and Innovation with renewed focus on economic growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Professor Sir Ian Chapman appointed next CEO of UK Research and Innovation with renewed focus on economic growth

    Sir Ian will lead the team at UKRI in backing thousands of researchers and innovators in developing solutions which improve people’s lives and help grow the economy

    Professor Sir Ian Chapman appointed as new UKRI CEO

    Professor Sir Ian Chapman will become the next CEO of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), leading a refreshed mission that puts economic growth at the heart of public investment in R&D, helping to fulfil the potential of science and technology in improving lives, Science Minister Lord Vallance has announced today (Tuesday 25 February).

    UKRI is the country’s largest public research funder, with a budget of £9 billion per year, giving it a central role in ensuring public funding is invested in ambitious, pioneering research that will benefit the whole of the UK and provide a clear return on investment for hardworking taxpayers.

    Its work in recent years includes backing the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine, which has saved countless lives and the construction of the world’s most advanced wind turbine test facility, helping the UK to become a clean energy superpower. It has also been a major contributor to the £1 billion of UK public investment in AI R&D so far so the UK captures the technology’s opportunities to enhance growth and productivity as the third largest AI market in the world.

    Sir Ian will lead its team in supporting thousands of bright researchers and innovators in developing solutions from life-saving medicines to protecting our environment – ultimately making a visible, positive difference to people’s lives and supporting the missions at the heart of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    His experience will be a major asset in drawing on the UK’s world-leading research talent, facilities, universities and businesses, as drivers of R&D which will kickstart economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower and build an NHS fit for the future.

    During his time as CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, Sir Ian has led the transition from an organisation rooted in deep R&D excellence, to one that is now also delivering a major infrastructure project to design and build a prototype powerplant; driving inward investment and economic growth; and enabling development of a skilled workforce and supply chain.

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

    “Growing the economy is this government’s number one mission and taking full advantage of the innovative ideas, talent and facilities across our country is key to reaching that goal and improving lives across the UK.

    “Sir Ian’s leadership experience, scientific expertise and academic achievements make him an exceptionally strong candidate to lead UKRI in pursuing ambitious, curiosity-driven research, as well as innovations that will unlock new benefits for the UK’s people and drive our Plan for Change.

    “We also thank Dame Ottoline Leyser ahead of her stepping down this summer, recognising her pivotal work in guiding UKRI through challenging times, notably during the Covid pandemic and through the UK’s return to participation in Horizon Europe.”

    Incoming UKRI CEO, Professor Sir Ian Chapman, said:

    “I am excited to be joining an excellent team at UKRI focussed on improving the lives and livelihoods of UK citizens.

    “Research and innovation must be central to the prosperity of our society and our economy, so UKRI can shape the future of the country.

    “I was tremendously fortunate to represent UKAEA, an organisation at the forefront of global research and innovation of fusion energy, and I look forward to building on those experiences to enable the wider UK research and innovation sector.”

    Through our world-class universities and institutes, UKRI develops and nurtures future talent who can maintain the UK’s position as a global hub of research, development and deployment in the long term while collaborating with partners around the world so that scientific and technological advances driven in the UK can benefit lives at home and around the world.

    UKRI plays a key part in driving up UK participation in the world’s largest research programme, Horizon Europe, helping to build a more efficient and joined-up approach to research funding and unleashing the power of UK research and innovation.

    UKRI will also play an increasing role in steering our long-term industrial strategy, removing barriers to growth and building on the UK’s strategic advantage in its fundamental science capability.

    UKRI Chairman, Sir Andrew Mackenzie, said:

    “The board and I are delighted that Ian will become UKRI’s next CEO in the summer. 

    “Research and Innovation are fundamental to UK growth. Ian has the skills, experience, leadership and commitment to unlock this opportunity to improve the lives and livelihoods of everyone. We look forward to working with him on the next phase of UKRI’s development and our stewardship of the UK’s innovation culture and systems.  

    “We thank Ottoline for an outstanding five years as UKRI’s CEO. She has delivered a step-change in operational effectiveness and cross-discipline work through collective and inclusive leadership and secured more social and commercial impacts from our investments.” 

    Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said: 

    “I’d like to thank Sir Ian for his many years of dedicated service at UK Atomic Energy Agency, the last nine as CEO. In that time, he has transformed the organisation into a world leading hub for fusion energy commercialisation and driven the UK and global strategy for fusion development forward.

    “I am delighted that the UK will continue to benefit from his drive and expertise in his new role. We will shortly begin recruiting a new UKAEA CEO to lead the UK’s world-class fusion programme into the next decade.”

    Notes to editors

    • Established in 2018, UKRI is a non-departmental public body that combines the strengths of nine distinct research and innovation funders:

    • Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
    • Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
    • Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
    • Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
    • Innovate UK (IUK)
    • Medical Research Council (MRC)
    • Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
    • Research England (RE)

    • Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

    • Sir Ian – who currently sits on UKRI’s Board – will take up the post in the summer, bringing strong leadership experience from his role as CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority since 2016 and links to academia. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Institute of Physics, and a visiting Professor at Durham University.
    • With a background in fusion and firm grasp of the part that ambitious and targeted R&D can play in improving lives, he has published over 100 journal papers and received several awards for his research.
    • His appointment follows an open recruitment process launched in August 2024, after Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser announced her intention to stand down as UKRI’s CEO from June 2025.
    • Having held the post since 2020, Dame Ottoline leaves a strong foundation to build on, from navigating the continued delivery of research through the pandemic to supporting the UK’s return to participation in Horizon Europe – putting UKRI in a strong position to bolster its role as an engine for delivering pioneering research to improve lives and grow our economy.
    • The UKAEA Board has provisionally agreed that Tim Bestwick (UKAEA deputy CEO) will take over as interim CEO of UKAEA after Sir Ian leaves, whilst a permanent replacement is appointed.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Broken Hill’s energy future secured by hi-tech air energy storage system

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 25 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    An old Broken Hill mine site will soon be transformed into a first-of-its-kind compressed air energy storage system, delivering energy security, jobs and investment to Broken Hill.

    The Minns Labor Government has provided planning approval for Hydrostor’s compressed air energy storage system with a capacity of 200 megawatts (MW) / 1,600 MW-hours (MWh). The Silver City Energy Storage Centre could power about 80,000 homes in peak demand and will maintain a reserve capacity of 250 MWh to provide back-up to Broken Hill during times of planned and unplanned outages.

    The project is the first-of-its-kind in Australia. It utilises advanced technology that uses compressed air to store energy and generate electricity, without producing greenhouse gases.

    The $638 million project will boost the local economy, creating up to 400 full-time construction jobs and around 26 ongoing operational jobs.

    During periods of low-energy demand, excess electricity is used to compress air and store it in large underground caverns or tanks.

    When energy demand is high, the compressed air is released, heated and expanded through turbines to generate electricity.

    The project will be supported by a 65-year government lease on a Crown land site near the Potosi mine at Broken Hill.

    The energy storage system will support different renewable energy sources in the region to reliably power homes and businesses in and around Broken Hill.

    Broken Hill City Council will receive $3.1 million under a Voluntary Planning Agreement, paid over five years, to benefit the local community.

    With work expected to start this year, it is estimated construction of the project will take three to four years.

    For more information visit Silver City Energy Storage System | Planning Portal – Department of Planning and Environment

    Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said:

    “Hydrostor’s Silver City Energy Storage Centre boosts the reliability of the NSW electricity grid and provides back-up for homes and businesses in the state’s far west in times of planned and unplanned outages.

    “Energy storage solutions like this will go a long way to preventing blackouts like the ones the Far West experienced last year.

    “The project will provide construction and ongoing jobs, and will put Broken Hill on the map as a nation leader in renewable energy.”

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The city needs a reliable supply of power and this project will provide certainty and reliability for local residents and businesses.

    “The Minns Government is working with proponents to see industrial sites rehabilitated and renewed for future use.

    “This technology not only supports our transition to cleaner energy sources but also promotes economic growth through job creation in the energy sector.”

    Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

    “It’s fantastic to see planning approval confirmed for the Hydrostor project which will be further supported by a 65-year government lease on a Crown land site near Broken Hill.

