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  • MIL-OSI USA: Bowman, Brief Remarks on the Economy, and Perspective on Mutual and Community Banks

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Let me begin by saying my thoughts and prayers are with the families of the passengers and crew who perished in the tragic flight accident in Washington, D.C. Wednesday evening.
    Thank you for the invitation to speak to you today.1 It is a pleasure to be with you virtually for your CEO Summit. I always enjoy the opportunity to meet bankers from across the country, especially New England, to learn about the issues that are important to you. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) concluded its January meeting earlier this week, so I will begin by offering some brief remarks on the economy, and then share my views on a number of mutual and community bank issues, before addressing some questions that were submitted by your members in advance of today’s meeting.
    Update on the Most Recent FOMC MeetingAt our FOMC meeting this week, my colleagues and I voted to hold the federal funds rate target range at 4-1/4 to 4‑1/2 percent and to continue to reduce the Federal Reserve’s securities holdings. I supported this action because, after recalibrating the level of the policy rate towards the end of last year to reflect the progress made since 2023 on lowering inflation and cooling the labor market, I think that policy is now in a good place to position the Committee to pay closer attention to the inflation data as it evolves.
    Looking ahead to 2025, in my view, the current policy stance also provides the opportunity to review further indicators of economic activity and get clarity on the administration’s policies and their effects on the economy. It will be very important to have a better sense of the actual policies and how they will be implemented, in addition to greater confidence about how the economy will respond.
    Brief Remarks on the EconomyThe U.S. economy remained strong through the end of last year, with solid growth in economic activity and a labor market near full employment. Core inflation remains elevated, but my expectation is that it will moderate further this year. Even with this outlook, I continue to see upside risks to inflation.
    The rate of inflation declined significantly in 2023, but it slowed by noticeably less last year. Without having seen the December data released this morning, I estimate that the 12-month measure of core personal consumption expenditures inflation—which excludes food and energy prices—likely remained unchanged at 2.8 percent in December, only slightly below its 3.0 percent reading at the end of 2023. Progress has been slow and uneven since the spring of last year mostly due to a slowing in core goods price declines.
    After increasing at a solid pace, on average, over the initial three quarters of last year, gross domestic product appears to have risen a bit more slowly in the fourth quarter, reflecting a large drop in inventory investment, which is a volatile category. In contrast, private domestic final purchases, which provide a better signal about underlying growth in economic activity, maintained its strong momentum from earlier in the year, as personal consumption rose robustly again in the fourth quarter.
    Some measures of consumer sentiment appear to have improved recently but are still well below pre-pandemic levels, likely because of higher prices. And since housing, food, and energy price increases have far outpaced overall inflation since the pandemic, lower-income households have experienced the negative impacts of inflation hardest, especially as these households have limited options to trade down for lower-cost goods and services.
    Payroll employment gains rebounded strongly in December and averaged about 170,000 per month in the fourth quarter, a pace that is somewhat above average gains in the prior two quarters. The unemployment rate edged back down to 4.1 percent in December and has moved sideways since last June, remaining slightly below my estimate of full employment.
    The labor market appears to have stabilized in the second half of last year, after having loosened from extremely tight conditions. The rise in the unemployment rate since mid-2023 largely reflected weaker hiring, as job seekers entering or re-entering the labor force are taking longer to find work, while layoffs have remained low. The ratio of job vacancies to unemployed workers has remained close to the pre-pandemic level in recent months, and there are still more available jobs than available workers. The labor market no longer appears to be especially tight, but wage growth remains somewhat above the pace consistent with our inflation goal.
    I hope the revision of the Bureau of Labor Statistics labor data, which will be released next week, will more accurately capture the changing dynamics of immigration and net business creation and bring more clarity on the underlying pace of job growth. It is crucial that U.S. official data accurately capture structural changes in labor markets in real time, such as those in recent years, so we can more confidently rely on these data for monetary and economic policymaking. In the meantime, given conflicting economic signals, measurement challenges, and significant data revisions, I remain cautious about taking signal from only a limited set of real-time data releases.
    Assuming the economy evolves as I expect, I think that inflation will slow further this year. Its progress may be bumpy and uneven, and the upcoming inflation data for the first quarter will be an important indication of how quickly this will happen. That said, I continue to see greater risks to price stability, especially while the labor market remains near full employment.
    Despite the prospect for some reduction in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia, global supply chains continue to be susceptible to disruptions, which could result in inflationary effects on food, energy, and other commodity markets. In addition, the release of pent-up demand following the election, especially with improving consumer and business sentiment, could lead to stronger economic activity, which could increase inflationary pressures.
    The Path ForwardAs we enter a new phase in the process of moving the federal funds rate toward a more neutral policy stance, I would prefer that future adjustments to the policy rate be gradual. We should take time to carefully assess the progress in achieving our inflation and employment goals and consider changes to the policy rate based on how the data evolves.
    Given the current stance of policy, I continue to be concerned that easier financial conditions over the past year may have contributed to the lack of further progress on slowing inflation. In light of the ongoing strength in the economy and with equity prices substantially higher than a year ago, it seems unlikely that the overall level of interest rates and borrowing costs are exerting meaningful restraint.
    I am also closely watching the increase in longer-term Treasury yields since we started the recalibration of our policy stance at the September meeting. Some have interpreted it as a reflection of investors’ concerns about the possibility of tighter-than-expected policy that may be required to address inflationary pressures. In light of these considerations, I continue to prefer a cautious and gradual approach to adjusting policy.
    There is still more work to be done to bring inflation closer to our 2 percent goal. I would like to see progress in lowering inflation resume before we make further adjustments to the target range. We need to keep inflation in focus while the labor market appears to be in balance and the unemployment rate continues to be at historically low levels. By the time of our March meeting, we will have received two inflation and two employment reports. I look forward to reviewing the first quarter inflation data, which, as I noted earlier, will be key to understanding the path of inflation going forward. I do expect that inflation will begin to decline again and that by year-end it will be lower than where it now stands.
    Looking forward, it is important to note that monetary policy is not on a preset course. At each FOMC meeting, my colleagues and I will make our decisions based on the incoming data and the implications for and risks to the outlook and guided by the Fed’s dual-mandate goals of maximum employment and stable prices. I will also continue to meet with a broad range of contacts as I assess the appropriateness of our monetary policy stance.
    Bringing inflation in line with our price stability goal is essential for sustaining a healthy labor market and fostering an economy that works for everyone in the longer run.
    Perspective on Mutual and Community BanksTurning to banking, I will start with a brief discussion of the important role of mutual banks in the banking system before addressing other bank regulatory issues. One of the unique characteristics of the U.S. banking system is the broad scope of institutions it includes and the wide range of customers and communities it serves. Given this institutional diversity, regulators must strive to foster a financial system that enables each and every bank, no matter its size, to thrive, supporting a vibrant economy and financial system.
    Mutual Bank IssuesIn the Northeast, everyone is familiar with mutual banks given their significant presence in this region. Since the early 1800s, these banks have been dedicated to serving their local communities.2 Their ownership structure differs from traditional banks in that mutuals are owned by their depositors, rather than by shareholders. Like other community banks, they focus on local issues that are important to their communities and to their depositors.
    Many of the challenges mutual banks face are similar to those faced by other financial institutions, including competition from other banks, credit unions, and non-banks. But mutual banks also face unique issues that can add cost and expense to their operations. Two issues I would like to discuss are the challenges mutual institutions face raising capital, and unique procedural hurdles mutuals face in managing the dividend process. While these issues are unique to mutuals, both highlight the challenges of a lack of transparency, and insufficient focus on efficiency.3
    Just as with other community banks, a challenge for many mutuals is the difficulty of raising additional capital. This difficulty is exacerbated by their ownership structure, which typically requires mutuals to rely heavily on retained earnings. Although mutual institutions have historically been more highly capitalized relative to their stock-owned peers, if a mutual capital raise is needed, it would be helpful to provide some regulatory flexibility in the process. Recently, some mutuals have issued subordinated debt as a form of capital, but another form of regulatory capital may be preferable: mutual capital certificates.
    To date, it has been unclear whether mutual capital certificates qualify as regulatory capital. These instruments could provide mutual banks an additional way to raise capital without disrupting their mutual structure. In my view, the banking agencies should be receptive to these kinds of instruments to ensure that mutual banks can both raise capital and maintain their depositor-owned structure. Mutuals need clarity and transparency about the regulatory treatment of these instruments and whether they qualify as regulatory capital.
    Another concern for mutuals is the annual requirement to receive regulatory approval for a mutual holding company’s waiver of a dividend issued by its subsidiary bank.4 The Board practice is to require a mutual holding company to submit an application each year to implement a waiver. This prior approval requirement is complex and imposes significant costs on these small institutions, reducing the investment they can make in their communities. Because of the time and expense of these waiver requirements, it is possible that the inefficiencies of the required application process erode the value of a mutual holding company structure, which would further constrain a mutual bank’s ability to raise capital.
    Since the Board has nearly 20 years of experience considering these waiver requests, it seems appropriate to consider whether the applications process for these waivers is efficient. What lessons have we learned? Is the prior approval requirement effective in its review of holding companies waiving receipt of their dividends, or can this be resolved in a more efficient and cost effective manner? In my view, the Board should consider whether this process is effective and efficient in addressing concerns related to dividend waivers.
    Mutual banks, like all community banks, are vital to the economic success of their communities. It is critical that our applications process not act as a limit on a particular type of institution simply due to regulatory inaction or lack of clarity and transparency. Regulators must find efficient and effective ways to support a vibrant and diverse banking system that enables these and other small institutions to thrive while supporting and investing in their local economy.
    TailoringTransparency and efficiency are just two of the necessary components of a regulatory approach that promotes a healthy and vibrant banking system. Another component that I speak about frequently is the use of “tailoring” in the regulatory framework. For those familiar with my philosophy on bank regulation and supervision, my interest and focus on tailoring will come as no surprise.5 In its most basic form, it is difficult to disagree with the virtue of regulatory and supervisory tailoring—calibrating the requirements and expectations imposed on a firm based on its size, business model, risk profile, and complexity—as a reasonable, appropriate and responsible approach for bank regulation and supervision. In fact, tailoring is embedded in the statutory fabric of the Federal Reserve’s bank regulatory responsibilities.6
    The bank regulatory framework inherently includes significant costs—both the cost of operating the banking agencies, and the cost to the banking industry of complying with regulations, the examination process, and supplying information to regulators both through formal information collections and through one-off requests. In the aggregate, these costs can ultimately affect the price and availability of credit, geographic access to banking services, and the broader economy. The cost of this framework—both to regulators and to the industry—reflects layers of policy decisions over many years. But this framework could be more effective in balancing the mandate to promote safety and soundness with the need to have a banking system that promotes economic growth.
    For example, let’s consider costs. As regulatory and supervisory demands grow, there is often parallel growth in the staff and budgets of the banking agencies. We should not only be cognizant of these costs, but we should act in a way that requires efficiency while ensuring safety and soundness. Some degree of elasticity in regulator capacity is necessary to respond to evolving economic and banking conditions, as well as emerging risks, but there must be reasonable constraints on growth. Expansion of the regulatory framework is not a cost-free endeavor, and the costs are shouldered by taxpayers, banks, and, ultimately, bank customers.
    The bank regulatory framework has great potential to provide significant benefits, including supporting an innovative banking system that enhances trust and confidence in our institutions, and promotes safety and soundness. When we consider the benefits and the costs, we can institute greater efficiencies in both banking regulation and in the banking industry itself. The bank regulatory framework is complex, and the various elements of this framework are intended to work in a complementary way. As banks evolve—by growing larger, or by engaging in new activities—tailoring can help us to quickly recalibrate requirements in light of the new risks posed by the firm.
    But the regulatory framework, especially how supervisors prioritize its application to the banking industry, can pose a serious threat to a bank’s viability. For example, imposing the same regulatory requirements on banks with assets of $2 billion to $2 trillion under the new rules implementing the Community Reinvestment Act demonstrated a missed opportunity to promote greater effectiveness and efficiency.7 I question the wisdom of applying the same evaluation standards to banks within such a broad range.
    Likewise, supervisory guidance can provide fertile ground to differentiate supervisory expectations under a more tailored approach. While supervisory guidance is not binding on banks as a legal matter, it can signal how regulators think about particular risks and activities, and often drives community banks to reallocate resources in a way that may not be necessary or appropriate. The Fed’s guidance on third-party risk management is an example of this. Originally, this guidance was published in a way that applied to all banks, including community banks. Yet, it was acknowledged even at the time of publication that it had known shortcomings, particularly in terms of its administration and lack of clarity for community banks.8
    Tailoring is important for all banks, but it is particularly important for community banks. There are real costs not only to banks, but to communities, when the framework is insufficiently tailored, as community banks faced with excessive regulatory burdens may be forced to raise prices or shut their doors completely. These banks often reach unbanked or underbanked corners of the U.S. economy, not only in terms of the customers they serve but also in terms of their geographic footprint. We are all familiar with banking deserts and the challenges many legitimate and law-abiding businesses and consumers have in accessing basic banking services and credit. It is difficult to imagine that a system with far fewer banks would as effectively serve U.S. banking and credit needs and sufficiently to support economic growth.
    It is imperative that we keep the benefits of tailoring in focus as the bank regulatory framework evolves. A tailored regulatory and supervisory approach can help inform our policies on a wide range of industry issues that are likely to emerge in the coming years.
    Problem-Based SolutionsOne of the most difficult challenges on the regulatory front is prioritization, both for banks managing their businesses and for regulators deciding how to fulfill their responsibilities. At a basic level, the role of regulators is dictated by statute. Congress granted the Federal Reserve and other banking agencies broad statutory powers but has constrained how those powers may be directed through the use of statutory mandates, including to promote a safe and sound banking system, and broader U.S. financial stability. In the execution of these responsibilities, the Federal Reserve must also balance the need to act in a way that enables the banking system to serve the U.S. economy and promote economic growth. While these objectives are not incompatible, they do require us to consider tradeoffs when establishing policy.
    How can regulators best meet these responsibilities? As many of you may already know, I strongly believe in a pragmatic approach to policymaking.9 This requires us to identify the problem we are trying to solve, determine whether we are the appropriate regulator to address the problem based on our statutory mandates and authorities, and explore options for addressing the identified issue.
    As a first step, we must be attuned to the banking system and how regulatory actions affect that system. We oversee a wide range of banks of varying sizes, activities, affiliates, and complexity. These banks interact with a range of service providers, financial market utilities, payments providers, and non-bank partners, regularly competing with non-bank financial intermediaries. The banking system can be a key driver of business formation, economic expansion, and opportunity.
    As we look at the banking system, including the regulatory framework, we must focus on those issues that are most important to advancing statutory priorities. There is always the risk of misidentification and mis-prioritization, and that we fail to take appropriately robust action on key issues or focus on issues that are less material to a bank’s safety and soundness. Our goal should be to develop a better filter to promote appropriate and effective prioritization.
    FraudWe have seen several instances where this filter did not produce appropriate results, as we have recently seen with fraud. The incidence of fraud, particularly check fraud, has been rising substantially over the past few years, causing harm to banks, damaging the perceived safety of the banking system, and importantly hurting consumers who are the victims of fraudulent activity. Sometimes these efforts target vulnerable populations, like the elderly, who are particularly susceptible to certain forms of fraud.
    Despite this known problem, efforts by regulators have been frustratingly slow to advance, and seem to have done little to address the underlying root causes of this increase in fraud. Why has this important issue failed to garner greater attention from all of the appropriate regulatory and law enforcement bodies? Different governmental agencies may share an important role in addressing this problem, but the need for a joint and coordinated solution does not excuse collective inaction.
    Climate-Related Financial RiskOf course, not every issue falls within the scope of the Federal Reserve’s responsibilities. Even when policymakers identify an issue or priority that they would like to pursue, it is imperative to ask whether that priority falls within the scope of our mandate and authorities. Statutes and regulations, paired with the “soft” power of examination, can be deployed in ways that may not be primarily directed towards the priorities mandated for banking regulators. I’ve noted previously that the banking agencies’ climate-related financial risk guidance arguably pushes the boundaries of appropriate regulatory responsibilities. Banks have long been required to manage all material risks, including weather- and climate-related risks. And while this additional guidance seemed to do little to advance the goals of promoting the safe and sound operation of banks it, in effect, posed significant risks of influencing credit allocation decisions. Ultimately, banking regulators should not dictate credit allocation decisions, either by rule or through supervision. Bank regulatory policy should be used to address the needs of the unbanked and expand the availability of banking services. It should not be used to limit or exclude access to banking services for legitimate customers and businesses in a way that is meant to further unrelated policy goals, sometimes referred to as “de-banking.”
    Once we have identified problems and determined that they are within the Fed’s responsibility, we must consider alternative approaches to address them, focusing on identifying efficient solutions. New technologies and services often require novel regulatory and supervisory approaches, and we recognize that past approaches may not be effective. Often regulators take a “more is better” approach to regulation and guidance. Over the past several years, the banking industry has faced an onslaught of proposed and final regulations and guidance, materials that require a significant time commitment to review, to comment on, and to implement. Many times, these require changes to policies and procedures or risk management practices.
    It is critical that in our urgency to address issues in the banking system—particularly for community banks—that we consider not just the direct and indirect effects of regulatory action but also this cumulative burden. Community banks are resilient and dedicated to serving their communities, but at some point, the cumulative burden of the bank regulatory framework can adversely affect the availability and pricing of banking services and threaten the ongoing viability of the community bank model. The community banks in this country are important economically and to their communities, and we should strive to support these institutions and their ongoing viability.
    Other Notable Issues and ConcernsIn preparation for today’s event, conference attendees were asked to submit questions in advance. So before concluding my remarks I’d like to address a few of these, since we won’t be able to do a live Q&A session in this virtual format. Thank you for submitting your questions in advance.
    As community bankers, we are deeply invested in supporting the growth and resilience of our local economies. With ongoing regulatory pressures, what specific actions can the Federal Reserve take to ensure smaller institutions like ours remain competitive and capable of delivering the personalized service that our communities depend on?One of the things I think is critical in identifying how to support community banks is listening to the industry—which issues are top-of-mind for you? Being an effective regulator requires a degree of humility, and receptiveness to hearing about issues that affect the business of banking, particularly when there are alternative ways that regulators can better promote safety and soundness, or where regulatory actions have resulted in unintended consequences. At the same time, during my conversations with banks, a few themes have emerged that deserve attention. This will be a non-exclusive list, but hopefully will give you a sense of the types of issues and concerns that I hear about most frequently when talking to community banks.
    First, I think there is room to improve the transparency of regulatory communication. Banks should not be left to guess what regulators think about the permissibility of particular activities, or what parameters and rules should apply to those activities. Uncertainty discourages investments in innovation and the expansion of banking activities, products, and services, and can call into question whether internal processes and procedures are consistent with supervisory expectations. Banks already must confront the challenges of dealing with evolving economic and credit conditions, regulators should not compound these challenges through opaque expectations and standards.
    Second, I think we need to address shortcomings in the processing of banking applications, employing a more nimble and predictable approach specifically in the de novo formation and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) contexts. Today, the process to obtain regulatory approval can be influenced by many factors under a bank’s control—for example, the completeness of the application filed and responsiveness to addressing questions and providing necessary additional information. However, the timeline for application decisions is often uncertain and beyond the bank’s control. This can be due to questions about the minimum amount of capital needed and early-stage supervisory expectations (for a de novo bank), or uncertainty about the competitive effects of a transaction, or the filing of a public comment raising concerns about an application in the M&A context.
    Finally, I think regulatory and supervisory “trickle-down” is real and it has significantly harmed community banks. I am referring to regulators conveying expectations to community banks (for example, during the examination process) that lack a foundation in applicable rules or guidance, or that were designed for larger institutions, or based on a horizontal review of unique banks.
    It is very difficult to insulate community banks from the harmful consequences of “trickle-down,” and broader structural changes may be needed to shield them from inapplicable and unreasonable expectations. At the same time, we must preserve strong supervisory standards as banks cross asset thresholds, so banks that grow larger and riskier are subject to appropriately tailored and calibrated requirements and expectations. I would also note that some degree of “trickle down” has occurred over time because the regulatory asset “line” defining community banks has remained constant at $10 billion in assets for over a decade. During that time, the economy has grown significantly, and inflation has rendered this asset definition obsolete. Many “community banks”—as defined by business model and activities rather than asset size—now exceed the threshold and must comply with broader regulatory requirements that may be excessive.
    What support or guidance can community banks expect from the Federal Reserve as we navigate technological innovation and increased cybersecurity threats?Both innovation and cybersecurity are issues that are top of mind for me. Innovation has always been a priority for banks of all sizes and business models. Banks in the U.S. have a long history of developing and implementing new technologies, and innovation has the potential to make the banking and payments systems faster and more efficient, to bring new products and services to customers, and even to enhance safety and soundness.
    Regulators must be open to innovation in the banking system. Our goal should be to build and support a clear and sensible regulatory framework that anticipates ongoing and evolving innovation—one that allows the private sector to innovate while also maintaining appropriate safeguards. We must promote innovation through transparency and open communication, including demonstrating a willingness to engage during the development process. By providing clarity and consistency, we can encourage long-term business investment, while also continuing to support today’s products and services. A clear regulatory framework would also empower supervisors to focus on safety and soundness, while ensuring a safe and efficient banking and payment system.
    On cybersecurity, banks often note cybersecurity and third-party risk management as areas that raise significant concerns. Cyber-related events, including ransomware attacks and business email compromises, are costly in terms of expense and reputation, and are time-consuming events that pose unique challenges for community banks.
    The maintenance of cyber assets and technology resources required to support a successful cybersecurity program are often difficult for smaller banks. Regulators can promote cybersecurity, and stronger cyber-incident “resilience” and response capabilities by identifying resources and opportunities, such as exercises, for banks to develop “muscle memory” in cyber incident response.
    The Federal Reserve plays an important role in supervising banks and supporting risk management practices. For example, the Federal Reserve hosts the Midwest Cyber Workshop, with the Federal Reserve Banks of Chicago, Kansas City, and St. Louis.10 Over the past couple of years, this workshop has provided a forum to discuss cyber risk among community bankers, regulators, law enforcement, and other industry stakeholders. Community banks can also turn to the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) website, which includes the FFIEC Cybersecurity Resource Guide and links to other external cybersecurity resources.
    We know well that cyber threats pose real risks to the banking system, and we recognize that community banks may have unique needs in preventing, remediating, and responding to cyber threats. Regulators should, therefore, ensure that a range of resources are available to support banks and seek further opportunities to help build bank resilience against these threats.
    Community banks are integral to rural and underserved communities. How can the Federal Reserve support us in maintaining our presence in these areas, particularly amid ongoing consolidation trends?As I noted earlier, it is essential that the U.S. banking system is broad and diverse, including institutions of all sizes serving all the different markets across the country. Community banks play a particularly valuable role in rural and underserved communities, and we need to ensure that the community banking model remains viable into the future.
    To do that, we need to have a regulatory system in which both de novo bank formations and M&A transactions are possible. Viable formation and merger options for banks of all sizes are necessary to avoid creating a “barbell” of the very largest and very smallest banks in the banking system, with the number of community banks continuing to erode over time.
    M&A ensures that banks have a meaningful path to transitioning bank ownership. In the absence of a viable M&A framework, there is potential for additional risks, including limited opportunities for succession planning, especially in smaller or rural communities. Uncertainty related to the M&A process also may act as a deterrent to de novo bank formation, as potential bank founders may stay on the sidelines knowing that future exit strategies—like the strategic acquisition of a de novo bank by a larger peer—may face long odds of success.
    Another challenge particularly in rural markets are the competitive “screens” that are used to evaluate the competitive effects of a proposed merger. Using these screens often results in a finding that M&A transactions in rural markets can have an adverse effect on competition and should therefore be disallowed.11 Even when these transactions are eventually approved, the mechanical approach to analyzing competitive effects often requires additional review or analysis and can lead to extensive delays in the regulatory approval process. Reducing the efficiency of the bank M&A process can be a deterrent to healthy bank transactions—it can reduce the effectiveness of M&A and de novo activity that preserves the presence of community banks in underserved areas, prevent institutions from pursuing prudent growth strategies, and actually undermine competition by preventing firms from growing to a larger scale.