    “The Silver City Energy Storage Facility will be the first of its kind for Australia, generating both vital backup energy for Broken Hill and significant ongoing jobs and investment spending for the Far West economy.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government taking action on waste crisis

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 25 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Energy and Climate Change

    Minns Labor Government is taking strong action to prevent a waste crisis in NSW, with landfill due to reach capacity in Greater Sydney by 2030.

    NSW has just passed landmark legislation to become the first state to implement a statewide mandate for Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) recycling, to divert food waste from landfill into compost.

    The legislation mandates FOGO collection services for households by July 2030, and for businesses and institutions in stages from July 2026.

    FOGO bins will be rolled out at premises such as supermarkets, pubs, cafes, universities, schools, hotels and hospitals. Large supermarkets will also be required to report on the amounts and types of surplus food donated to charities like OzHarvest, Second Bite and Foodbank.

    With FOGO taking up to a third of household red bin capacity, this legislation will help take some pressure off landfill. It also takes us one step closer to a circular economy in NSW, where resources are recycled, reused and repurposed.

    The new laws are backed by a $81 million FOGO Fund to go largely to Councils for infrastructure including bins, kitchen caddies and liners, contamination audits, community education programs and staffing, including a $9 million boost in funding allocated to:

    • $4 million to support implementation in apartments and multi-unit dwellings
    • $3 million for a statewide advertising campaign to raise awareness and encourage behaviour change
    • $1 million for councils with existing FOGO services to conduct annual ‘booster’ education campaigns
    • $1 million for a pilot to tackle contamination hotspots using artificial intelligence.

    The new laws are projected to divert up to one million tonnes of organic waste from landfill each year. Most will be transformed into high-quality compost for parks, sporting fields and agriculture, promoting healthier soils and sustainable food production.

    The NSW Environment Protection Authority is working closely with communities, councils and industry to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

    A step-by-step Best Practice Guide has also been launched to help councils introduce FOGO and manage contamination risks.

    To learn more about the rollout, visit the NSW EPA website.

    The next step to tackle the waste crisis is the refinement of the Energy from Waste framework in NSW.

    A discussion paper outlines some small, proposed changes to the existing Energy from Waste framework, including clarification around the definition of thermal treatment.

    Public consultation is open from Tuesday, 25 February until Tuesday, 8 April, and feedback can be provided through the NSW Government’s Have Your Say platform.

    Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe:

    “NSW has ignored the crisis for landfill capacity for too long. We cannot kick this can down the road any longer.

    “The new FOGO laws mean NSW is leading the nation in combating food waste, becoming the first to mandate this recycling revolution across the state.

    “These new laws are backed by $81 million to support councils to move to FOGO by 2030.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Early Career Academy to support more of our best and brightest to take on teaching in NSW

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: New Early Career Academy to support more of our best and brightest to take on teaching in NSW

    Published: 25 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Education and Early Learning

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to rebuild public education across New South Wales with the $20 million Innovative Teacher Training Fund to support NSW’s best and brightest students to embark on a successful teaching career.

    In a NSW first, the NSW Government is establishing the Early Career Academy for Teachers, fulfilling an election commitment which will serve as a centre of excellence for new and future teachers, with expanded support, enhanced development opportunities and stronger partnerships with universities and across schools.

    The Academy will be a one-stop-shop for attracting and supporting new teachers, featuring a digital hub, new scholarships, tailored learning and resources, and embedded department support with a dedicated employee stationed at key universities.

    University Admissions Centre data shows growing interest in applications and offers for students studying Education degrees, following several years of decline.

    Applications by school leavers for Education degrees have risen by 500 or 23 per cent compared to the same time last year, while offers have risen by 642 or 36 per cent compared to 2024.

    The Early Career Academy will focus on making a teaching degree the first preference for more students, improving the classroom readiness of beginning teachers and retaining more early career teachers in NSW public schools.

    This initiative builds on the historic pay rise in teachers’ salaries, which took NSW beginning teachers from the worst paid in the country to among the highest. Targeted strategies to address the unsustainable workloads of teachers are also bearing fruit, leading to a greater attractiveness of the teaching profession.