    1. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
    2. The first mutual banks in the United States were chartered in 1816. The Provident Institution for Savings and the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society were both chartered that year. See https://www.jstor.org/stable/2123609; https://www.mass.gov/info-details/history-of-the-division-of-banks. Return to text
    3. Michelle W. Bowman, “Reflections on 2024: Monetary Policy, Economic Performance, and Lessons for Banking Regulation” (speech at the California Bankers Association 2025 Bank Presidents Seminar, Laguna Beach, California, January 9, 2025). Return to text
    4. 12 CFR § 239.8(d). Return to text
    5. See, e.g., Michelle W. Bowman, “Tailoring, Fidelity to the Rule of Law, and Unintended Consequences (PDF)” (speech at the Harvard Law School Faculty Club, Cambridge, Massachusetts, March 5, 2024). Return to text
    6. See, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, Pub. L. No. 115-174, § 401(a)(1) (amending 12 U.S.C. § 5365), 132 Stat. 1296 (2018). Return to text
    7. See dissenting statement, “Statement on the Community Reinvestment Act Final Rule by Governor Michelle W. Bowman,” news release, October 24, 2023. Return to text
    8. See “Statement on Third Party Risk Management Guidance by Governor Michelle W. Bowman,” news release, June 6, 2023. Return to text
    9. Michelle W. Bowman, “Approaching Policymaking Pragmatically (PDF)” (remarks to the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, Florida, November 20, 2024). Return to text
    10. See Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, and Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, “Midwest Cyber Workshop 2024,” June 25‑26, 2024. Return to text
    11. Michelle W. Bowman, “The Role of Research, Data, and Analysis in Banking Reforms (PDF)” (speech at the 2023 Community Banking Research Conference, St. Louis, MO, October 4, 2023); Michelle W. Bowman, “The New Landscape for Banking Competition (PDF),” (speech at the 2022 Community Banking Research Conference, St. Louis, MO, September 28, 2022). Return to text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chris Kent goes ‘Offline’ for night of laughter at the Alley

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Chris Kent goes ‘Offline’ for night of laughter at the Alley

    31 January 2025

    Prepare for an evening of sharp wit and hilarious observations when comedian Chris Kent takes on the ultimate digital detox in his new stand-up show ‘Offline’, which comes to the Alley Theatre, Strabane on Saturday 15th February.

    At 40, Chris Kent wonders if it’s possible to reclaim a simpler time – before Google, before constant notifications, and before every question could be answered with a quick scroll. In ‘Offline’, he sets out to give up the internet entirely, navigating life without asking his phone what to eat, where to go, or how to get home. He longs for the days of playing Snake on his Nokia and constructing emojis manually. But can he really survive in a world without Wi-Fi? Join him on a journey of self-discovery and hilarity that could either make him or break him.

    Chris Kent, known for his appearances on The Late Late Show and RTE Radio 1, delivers a night of side-splitting comedy as he grapples with modern life, technology, and the ultimate challenge: thinking for himself.

    The Alley Theatre, one of the premier cultural venues in Strabane, offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for an evening of comedy.

    Don’t miss this hilarious journey of digital detox and self-reflection! Get your tickets now and join Chris Kent as he goes ‘Offline’ at the Alley Theatre.

    Tickets are £20 available from the Alley Theatre website www.alley-theatre.com or call the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 71 384444.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free training on offer to help boost city centre business

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Aberdeen City Council, in partnership with  Aberdeen Grampian Chamber of Commerce, is offering free tailored training sessions to help to city centre businesses.

    The sessions take place on Monday 10 and Tuesday 18 February and cover business resilience and building long-term strategic relationships respectively.

    The sessions are part of the Business Toolkit, launched earlier in January , designed to support best practice, knowledge sharing and networking, and a proactive adaptable, approach to the challenges and opportunities of a changing high street.

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “The Council, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, is taking a proactive approach in helping city centre businesses adapt to the ever-evolving environment in which they operate.

    “The two free sessions will focus on building the capabilities and relationships which can help operators future-proof their business in times of change. I would encourage businesses to take advantage of these opportunities.”

    Aberdeen City Council Finance and Resources convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “The Council’s aim is to support businesses in all sectors and ensure that the city centre thrives even in the face of changing consumer spending habits and other challenges.

    “Our commitment to a vibrant city centre with a mix of attractions and businesses that will attract visitors from far and wide. The two training sessions are just part of a toolkit specifically designed to deliver on that ambition.”

    The first training session will be held at Aberdeen Art Gallery with the second taking place at Marsichal College.

    For more information on the training sessions and the business toolkit, visit:

    Business toolkit | Aberdeen City Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Secretary announces Land Use Framework

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Steve Reed sets out how the most sophisticated land use data ever published will support decision-making by local government, landowners, businesses and farmers

    Thanks to Tim for the introduction, and to the Royal Geographical Society for hosting us here today.

    I want to start by celebrating the work of the late Sir Dudley Stamp, President of the Royal Geographical Society from 1963 – 1966.

    In the 1930s, Sir Dudley carried out the Land Utilisation Survey of Great Britain, the first-of-its-kind nation-wide survey of how land was then being used in our country.

    He recruited the help of thousands of schoolchildren and their teachers, who embarked on a trip right around Britain to map mountains, rivers, fields, back gardens, forests, covering every piece of land across the country.

    You can see examples of these maps can be found in this room today.

    Across the survey, some maps were clearly done quickly as a pupil ran out of time, or perhaps even lost interest, others are coloured meticulously with additional notes and labels for good measure.

    Yet, whether they were rushed or done in painstaking detail, Sir Dudley’s maps are invaluable, providing a comprehensive record of how land was being used across England, Wales and Scotland.

    These maps were quickly put to use with the dawn of the Second World War, used by the local War Agricultural Committees to identify land that could maximise food production.

    Sir Dudley’s maps are a snapshot in history – a fascinating insight into how the countryside has changed over time.

    But the story of our land goes much deeper even than that.

    Our landscape embodies our lives, our culture, our celebrations, and our tragedies.

    How it looks has changed as our population has grown and shrunk, through wars, in times of disease and hardship, through changing industries and shifting habits. The stories of our ancestors are embedded in the rich heritage of our land.

    In the woodlands of the New Forest where, in 1697, trees were protected by law to supply timber for the Royal Navy’s growing fleet.

    In the ridges and furrows in our fields, and the stone walls of enclosures, that give a glimpse into the lives of millions of farmers who’ve worked our land for tens of thousands of years.

    In the parkland designed by ‘Capability’ Brown across England’s glorious Georgian Estates, visited by millions of us to this day.

    Our landscape reflects generations of innovators.

    In the emergence of new terraced houses in the industrial towns of Lancashire and West Yorkshire, remnants of the late 18th century textile revolution.

    In the creation of our transport system, from canals to the railways through the 19th century, to the opening of England’s first motorway in 1958.

    From the world’s first public electricity supply in Surrey in 1851, to the UK producing its trillionth kilowatt hour of electricity from renewable sources in May 2023.

    It’s the fabric of Stevenage and Harlow, created under the New Towns Act of 1946 to meet the urgent need for housing in the post war years, and in the opening of our National Parks during that same period, representing the desire of a nation to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

    It tells the story of farmers who have changed how they farm time and again to grow the food we need and steward our countryside, embracing mechanisation in the 20th century, automation in more recent decades, and the nature-friendly practices we’re seeing emerge today.

    Wherever you are in England, the history of our landscape is ever present. The distinctive features that make up the nation we know and love are never far away.

    Two hours from the room we’re all in right now, I could be at Stonehenge. Go the other way, I’m in the Norfolk Broads or on the beach at Margate. I can easily get to the canals of Birmingham, the uplands of the Yorkshire Dales or the sparkling white cliffs of Dover.

    This is one of England’s greatest joys. But also one of its challenges. Because England’s land area is small. To put it in perspective, France is four times bigger than England but our population is around the same.

    And there are more demands and more opportunities on our land than ever before.

    To grow the economy and deliver the change that this Government was elected to do, we must make the best use of the land around us. But we need better data and tools to inform decision making. 

    So we can grow the food to feed the nation. Build 1.5 million new homes to address the housing crisis. Construct the energy infrastructure to secure home-grown clean power. And, underpinning all these ambitions, protect and restore nature here in one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth. 

    In the years since Sir Dudley’s work, we’ve seen subsequent land use surveys, and advances in spatial data science and earth observation means we have detailed land analysis at our fingertips, including that used by Tim in Land App, to help people plan how we use our land better.

    But, until now, there has been no clear direction set by Government on how our land could best be used across England. How to support those who make decisions about the land. How to minimise trade-offs and maximise its potential.

    Today, following Sir Dudley’s groundbreaking survey almost 100 years ago, I’m asking for your help to shape the first-ever comprehensive Land Use Framework for England.

    This will be the most sophisticated land use data and toolkit ever published in our country’s history.

    This Government has a cast-iron commitment to maintain long-term food security.

    The primary purpose of farming will always be to produce the food that feeds the nation.

    This framework will give decision makers the toolkit they need to protect our highest quality agricultural land, and make decisions about the long term future of farm businesses.

    Farming faces a rapidly changing climate. More severe flooding and droughts are damaging food production, hitting yields and hitting profits. At the same time our natural environment is in decline. Much-loved British birds and wildlife are at risk of national extinction.

    Our rivers, lakes and seas are choked by unacceptable levels of pollution.

    Some of our most treasured landscapes are in a very poor condition.

    This is the scale of the challenge we face.  And we must do more to restore our natural world while maintaining and strengthening food production. 

    That is why the Government must go further and faster to support farmers through the transition to a more sustainable way of farming.

    But there’s good news too.  That transition is already underway. Embracing innovation that will boost long-term food production. Restoring habitats and supporting once-endangered species. Doing things like planting orchards alongside cropland, or restoring and maintaining peatland.

    I know from conversations with farmers and landowners that they not only understand the need for change, they are already making change happen. 

    They know their land best, and it is only right that they lead this transition.

    We can make the most of food production, nature’s restoration and economic growth if we support farmers and landowners with better information to help them navigate their way into the future. 

    That may mean doing things differently, and I know that can be worrying, but the decision on how to manage land will and must always rest with the individual farmer or landowner.

    We will work with farmers to shape the framework and support them in making their businesses more sustainable, productive and profitable by opening up Government data so innovators like Tim can put new insights into the hands of farmers, planners and developers when taking their own decisions about the best use for their land.

    It will look at how we create the certainty that private investors need to invest in farming businesses, and consider how best to use public funding to secure the most benefits for food production and for nature.

    We are working on common sense changes that create a win-win for nature and the economy, and the Land Use Framework is a significant part of that.

    Nature is the common thread that runs through the Government’s missions. It is healthy soils and abundant pollinators that enable us to grow the food we need despite the changing climate. It’s a resilient water supply that is essential to building the homes, schools, hospitals, and datacentres that we need. And trees and vegetation that help the land hold more water and give us better protection from flooding.

    It’s the biodiversity and wildlife that safeguards our ecosystems to fight off animal and plant diseases, while access to our wild landscapes and green spaces helps improve mental and physical health and reduce the burden on our NHS.

    Beyond nature and the farming sector, this Framework will unlock growth through better spatial planning.

    It will work hand in hand with our housing and our energy plans, so we can meet our ambitious housing targets and achieve Clean Power by 2030, without jeopardising food production or nature.

    This land use data will shape decision-making about where and how we build things in this country so we can grow the economy and meet the challenges of future decades.

    Major infrastructure will be built with sensitivity to our landscapes, by ensuring our strategic spatial energy plan and 10 year infrastructure strategy draw from the land use framework.

    And by linking the Framework with our spatial approach to housing, we can develop new settlements that make space for nature and allow access to our beautiful green countryside.

    This is about creating a coherent set of policies that work together, rather than against each other.

    We have taken on recommendations from Henry Dimbleby’s Food Strategy, the Food Farming and Countryside Commission, a House of Lords Committee, and a range of other voices – many who I see in front of me in this room, to consult on a Land Use Framework for England.

    Starting a national conversation on the vast opportunities for how we use land in this country.  

    It won’t tell anyone what to do with their land, it will help them take better decisions shaped by the life experiences of farmers, landowners and planners.

    Using the most sophisticated land use data ever published, we will boost food production, protect the best agricultural land, restore our natural world and drive economic growth.

    This is not a set of rules. This is providing better data and information to make sure the farming transition that is already happening is fair and just.

    Ensuring the evidence gathered here will also feed into the wider reform that we are delivering through our Farming Roadmap and Food Strategy.

    So just as Sir Dudley asked schoolteachers and their pupils for help all those years ago, I am asking for your help.

    I won’t be giving out mapping sheets and testing your colouring skills you’ll be pleased to hear.

    But I do want to hear your views and draw from your expertise on what a Land Use Framework for England should look like and – importantly – how we get there.

    Today we are launching a 12-week consultation, that will be supported by workshops and roundtables around the country.

    Bringing together farmers, landowners, businesses, planners – everyone involved in how we use our land.

    We’ll be asking for your views on a future vision for the land, what our policies on land use need to include, and what you need to realise that vision.