    The Early Career Academy for Teachers will develop a range of programs and opportunities including:

    • An enhanced scholarship program including early offers to future teachers in high priority regions and specialist areas
    • Revamped professional experience placements to facilitate consistent and high quality experiences for pre-service teachers before they enter the classroom
    • Greater system-led support for pre-service and beginning teachers, including enhanced resources and collaboration opportunities, to enhance the quality of assistance available to early career teachers
    • Stronger strategic partnerships with universities, including Department of Education University Partnership Leads to provide tailored support with those seeking employment opportunities in NSW public schools
    • Department-led professional learning to support classroom readiness, curriculum expertise and teaching practices
    • A Digital Hub with personalised content to support new and future teachers throughout their educational and professional pathway

    The Academy will also continue and expand existing, successful programs such as the school-based Future Teachers Club and rural and remote Beyond the Line study tours.

    The Early Career Academy will formally commence in Term 1, 2026, following co-design and engagement with the profession, union and key stakeholders.

    The NSW public education system is the largest employer of teachers in Australia with more than 96,000 educators working in our schools every year.

    Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said: 

    “The Minns Labor Government promised we would do everything we can to get more of our best and brightest into teaching and keep them in the classroom – and we are delivering.

    “The Early Career Academy will be a game-changer for new and prospective teachers, provide co-ordinated, multi-faceted support and ensuring we have highly skilled, classroom-ready teachers getting jobs in NSW public schools.

    “With the NSW Department of Education being the largest employer of teachers in Australia, it is crucial that universities understand the needs of our public schools, and the Academy will play an important role in ensuring partner universities offer the right courses for our future teachers.

    “Our government has delivered nation-leading pay rises for teachers and reduced teacher vacancies by 40%, and we are building on this work to attract more of our best and brightest to teaching careers in our schools – while ensuring they are supported and valued to stay.

    “The Academy is not just about getting more people to choose a career in teaching or ensuring they are prepared for the classroom from day one, it is about letting our early career teachers know that the Department and the Government is backing you to succeed.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding for regional groups for stocking native fish in local waters now available

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Funding for regional groups for stocking native fish in local waters now available

    Published: 25 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

    The Minns Labor Government has announced that funding for fishing clubs and native fish stocking groups is now available for restocking regional rivers and dams with iconic native fish such as Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Murray Cod.

    These fish are also appreciated as highly sought after angling fish that support recreational fishing and local tourism.

    The NSW Government is committed to delivering for recreational fishers and the NSW regional environment to preserve the many locations and lifestyles that are special for families and locals.

    Two dollars in funding is provided from for every dollar raised by the community to purchase Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Murray Cod from accredited commercial fish hatcheries for stocking into public waterways.

    This program is part of the Government’s commitment to recreational fishers and helps boost native fish stocks to deliver enhanced fishing opportunities into regional waterways where factors such as carp and drought may have hindered native fish stock levels.

    The program also supports the regional aquaculture ventures which produce the high-quality fish stock that are released release into public waters to benefit recreational fishers. These ventures provide local jobs in the regions at hatcheries and breeding sites.

    Last year 70 grants were approved under the program and delivered fish stocks for local fishing clubs to restock waterways in places like Lake Cargelligo, Leeton, Walgett, Bermagui, Nowra, Goulburn, Tumut and Yass.

    Australian bass live in coastal rivers along the east coast and downstream for breeding from may to August. Golden Perch occur throughout the Murray-darling river system and are migratory species following increases in water flow up stream during spring and summer.

    Murray Cod encompass most of the Murray Darling Rivers and mature adults will travel long distances to spawn during spring and summer.

    Fish stocking in NSW is carefully managed under a fish stocking fishery management strategy to ensure sustainability to ensure the activity is conducted with appropriate environmental controls and generates quality recreational fishing outcomes.

    Groups interested in applying for the grants, can apply online before the closing dates for the Community Native Fish Stocking (CNFS) 2025/26 grants program. Fish stocking is expected to take place between November 2025 and April 2026.

    A minimum of $2,000 and a maximum of $6,000 per application per group is required.  Only one application per group may be submitted.

    Applications to stock Australian Bass close on 28 March 2025. 