    Tell us how can we change the way our spatial data is presented and shared so it’s more valuable in decision making and can be used to drive economic growth.

    Tell us where the skills gaps are, and what skills we need to transition our land.

    Tell us how we can best help landowners, land managers and communities understand and prepare for the challenges of climate change,

    Or support farmers to make land-use changes while boosting food production.

    If we get that right, the prize is huge.

    We can have a multifunctional landscape that delivers economic growth and puts money back in the pockets of hardworking people.

    Where farmers continue to produce the food we need, working with nature and maximising the potential of their land to strengthen food security in the face of climate change and geopolitical shocks. 

    We can have healthy ecosystems, abundant habitats and species, clean waterways and beautiful countryside for everyone to enjoy.

    We can have families living in well-designed homes, with green spaces, amenities and protection from flooding.

    We can lower energy bills and increase national energy security by generating more homegrown, clean energy.

    This is about shaping the future England we want to see.

    The consultation may be just 12 weeks – but the conversation will be ongoing.

    Just as it has throughout history, our landscape will continue to change – and we will work with you so that the Land Use Framework evolves to reflect this. 

    Our landscape is shaped by those who’ve lived and worked it for generations.

    This is England’s next chapter. We are the authors. Let’s write it together.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rail fare hikes will cause misery for workers and commuters

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Jan 2025 Transport End Peak Rail Fares

    Inflation-busting increases are inaccessible and unaffordable for everyone.

    More in Transport

    Rail travel must be accessible and affordable for all, says Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell, following the announcement that ScotRail fares will increase by an inflation-busting 3.8% from April 1st.
     
    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.
     
    The Greens have joined trade unions in calling for cheaper public transport through ending peak rail fares and introducing a £2 bus fare cap, to ensure that cleaner, greener travel is more available, affordable and accessible for all.
     
    In this year’s budget the Scottish Greens secured  the regional trial of a £2 bus fare cap beginning in January 2026, a move that they want to see extended across the country.
     

    The Scottish Greens’ spokesperson for transport, Mark Ruskell MSP, said:

    “These hikes will cause misery for commuters. If we want rail to be the first and best option for regular journeys then it has to be affordable and accessible for all.
     
    “When the Scottish Greens were in government we secured the removal of peak rail fares, only for the SNP to bring them back as soon as we were out of the room.
     
    “With household budgets being stretched to their limits, workers and regular commuters across our country are looking to find the cheapest ways to travel. These hikes will only deter people from using trains.
     
    “If we want safer and cleaner communities and less cars on our roads then we need to cut the cost of public transport. That is how we will encourage more commuters to leave their cars at home and hop on the train or bus, while benefiting people and planet.”

    Mr Ruskell added:

    “It was right to take ScotRail into public ownership, but we have a long way to go in building a modern and affordable rail network.
     
    “It shouldn’t have to cost a fortune to get to work, to hospital appointments or even to explore Scotland. We must end peak rail fares and stop financially penalising those who have no say on when they have to travel.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Honorary King’s Counsel welcomed by Lord Chancellor

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    His Majesty The King has approved the award of 9 new Honorary King’s Counsel (KC Honoris Causa) in England and Wales.

    His Majesty The King has approved the award of nine new Honorary King’s Counsel (KC Honoris Causa). Their biographies are listed below. Honorary KC is awarded to those who have made a major contribution to the law of England and Wales, outside practice in the courts. 

    The Lord Chancellor will preside over the award ceremony at Westminster Hall in March 2025, where she will formally award the Honorary KC to the successful nominees. 

    Honorary King’s Counsel biographies 

    Professor Martin Dixon  

    Professor Dixon is a legal scholar specialising in real property law. He is the Professor of the Law of Real Property at the University of Cambridge, where he is also Director of the Cambridge Centre for Property Law (CCPL) and a Fellow of Queens’ College. 

    He was nominated for his work on property law through his scholarship, co-authorship of leading practitioner texts, and participation in Law Commission projects. Additionally, for his co-founding of the Modern Studies in Property Law Conference and for his Editorship of The Conveyancer. 

    Rebecca Hilsenrath 

    Rebecca Hilsenrath is a lawyer and public servant with a career spanning corporate law, human rights, and strategic leadership. Currently the interim Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), she has served as Chief Executive of the PHSO, Legal Adviser to the Attorney General, and Chief Executive of LawWorks. Previously, she was the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Legal Officer of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), where she championed equality and tackled human rights issues.   

    She was nominated for her efforts in promoting diversity in panel counsel appointments for the government and at the EHRC, increasing pro bono contributions in the legal sector, and leading international legal engagement in equality and human rights. 

    Rachel Horman-Brown 

    Rachel Horman-Brown is a solicitor focused on cases involving domestic abuse, stalking, coercive control, and forced marriage. As Director, she leads the Family Department at Watson Ramsbottom Solicitors. She is also the Chair of Paladin, the National Stalking Advocacy Service.   

    She was nominated for her campaigning for policy and legislative changes around stalking, domestic abuse, and violence against women and girls. In addition, for her work with Paladin, where she shaped legislation, including for the creation of coercive control as a specific criminal offence. She has also provided evidence to parliamentary committees and advisory groups, thereby influencing police practices and approaches to trauma. 

    Dr Laura Janes  

    Dr Laura Janes is a solicitor specialising in complex cases involving people detained in the criminal justice and mental health systems. As Legal Director at the Howard League for Penal Reform from 2016 to 2022, she led a legal service for young people in custody and spearheaded challenges against practices such as solitary confinement. She is a consultant solicitor at GT Stewart Solicitors and Scott-Moncrieff and Associates. Laura Janes is an advocate for access to justice, having founded Young Legal Aid Lawyers and held leadership roles in several legal organisations. She holds a professional doctorate in youth justice and teaches law at London South Bank University.  

    She was nominated for her contributions to the legal profession promoting access to justice, her work to drive policy changes, representing vulnerable individuals in prison, advocating for the rights of children and young people in custody and reforms to the IPP sentence.   

    Susanna McGibbon  

    Susanna McGibbon is an employed barrister and the current Treasury Solicitor, HM Procurator General and Permanent Secretary of the Government Legal Department (GLD). As the most senior Civil Service lawyer she is head of the Government Legal Profession. Her previous roles include serving as Director of GLD Litigation Group, Legal Director at the Department for Communities and Local Government and Legal Director at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. She is a Bencher of Lincoln’s Inn and this year holds the office of Keeper of the Walks. 

    Ms McGibbon was nominated for her legal advice on complex and sensitive issues within government especially in public and administrative law and national security. Also, for her leadership in a range of high-profile cases and inquiries and for her advocacy for diversity and inclusion across the legal profession.   

    Professor Renato Nazzini  

    Professor Nazzini is a legal scholar focusing on competition law, commercial arbitration, and construction law. He is the Director of the Centre of Construction Law and Dispute Resolution at King’s College London and a partner at LMS Legal LLP.   

    He was nominated for his contributions to competition law by developing policies on collective actions and abuse of dominance, influencing the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the 2008 European Commission Guidance on Article 102. He has also contributed to construction law, including by leading the Centre of Construction Law and Dispute Resolution at King’s College London, producing reports on construction adjudication and promoting diversity within the field.    

    Susan Willman  

    Susan Willman (known as Sue Willman) is a solicitor specialising in public interest litigation, focusing on human rights, environmental justice, and migrants’ rights. She is a senior consultant at legal aid firm, Deighton Pierce Glynn, and has led cases addressing systemic social and environmental injustices. She is also employed by the Dickson Poon School of Law, King’s College, London as a Senior Lecturer, and Assistant Director of the King’s Legal Clinic. She has held key leadership roles, including Chair of the Law Society Human Rights Committee.    

    She was nominated for founding the Asylum Support Appeals Project (ASAP), providing free representation to destitute asylum-seekers. As well as for publishing articles, authoring a series of textbooks on asylum support, and advising a parliamentary committee on an inquiry to drive legislative reforms. 

    Douglas Wilson OBE 

    Douglas Wilson is a government lawyer currently serving as Director General and Head of the Attorney General’s Office. He has previously held positions such as Director of Legal Affairs and International Relations at GCHQ, Legal Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and has served in legal and diplomatic roles at UK posts overseas. 

    He was nominated for advising on issues such as Brexit, military operations, and intelligence cooperation, which shaped the law on the use of military force, cyberspace, and investigatory powers. Furthermore, he has promoted effective and inclusive legal practice within government.  

    Professor Adrian Zuckerman 

    Professor Zuckerman is a scholar in civil procedure and evidence law. He is Emeritus Professor of Civil Procedure at the University of Oxford and Emeritus Fellow of University College, Oxford. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Civil Justice Quarterly and a Consultant Editor of Halsbury’s Laws of England. 

    Professor Zuckerman is a prominent commentator on the administration of civil justice. He has influenced legislative policy and judicial practice, notably through contributions to the Woolf Report on Access to Justice, and the Jackson Review of Civil Litigation Costs. He has campaigned for improving access to court and for making justice available to all at proportionate cost. His work on criminal evidence refocused evidence scholarship around fundamental normative principles. 

    He was nominated for his contributions to the Civil Procedure Rules in England and Wales. His academic work, particularly “Zuckerman on Civil Procedure,” is cited in courts across the common law world. 

    Further information 

    Honorary KC is awarded by HM The King, on the advice of the Lord Chancellor. The Lord Chancellor is advised by a selection panel of senior representatives from across the legal sector, civil service, judiciary, and academia. More information about the purpose of the award can be found on GOV.UK. 

    For further information, please contact the Ministry of Justice press office. Follow us @MoJGovUK. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aberdeen in 2025 Britain in Bloom finals!

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Aberdeen is in the 2025 finals of the prestigious Britain in Bloom competition hoping to add yet another flower crown to the city’s successes over the decades.

    Last year, Aberdeen won the overall best in Scotland award – the Rosebowl – along with the City Trophy, the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society Award, the VisitScotland Award for Tourism and a Gold Medal Certificate, at the Beautiful Scotland Awards. In 2023, the city won gold in Britain in Bloom. In 2022, and 2021, Aberdeen won gold in the ‘City’ category in Beautiful Scotland and was also crowned Overall Joint overall winner in 2022. In 2020, Aberdeen was a finalist for Champion of Champions award in Britain in Bloom but the competition was cancelled due to the pandemic.

    Aberdeen has won a medal in either Britain in Bloom or Beautiful Scotland every year since 2008 and has been award-winning in the competitions since 1964. Aberdeen City Council this year is also celebrating 61 years competing in Britain in Bloom and Beautiful Scotland.

    Aberdeen City Council In Bloom Champion Councillor Neil MacGregor said: “It truly is an accolade for the city to be in the finals of Britain in Bloom.

    “This is thanks to the great work carried out by our enthusiastic gardeners and greenkeepers as well as all the amazing community organisations, groups and individuals who help to continue make Aberdeen’s green spaces beautiful along with support from Keep Scotland Beautiful.

    “It is fantastic that we will be welcoming Britain in Bloom judges back into the city in the summer and we look forward to showing them around including meeting many of the people involved in ensuring our green areas look great.”

    Britain in Bloom is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and is the top gardening competition for councils and other community organisations across the UK. Major winners from regional competitions including Beautiful Scotland are put forward for the UK-wide finals.

    The city will be judged on its horticulture which is amazing parks and green spaces, community involvement which is all the fantastic green partners and volunteers including Friends groups, schools, businesses, community groups and the thousands of volunteers who help out, and environmental responsibility which is the work carried out for the Council’s climate plan, carbon reduction, and other similar projects.

    The winners for the various categories will be announced at an awards event in the autumn.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: North Cornwall coast path improvements completed

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The path around the South West’s glorious coastline is further enhanced thanks to improvements to the Marsland Mouth to Newquay section in Cornwall.

    Walking the coast path from Pentire Point towards Polzeath

    These works form part of a national programme to create a coastal path around the whole of England. Once completed this will be the longest managed coastal walking route in the world and the UK’s longest National Trail.

    Stretching from Marsland Mouth on the North Cornwall coast down to Newquay, some 75 miles in total, the path follows the route of the existing South West Coast Path (SWCP) National Trail, beginning at the border with Devon and stretching to the railway station in Newquay.

    For anyone walking the path, there is plenty to see, with towns and villages such as Bude, Boscastle, Tintagel, Port Isaac, Polzeath, Padstow and Mawgan Porth.  Plus, the path passes by the historic highlights of Crackington Haven, Tintagel Castle, the Rumps at Pentire with its Bronze age burial mounds, the Camel Estuary (including the ferry), Trevose Head and its lighthouse and Bedruthan Steps.  In addition, there are glorious sandy beaches to stop off throughout the route.

    Making the path line up with the sea

    In establishing the new trail, Natural England has sought to improve the alignment of the SWCP where possible or move it closer to the sea. For example, at Penhalt Cliff it has been taken off road on to farmland, improving safety for walkers and drivers. For the first time wider coastal access rights on foot have been established between the trail and the sea, including cliff tops and beaches.  

    It also brings legal provision for the trail to ‘roll back’ in response to coastal erosion, thereby securing people’s rights into the future and protecting the investment being made now. You will still encounter steep climbs and descents as well as gently undulating walking along the cliff tops.

    Boscastle harbour viewed from the coast path

    Better alignment, better surfacing, better drainage

    Andrea Ayres, Deputy Area Director for Natural England said:

    This improved stretch of path takes in some of the best views in the South West and much-loved places that have been attracting visitors for many years.

    With the improvements to the path and the additional access rights, we hope it will continue to give people the chance to get out and enjoy nature, as well as continue to bring visitors to the county, since tourism is so vital to the local economy.

    While much of Cornwall’s 300-mile section of the South West Coast Path is owned by private landowners and organisations, the path is managed by Cornwall Council. The council and Cormac have worked to deliver the improvements on this stretch.

    Martyn Alvey, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for environment, said:

    The South West Coast Path is a wonderful asset popular with local residents and visitors alike, but by its very nature, is susceptible to the elements and coastal erosion.

    This funding has meant we have been able to make significant improvements to the path in Cornwall, bringing forward many projects which may otherwise have been many years away from happening.

    We’ve been able to move inland sections closer to the coast, improve surfacing and drainage, repair paths and realign hazardous sections. It is fantastic to see completion of the Marsland Mouth to Newquay section and I’m sure it will be enjoyed by all for many years to come.

    Julian Gray, Director, South West Coast Path Association (SWCPA) said:

    The King Charles III England Coast Path creates new open access rights around the coast to help connect people to nature. It also gives us new powers to manage the National Trail in the face of coastal erosion, helping us continue to improve the South West Coast Path as one of the world’s great trails.

    What is the King Charles III England Coast Path?

    The King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) is a National Trail around the entire coast of England. Existing coastal national trails and other regional walks make up parts of the KCIIIECP and this newly improved stretch of the South West Coast Path forms part of the KCIIIECP.

    You can plan your walk on the KCIIIECP, which follows the enhanced route of the SWCP between Marsland Mouth to Newquay, by visiting the KCIIIECP or the South West Coast Path pages of the National Trails website.

    Background

    The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 places a duty on the Secretary of State and Natural England to secure a long-distance walking trail around the open coast of England, together with public access rights to a wider area of land along the way for people to enjoy. 

    Natural England is working at pace to ensure completion of the KCIIIECP. By the end of 2024 it had opened 1,400 miles. Subject to resources we expect to complete the KCIIIECP by spring 2026.

    To plan their visit walkers can access route maps of all opened sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path and any local diversions on the National Trails website. And can check for any restrictions to access on Natural England’s Open Access maps.

    You can promote your business, service, event or place of interest for free on the National Trails website, inspire people to spend more time in your area and benefit from the economic impact of visitors.

    National Trails, marked by the acorn symbol, pass through spectacular scenery, support local tourism and offer a range of routes from short circular walks to long distance challenges.

    King Charles III England Coast Path: 

    We have a map showing progress to complete the King Charles III England Coast Path.

    The King Charles III England Coast Path will be our longest, National Trail, passing through some of our finest countryside, maritime and industrial heritage, coastal settlements and rural locations.

    It will also be the world’s longest managed coastal trail (i.e. the trail is maintained to National Trail standards). It will secure legal rights of public access for the first time to typical coastal land including foreshore, beaches, dunes and cliffs that lies between the trail and the sea.

    Improvements to existing access to the coastline include: 

    • a clear and continuous way-marked walking route along this part of the coast, bringing some sections of the existing coastal footpath closer to the sea and linking some places together for the first time

    • targeted adjustments to make the trail more accessible for people with reduced mobility, where reasonable

    • uniquely amongst our National Trails the KCIIIECP may be moved in response to natural coastal changes, through ‘roll back’ if the coastline erodes or slips, solving the long-standing difficulties of maintaining a continuous route along the coast – and making a true coastal path practicable

    • the legal provision for roll back is proposed to sections of the trail where a need has been foreseen but can be retrospectively applied to other parts of the route if deemed necessary

    • the route of the trail can also be altered through planning proposals and where coastal and flood defence works or habitat creation would impact on the proposed or open route of the KCIIIECP

    • we have a webpage showing progress near you to create the King Charles III England Coast path

    • we work closely with a broad range of national and regional stakeholders around the country including wildlife trusts, National Trust, RSPB, NFU, CLA, RA, OSS, Environment Agency and local authorities

    The Countryside Code is the official guide on how to enjoy nature and treat both it, and the people who live and work there, with respect.  

    For landowners

    Landowners who have KCIIIECP coastal access rights on their land enjoy the lowest liabilities in England. Here is our guidance on managing your land in the coastal margin.

    About Natural England  

    Established in 2006, Natural England is the government’s independent adviser on the natural environment. Our work is focused on enhancing England’s wildlife and landscapes and maximising the benefits they bring to the public. 

    We establish and care for England’s main wildlife and geological sites, ensuring that over 4,000 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest are looked after and improved,

    We work to ensure that England’s landscapes are effectively protected, designating England’s National Parks and National Landscapes , and advising widely on their conservation.

    We run Environmental Stewardship and other green farming schemes that deliver over £400 million a year to farmers and landowners, enabling them to enhance the natural environment across two thirds of England’s farmland.

    We fund, manage, and provide scientific expertise for hundreds of conservation projects each year, improving the prospects for thousands of England’s species and habitats.

    We promote access to the wider countryside, helping establish National Trails and coastal trails and ensuring that the public can enjoy and benefit from them.

    For more information, visit our page on how the King Charles III England Coast Path is improving public access to England’s coast. 

    About the South West Coast Path Association

    The South West Coast Path Association is a charity (Registered Charity Number 1163422) that works to ensure the South West Coast Path is one of the best walks in the world and protects it for all to enjoy. Supporting the charity helps the South West Coast Path Association to improve the South West Coast Path and keeps the way open to beautiful coastal places.

    For more information visit the South West Coast Path Association website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Winter Road Conditions Report – Friday 31 January 2025

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The information provided is a summary of reports from operational staff and is intended to give a general indication of typical conditions in each area at a point in time.  It is not intended to imply that any individual route is entirely snow and ice free and drivers must be aware that conditions can change rapidly and make their own assessment of conditions for travelling.

    Maps of the Council’s gritting routes by priority and policy are available online. 

    Highland Road Conditions Report for Friday 31 January 2025 are as follows:   

    Nairn 07:45 – Damp roads on lower routes with ice and and Snow/Sleet on high routes. Treating all routes and footpaths. No known issues.

    Badenoch and Strathspey 07:45 – Snow and sleet affecting the north of the area. Damp roads and ice in the south. Treating all routes as resources allow, including footpaths. No known overnight issues.

    East Ross-shire 07:54 – Low road surface temperatures with a light frost, sparkle and some icy patches across the primary network. All routes being treated and no overnight issues reported.

    Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh 07:28 – Slushy cover across The Bealach. The Fain and Ledmore had a light covering first thing, okay after treatment. There were no overnight reported incidents. All surface treatments ongoing.

    Caithness 07:44 – Dry morning with negative road surface temperatures and air temperatures. Frosty in parts, weekend routes being treated this morning and footpath treatments also underway. No known overnight issues.

    Lochaber 08:48 – Positive temperatures, roads wet/ damp with some light showers throughout the area. There are no known overnight issues.

    Sutherland 08:08 – Mainly dry & damp roads with a light sparkle, all routes treated including footpaths. There are no known overnight issues.

    Inverness 05:54 – Low road surface temperatures, treating all primary and secondary routes and footpaths. No known overnight issues.

    No schools are currently closed today due to the weather.  For details visit www.highland.gov.uk/schoolclosures – please note that this page is cleared at 4pm each day.

    Follow our social media channels to keep up-to-date with all Highland Council road issues – X @HighlandCouncil (external link) and Facebook (external link)

    Information and flooding advice is available on our website

    Information on weather warnings is available on the Met Office website (external link)

    For information on Trunk Roads follow @trafficscotland (external link)

    For information on power cuts, visit SSEN website (external link)

    SEPA are the Scottish Environment Protection Agency – SEPA (external link)

    Ready Scotland’s aim is to make Scotland more resilient to emergencies. We know that disruptions can happen at any time and we’re here to help – Ready Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations ahead for University Founders’ Week The University of Aberdeen will mark its 530th anniversary next month with a week of celebration.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen will mark its 530th anniversary next month with a week of celebration.

    This is a week where we will come together to pay tribute to our historic origins as an ancient University, reflect on the important role the University continues to play in education and research, and celebrate the support of our benefactors over the centuries.” Professor Nicholas Forsyth

    Founded in 1495 by William Elphinstone, Bishop of Aberdeen and Chancellor of Scotland, the University of Aberdeen is Scotland’s third oldest and the UK’s fifth oldest university. Bishop Elphinstone set out the purpose of the University – then King’s College – to be ‘open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others.’ 

    A week-long programme of events will take place to mark Founders’ Week, honouring the University’s history and its continuing impact on the world. 

    On Monday February 10, members of the public are invited to come along to Elphinstone Hall for a day of fun for all the family. Researchers from across the University will be on hand with interactive activities to demonstrate just some of the ground-breaking research currently being undertaken. From the fascinating world of microfossils to the making of a magic book, to Chinese craft activities to the Rowett Institute’s ‘mini-mart’, there will be plenty going on to keep everyone occupied. 

    Those who come along can also enjoy tours of the Old Aberdeen campus, or a visit to the Zoology Museum, while TechFest will also be attending with some of their family-friendly STEM activities. 

    The next day, (Tuesday, February 11), Professor Gordon Noble will present an update on his ground breaking research on Pictish society in the North East to a sold-out audience at a Cafe Sci event at Aberdeen Art Gallery. 

    On Wednesday, the University will host a Founders’ Week Inaugural Lecture with Regius Chair of Physiology, Professor Mirela Delibegovic. 

    Professor  Delibegovic will share her incredible journey which took her from a teenager fleeing war-torn Bosnia and Hercegovina in 1994 to becoming the first female Regius Chair of Physiology – a position appointed directly by the King – three decades later. 

    In this special Founders’ Week Lecture, Professor Delibegovic will share how her early life inspired her research journey and how she is now following in the footsteps of another Aberdeen diabetes pioneer, whose work is credited with saving millions of lives. 

    Rounding up the week of celebrations, will be the Founders’ Week Chapel Service, where we will pay tribute to our historic origins as an ancient University and celebrate the support of our benefactors over the centuries. 

    Professor Nicholas Forsyth, Vice-Principal (Research) at the University of Aberdeen said: “What a tremendous honour it is to be hosting a whole week of events to celebrate 530 years of the University of Aberdeen. 

    “This is a week where we will come together to pay tribute to our historic origins as an ancient University, reflect on the important role the University continues to play in education and research, and celebrate the support of our benefactors over the centuries.  

    “From the vision of Bishop Elphinstone to the insights in medicine, science and engineering, law, social sciences, arts and humanities over five centuries which contributed to five Nobel prizes, Founders’ Week is a time to remember and celebrate the University’s contributions. 

    “The week of activities that are planned showcase not only the fantastic research going on at the University but also the researchers carrying the work out.”  

    For more information about all the Founders’ Week activities taking place, visit www.abdn.ac.uk/events 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: WayWORD Festival secures Creative Scotland funding for three more years Creative Scotland has confirmed that the University of Aberdeen’s WayWORD Festival will receive £150,000 of funding over three years as part of their new Multi-Year Funding programme.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Creative Scotland has confirmed that the University of Aberdeen’s WayWORD Festival will receive £150,000 of funding over three years as part of their new Multi-Year Funding programme.
    WayWORD Festival is a literary cross-arts festival celebrating unconventional forms of expression and is completely free for attendees. Since 2020, it has supported young people in the North-east of Scotland to plan and host events such as workshops, author talks, performances and exhibitions. Young people join a committee and develop skills in event management, marketing and teamwork, and benefit from confidence building and professional skills development.
    Being awarded Multi-Year Funding for the first time ensures the festival will continue until at least 2027, providing more support and opportunities for young people to be involved in arts organisation and event planning through the development of new satellite committees in communities across Aberdeen.
    The Creative Director of WayWORD Festival, Dr Shane Strachan, said: “This funding is a fantastic opportunity for us to be able to reach larger audiences and support more young people across the North East. We already have some great events in the pipeline, but are excited to work with more communities to develop activities and opportunities which are important to them. A big thank you to our previous Director, Dr Helen Lynch, for her work and support in securing this funding for the future of the festival.”

    This funding is a fantastic opportunity for us to be able to reach larger audiences and support more young people across the North East.” Shane Strachan, WayWORD Creative Director

    The autumn 2024 festival reached over 3000 audience members for the first time.
    WayWORD is hosting an event on the 4 February 2025, inviting young people to be part of WayWORD 2025. This free event will allow young people to generate ideas and learn more about the festival committee process. Free tickets for this event can be booked at www.waywordfestival.com
    The programme for autumn 2025 festival will be announced in the summer. Join the mailing list to receive updates at www.waywordfestival.com/about
    Related Content

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NIE reps in Plumbridge

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    NIE reps in Plumbridge

    31 January 2025

    NIE representatives will attend Glenelly House Plumbridge today, Thursday 30 January,  for anyone in the Derg area that needs support and advice.

    The rep will be there from 11am to 7pm.

    Please note that all our leisure centres are open and available to anyone who requires a warm space, or to charge their devices, get a shower or hot drink.

    Bottled water is also available at Derg Valley LC.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: LegenDerry Food Month showcases the art of cheese with Dart Mountain

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    LegenDerry Food Month showcases the art of cheese with Dart Mountain

    31 January 2025

    February sees the return of Derry’s favourite showcase of everything delicious as Love LegenDerry Food Month serves up a tantalising selection of local cuisine.

    The programme is delivered by the LegenDerry Food Network with support from Derry City and Strabane District Council, and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Regional Food Programme.

    It’s an exciting opportunity for food lovers to experience an array of local speciality experiences and products. Among the programme highlights is a celebration of the rich heritage and artistry of artisan cheese-making including Dart Mountain Cheese. One of the region’s most celebrated producers, is offering two immersive tours that will captivate anyone with a passion for exceptional local food and authentic experiences.

    Nestled in the stunning Sperrin Mountains, Dart Mountain Cheese invites visitors to delve into the craft behind their award-winning cheeses. The Sperrin Goat Cheese Experience – a collaboration with Craigbane Goat Farm – offers a fascinating journey, from goat milking to cheese tasting. Guests will meet the dedicated farmers and cheesemakers who bring these unique creations to life, all while sampling a variety of goat cheeses paired with local chutneys. This interactive tour, perfect for families and curious foodies, highlights the care and commitment that goes into every step of the process.

    For those eager to learn more about Dart Mountain’s celebrated range, the Dart Mountain Cheese Experience takes visitors behind the scenes at their state-of-the-art dairy. Starting with a scenic drive to the charming village of Park, participants will meet cheesemaker Julie Hickey and explore the inspiration drawn from the dramatic Sperrin landscape. This informal yet educational tour includes a visit to the cheese-maturing rooms, a lesson in the science of cheese-making, and, of course, a tasting of the full range of Dart Mountain’s handmade cheeses.

    Kevin Hickey of Dart Mountain Cheese emphasised the significance of being part of LegenDerry Food Month: “LegenDerry Food Month is a fantastic platform for showcasing the incredible talent and produce we have here in Derry and the surrounding area. The food scene is evolving so quickly, and we’re proud to play a part in putting Derry on the map as a culinary destination. These tours are about more than just cheese; they’re an invitation to immerse yourself in the stories and flavours that make this region truly special.”

    LegenDerry Food Month celebrates the very best of local food and drink, offering visitors a chance to engage with producers, taste award-winning products, and explore Derry’s vibrant culinary culture. Both Dart Mountain Cheese experiences are a must for anyone seeking an authentic and delicious adventure in the North West.

    Spaces for these exclusive tours are limited, and advance booking is essential.

    Join us during LegenDerry Food Month and uncover the passion behind every wheel of cheese. For full event listings, visit www.legenderryfood.com/events.

    Or explore Visit Derry for things to see and do, accommodation. Plus, for places to eat and drink ww.visitderry.com.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welsh experience proves 20mph limits will save lives on Scotland’s roads

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Jan 2025 Transport

    Lower speeds make for safer streets.

    More in Transport

    Default speed limits of 20mph are saving lives in Wales, with data showing that around 100 fewer people were killed or seriously hurt on 20mph and 30mph roads in the year since the rollout of the default 20mph speed limit.

    The news has been hailed by Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell, who has called for Scotland to learn from the experience.

    As a result of budget negotiations, the Scottish Greens have secured funding to support a nationwide expansion of 20mph limits across local authorities this year.

    Mr Ruskell has been championing this move since 2018, when he first brought a Members Bill to introduce a 20mph limit in Scotland.

    Following an increase in road deaths, the Scottish Government has begun consultations on changing speed limits nationally.

    Mr Ruskell said:

    “We know that lower speed limits save lives, and these figures only add to the overwhelming case for change.

    “These are not just numbers on a page, they are real people and real families who have been spared the grief and pain of losing a loved one.

    “We all benefit from safer streets and communities. All road users should be able to travel safely, and it isn’t too much to ask drivers to keep themselves and others safe.

    “It is a long overdue change that is badly needed here in Scotland, particularly at a time when road deaths are increasing.

    “Scotland needs to learn from the rollout and the success in Wales and make our roads safer for all.

    “I’m delighted that the Scottish Budget will have enough funding to allow councils to introduce 20mph speed limits more widely in the next year across Scotland, it can’t come a moment too soon.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £200 million boost to transform neighbourhood policing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Funding to kickstart the delivery of 13,000 more neighbourhood police officers has been doubled to £200 million to make the country’s streets safer.

    Getty Images

    Forces across England and Wales will now be given hugely increased resources to begin their recruitment to boost neighbourhood policing teams, helping to ensure that the government’s target for additional personnel is met by 2029.

    After years of declining officer presence on Britain’s streets, this investment represents a crucial first step in rebuilding neighbourhood policing. This doubled funding – increased from December’s provisional £100 million commitment – reflects the scale of the challenges that many forces face, as well as the government’s determination to address them.

    As part of a wider billion-pound boost to policing, this dedicated funding will strengthen local crime prevention and community safety. One of the government’s key pledges within its Plan for Change is that every neighbourhood will have a named, contactable officer, helping to restore the local knowledge and presence that effective neighbourhood policing demands.

    These extra officers will see a return to the principles of British policing – where officers are part of the communities they serve and are focused on tackling crimes like antisocial behaviour, theft and knife crime that are blighting our communities.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    This major investment marks a turning point for policing in this country. By doubling extra neighbourhood funding to £200 million, we are giving forces across the country what they need to put more officers and PCSOs [police community support officers] where they’re needed most – on our streets and in our town centres.

    Every neighbourhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate. This investment, alongside new powers we are bringing into law, will help prevent crime and protect our communities, which is at the heart of our Plan for Change.

    Restoring local policing will not happen overnight, but this funding boost will get more officers into our town centres and rural areas.

    Forces across England and Wales will be able to boost their local policing teams with this investment, scheduled for next financial year. Each force will set out their plans to government by early spring, showing how they’ll use their allocation to increase visible patrols.

    The rebuilding of local, visible policing in all our communities will be supported by the government’s new Police Standards and Performance Improvement Unit and new standards for neighbourhood policing. In addition to thousands more personnel in neighbourhood policing roles, the government will continue to help forces to protect officer numbers.

    Alongside more officers on the ground, the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill will give these officers the tools they need to keep our streets safe, including enhanced powers such as respect orders to tackle antisocial behaviour and shoplifting effectively. This investment, combined with new powers and local control over resources, marks the start of a long-term commitment to restore visible policing across the country.

    Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, said:

    We welcome the investment in neighbourhood policing, which is a vital part of how we engage with our communities, building trust and confidence locally.

    Working with our communities and partners to problem solve, tackle antisocial behaviour, supporting victims of domestic abuse, and diverting young people from offending are just some examples of the challenging and rewarding work officers do.

    Visibility and engagement with local communities has always been central to the British policing model and police leaders are in agreement that it must always remain at the heart of what we do.

    Neighbourhood Watch CEO John Hayward-Cripps said:

    Neighbourhood Watch is delighted that the government is further increasing the investment in neighbourhood policing.

    With the increased demands on the police, and public confidence at a low point, a focus on neighbourhood policing is key to the police being visible, approachable, and engaging proactively with the public.

    This injection of investment will increase public confidence in the police and enhance feelings of safety within local communities.

    Paul Gerrard, Co-op Director of Campaigns and Public Affairs, said:

    We welcome the government’s commitment to boost neighbourhood police officer numbers to help protect local communities from crime. As a community-based retailer, we all too often see the significant and damaging impact of retail crime and antisocial behaviour in society.

    We know – and have seen the results – that effective partnerships with local policing make a real difference, and I am cautiously optimistic that this latest development along with continued investment in preventative measures and the rising levels of police attendance can start to reverse retail crime levels, and help communities become stronger, more resilient and safer.

    This funding boost comes as the government publishes its final police funding settlement today. Total funding to police forces across the country will be up to £17.5 billion next year, an increase of up to £1.1 billion compared to the 2024 to 2025 police funding settlement. This includes additional funding to support the costs of the pay awards, the increase in the employer national contributions and funding for officer maintenance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Academics receive Prince Mahidol Award 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Two scientists from the UK received Thailand’s Prince Mahidol Awards for 2024 for long and significant contribution in the field of Public Health and Medicine.

    Today (30 January 2025) two scientists from the UK received Thailand’s Prince Mahidol Awards (PMA) for 2024 for their long and significant contribution in the field of Public Health and Medicine. Dr Jonathan Shepherd, a British surgeon and professor at Cardiff University in Wales, and Dr Tony Hunter (dual US-UK national), a professor of Biology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, USA have received the award, following on from  Professor David Mabey, who received the award in 2019 for his work to eradicate trachoma, the most common infectious cause of blindness worldwide.

    The Award Presentation Ceremony was held at Thailand’s Royal Palace. Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, as the representative of His Majesty the King, presided over the Presentation Ceremony, in the company of the Privy Council, Bureau of the Royal Household and Cabinet members.

    Dr Shepherd receives the Prince Mahidol Award (PMA) in Public Health for his creation of the ‘Cardiff Model of Violence Prevention’ which is an evidence-based, multisectoral approach to violence prevention which   has been endorsed by the World Health Organisation and integrated into multisectoral approaches to violence prevention from South Africa to Australia. Dr Shepherd’s research and commitment to evidence-based public policy has contributed to the development of ‘What Works Network’. The Network, supported by the UK government, acts as an important interface between research and policymaking, ensuring that policy makers have access to the best evidence.

    Professor Hunter who studied at the University of Cambridge in the UK, receives the Prince Mahidol Award in Medicine for his discovery of tyrosine kinase enzymes and the phosphorylation process, a crucial mechanism that transforms normal cells into cancerous cells. This breakthrough discovery led to the development of targeted cancer treatments and pharmaceutical innovation that can effectively inhibit cancer cells.

    In 2024 the UK and Thailand established a Strategic Partnership, highlighting a shared commitment to advance global health by championing universal access to health care and strengthening partnerships to prevent, detect and respond to global health threats. This includes joint efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease outbreaks including through the development and application of innovative technology, such as genomics.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Secretary of State: Safeguarding the Union command paper

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn has issued a statement on the Safeguarding the Union command paper, one year after its publication.

    He said: “The Safeguarding the Union command paper that led to the restoration of power-sharing – one year ago today – was the result of painstaking negotiations, hard work and political courage.

    “This UK Government is committed to protecting Northern Ireland’s place in the UK internal market, and we will continue to make progress in delivering Safeguarding the Union and taking forward the basis on which devolution was restored.

    “I commend all those who are working to make sure Northern Ireland fulfils its full potential; and for our part the Government is committed to working in partnership to deliver for Northern Ireland within our United Kingdom”.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview – Doorstop, Melbourne

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    MARY DOYLE, MEMBER FOR ASTON: Well hello everyone, and welcome here to Boronia Heights Primary School and where Matt is the, I was about to say Premier. Where Matt is the boss of the school, that’s right. So thank you, and what a warm welcome Matt’s given us here this morning. And I’d like to also welcome Premier Jacinta Allan, Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, Federal Education Minister, Jason Clare, and also the State Education Minister, Ben Carroll. Thank you guys for coming here on this very auspicious occasion too, the signing of the agreement that just happened. Now I’d like to introduce our Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese. Thank you.

    ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Well, thanks very much, Mary, and it’s fantastic to be back here in the electorate of Aston that you so ably represent with such passion and commitment. And there’s nowhere that it’s more important to be in Australia than in a school, particularly when we’re talking about education.

    Before speaking about why we’re here today, I do want to address the joint counter terrorism major investigation in Dural in Sydney. The AFP Commissioner and ASIO Director-General are continuing to work with New South Wales Police. It is critical that the police are able to continue to conduct this investigation. It remains an active one. We know that some people are in custody over issues related to this investigation. There’s zero tolerance in Australia for hatred and for antisemitism. And I want any perpetrators to be hunted down and locked up – it’s as simple as that. They have no place in this sort of engagement. It’s designed to create fear and terror in the community, and it will not succeed. Because our community is stronger than the cowards who engage in this sort of activity.

    Can I say about why we’re here today – for Labor, nothing is more important than education. It is in our DNA. And what we are doing today here in Victoria is so important. Working in cooperation with Jacinta Allan and her Government, including Minister Ben Carroll. And I want to give a big thank you to Jacinta and Ben for the leadership that they have shown in bringing this arrangement to a conclusion. Of course, it’s not about politicians and it’s not about government. It’s actually about the kids who we sat down with today. Them being able to have access to the best opportunities in life that come from a great start in life. And a great start in life means best quality public education and it means making sure that no child falls behind.

    What this agreement does is not just inject $2.5 billion of additional funding into Victorian schools, but in addition to that, it’s an agreement, quite frankly, Jacinta and her Government are doing it already, which is how do we address some of the concerns that parents have had over a period of time about things like learning and phonics and the basics of literacy and numeracy? How do we lift people up? What this funding will do is enable for testing to not have to wait for NAPLAN, not have to wait until a child is 8, but make sure that in the early years, if someone needs extra assistance, they can get it. They can get that smaller group tutoring or indeed one on one learning as well. This is so important, that every child has the opportunity to be the best that they can. To lift them up, which is what good quality schools and good quality learning will do. And a shout out as well to our teachers, many of whom are here. They do fantastic work. No one goes into teaching because of the salary that it provides. They go because of the satisfaction that they get from watching a young mind expand and grow and watching people learn. The young people we met in there this morning, were telling myself and the Premier, that the best thing about school is learning. How good is that? To hear that from a six year old really brightens your day because it is so important as we move forward. We have a great partnership with the Allan Government here in Victoria. Fair funding for schools has been talked about for a long period of time. 14 years ago, David Gonski brought down his report. What we’re doing here is actually delivering, doing in the best tradition of Labor Governments, in the best tradition as well of Australia helping out our youngest Australians.

    JACINTA ALLAN, PREMIER OF VICTORIA: Thanks, Prime Minister. Thank you. Well, I’d like to echo the Prime Minister and Mary’s thanks for Boronia Heights Primary School for their really warm welcome to us here this afternoon and thanks to Mat for your leadership of this great school and thanks to the school leaders as well to Zoe and Samuel, Mackenzie and Ryan who have led us around this school so beautifully. And along with Ben and Mary and Jason, I’d also like to acknowledge Jackson Taylor, the local State Member for this fabulous local community.

    And as you can see, this week in Victoria, it’s back to school week. It’s back to school for tens of thousands of students and their families as we gear up for another school year. And I know families just want the very best start in life for their kids. And that best start comes from getting a good, strong education. And that good, strong education can be found in any one of our great government schools here in Victoria. And that’s why, that’s why this agreement that we have signed today – been negotiating for a little while – but signed today, this agreement is about demonstrating that federal Labor governments, state Labor governments are going to continue to back, back the work that principals like Mat do in our great government schools, back teachers, back staff, most importantly back the students as well so that they can get and continue to receive that top quality education. And it was back to school week for my own family as well. And as I dropped my kids off to school this morning in Bendigo, I could see the excitement, I could see the energy and I can see firsthand what a difference Labor governments make when they invest in our government schools. And that’s why this announcement today and this agreement today is just so important. $2.5 billion over the next 10 years of additional funding.

    And I want to thank the Prime Minister, thank Jason and thank Ben for reaching this agreement. Because this is going to go directly to supporting students, supporting teachers, but also those families I talked about earlier who just want the best for their kids, regardless of their background, regardless of what part of the state they’re from, they know they can get that opportunity at our government schools. Also too, I think it’s important to note that this investment comes on top of the existing investment that Victorian Labor Governments have been making in our government schools here in Victoria. $17 billion in new school buildings right across the state. And if I can make the point, since 2018, 50 per cent of all new schools in Australia have been built right here in Victoria. We’ve worked hard to support our teachers and staff with a whole range of initiatives. We’re also supporting the teachers of the future with free uni degrees, supporting that pipeline of teachers for the year ahead. The work that Ben has done on phonics has been so important. We also, though, focus on the whole student as well and the wellbeing and cost of living pressures that we know families are experiencing. And that’s why the rollout of the School Saving Bonus. Ben’s just told me that today it’s just ticked over $100 million has been redeemed through the school saving bonus. That’s $100 million that supported families, $100 million that stayed in families’ pockets because we’ve supported them with some of those essential back to school costs. That’s what Labor Government investment looks like. Teachers, staff, school, buildings and supporting families with those cost of living pressures. And that’s why this agreement is just so important. Because it means for the decade ahead we can continue to plan, continue to support the great work of our schools here in Victoria and continue to support families as they want the best for their kids. So, does Federal and State Labor governments and we’re going to continue to support them every step of the way.

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Well, this is a big deal and this is a big day for public schools in Victoria. You want to know what this is about? It’s about the young people sitting behind these desks just out of shot here at the moment. And it’s about those year one students that we saw in the classroom just a moment ago and the ones that will follow them and kids who aren’t even born yet. This is about the future. This is about making sure that every child gets a great start in life, what every parent wants for their child, a great education. And what every Australian child deserves. That’s what this is about. And I tell you what, this is real leadership in action. Prime Minister, this wouldn’t have happened without your leadership and I want to thank you for it. Premier, I want to thank you for your leadership as well. As you said, this is a classic example of two Labor governments working together in the interests of Australian children and the future of our country. You get it. You know how to get things done and you get how important what’s happening in that classroom really is.

    The power of education to change lives, the power of a great education system to change nations. And that’s what this fundamentally is about. And I want to thank my dear friend Ben Carroll, a real reforming Education Minister who’s doing the heavy lifting here in Victoria already. And these reforms will help to fund and resource more of what Ben is already driving here in Victoria. You know, this is $2.5 billion. But more important than that, this is tied to real reform. This is about making sure that kids who fall behind at school when they’re little catch up and keep up and that more kids finish high school. We’ve seen over the last 10 years across the country a decline in the number of kids finishing high school in public schools. We’ve got to turn that around. It’s more important to finish high school today than when we were kids. And if we’re going to turn that around, it means early intervention, it means phonics checks and numeracy checks when kids are little in year one. The sort of things that we were seeing in that classroom a minute ago. And it’s about early intervention, providing more individual support for those children, perhaps out of a classroom of 30 into a classroom of three to help them to catch up and then they keep up, then more kids will finish high school and go on to TAFE if they want, or uni if they want, get the job of their dreams. So, fundamentally, that’s what it’s all about. It’s about making sure that every child in Australia gets a great start in life. What every mum and dad wants and what every Australian child deserves.

    BEN CARROLL, DEPUTY PREMIER OF VICTORIA AND MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Thank you to all my colleagues that are here today. I also just want to give a shout out to Justin Mullaly from the Australian Education Union because the Australian Education Union have played a pivotal role in getting us where we are today. And $2.5 billion in Commonwealth additional funding for the State of Victoria, the Education State. We know public education is the most important investment in our future. We also know that 73 per cent of disadvantaged kids are in the public education system and this funding will go straight to them to support them going on to live their dreams and their life of purpose. This is a big day in the Education State. I think Anthony Albanese, today, has got the mantle of the Education Prime Minister. Also Premier Allan, who has led from the front, been with me every day working very hard to get this deal done. And I thank Premier Allan for not only her leadership in the schools agreement, but the work she’s done championing children that focus on early intervention through pre-prep, the Free TAFE, the free university degrees for teachers. This is a game changer for our education system. To Jason Clare, we’ve worked incredibly hard over the journey on this. It’s been a 12 month journey. But I’ve got to say, Jason, we’ve always been on the unity ticket when it comes to what’s best for our kids. World’s best practice in the classroom. And as the Prime Minister and Jason alluded to, the funding is one big important component and it will go to those public school kids. But there’s the other elements to it. There’s bringing in world’s best practice inside the classroom. The phonics literacy checks, the mathematics checks, the support for wellbeing. We are so proud as a Labor Government that every school is getting the mental health support and the nursing program being rolled out. That is so really, really important. I thank Premier Allan, Prime Minister, Jason Clare. For the very first time, Gonski, now, that had that vision of a needs based, sector blind education system is coming true today. No longer will a young child in any part of the State of Victoria start schooling in grade prep and go right through to year 12 without full and fair funding. We have ended that and that is a credit to the Federal Labor Government and the State Labor Government and it shows you great federalism working very well in the national interest and for our future, which is our children. Thank you.

    PRIME MINISTER: Thanks, Ben. We’re happy to take questions.

    JOURNALIST: Can I just ask you about the incident in New South Wales. When were you first briefed on the caravan incident?

    PRIME MINISTER: I get briefed regularly by the national security agencies. We don’t talk about operational matters, obviously, for obvious reasons.

    JOURNALIST: Chris Minns has said when he was briefed, can you say when you were?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, what I do, is I don’t comment on operational matters. There are two issues that are my priority. The first is making sure that people are kept safe. The second, which is related to that, is making sure that any investigations aren’t undermined and that the police and national security agencies are able to do their work. I get ongoing briefings. Every day I get a national security briefing. And indeed, just this morning, we had a full meeting of the National Security Committee.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, just asking you about the Toorak dinner that was on the paper today. Was that a fundraiser for Labor?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, I have dinner with people. Although it was reported as a lunch, my recollection is it was a dinner. It was nowhere near as long as it’s been reported either, I’ve got to say. But I engage with people. And I’m having a dinner tonight too, and I’ll have lunch at some stage today. That’s what you do. And I had breakfast this morning as well.

    JOURNALIST: So, Prime Minister, back on the caravan. Just following on from what Simon was saying, so, with the timeline of this Premier Minns was saying he was briefed on the 20th, you had a National Cabinet meeting on the 21st to discuss matters to do with antisemitism. So, was this something that was raised at the National Cabinet meeting? And if it wasn’t, isn’t it something that should have been raised, given that all the First Ministers were dealing with their own problems?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, I’ve been asked this before. And I repeat, I don’t intend to go through operational matters, nor do we go through the detail of what’s discussed at Cabinet meetings or National Cabinet meetings or National Security Committee meetings.

    JOURNALIST: The Opposition Leader says it’s entirely predictable that the nation has seen this escalation in antisemitic incidents. What’s your response to that?

    PRIME MINISTER: This is a time for unity and for the country to come together against these atrocities and these appalling acts. Not a time to look for political partisanship or to make political points. I don’t intend to do so. I intend to do my job, which is to work with the police and national security agencies. I must say they do an extraordinary job. We want people hunted down and put in the clink. That is what we want. And there have been a range of arrests made. Some of those have been made public, were made public on the 21st. I take the advice of the police and national security agencies for when those matters become public so that we ensure that ongoing investigations are not undermined. There is a common sense approach to this and I note that the New South Wales Police Commissioner has made comments on that this morning as well.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, do you have any update on the status of Oscar Jenkins?

    PRIME MINISTER: We continue to request the Russian authorities to provide more information. They have provided information at this point, but we don’t take anything we hear off the Putin regime at face value. So, we want to – we have made it very clear that we think Mr. Jenkins should be released. We don’t think that he should have to suffer from ongoing incarceration and will continue to make representations, but we’ll also continue to work as we will with Ukraine as well, on ascertaining further information.

    JOURNALIST: Are there any certain under which you’d consider a prisoner swap for Oscar Jenkins?

    PRIME MINISTER: No, well, Australia doesn’t have prisoners in those circumstances –

    JOURNALIST: There aren’t a couple of suspected Russian spies in Brisbane?

    PRIME MINISTER: What we want is for Mr Jenkins to be able to return home.

    JOURNALIST: Do you have any message for the Jenkins family?

    PRIME MINISTER: My heart goes out to you. This is a really difficult time for you. And the fact that some information has been made available, will be a difficult time. And we stand with you and we continue to offer every assistance that we can to these families.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, do you intend to fund both Melbourne Victoria’s Suburban Rail Loop and the Airport Rail Link?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, there’s no link between the two things. We have funding available here for Victorian infrastructure. Suburban Rail Loop is an important project for a growing city. And I’ve been in consultation with the Premier. Minister King is looking after infrastructure. But one of the things about our cities and people will see this when Melbourne Metro opened. When I was the Infrastructure Minister some time ago, there was $3 billion from the Commonwealth for Melbourne metro. It was cut by Tony Abbott. For Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, both – all suffered, all three Eastern capitals suffered from a clogging in the centre. Now, the keys to that have been in Sydney, the metro, in Brisbane, the Cross River Rail project and in Melbourne, Melbourne metro. But the next stage is how do you get around this growing city that will be Australia’s largest without having to go into the city and out again? That’s what Suburban Rail Loop is about.

    JOURNALIST: So the $2.2 billion will be given to Victoria before the Federal election? I mean, it was committed at the last election. Will it be handed over to Victoria before?

    PRIME MINISTER: It’s in our Budget and we are working through those issues for early works. Because one of the things about Suburban Rail Loop that I know, as well, is it’s not just about a rail line. It’s about housing and it’s about infrastructure more broadly as well, and about making this great city of Melbourne more liveable, more sustainable and more productive.

    JOURNALIST: Could an airport rail be built sooner?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, airport rail – I’m not the infrastructure Minister for Victoria.

    JOURNALIST: But you’re in charge of the money. Is it a priority or is SRL, for you?

    PRIME MINISTER: No, it’s not a matter of either or. That’s like saying, is Boronia Heights Public School a priority or is the school down the road a priority? We regard – they’re two very different projects. All of Victorian infrastructure is a priority. I’ll give you the big tip on the difference between us and the former Government. The former Government reduced Victorian infrastructure funding to about eight per cent of the national funding. Under my Government, that won’t happen. Under my Government, Victoria will always get its fair share.

    JOURNALIST: Just on the railway link. Is there currently an additional $2 billion on offer for the Commonwealth to build the airport rail link?

    PRIME MINISTER: I’m not sure what you’re referring to.

    JOURNALIST: Well, previously there’s been $5 billion. (Inaudible). This is a lot of money, and it’s important.

    PRIME MINISTER: Negotiations are taking place.

    JOURNALIST: Is there $2 billion on the table, in addition to the $5 billion from both the Commonwealth and the state that’s been previously committed to?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, I suggest you ask Minister King. Those discussions take place between, with due respect, as Prime Minister, we run a big Budget across a whole lot of portfolios. I’m here today announcing significant funding for public schools. The Infrastructure Minister deals with state and territory jurisdictions on specifics of the infrastructure program.

    JOURNALIST: Do you think it’s possible to have Suburban Rail Loop work happening in one side of the city and then Melbourne Airport happening at the same time, or would they have to be separate?

    PRIME MINISTER: There’s lots of projects happen across lots of cities. You know, I’m a Canberran these days. There’s a light rail project under construction and there’s roads under construction around Canberra, let alone in a city the size of Melbourne. You need to deal with the growth in the West of this great city and the growth in the East of this great city, and indeed the growth in the North. I note you haven’t mentioned there’s a pretty significant road project here in the North East that has how much Commonwealth funding? That has $5 billion. And I’ve been to that project that’s under construction right now. We will do a range of projects here in Victoria. And can I say this as well, not just in Melbourne, but in regional Victoria as well.

    JOURNALIST: It is a point of quite some contention in Victoria whether we can afford to do both. Are you saying we can afford to do both? Will you tell taxpayers if you’ll prioritise one over the other?

    PRIME MINISTER: I’m saying that Victoria will get its fair share of infrastructure funding from my Government, unlike what the former Government did. That, for reasons unbeknown really, ripped that $3 billion out of Melbourne Metro, ripped money out of Victorian road projects and never put anything back.

    JOURNALIST: Can we return to the caravan and particularly the broader issues of antisemitism? I’m not drawing a direct link here, but there was an interesting speech Richard Marles made at the Sydney Institute the other night, two nights ago. And he said, ‘questioning the right of Israel to exist strikes at the heart of global Jewry. It is antisemitic’. He said, ‘denying Israel’s right to defend itself is an attempt to delegitimise Israel’s existence and has dangerous real world consequences, including here in Australia’. And the reason I ask is I think it talks about the thing that’s been the heart of the pro-Palestinian protest in many forms has been this delegitimisation of Israel. Do you agree that we are seeing the real world consequences of that and somehow this has got to stop because it’s gotten out of control?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, of course I agree that antisemitism has to stop, full stop. People need to be put, people need to be hunted down as is occurring. People are being arrested, they’re being charged, and they’re in the clink without release, without bail. That is occurring. If you go back to the resolution that was passed with the support of both major parties in the Parliament after the October 7 terrorist atrocities – that spoke about Israel’s right to defend itself, I spoke about that on the Sunday as well. I support what has been Australia’s long standing bipartisan position. The UN decision in 1947 for 1948 wasn’t for the creation of one state, it was for the creation of two – the state of Israel and the state of Palestine. I support a two state solution where both Israelis and Palestinians are able to live in peace and security. Now to do that, in order to achieve that, clearly there needs to be as well some reform on the Palestinian side. Hamas can play no role in any future state. I go back to that resolution which I looked at it the other day. Quite frankly, history treats it well. The fact that the Parliament came together at that time and overwhelmingly, with the exception of the Greens who can speak for themselves, they overwhelmingly, the Parliament passed that resolution. That was a good thing. Thanks very much.

    JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, the Labor Party was right there. I mean you make the point, I mean Doc Evatt was right there. Formation of Israel played a crucial path to his role in the UN. The question I had for you, and I was hoping you could answer it, is whether or not this continuing question of Israel’s existence is fuelling antisemitism?

    PRIME MINISTER: We support the right of Israel to exist.

    JOURNALIST: But the question about whether you agree that it’s fuelling antisemitism?

    PRIME MINISTER: That what is? Sorry, you’re not being clear about your question.