    Applications to stock Golden Perch or Murray Cod close on 9 May 2025.

    To apply https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking/CNFS

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “Our Government is focused on delivering great recreational fishing and environmental outcomes. This program delivers in every way for fishers by populating highly popular native sportfish in regional waterways.

    “These fish stocking events will help diversify and enhance our valuable native fishery, increase fishing amenity and support local businesses.

    “Millions of fish are produced and stocked by government and private sector hatcheries each year into rivers, streams and dams across the State to improve recreational fishing opportunities in NSW that create jobs for regional people.

    “Native fish stocking provides many economic and social benefits, as well as positive environmental outcomes due to the importance of native fish in the landscape.

    “This is another great example of your fishing licence fees at work. More information on fish stocking can be found online.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Alaris Equity Partners Provides Corporate Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES.
    FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAW.

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (all numbers in this release are in US dollars (US$) unless otherwise noted) Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (the “Trust“) (TSX: AD.UN) is pleased to announce that its subsidiary, Alaris Equity Partners USA Inc. (collectively, with the Trust and its other subsidiaries, “Alaris“) has made an investment of $21.0 million into Berg Demo Holdings, LLC (“Berg“) (the “Berg Investment”) and $61.1 million into Professional Electric Contractors of Connecticut, Inc. (“PEC“) (the “PEC Investment“). Alaris is also pleased to announce the redemption of Alaris’ investment in Unify Consulting LLC (“Unify“), which closed in December, and resulted in gross proceeds of $12.3 million to Alaris (the “Unify Redemption“).

    “A productive start to 2025 with the closing of two new partnerships and the successful exit of another. Berg and PEC both signify the forming of partnerships with very strong entrepreneurs. David Berg and Jim Bisson from Berg and PEC respectively are exactly what we look for in partners. Long track records of success and a strong passion to continue to grow their businesses. Both partners have the capacity and desire to grow through acquisitions in addition to continued organic growth.

    I’d like to thank Darren Alger and his team at Unify for a wonderful eight years as our partner. Alaris originally funded a management buyout for Darren and we are proud of how well he has done as majority owner. Crystallizing another investment with an IRR of 20% is also an excellent result for our management team,” said Steve King, Chief Executive Officer, Alaris.

    Berg Investment

    The Berg Investment consists of: (i) $17.15 million (the “Berg Preferred Contribution“) of preferred equity, entitling Alaris to an initial annualized distribution of $2.40 million (the “Berg Distribution“); and (ii) $3.85 million (the “Berg Common Equity“) for a minority common equity ownership in Berg. The Berg Distribution will reset annually based on the percentage change in gross profit, subject to a collar of +/- 7%.

    Berg has an earnings coverage ratio between 1.5x and 2.0x based on Berg’s trailing twelve-month financial results and giving effect to certain other changes to Berg’s capital structure. The Berg Investment will be used for capital investment and to provide partial liquidity to equity holders.

    “We are thrilled to partner with Alaris, a partnership that strengthens our leadership team’s ability to drive future growth. As a third-generation demolition, scrap, and hazardous materials company, Berg has built a legacy of excellence. With Alaris’s strategic support and expertise, we are confident that Berg will continue to thrive as an industry leader for generations to come,” said David Berg, Founder, Berg.

    Berg is a leading demolition solutions provider serving public, commercial and industrial end markets in the Baltimore and DC, Maryland & Virginia (“DMV”) metropolitan area in the United States. Founded in 1998 by David Berg and headquartered in Baltimore, MD, Berg has become the preeminent hazardous material abatement, selective structural and building razing operation in the region.

    PEC Investment

    The PEC Investment of $61.1 million consists of a $37.0 million investment in debt and preferred equity (the “PEC Contribution“) as well as an investment of $24.1 million in exchange for a minority common equity ownership in PEC (the “PEC Common Equity“). Included within the $37.0 million PEC Contribution is $10.0 million of preferred equity redeemable at par. The PEC Contribution will result in an annualized cash distribution to Alaris of $5.18 million (the “PEC Distribution“), an initial combined annual yield of 14% and will reset annually +/- 7% based on changes in PEC’s revenue. The proceeds from the PEC Investment were used for partial liquidity to existing PEC shareholders.