    JOURNALIST: The continual questioning of Israel’s right to existence. Whether that fuels antisemitism?

    PRIME MINISTER: Well, I can speak for myself. I think that one of the issues that I certainly always say very clearly is that it is in the interests of Israelis, obviously, that Israel has a right to exist with security. It’s also in the interest of Palestinians that Israel has a right to exist with security as well. You need a solution that stops a cycle of violence. The solution that is being negotiated out, if you actually take a bit of a step back, look at what a solution looks like. And it looks like, as has been advocated by the United States and others such as Antony Blinken, is the creation of is Israel firstly being recognised by countries such as Saudi Arabia and others in the region. It is then Palestine being able to step forward with a path towards security for Palestinians as well. Obviously, the international community has a role to play in that. Thanks very much.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Construction begins on new Port Stephens refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Construction begins on new Port Stephens refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence

    Published: 31 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

    The NSW Government is building a safer New South Wales for regional women and children with construction now beginning on a new safe haven in Port Stephens.

    Built under the Core and Cluster program, $7.2 million is being invested in a new six-unit refuge in Port Stephens being developed by Hume Community Housing.

    The Core and Cluster refuge model promotes independent living by providing self-contained accommodation located next to a ‘core’ of support that facilitates access to services such as counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support.

    Hume Community Housing is a Tier 1 Community Housing Provider with more than 30 years’ experience, providing social and affordable housing and specialist disability accommodation.

    Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services (PSFaNS) has been nominated as the future service provider to deliver tailored support services to victim-survivors at the completed refuge, helping them rebuild their lives and heal from trauma.

    The NSW Government has invested $426.6 million over four years to provide new crisis accommodation across NSW for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence as part of the Core and Cluster program.

    Once all 49 new Core and Cluster refuges are completed, and the replacement of eight existing government-owned women’s refuge buildings are refurbished, they will support more than an additional 2,900 women and children escaping domestic and family violence each year.

    The Minns Labor Government is addressing domestic and family violence at all stages, by investing in primary prevention, early intervention, crisis responses and recovery. Making sure women and children have a safe place to go when they escape abuse is crucial to their recovery and helping them rebuild their lives.

    Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

    “For women and children escaping abusive and violent homes, having a safe haven is vital to begin recovering, healing and rebuilding their lives.

    “The NSW Government is continuing the roll out of Core and Cluster refuges for domestic violence victim-survivors across the state, with a total of 49 new refuges set to be up and running by 2026.

    “We’re proud to partner with local service providers to ensure that Core and Cluster residents receive tailored support so they can regain their confidence, recover and thrive.”

    Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:

    “Domestic and family violence has a devastating impact on the lives of people in Port Stephens and across the state. It must stop.

    “This new Core and Cluster refuge will be life-changing for local women and children, giving them a safe and secure place to begin rebuilding their lives after trauma.

    “For too long, women and children in our community have had to leave behind their jobs, schools, and support networks to find safety. This refuge means they will now have access to the crisis accommodation and support they need, right here in Port Stephens.”

    Brad Braithwaite, CEO of Hume Housing said:

    “Hume Community Housing is proud to be partnering with the Department of Communities and Justice and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services to deliver this Core and Cluster refuge.

    “Breaking ground today is just the beginning as we look towards providing a safe place for women and children fleeing domestic and family violence.

    “This is central to Hume’s purpose: to create homes and opportunities for people to heal, rebuild and prosper in vibrant and connected communities.”

    Sue Pollock, Manager Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services said:

    “Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services has been providing services to our community for over 35 years.

    “For most of those years women in our community have been advocating for a refuge to be available for women and children living with domestic and family violence.

    “Women in Karuah Aboriginal Community have been working for nearly two years now to make sure that the refuge will be a place of comfort and safety, a place where women and children can breathe and be nurtured by the surroundings. They have been meeting each week designing and sewing the soft furnishings and mapping out the outdoor and living areas. We are grateful for such generosity of spirit.

    “With the hard work and commitment from women in this community, with Hume Community Housing and funding from Department of Communities and Justice, women and children can now know that a place of safety and respite will exist in their community. A place where they can stay close to their supports, their schools, their jobs. Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported and live a life free from violence.”

    Support:

    If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

    If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $3 million to support leak detection and water efficiency

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: $3 million to support leak detection and water efficiency

    Published: 31 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Water

    The Minns Labor Government is charging ahead with its commitment to save billions of litres of water by injecting $3 million into round 2 of its innovative Active Leak Detection Project, helping to boost long-term water security for regional towns and cities across New South Wales.

    It forms part of the hugely successful Water Efficiency and Regional Leakage Reduction Program that has secured $11.3 million in further funding, on top of an initial $12.5 million investment, to continue its activities in the regions over the next two years.

    The program has already achieved impressive results between 2022 and 2024, clocking up a staggering 7,500 megalitres (ML) per year in water savings in over 60 regional locations.

    This next round aims to save up to 4,000ML of water per year, or enough to meet the annual water needs of around 20,000 NSW regional households.

    The active leak detection project uses cutting-edge equipment including noise loggers, electronic listening sticks, ground microphones and leak noise correlators to detect leaks within local water networks that will then be repaired by local councils.

    Crews will survey approximately 6,000 kilometres of regional water supply mains across more than 40 high priority areas that are severely impacted during dry months including Warrumbungle Shire, Warren, Moree Plains, Forbes, Cobar, Dubbo and Lithgow.

    The NSW Government is locking in more locations over the coming weeks.

    The next stage of the program will also focus on identifying leaks in residential properties, with homeowners to be notified if issues are found. Work commenced in January and will be rolled out until June 2026.

    The $35.3 million Water Efficiency and Regional Leakage Reduction Program aims to create a more sustainable and resilient water future for country towns and cities across the state.

    For more information, visit the Regional Leakage Reduction Program webpage. 

    NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:

    “Our leak detection program has been smashing it out of the park by recovering a massive 7,500 megalitres of water in regional NSW per year since 2022 that would have otherwise gone to waste.

    “That’s why I am absolutely thrilled to announce that we are rolling the program out to even more locations across the state over the next two years.

    “While water levels are currently stable, the next drought could be just around the corner, so projects like this one are a simple solution to make the most of the water we already have by identifying and fixing leaks across local networks.

    “You’d be amazed at how much town water gets lost every year because of cracks or holes in pipelines, which is why using high-tech equipment to pinpoint these leaks is one of the most effective ways to safeguard our long-term water supply.”  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Brexit anniversary sparks call for much closer relationship with EU

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    On the fifth anniversary of the UK’s exit from the European Union, Green MP Ellie Chowns said:  

    “These five years have seen the economic, social and political costs of leaving the European Union become ever clearer. 

    “Far from ‘taking back control’, we have all lost out. 

    “Young people have been deprived of the chance to easily study and work in the European Union, while small businesses have found it increasingly difficult to export, and the UK is increasingly isolated on the international stage. 

    “No wonder, the proportion of the public believing Brexit to have been the right decision is at its lowest since 2020. (1) 

    “The Green Party is very clear that people and planet would benefit from much closer relationships between our country and the European Union.  

    “We will continue to press the Labour government to be braver and bolder in overcoming the negative impacts of Brexit.  

    “Full membership of the EU remains the best option for the UK, and we are in favour of pursuing a policy to re-join as soon as the political will is present.    

    “Of course, that means building the widespread public support we need before a decision to rejoin is made.  

    “There are win-win first steps that the government should be taking today. For instance, working with the EU on a youth mobility scheme that opens up the European Union to our youngsters. 

    “We should be working with the EU to tackle the twin crises of climate breakdown and biodiversity loss in the face of US President Donald Trump’s disastrous decision to pull the US out of the Paris climate agreement. 

    “We should also rejoin the Customs Union to begin to overcome the obstacles that small businesses have faced in trading with our closest partners since Brexit.  

    “While joining the Single Market would provide benefits in terms of free movement of people, goods, services and capital, membership of the Single Market without membership of the EU would not be an ideal long-term solution because the UK would not be a full partner in decision making processes.  

    “We’ve learned from the divisiveness of Brexit that binary choices push people apart rather than bring people together.   

    “So, we are proposing the use of citizens’ assemblies to support the wider public to make well-informed decisions about complicated political issues such as our future membership of the EU.” 

    Mark Ormiston, a sixth generation managing director of Ormiston Wire that manufactures a high quality products used in suspending lights, art installations, yacht rigging and surgical procedures, said Brexit is making it ever harder to get its components into final products manufactured abroad. 

    Mark Ormiston “We supply components not a final product so if the end product moves offshore, we have to try and supply that export market. With Brexit small exporters are being devastated and we must work very hard to persuade companies to use our quality and expertise.” 

    NOTES TO EDITORS 

    (1) https://yougov.co.uk/politics/articles/51484-how-do-britons-feel-about-brexit-five-years-on 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to NICE final draft guidance on exagamglogene autotemcel (exa-cel) for severe sickle cell disease

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on final draft guidance from NICE on the use of exagamglogene autotemcel (exa-cel) for severe sickle cell disease. 

    Dr Diana Hernandez, director of immune and advanced therapies at UK stem cell charity Anthony Nolan, said:

    “Today’s decision from NICE to grant access, on the NHS, to the UK’s first ever CRISPR-based therapy for some patients with sickle cell disease, represents a leap forward in the treatment of this debilitating and life-threatening condition. Sickle cell disease is caused by abnormally shaped red blood cells that can block blood vessels, causing fatigue, chronic pain and increased risk of infection. By modifying the DNA of the patient’s own stem cells so they produce healthy red blood cells, the treatment provides a ‘functional cure’ for people who otherwise have limited options.

    “This treatment offers hope to thousands of patients in the UK, the majority of whom are from African and African-Caribbean backgrounds and have experienced years of feeling ignored, and is a glimpse into the exciting possibilities of gene therapies to treat diseases that have previously been considered incurable.”

    Dr Alena Pance, Senior Lecturer in Genetics, University of Hertfordshire, said:

    “Casgevy (exagamglogene autotemcel) is based on the innovative gene-editing tool CRISPR, which won its inventors the Nobel Prize in 2020

    “This approach is a great medical advancement because gene-editing may represent a possible cure rather than a treatment of this inherited genetic disease and stem cell technology makes it possible to use patient-specific cells which avoid immunological issues.

    “The background is that sickle cell disease is caused by mutation of one of the proteins that form haemoglobin. This is the main component of red blood cells that transports oxygen around the body. In adulthood, it consists of 4 globin proteins, 2 alpha and 2 beta, that form a tetramer with an iron core which binds the oxygen. During development however, the haemoglobin in the foetus is made with gamma globin instead of beta globin. This is because Gamma globin has higher affinity for oxygen, which is less abundant in the womb. At birth, there is a switch that silences Gamma globin which is no longer made and induces Beta globin to be made instead.

    “When Beta globin is mutated long inflexible chains of haemoglobin form, called sickle haemoglobin that leads to a change in the morphology of the red blood cells which also become stiff and get stuck in small capillaries. This causes pain and loss of red blood cells or anaemia, which increases in situations of high need or use of oxygen, such as exercise or high altitude.

    “What this therapy does is to switch off the factor that silences Gamma globin so that it can be produced in the red blood cells and substitute the faulty Beta globin. Because it is a blood disease, the gene-editing can be performed in the stem cells from the bone marrow from which all the cells in the blood originate. This means that the stem cells are extracted from the patient, modified and expanded in the lab and then put back into the patient where they will be able to reconstitute the blood. As a consequence, there is no immunological difference between the modified cells and the patient necessitating immunosuppressing medication for life and once the modified stem cells establish themselves in the bone marrow of the patient, they can repopulate the bone marrow and produce Gamma globin red blood cells technically for ever. An additional advantage this strategy has is that because it does not aim to correct the mutation (fix the faulty beta globin) it can be generally applied not just to sickle cell disease but also to beta-thalassemia. This is because there is a wide range of mutations in the beta globin gene and so fixing it would become patient-specific which would be even more costly and difficult.”

    “There are some set backs to this approach and it is certain that the technology will continue improving, but at this moment in time, it is the greatest advance seen so far in the application of these technologies to health.”

    Prof Ewan Birney, Deputy Director General of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and Director of EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), said:

    “This is an exciting development for practical CRISPR based gene therapy. After impressive clinical trials worldwide, the technology provides a way for certain sickle cell disease individuals to have a far better life. This CRISPR based therapy uses an interesting molecular mechanism, where the gene therapy acts on a different, related gene (fetal haemoglobin), boosting this gene’s expression in adulthood which mitigates the effect of the sickle cell changed adult haemoglobin. The mechanism was discovered by genetic studies in particular from cohorts in Sub-Saharan Africa and people with recent African ancestries.

    “Looking ahead, this technology has the potential to treat many other rare diseases with precise genetic diagnoses.”

     

    Prof Felicity Gavins, Professor of Pharmacology, Brunel University of London, said:

    “The approval of Exa-cel for NHS use in England is a very exciting moment, not only because this marks the first approval of a CRISPR-based gene therapy for SCD in the NHS, but also because it offers a potentially curative treatment for eligible patients. By addressing the genetic cause of SCD, Exa-cel reduces or eliminates vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), decreases hospitalisations, and improves quality of life.

    “Of the 15,000 people in England with SCD, approximately 1,750 may be eligible for Exa-cel treatment. The therapy works by editing the patient’s BCL11A gene to reactivate fetal haemoglobin production, preventing red blood cells from sickling and blocking blood flow which cause VOCs and disease complications.

    “However, while Exa-cel is a breakthrough, it is not a cure for all SCD patients, and uncertainties remain about its long-term effectiveness, safety and accessibility. It is critical to continue funding research to develop treatment that benefit the broader SCD population and address remaining challenges in care.”

     

    Professor Laurence D. Hurst, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics, The Milner Centre for Evolution, University of Bath, said:

    “The recommendation of exa-cel (alias Casgevy, alias Exagamglogene autotemcel) by NICE is a potential step change for sufferers (and their carers) of a common genetic disorder, sickle cell disease (SCD) that particularly affects UK individuals with a Caribbean and Black African ancestry. It will come as a very welcome reversal of a prior draft recommendation (March 2024) by many within the at-risk communities. 

    “Part of NICE’s recommendation was based on the observation that the disorder is especially prevent in ethnic minority backgrounds and seeks to redress inequality in health access. This is a good news day for sufferers of severe SCD and for these communities.”

    Why is there a need for a “cure” for sickle cell disease?

    “Current treatments may be considered the equivalent of plastering over a wound repeatedly, rather than getting to the cause of the wound and curing it.

    “SCD patients need regular blood transfusions and with that treatment to absorb excess iron. Some qualify for a drug therapy, Hydroxycarbamide, also used as in cancer chemotherapy, that reduces VOC rates. This increases rate of production of foetal globin and reduces red cell stickiness. There are very few treatments to stop symptoms and what is available often has intolerable side effects. A further issue is that while treatments may reduce VOC frequency they tend to increase pain associated with each VOC. They do not address the underlying cause.” 

    “Stem cell transfusion – the best current “cure” – is potentially different as you are replacing the cells that make red blood cells in the patient with those from a donor who doesn’t have SCD.  However, only 15% of patients have a potential donor and this treatment can lead to immune rejection (graft versus host disease).

    “Exa-cel is potentially a life-long cure – the patients can make their own non SCD inducing blood, thus immune rejection should not be an issue.”

    How does this CRISPR therapy work?

    “For many single gene genetic disorders gene therapy is now being actively researched and, in some cases, making it to clinic.  To date the successful ones, have taken the strategy of adding in a copy of the properly functioning version of the gene (as in recent gene therapies for haemophilia A and B).  Exa-cel is different as it involves “editing” your own DNA, not adding genes. 

    “It relies on the fact that as foetuses our haemoglobin was different. Indeed, foetal haemoglobin is a little better than the adult version at carrying oxygen.  Adult haemoglobin consists of two beta globins and two alpha globins.  In foetuses we use gamma globin instead of beta globin.  Shortly after birth a protein BCL11A helps in the switch from foetal to adult haemoglobin, from gamma to beta.  Exa-cel edits the gene for BCL11A preventing it from being made, and in so doing forces the cells to upregulate gamma globin so making more foetal haemoglobin.

    “It does this by editing a part of the switch that turns the BCL11A gene on in developing blood cells.  This causes BCL11A to not be made which in turn allows gamma globin to be produced, as BCL11A switches gamma globin off.   As such – it is a CRISPR mediated gene edit – it is unlike the standard mode of gene therapy which involves addition of the correct gene. The treatment involve removing relevant cells from the patient, editing in the lab and replacing them into the patient.

    “Given its mode of action it is a potential therapy for any genetic disease involving badly functioning beta-globin, notably sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia.

    “Importantly it is also likely that making gamma globin is safe – it is our own protein.  In addition, most of us fail to fully inactivate the foetal/gamma version and so well all have a bit of gamma globin.  Indeed, with conditions like SCD, the higher the level of gamma globin the lesser the symptoms.”

    The therapy is life transforming

    “The evidence for the efficacy and safety of Casgevy for SCD is good, although sample numbers are low. Base line the patients had 2.6 VOCs per year. Of 43 patients 29 were followed long enough. 28 of 29 had no VOCs for at least a year. None were hospitalised.

    “There is a further issue, however, that it can be difficult to collect cells in patients with SCD and some of those not followed up were because the treatment couldn’t be given.

    What is the new decision?

    “This new decision is not a statement about safety and efficacy.  The therapy has been approved for use in the UK (late 2023), EU (spring 2024) and USA (late 2023) on safety and efficacy grounds. What is new is that NICE now recommends funding this with “managed access*” via the NHS as it is deemed adequately cost effective (or rather it was happy with the high level of uncertainty on cost effectiveness given the circumstances).  This is a reversal of its prior draft recommendation in March 2024.

    “It is restricted to those for whom a stem cell transplant donor cannot be found and with severe SCD ie recurrent VOCs meaning 2 or more in the prior 2 years.

    “The defence for the opening of access was based on the health inequalities faced by people with SCD, the technology being innovative and the fact that prior decision had failed to capture the quality of life of the carers.

    “Earlier this year NICE approved the same therapy for beta thalassemia -also owing to beta glogin issues- for a restricted number of patients.”

    What does the treatment cost?

    “The treatment is a one-off procedure. The headline cost per treatment £1,651,000 but the actual cost to the NHS is a commercial secret.”

    What are the uncertainties?

    “There are two main uncertainties:

    “First, being a new treatment how long it will last is unknown. Why the treatment might revert is unclear but only time will tell.

    “The second is whether there are downstream side effects.  CRISPR as an application for example involves send a molecule to cut DNA at a designated site in our DNA.  Sometimes, however, the cuts also happen at sites we didn’t want to have cut. These are so-called “off-target” effects.  The early data from the research team behind found no evidence for such off-target effects but they remain a possibility. More classical forms of gene therapy – involving adding genes to our DNA – have been associated with induction of cancer and so the field is naturally cautious.”

     

    What is SCD?

    “Sickle cell disease is a genetic disease associated with a different form of a gene and its derived protein that make up part of the molecular that transports oxygen from the lungs to the body, heamoglobin, in our red blood cells.  The affected gene/protein is “beta globin”.

    “Sufferers have pain 4 days out of every seven and unpredictable episodes of severe pain, termed vaso-occlusive crises [VOCs] that can require hospitalization.  Over 2 years about 2/3 of sufferers need emergency care 2 to 3 times and about a quarter spend 1-2 weeks in hospital.  Higher rates of both define severe SCD. It causes ongoing anaemia (lack of red blood cells) and widespread organ damage. Even with access to medical support, life expectancy is typically around 50 years.”

    Why is SCD so prevalent in ethnic minorities?

    “Globally locations with endemic malaria have higher rates of the disorder.  This is because individuals with a mix of beta globin genes (we all have two versions, one inherited from mother one from father) are less likely to die young from malaria.  This selection favouring individuals with a mix of beta-globins maintains the two versions of the beta globin gene at relatively high frequencies.  However, it also means that the rate at which individuals will inherit two of the SCD causing version of the gene is also high – if mum and dad were both carriers a quarter of their kids will get SCD.  Having two SCD versions is needed for the full blown SCD. In sub-Saharan Africa up to 1-3% of the population suffer SCD making it a remarkably prevalent genetic disease.”

    Professor David Rees, Professor of Paediatric Sickle Cell Disease, King’s College London, said:

    “It is encouraging that Exa-cel has been approved for use to treat patients with sickle cell disease in England, particularly as it is based on discoveries made at King’s College London by Dr Stephan Menzel and Professor Swee Lay Thein. The treatment uses CRISPR gene editing technology to increase the level of fetal haemoglobin in people with sickle cell disease, which has a major effect in reducing the severity of the condition. The treatment is not curative in the traditional sense of the word, in that the patients still have some features of sickle cell disease, but early studies suggest that successfully treated patients have very few symptoms of the condition, at least in the medium term.

    “Exa-cel has been approved for patients getting episodes of acute pain over the age of 12 years, and potentially more than 5000 people with sickle cell disease may be eligible for this in the UK. However, it is difficult to know how many people will actually benefit, because of the very high cost and potential toxicity of the treatment. Exa-cel treatment still requires very strong chemotherapy, similar to having a bone marrow transplant, which causes problems with reduced fertility and sometimes more serious complications, and it seems likely that it will most benefit patients with severe and progressive problems caused by sickle cell disease.

    “Despite these concerns, the availability of Exa-cel is a major advance and offers a really important new treatment option for some patients with sickle cell disease. Excitingly, advances in gene editing are happening very rapidly at the moment and it seems likely that cheaper, safer and more effective forms of gene editing will emerge for sickle cell disease over the coming years, offering the prospect of a curative treatment which is universally applicable, even in low income countries where the majority of patients live.”

    NICE’s final draft guidance on Exagamglogene autotemcel for treating severe sickle cell disease in people 12 years and over was published at 00:01 UK time on Friday 31 January 2025. 

    Declared interests

    Professor David Rees: “I don’t think I have any significant conflicts of interest.”

    Prof Ewan Birney: No conflict of interest.

    Dr Alena Pance: No conflicts.

    For all other experts, no response to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Community consultation report on display for Mandalong Road at Morisset

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 31 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The proposed upgrade to Mandalong Road at Morisset, southwest of Newcastle, has taken another step forward with the community consultation report for the preferred design display now published. 

    The Australian Government is investing $56 million and the NSW Government is investing $20 million in upgrades to Mandalong Road.

    The community and key stakeholders were invited to have their say on the preferred design for the proposed upgrade from 26 June to 4 August last year.

    This design includes replacing the existing roundabout at the intersection of Wyee Road and Freemans Drive with traffic lights, a shared path between Ourimbah Street and Gimberts Road, as well as two new bus stops on Dora Street.

    The Gimberts Road/Gateway Boulevard roundabout will now be separately upgraded by a private developer.

    A total of 202 submissions were received during the display period, including 190 survey responses and 12 emails.

    The consultation report includes feedback on the design, operational and network impacts, environmental impacts, project concerns and suggestions.

    Feedback received about the preferred design has been considered as work on the concept design and environmental assessment continues.

    Timing for construction is yet to be confirmed and is dependent on planning approvals and the finalisation of project costings and funding arrangements.

    Consultation will continue with key stakeholders and the community will be kept informed as the project progresses.

    For further information on the community consultation report and the project, visit the website of Transport NSW.

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

    “Mandalong Road provides a critical link from the M1 Pacific Motorway to Morisset and the southern part of the Lake Macquarie local government area.

    “This upgrade will improve traffic flow and safety for about 17,000 road users daily, while helping meet the future needs of an increased population and employment in the Morisset area.

    “The upgrade will also support retail, industry, commercial and housing growth along the corridor, with potentially upwards of 5,000 new dwellings in the surrounding area.”

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

    “We know this is an important project for the community with more than 200 submissions received during the consultation period.

    “As part of the survey, respondents were asked to provide feedback on the level of project importance and support of the preferred design.

    “I was pleased to note that 90 per cent of survey respondents believe the project to be very important or important, and more than 80 per cent supported the preferred design.

    “I’m proud to be part of a government getting the work done to improve the daily lives of people living in NSW.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi:

    “These traffic upgrades will be really significant for local and visiting motorists and pedestrians in terms of safety and also minimising delays on their journeys in this part of the lower Hunter.

    “We will continue to engage with the NSW Government, key stakeholders and the community to deliver the best option for traffic and pedestrian movement in Morriset.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper:

    “Upgrading Mandalong Road is the most important transport priority in southern Lake Macquarie.

    “Like other frustrated locals, I have been calling for a solution to the traffic and safety issues at Mandalong Road for years.

    “With its strategic position, the Morisset area is poised to experience a surge in people, jobs, homes and industrial and commercial development. Upgrading Mandalong Road, along with other infrastructure and services, is essential to support this growth and help Morisset realise its full potential.”

    Quotes attributable to Duty MLC for Lake Macquarie, Emily Suvaal:

    “This is a key step in the upgrade process and I welcome the work the NSW Government, together with the Commonwealth, is doing to improve traffic conditions for motorists in Lake Macquarie.

    “The much-needed Mandalong Road upgrades will significantly improve local traffic conditions and this next stage of consultation is vital to getting that work done.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Off the plan contract laws under review to provide greater certainty to buyers

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 31 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government

    Developers could face financial penalties for failing to deliver homes and unfairly profiting off buyers under reforms being considered by the NSW Government.

    Feedback is being sought on stronger protections for consumers in off the plan contracts for homes and land in NSW, to guide the delivery of new housing and prevent lengthy delays that leave people out of pocket.

    An off the plan contract is an agreement for the sale and purchase of a property that is yet to be developed or constructed. These contracts can apply to the sale of a proposed lot in a strata or community land scheme or to the sale of land in a conventional subdivision.

    The reforms are being designed to help increase housing supply by providing greater certainty and clearer deadlines for home buyers and to free up land for development faster by removing outdated restrictions on development sites.

    The reforms are intended to help more people achieve the Australian dream of home ownership and build greater confidence in the housing market by improving protections for buyers and preventing developers from delaying homes they have been contracted to deliver.

    About five per cent of 180,000 residential purchases in NSW last financial year were off the plan contracts which allow a buyer to commit to purchasing a property before the complex is built or land is subdivided.

    Potential reforms being released for comment aim to tighten contract rules to give buyers a clearer understanding of when they can expect to move into their new home, reducing uncertainty and the risk of being left behind in the market when a contract is cancelled.

    This could include scrapping the ability for developers to draw the contract out with indefinite sunset clauses which give buyers no clear path forward, or ability to exit the arrangement.

    Other proposed changes the NSW Government is considering include:

    • Making sunset clauses mandatory in contracts so that buyers can withdraw if sunset events do not occur by a set time
    • Requiring developers to disclose the status of the development against construction milestones so buyers have a better understanding of timeframes and potential risks
    • Limiting a developer’s ability to extend sunset dates only for certain reasons beyond the developer’s control such as weather or supply issues, and imposing time limits on extensions
    • Requiring developers to take reasonable steps to meet dates by potentially introducing penalties for inaction.

    The Government is also looking at unlocking potential development sites by making it easier to remove private, outdated agreements from land titles (known as obsolete restrictive covenants) which can limit how land is used or developed.

    Covenants can continue to bind future landowners indefinitely, even if they become outdated – for example, an obsolete covenant may prevent more than one property from being built on the land or ban the use of certain building materials.

    To support the reforms, the Office of the Registrar General has released a discussion paper called ‘Contracts and Covenants: Reforms to support development of land’ outlining the options.

    The community is invited to respond to survey questions or upload a submission on the reform proposals and share their experiences on the NSW Government’s Have Your Say platform.

    The consultation will lay the groundwork for legislation to be developed in 2025.

    The Contracts and Covenants consultation is open until 7 March 2025.

    To have your say, visit: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/offtheplan-contracts-covenants 

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

    “Buying a home is one of the most stressful experiences for an individual, these proposals are designed to provide greater certainty and consistency. This review is about making sure home buyers have the right protections and information they need to make informed decisions.”

    “Off the plan contracts play a crucial role in supporting essential housing supply initiatives in NSW. They allow buyers to purchase property early in the development process, while giving developers the confidence and financial security to build.”

    “We know that most developers do the right thing, but we don’t want situations where businesses try to run down the clock on a contract to sell to a higher bidder or mislead consumers by unfairly changing the goalposts for when they can move into their dream home.”

    “These reforms are designed to provide greater transparency as well as encourage the delivery of new homes. These proposals are about encouraging developers to be upfront about timelines and challenges to assist homeowners.”

    “We encourage people to have their say on these proposals which aim to boost consumer confidence in the off the plan contract process and help NSW achieve our housing targets.”

    Registrar General Danusia Cameron said:

    “Off the plan buyers need more information and support than buyers of established homes because they are not able to inspect a property before committing to buy it.”

    “It is important that the laws governing off the plan contracts also arm buyers with appropriate safeguards, meet the needs of the community and address emerging issues in the sector to ensure there is continued confidence in the process.”  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government launches “national conversation” on land use

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    The Government has launched a consultation on a new approach to Land Use empowering decision makers with the toolkit to protect the most productive agricultural land and boost food security.

    • New sophisticated data on how land is used will underpin the Government’s Plan for Change, supporting economic growth through building 1.5 million homes and delivering critical infrastructure, securing clean power, protecting farmland and restoring the natural world.     

    • The consultation will seek views from farmers, landowners, businesses and nature groups across the length and breadth of the country.      

    The Government is today (Friday 31 January) launching a consultation on a new strategic approach to managing land use in England to give decision makers the data they need to protect our most productive agricultural land, boosting Britain’s food security in a time of global uncertainty and a changing climate.   

    This will support the Government’s missions under the Plan for Change, including delivering new housebuilding, energy infrastructure and new towns.    

    Using the most sophisticated land use data ever published, the Land Use Framework will provide the principles, advanced data and tools to support decision-making by local government, landowners, businesses, farmers, and nature groups to make the most of our land. This will help deliver the different objectives we have for England’s finite land, including growing food, building 1.5 million homes this parliament, and restoring nature.      

    As part of a national conversation, there will be workshops across the country, bringing farmers and landowners to the table, to put the insights of the people who manage our landscapes at the centre of our work to develop a final Land Use Framework.     
         
    Protecting UK food security and pursuing our mission for economic growth go hand-in-hand – with the highest quality agricultural land already protected for food production whilst kickstarting the economy by building new housing and rolling out renewable energy to make the UK a clean energy superpower.     

    Local planning will benefit from data outlined in the Land Use Framework, combined with the energy and housing spatial plans and a new food strategy. This will ensure we build 1.5 million new homes over five years, a generation of new towns, and the energy infrastructure needed to achieve Clean Power by 2030, while protecting food security and our natural world.    

    Speaking at the launch at the Royal Geographical Society, the Secretary of State for the Environment Steve Reed will set out how we will protect farmland and unlock growth.   

    He is expected to say:    

    Today is the start of a national conversation to transform how we use land in this country. It’s time for policy to leave the chambers of Westminster and reflect the actual lived experiences of farmers, landowners and planners on the ground.    

    Using the most sophisticated land use data ever published, we will transform how we use our land to deliver on our Plan for Change. That means enabling the protection of prime agricultural land, restore our natural world and drive economic growth.   

    This framework will not tell people what to do.    

    It is about working together to pool our knowledge and resources, to give local and national government, landowners, businesses, farmers and nature groups the data and tools they need to take informed actions that are best for them, best for the land, and best for the country.

    Speaking about farmland, he will go on to say:    

    This Government has a cast-iron commitment to maintain long-term food production.

    The primary purpose of farming will always be to produce food that feeds the nation.

    This framework will give decision makers the toolkit they need to protect our highest quality agricultural land.

    This vision for land is one in which we guarantee our long-term food security and future-proof our farm businesses, support new housebuilding and energy infrastructure, and reduce conflicts that hold up development by creating land with multiple benefits – supporting economic growth on the limited land we have available.       

    The Framework will help farm businesses to maximise the potential of multiple uses of land, supporting long-term food production capacity and unlocking opportunities for businesses to drive private finance into the sector. It will support the need to incentivise multi-functional land use that includes food production.     

    We will also consult on how data can be used in some planning decisions to improve the resilience of our food system to flooding risk. 

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner said:

    Today marks an important step forward in our journey to build the 1.5 million new homes that we desperately need.   

    This new approach will make better use of our land and grasp the opportunities to deliver new homes and infrastructure in the areas most in need, achieving win-win results for both development and the environment.          

    Our Plan for Change is going even further to dismantle the barriers holding back growth, so we can raise living standards, get more families onto the property ladder, and deliver a better future for our children and grandchildren.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:   

    The biggest threat to nature and food security is the climate crisis, which threatens our best farmland, food production and the livelihoods of farmers.  

    As we deliver our mission for the UK to become a clean energy superpower as part of the Plan for Change, we will ensure a proper balance between food security, nature preservation and clean energy.  

    We can roll out renewables in a way that is both positive for our energy security and our environment.

    Sue Pritchard, Chief Executive, Food, Farming and Countryside Commission said:   

    With so many of the government’s missions reliant on good land use decisions, Steve Reed’s announcement today could not be more timely. Setting out clear principles, and working across government departments, we’re pleased to see that the land use consultation focuses on mechanisms for delivery. Our work in Devon and Peterborough and Cambridgeshire proves that farmers and land managers, communities, local authorities, green groups and businesses are keen to work together to help shape a Land Use framework.

    The next stages of development will involve extensive sector engagement in a collaborative process as we design a final Land Use Framework – informed by the views of landowners, businesses, farmers, and nature groups. This evidence will also feed into the wider reform that we are delivering in the sector through the Farming Roadmap and Food Strategy.       

    The consultation will run for 12 weeks with the final Land Use Framework published later in the year. This will deliver a key manifesto commitment as part of our Plan for Change.       

    Notes to editors:          

    Quotes pack:  

    Tim Hopkin, Chief Executive of the Land App:   

    The Land Use Framework offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enhance national resilience, drive sustainable economic growth, and position the UK as a global leader in land management. By uniting all stakeholders with a clear, consistent approach, it ensures taxpayer money is spent efficiently — optimising Defra resources, empowering land managers to deliver impactful outcomes, and securing long-term prosperity in the face of growing climate uncertainty. 

    Lydia Collas, head of natural environment at Green Alliance, said:  

    With weather extremes having a major impact on harvests, it’s an important step to clearly set out how we’ll secure our food supply, tackle climate change, and restore nature in a Land Use Framework. Reforms to farming policy are at a critical stage, and we need a framework to support evidence-based decisions about how the farming budget is spent. This should help direct farm payments to those that have the biggest part to play in restoring nature, while ensuring we continue to produce high-quality food and don’t export more of the environmental costs of what we eat.

    Forestry Commission Chair Sir William Worsley said:  

    There has never been a more crucial time to invest in domestic woodland creation.  

    The Land Use Framework will provide principles that promote this and outline the many benefits of woodland creation, including for climate change mitigation, nature recovery, timber production, water quality and quantity, as well as the multiple social benefits.  

    This will play a key role in meeting statutory tree cover and biodiversity targets as well as helping to address the urgent need for improved timber security.

    Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, said:   

    Too often the health of the natural environment, farming and ambitions for the built environment are presented as competing interests, with protecting Nature portrayed as a barrier to development and food security. The fact is though that we can and must do all these things, and by taking a more strategic view of how we use land, we can deliver against government’s stretching legal targets to halt and reverse nature decline, while also enabling the new homes and infrastructure the country needs, including renewable power and reservoirs, while at the same time protecting food security and building resilience to climate change impacts.   

    The Land Use Framework is a vital step forward, offering opportunities to move beyond tired old binary choices, between housing and greenspace or Nature and food, and onto the more integrated thinking that we must embrace in meeting multiple pressing challenges all at once. This is a key policy that will unlock prospects for the restoration of Nature at larger scale, while at the same time meeting the country’s needs for housing, energy, water and food.

    Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said:    

    The Land Use Framework is hugely welcome as an important tool for making smarter decisions about how we use our land. It starts a vital national conversation about the scale of change needed over time to meet and reconcile environmental goals for water, climate and nature with food production, housing and development.  

    For example, by utilising low-grade agricultural land for natural flood management, we can reduce flood risk, enhance biodiversity, and create more sustainable landscapes. This kind of approach will help us meet the challenges of a changing climate while delivering real benefits for communities and the environment.

    Land in England is precious. We know that the way we use our little island must change to meet the challenges of the nature and climate crisis. For too long, competing land uses have been left to solve the jigsaw puzzle of England, without a picture on the front of the box to guide them. Ministers have an opportunity to ensure that the right players have all the pieces they need to make more space for nature, alongside sustainable food production and green infrastructure.  

    The Land Use Framework can help ensure all new development is wilder by design, expanding space for our wildlife to recover, and building nature into the heart of development. The test will be whether the final framework can actually influence the thousands of daily decisions that matter for nature, from big strategic development plans and Local Plans, right down to individual choices from chicken sheds to targeted incentives for nature-friendly farming.

    Becky Pullinger, head of land use planning at The Wildlife Trusts, says: 

    There’s never been a proper plan for managing the competing demands on land and the way that land is given over for development, for biofuels or for food production is haphazard at best. 