    PEC has an earnings coverage ratio between 1.5x and 2.0x, based on PEC’s trailing twelve-month financial results and giving effect to changes to PEC’s capital structure following the Alaris investment.

    “When we first met Alaris, we liked their people and their unique model immediately; Alaris’ combination of financial strength and M&A acumen will allow us to focus on growth, while their approach recognizes our desire to protect and preserve PEC’s culture, which has always been a competitive advantage and our defining attribute,” said Jim Bisson, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, PEC.

    PEC is a full-service electrical contracting firm with a broad range of capabilities ranging from commercial installations, historical structural retrofits and large scale Photovoltaic (PV) projects. In addition, through its subsidiary North American Renewables, Inc, PEC is a leading solar engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) contractor. PEC serves the Greater New England and New York area.

    Unify Redemption

    Alaris successfully exited its partnership with Unify after eight years resulting in total gross proceeds over the life of the investment of CAD$51.6 million. Alaris’ total return on the Unify investment is CAD$38.6 million, equating to an unlevered IRR of 20% and MOIC of 1.9x.

    Following the Berg and PEC Investment, and the Unify Redemption, Alaris will have approximately CA$412.9 million drawn on its senior credit facility (the “Facility“) and $87.1 million available for investment purposes while the total senior debt to EBITDA on a proforma basis is approximately 2.43x. Alaris estimates its run rate payout ratio to be approximately 57.6% following today’s announcement.

    About Alaris:

    The Trust, through its subsidiaries, invests in a diversified group of private businesses (“Private Company Partners“) primarily through structured equity. The primary goal of our structured equity investments is to deliver stable and predictable returns to our unitholders through both cash distributions and capital appreciation. This strategy is enhanced by common equity positions, which allow us to generate returns in alignment with the founders of our Private Company Partners.

    NON-IFRS MEASURES:

    Earnings Coverage Ratio refers to the Normalized EBITDA of a Partner divided by such Partner’s sum of debt servicing (interest and principal), unfunded capital expenditures and distributions to Alaris. Management believes the earnings coverage ratio is a useful metric in assessing our partners continued ability to make their contracted distributions.

    Normalized EBITDA refers to EBITDA excluding items that are non-recurring in nature and is calculated by adjusting for non-recurring expenses and gains to EBITDA. Management deems non-recurring charges to be unusual and/or infrequent charges that our Partners incur outside of its common day-to-day operations.

    EBITDA refers to earnings determined in accordance with IFRS, before depreciation and amortization, net of gain or loss on disposal of capital assets, interest expense and income tax expense. EBITDA is used by management and many investors to determine the ability of an issuer to generate cash from operations.

    IRR is a supplementary financial measure and refers to internal rate of return, which is a metric used to determine the discount rate that derives a net present value of cash flows to zero. Management uses IRR to analyze partner returns. The Trust’s method of calculating this supplementary financial measure may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures by other issuers.

    MOIC is a supplementary financial measure and refers to multiple of capital invested, which is a financial metric used to evaluate the value of an investment relative to the initial capital. Management uses MOIC to analyze partner returns. The Trust’s method of calculating this supplementary financial measure may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures by other issuers.

    The terms Earnings Coverage Ratio, Normalized EBITDA, EBITDA, IRR and MOIC (the “Non-IFRS Measures“) are not standard measures under IFRS. Alaris’ calculation of the Non-IFRS Measures may differ from those of other issuers and, therefore, should only be used in conjunction with the Trust’s annual audited and unaudited interim financial statements, which are available under the Trust’s (and its predecessor’s) profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This news release contains forward-looking statements, including forward-looking statements within the meaning of “safe harbor” provisions under applicable securities laws (“forward-looking statements”). Statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this news release may be forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, management’s expectations, intentions and beliefs concerning the Berg and PEC Investments and the Unify redemption. Many of these statements can be identified by words such as “believe”, “expects”, “will”, “intends”, “projects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “continues” or similar words or the negative thereof. Forward looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements regarding: the annualized distributions for the Berg and PEC Investments; the earnings coverage ratios for Berg and PEC; and Alaris’ outstanding indebtedness and use of the balance of the Facility. Any forward-looking statements herein which constitute a financial outlook or future-oriented financial information (including the impact on Run Rate Payout Ratio) were approved by management as of the date hereof and have been included to provide an understanding of Alaris’ financial performance and are subject to the same risks and assumptions disclosed herein. There can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which these forward-looking statements are based will occur.

    By their nature, forward-looking statements require Alaris to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian and U.S. economies over the next 24 months and how that will affect Alaris’ business and that of its Partners are material factors considered by Alaris management when setting the outlook for Alaris. Key assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions that: interest rates will not rise in a matter materially different from the prevailing market expectations over the next 12 to 24 months; no widespread global health crisis will impact the economy or any Partners’ operations in a material way in the next 12 months; the businesses of the majority of our Partners will continue to grow; the businesses of new Partners and those of existing partners will perform in line with Alaris’ expectations and diligence; more private companies will require access to alternative sources of capital and that Alaris will have the ability to raise required equity and/or debt financing on acceptable terms. Management of Alaris has also assumed that the Canadian and U.S. dollar trading pair will remain in a range of approximately plus or minus 15% of the current rate expectations over the next 6 months. In determining expectations for economic growth, management of Alaris primarily considers historical economic data provided by the Canadian and U.S. governments and their agencies as well as prevailing economic conditions at the time of such determinations.

    Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and should not be read as guarantees or assurances of future performance. The actual results of the Trust and the Partners could materially differ from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of certain risk factors, including, but not limited to: the ability of our Partners and, correspondingly, Alaris to meet performance expectations for 2025 and beyond; any change in the senior lenders’ outlook for Alaris’ business; management’s ability to assess and mitigate the impacts of any local, regional, national or international health crises like COVID-19 or its variants; the dependence of Alaris on the Partners; reliance on key personnel; general economic conditions in Canada, North America and globally; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefit of Alaris’ financing arrangements with the Partners; a failure of the Trust or any Partners to obtain required regulatory approvals on a timely basis or at all; changes in legislation and regulations and the interpretations thereof; risks relating to the Partners and their businesses, including, without limitation, a material change in the operations of a Partner or the industries they operate in; inability to close additional Partner contributions in a timely fashion, or at all; a change in the ability of the Partners to continue to pay Alaris’ distributions; a material change in the unaudited information provided to Alaris by the Partners; a failure of a Partner (or Partners) to realize on their anticipated growth strategies; a failure to achieve the expected benefits of the third-party asset management strategy or similar new investment structures and strategies; conflicts of interest that may arise under the asset management strategy or otherwise; a failure to achieve resolutions for outstanding issues with Partners on terms materially in line with management’s expectations or at all; and a failure to realize the benefits of any concessions or relief measures provided by Alaris to any Partner or to successfully execute an exit strategy for a Partner where desired. Additional risks that may cause actual results to vary from those indicated are discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” and “Forward Looking Statements” in the Trust’s Management Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is filed under the Trust’s profile at www.sedar.com and on its website at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    This news release contains future-oriented financial information and financial outlook information (collectively, “FOFI”) about increases to the Trust’s net operating cash from activities and revenues, each of which are subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations, and qualifications as set forth above. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on FOFI and forward-looking statements. Alaris’ actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and FOFI, or if any of them do so, what benefits the Trust will derive therefrom. The Trust has included the forward-looking statements and FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on Alaris’ future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Alaris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information contained in this news release as a number of factors could cause actual future results, conditions, actions or events to differ materially from the targets, expectations, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements. Statements containing forward-looking information reflect management’s current beliefs and assumptions based on information in its possession on the date of this news release. Although management believes that the assumptions reflected in the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.

    The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and Alaris does not undertake or assume any obligation to update or revise such statements to reflect new events or circumstances except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

    Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information please contact:

    ir@alarisequity.com
    P: (403) 260-1457
    Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust
    Suite 250, 333 24th Avenue S.W.
    Calgary, Alberta T2S 3E6

    www.alarisequitypartners.com

    The MIL Network –