    The only way we’ll tackle climate change, nature loss, health problems and housing shortages is by thinking ahead about what land is used for and how it is used – because we can’t afford to solve one crisis at the expense of another.

    Done well, a Land Use Framework could provide a significant reset opportunity to meet all these challenges and deliver wins for nature recovery, the economy, a nature-friendly food supply and green energy.

    Beccy Speight, RSPB chief executive, said:

    The joined-up approach being taken to create this framework is exactly what’s needed to determine how we make best use of the limited land available in England. Delivering a future that safeguards nature, tackles climate change, ensures food security and resilient farm businesses, and enables sustainable development is the only sensible path. It’s possible to do all of this.

    The last year has seen record levels of flooding impacting farmers and land managers across the country, largely due to extreme weather. To tackle this, we must ensure this framework is aligned with the necessary incentives to support the adoption of more nature-friendly and climate resilient practices. This is only the start of what must be a national conversation, but the ambition to reconcile competing pressures and allow strategic decision making on how land is used will benefit everyone.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator to investigate two charities over repeated failure to submit accounts

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    The Charity Commission has launched two separate statutory inquiries into SharedImpact and SharedImpact Foundation (UK) Limited.

    The two charities were set up to improve the financial efficiency and effectiveness of charities by offering grants, financial services and advice. 

    The charities have a trustee in common and both have persistently and repeatedly failed to meet their accounting requirements. 

    SharedImpact and SharedImpact Foundation (UK) Limited were previously placed in the Charity Commission’s double defaulter class inquiry in March 2021. That inquiry investigates charities that have defaulted twice or more over the past 5 years on submitting required accounting information. 

    The Charity Commission has escalated its engagement with the charities to two separate statutory inquiries due to both charities failing to file accounts on time for financial years ending 31 March 2022 and 31 March 2023.  

    The inquiries will examine the administration, governance, and management of the individual charities including:  

    • the trustees’ compliance with their statutory accounting and reporting responsibilities 

    • whether the charities have appropriate and robust financial controls in place 

    • whether the charities are being managed in accordance with their governing document 

    • whether the charities are operating in accordance with their stated objects and for the public benefit

    Additionally, the inquiry into SharedImpact will examine whether the charity has a sufficient number of trustees. 

    The Commission may extend the scope of the inquiries if additional regulatory issues emerge. 

    ENDS 

    Notes to editors 

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society.

    2. On 22 March 2021, the Commission placed SharedImpact and SharedImpact Foundation (UK) Limited into the ‘Double Defaulter’ inquiry for charities that are in default of their statutory obligations to meet reporting requirements by failing to file their annual documents (annual returns, reports and accounts) for two or more years in the last five years.  

    3. On 13 December 2024, the Charity Commission opened two statutory inquiries into SharedImpact and SharedImpact Foundation (UK) Limited under section 46 of the Charities Act 2011.  

    4. A statutory inquiry is a legal power enabling the Commission to formally investigate matters of regulatory concern within a charity and to use protective powers for the benefit of the charity and its beneficiaries, assets, or reputation. An inquiry will investigate and establish the facts of the case so that the Commission can determine the extent of any misconduct and/or mismanagement; the extent of the risk to the charity, its work, property, beneficiaries, employees or volunteers; and decide what action is needed to resolve the concerns. 

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Announces Approval of Proposed Changes to Reduce ESG Limitations for Two ETFs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Middlefield Limited (the “Manager”), the manager of Middlefield Sustainable Global Dividend ETF (TSX:MDIV) and Middlefield Sustainable Infrastructure Dividend ETF (TSX:MINF) (collectively, the “Funds”), is pleased to announce that at the Special Meetings held on January 30, 2025, unitholders voted unanimously in favour of the proposed changes to the Funds. These changes include revising the names, investment objectives, and strategies of the Funds to de-emphasize the environmental, sustainability, and governance (“ESG”) factors associated with the Funds. While the Funds will continue to consider ESG criteria when selecting issuers for their portfolios, they will no longer prioritize these factors over others such as valuation, growth projections, and the quality and track record of the management team. The Manager believes these changes will broaden the investment universe of the Funds, potentially leading to better returns for investors. The Funds will file a Prospectus by April 10, 2025, at which point each of the Funds will revise their name as shown below. There will be no change to the ticker symbols of the Funds.

    Ticker
    Symbol    		 Current Name Revised Name
    MDIV Middlefield Sustainable Global Dividend ETF Middlefield Global Dividend Growers ETF
    MINF Middlefield Sustainable Infrastructure Dividend ETF Middlefield Global Infrastructure Dividend ETF
         

    The Manager notes that similar efforts to de-emphasize ESG factors have been undertaken by many asset management companies, including BlackRock, State Street, JPMorgan, and Pimco. Recent research from Morningstar has shown that more funds are removing rather than adding ESG mandates from their investment practices. On March 7, 2024, the Canadian Securities Administrators introduced three categories of ESG-Related Funds: ESG Objective Funds, ESG Strategy Funds, and ESG Limited Consideration Funds. Each category has distinct expectations regarding the emphasis on ESG factors in investment decisions. The Manager believes that the proposed changes will result in the Funds moving from the ESG Objective Funds category to the ESG Limited Consideration category.

    About Middlefield
    Founded in 1979, Middlefield is a specialist equity income asset manager with offices in Toronto, Canada and London, England. Our investment team utilizes active management to select high-quality, global companies across a variety of sectors and themes. Our product offerings include proven dividend-focused strategies that span real estate, healthcare, innovation, infrastructure, energy, diversified income and more. We offer these solutions in a variety of product types including ETFs, Mutual Funds, Split-Share Funds, Closed-End Funds and Flow-through LPs.

    For further information, please visit our website at www.middlefield.com or contact Nancy Tham in our Sales and Marketing Department at 1.888.890.1868.

    This press release contains forward-looking information. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, intentions, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “is expected”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “estimates” or “intends” (or negative or grammatical variations thereof), or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Statements which may constitute forward-looking statements relate to: the proposed timing of the name, objectives and strategies changes and completion thereof; the potential benefits of such changes; and the holding of the unitholder meeting. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements including as a result of changes in the general economic and political environment, changes in applicable legislation, and the performance of each fund. Additional risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results are described under “Risk Factors” in the ETFs’ prospectus and other documents filed by the ETFs with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes the ETFs’ current estimate, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered hereby. Investors and others should not assume that any forward-looking statement contained in this press release represents the ETFs’ estimate as of any date other than the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brockton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Firearms and Fentanyl Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Seven firearms; 26 high-capacity magazines, thousands of rounds of ammunition; drugs found during search of defendant’s home

    BOSTON – A Brockton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

    Shem Khattiya, 39, was sentenced by Senior District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. In October 2024, Khattiya pleaded guilty to a two count Superseding Information charging him with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    In An investigation into Khattiya began in 2023, and in March 2023, a search was conducted at Khattiya’s Brockton apartment where over 800 grams of fentanyl; at least seven different firearms (most of which were loaded, some were ghost guns and some with serial numbers and some assault rifles); 26 high capacity magazines; thousands of rounds of ammunition; a ghost gun creation kit; triggers; a hydraulic kilogram press; and other items used in the manufacturing of drugs and firearms and distribution of drugs were recovered in his bedroom. It has been determined that “triggers” may qualify as machine guns as the purpose was to convert semi-automatic weapons into automatic weapons.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, the Brockton Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Weinstein of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 5 years after COVID began, outstanding fines mean marginalised Australians are still paying the highest price

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shelley J. Walker, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Justice Health, National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University

    Rob1037/Shutterstock

    January 25 marked five years since the first COVID case was recorded in Australia.

    Many of us have tried to move on quickly from the pandemic, putting lockdowns and restrictions far behind us.

    But for some Australians, this hasn’t been possible. Among the pandemic’s lingering impacts is the burden of outstanding fines, issued for breaking COVID restrictions.

    These often hit disadvantaged groups the hardest, who were more likely to be fined and less able to pay. Five years down the track, marginalised communities are still feeling the impact of these penalties.

    Our new research involved surveys and in-depth interviews with people who used drugs during the pandemic. They reported feeling targeted by police and even harassed while trying to access drug treatments – and years later, many still have fines they’re unable to pay.

    Thousands of unpaid fines

    During the pandemic, police issued millions of dollars’ worth of fines to people who broke restrictions. More than 50,000 fines were issued in Victoria and around 62,000 in New South Wales .

    Fines ranged from A$200 for not wearing a face mask to nearly $5,000 for breaking rules about gatherings.

    Fines were a public health measure aimed at stopping the virus spreading.

    But for some people already struggling with financial and social problems, including those who use drugs, it compounded their difficulties.

    Studies have found some groups were fined much more often than others, including people from Sudanese and South Sudanese backgrounds, Aboriginal people and children experiencing disadvantage.

    While they were intended as public health measures, the fines reveal deeper patterns about targeted policing.

    Following calls by community legal services and human rights groups and updated legal advice, the NSW government withdrew all outstanding COVID fines at the end of 2024.

    This is not the case in Victoria. In June 2023, around 30,000 fines were outstanding in Victoria, and to our knowledge the situation hasn’t changed since then.

    Feeling targeted

    We know that people who use drugs already face increased police scrutiny in general, due to the criminalisation of drug use.

    We conduct two long-term studies with people who use drugs in Victoria, which involves participating in an annual survey.

    During the pandemic we asked additional questions about people’s interactions with police. Between March 2020 and May 2022, 1,130 participants responded to our survey.

    Our new research found one in ten reported being stopped by police.

    A third of these received at least one COVID-related fine – mostly for breaking curfews, failing to wear a face mask or breaching travel restrictions – a rate we calculated as nearly three times higher than the general population.

    However, this is a crude estimate, as accurate data on the numbers of fines in the general population is not publicly available.

    Of those who received fines, most were unemployed, more than a quarter were in unstable housing or homeless, and more than half had been to prison.

    We also did in-depth interviews with 76 participants. Many told us they felt the pandemic gave police an “excuse” to target them, leading to serious and lasting effects on their lives.

    Fined while accessing services

    Interactions with police were described as fraught with discrimination and harassment. Participants reported being stopped, searched and fined while trying to go about their daily lives. This may be partly because their circumstances meant they were more likely to be using public spaces – and therefore were more visible to police.

    Daniel, aged 41, was fined $1,652 for breaching COVID rules he told us he didn’t understand. He said:

    it was so obvious they were looking for drugs – it felt like they were doing everything they could to find a reason to fine us.

    For people who use drugs, accessing harm-reduction services and drug treatment programs (such as methadone to replace opioids) is vital to their health. Some participants told us they were fined while doing so, despite carrying medical exemptions.

    Natasha, aged 39, was homeless. She said she was fined while travelling to a needle and syringe program, despite being within the permitted travel zone.

    Police issued her a fine for leaving the home for non-essential purposes. Natasha found the situation absurd, asking “how can you be (fined for being) outside if you sleep outside?”

    Ryan, aged 45, was fined $1,800 while collecting methadone. He described the encounter as “humiliating” and unnecessary, saying police appeared more interested in finding drugs than enforcing public health measures.

    The financial and emotional toll

    In our study, the financial burden of COVID fines was devastating.

    Most could not afford to pay fines or lacked the confidence to navigate appeals processes to contest them, leading to further entanglement with the criminal legal system.

    For example, Sally, who received multiple fines while collecting her methadone during the pandemic, said:

    at the end of the day, they’re government authority and I’m a nobody – the chances of me winning would be slim to none.

    As a result, unpaid fines for some reportedly led to court orders, some were arrested, and a few even reported serving prison time.

    The emotional toll was equally severe, with feelings of being targeted and harassed by police further eroding their trust in public institutions.

    The Conversation contacted Victoria Police about our study, noting participants thought police were using the pandemic as an excuse to target them.

    In response, a police spokesperson said: “At the time officers were performing duties on behalf of the Chief Health Officer’s direction.”

    The burden can be lifted

    Public health responses should be designed to protect people, not punish them. As we move forward, it is crucial to address the lasting impacts of COVID fines.

    All Australian governments should follow the lead of NSW and waive all remaining fines to alleviate the financial and emotional burden on vulnerable populations.

    *Names have been changed.

    Shelley Walker is the recipient of an ARC Discovery Early Career Award (project number DE240101056) funded by the Australian Government. The study presented in this article was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council NHMRC (#2003255). The SuperMIX and VMAX studies are funded by the NHMRC; #545891, #1126090, #1148170)

    Paul Dietze receives funding from the NHMRC and government and non-government organisations for the conduct of research into the impacts of alcohol and other drug use.

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

    – ref. 5 years after COVID began, outstanding fines mean marginalised Australians are still paying the highest price – https://theconversation.com/5-years-after-covid-began-outstanding-fines-mean-marginalised-australians-are-still-paying-the-highest-price-247912

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: One of the largest searches for alien life started 30 years ago. Its legacy lives on today

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phil Edwards, Senior Research Scientist, Australia Telescope National Facility Science, CSIRO

    In February 1995, a small research organisation known as the SETI Institute launched what was then the most comprehensive search for an answer to a centuries-old question: are we alone in the universe?

    This Sunday marks the 30th anniversary of the first astronomical observations conducted for the search, named Project Phoenix. These observations were done at the Parkes Observatory on Wiradjuri country in the central west of New South Wales, Australia – home to one of the world’s largest radio telescopes.

    But Project Phoenix was lucky to get off the ground.

    Three years earlier, NASA had commenced an ambitious decade-long, US$100 million Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI). However, in 1993, the United States Congress cut all funding for the program because of the growing US budget deficit. Plus, SETI sceptics in Congress derided the program as a far-fetched search for “little green men”.

    Fortunately, the SETI Institute secured enough private donations to revive the project – and Project Phoenix rose from the ashes.

    Listening for radio signals

    If there is life elsewhere, it is natural to assume it evolved over many million years on a planet orbiting a long-lived star similar to our Sun. So SETI searches usually target the nearest Sun-like stars, listening for radio signals that are either being deliberately beamed our way, or are techno-signatures radiating from another planet.

    Techno-signatures are confined to a narrow range of frequencies and produced by the technologies an advanced civilisation like ours might use.

    Astronomers use radio waves as they can penetrate the clouds of gas and dust in our galaxy. They can also travel over large distances without excessive power requirements.

    Murriyang, CSIRO’s 64 metre radio telescope at the Parkes Observatory, has been in operation since 1961.
    It has made a wealth of astronomical discoveries and played a pivotal role in tracking space missions – especially the Apollo 11 moonwalk.

    As the largest single-dish radio telescope in the southern hemisphere, it is also the natural facility to use for SETI targets in the southern skies.

    While Project Phoenix planned to use several large telescopes around the world, these facilities were undergoing major upgrades. So it was at Parkes that the observing program started.

    On February 2 1995, Murriyang pointed towards a carefully chosen star 49 light-years from Earth in the constellation of, naturally, Phoenix. This was the first observation conducted as part of the project.

    The focus cabin of Murriyang, the Parkes telescope, with the Flag of Earth, much favoured by SETI researchers.
    CSIRO Radio Astronomy Image Archive, CC BY-NC

    A logistical and technological success

    Project Phoenix was led by Jill Tarter, a renowned SETI researcher who spent many long nights at Parkes overseeing observations during the 16 weeks dedicated to the search. (Jodie Foster’s character in the 1998 movie Contact was largely based on Jill.)

    The Project Phoenix team brought a trailer full of computers with state-of-the-art touch screen technology to process the data.

    Bogong moths caused some early interruptions to the processing. These large, nocturnal moths were attracted to light from computer screens, flying into them with enough force to change settings.

    Over 16 weeks, the Project Phoenix team observed 209 stars using Murriyang at frequencies between 1,200 and 3,000 mega-hertz. They searched for both continuous and pulsing signals to maximise the chance of finding genuine signals of alien life.

    Jill Tarter in the Parkes telescope control room.
    CSIRO Radio Astronomy Image Archive, CC BY-NC

    Radio telescopes are able to detect the faint radio emissions from distant celestial objects. But they are also sensitive to radio waves produced in modern society (our own techno-signatures) by mobile phones, Bluetooth connections, aircraft radar and GPS satellites.

    These kinds of local interference can mimic the kinds of signal SETI searches are looking for. So distinguishing between the two is crucial.

    To do this, Project Phoenix decided to use a second radio telescope some distance away for an independent check of any signals detected. CSIRO provided access to its 22 metre Mopra radio telescope, about 200 kilometres north of Parkes, to follow up signal candidates in real time.

    Over the 16 weeks, the team detected a total of 148,949 signals at Parkes – roughly 80% of which could be easily dismissed as local signals. The team checked a little over 18,000 signals at both Parkes and Mopra. Only 39 passed all tests and looked like strong SETI candidates. But on closer inspection the team identified them as coming from satellites.

    AS Jill Tarter summarised in an article in 1997:

    Although no evidence for an [extraterrestrial intelligence] signal was found, no mysterious or unexplained signals were left behind and the Australian deployment was a logistical and technological success.

    From left to right: journalist Robyn Williams, Jill Tarter, Australia Telescope National Facility Director, Ron Ekers, and Parkes Observatory Officer-in-Charge, Marcus Price, prior to the start of Project Phoenix.
    CSIRO Radio Astronomy Image Archive, CC BY-NC

    The next generation of radio telescopes

    When Project Phoenix ended in 2004, project manager Peter Backus concluded “we live in a quiet neighbourhood”.

    But efforts are continuing to search for alien life with greater sensitivity, over a wider frequency range, and for more targets.

    Breakthough Listen, another privately funded project, commenced in 2015, again making use of the Parkes telescope among others.

    Breakthrough Listen aims to examine one million of the closest stars and 100 closest galaxies.

    One unexpected signal detected at Parkes in 2019 as part of this project was examined in painstaking detail before it was concluded that it too was a locally generated signal.

    The next generation of radio telescopes will provide a leap in sensitivity compared to facilities today – benefitting from greater collecting area, improved resolution and superior processing capabilities.

    Examples of these next generation radio telescopes include the SKA-Low telescope, under construction in Western Australia, and the SKA-Mid telescope, being built in South Africa. They will be used to answer a wide variety of astronomical questions – including whether there is life beyond Earth.

    As SETI pioneer Frank Drake once noted:

    the most fascinating, interesting thing you could find in the universe is not another kind of star or galaxy … but another kind of life.

    Project Phoenix used Murriyang, the CSIRO Parkes radio-telescope, under contract for the work described in this article. I work for CSIRO, but joined in 2006 after this project had been completed.

    – ref. One of the largest searches for alien life started 30 years ago. Its legacy lives on today – https://theconversation.com/one-of-the-largest-searches-for-alien-life-started-30-years-ago-its-legacy-lives-on-today-247097

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –