NewzIntel.com

Category: Great Britain

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cardiff Capital Region backed by £30m to unlock innovation and growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Cardiff Capital Region backed by £30m to unlock innovation and growth

    Cardiff Capital Region is one of three UK cities and regions supported through the UK Government’s £500m local innovation fund.

    Aerial view of Cardiff.

    • Local partnerships will direct funding to range of priorities, from life sciences to AI, or could capitalise on Cardiff Capital Region’s existing strengths such as in automotive technology to support a greener future
    • Builds on record £86bn R&D settlement until 2030 and backs local skills to deliver economic growth as part of our Plan for Change

    Cardiff Capital Region is among three UK cities and regions receiving at least £30m each from the UK Government to unlock new, locally led innovation that can improve lives across the country, UK Science Minister Lord Vallance has announced today (Tuesday 29 July). 

    Partnerships between the city region authority, businesses and research organisations will work with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to invest the funding into a range of regional and national priorities in science and technology – from life sciences to green energy solutions, AI to engineering, and beyond.

    It could even build on the existing strengths of Cardiff, and Wales more widely, from its role in developing electric vehicle components that will help us build a greener world to its data science capabilities which can improve lives from better public services to improving our health. 

    The funding forms part of the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF) of up to £500m, announced ahead of last month’s Spending Review to empower local leaders with skin in the game. It will help target innovation investment and make the most of their communities’ expertise to unleash discoveries that benefit us all and grow the economy as part of our Plan for Change.

    The decision to earmark at least £30m to three high-potential areas in Glasgow, Belfast-Derry/Londonderry and Cardiff was reached following collaboration between the UK Government and the governments of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. Seven regions of England were also announced as recipients last month – spanning the North-East to Greater Manchester, Liverpool to London.

    The funding was announced as part of a record £86bn R&D settlement until 2030 and will help the Government to deliver our modern Industrial Strategy by backing high growth sectors and bolstering partnerships with industry for long-term economic growth.

    UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said: 

    From driving the development of electric vehicle components that will help deliver a greener planet to cutting-edge data science work, the Cardiff Capital Region playing a leading role in the technologies of the future that can benefit people throughout the UK.

    By targeting this funding with local leaders to a range of science and technology sectors we can make the most of the expertise across Cardiff and wider Wales to grow the economy as part of our Plan for Change.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    This funding from the UK Government is vital to support Wales’s leading science and technology sectors. We are already punching above our weight in areas where there is huge potential for even more growth. 

    Wales has the talent and expertise to develop high tech solutions to a range of challenges, and this investment will help kickstart innovation, create new well-paid jobs and grow the Welsh economy.

    Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said:

    This investment represents another vote of confidence in the Cardiff capital region and builds on our work supporting its growth, strong university research ecosystem, industry base and innovation clusters over a number of years.

    We will continue working closely with the South East Wales Corporate Joint Committee and the UK Government to build on the region’s strengths, attract significant private investment, strengthen regional partnerships and deliver real benefits for people across South East Wales and beyond.

    High potential innovation clusters in places that have not been earmarked for funding will also be able to bid into a competition, with UKRI publishing guidance on this competition soon.

    The Local Innovation Partnerships Fund represents a significant shift in place-based innovation policy, giving regions greater control over how research and development investment is directed to maximise their innovation potential and drive economic growth.

    It builds on the lessons learned from programmes already underway to support high potential innovation clusters in regions across the UK, including the Strength in Places Fund and the Innovation Accelerator pilot scheme and Innovate UK Launchpads.  

    The Innovation Accelerator pilot scheme alone has leveraged more than

    £140 million in new private investment, created hundreds of jobs across the West Midlands, Greater Manchester and Glasgow City Region, and supported a range of new technologies.

    It includes those developed by the Greater Manchester advanced diagnostic accelerator, delivering quicker and cheaper detection for liver, heart and lung diseases, whilst Moonbility from the West Midlands is using AI software helping train companies to simulate, in real time, potential disruption to the network so they can alert passengers on delay length, giving advice on replanning journeys.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to latest UKHSA data showing measles cases remain high

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) that shows measles cases remain high. 

    Dr Ben Kasstan-Dabush, Assistant Professor of Global Health & Development at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said:

    “It is no surprise that Hackney has seen the highest number of measles cases over the past four weeks. To prevent measles outbreaks, the WHO recommends that 95% of people are fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine. In 2023-2024, MMR coverage in Hackney was lowest by local authority in England and just 60.8% had received both MMR doses by the age of five, compared with 83.9% of children on average across England. Without this vital vaccine coverage, children have been left as sitting ducks for a measles outbreak.

    “Hackney’s population is unique and a ‘one-size fits all’ approach will not solve the problem. The borough’s population is diverse and younger, with almost one in three residents aged under 24. Hackney also has among the highest numbers of children living in low income families in London and around one in four children are Haredi (strictly Orthodox Jewish). In this context, every family will have their own challenges and pressures, so how can we expect under-funded, inflexible delivery strategies to offer equitable access?

    “Local clinics and teams are working incredibly hard to protect children and prevent another child death from measles in the UK. But it is extremely difficult to sustain positive results when funding to commission vaccination projects and new professionals roles are short-term and unpredictable.

    “Together with a local GP in Hackney, Dr Tehseen Khan, we have been researching ways to ensure vital vaccines are accessible to those who need them. This includes evaluating how primary care teams in the area offer parents more convenient appointments through Sunday walk-in clinics and allowing parents to bring several children to one appointment. However, primary care cannot solve these challenges alone. I would encourage any parent with questions or concerns, or anyone who’s unsure on their own vaccination status, to reach out to their local GP surgery, as it’s never too late to catch up on the MMR vaccine.

    “Political decisions are threatening the ability to make long-term improvements in vaccination coverage in Hackney and nationwide. Integrated Care Boards, the NHS organisations that plan and commission health services for their local populations, are expected to reduce operational costs by 50%. This will be disastrous for vaccine coverage recovery efforts, and raises fundamental questions about how the government’s 10 year ‘Fit for the Future’ plan can realistically be implemented.”

    https://ukhsa-newsroom.prgloo.com/news/latest-data-show-measles-cases-remain-high-with-london-and-parts-of-the-north-west-driving-increase

    Declared interests

    Dr Ben Kasstan-Dabush: Dr Ben Kasstan- Dabush is Assistant Professor of Global Health & Development at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. He is currently working on vaccine delivery research in Hackney, funded by the British Medical Association Foundation for Medical Research (2023 Kathleen Harper Award, in collaboration with Dr Tehseen Khan). This builds on previous work funded by the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Vaccines & Immunisation, a collaboration between LSHTM and UKHSA. Ben provides regular consultation to UKHSA.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA reminds public to stay tick aware this summer

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA reminds public to stay tick aware this summer

    The latest annual report on common animal-associated infections shows more than 1,500 cases of Lyme disease in 2024.

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding people of the steps they can take to protect themselves against tick bites this summer, as the latest annual data shows that there were 1,581 laboratory confirmed cases of Lyme disease reported in 2024.

    Case numbers fluctuate year on year and while cases have fallen by 5.2% in 2024 compared to 2023, the number of confirmed cases is likely an underestimate of the true burden of Lyme disease in England. It’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you start to develop symptoms of Lyme disease after a tick bite. Some people may not notice that they have been bitten as ticks are small and their bites rarely cause pain, which is why it’s important to check for ticks on all parts of the body soon after spending time outdoors this summer.

    Lyme disease is an infection that can be acquired when someone is bitten by an infected tick. Not all ticks are infected and not everyone who is bitten by an infected tick will develop Lyme disease. To pass on the infection, the tick needs to be attached for many hours. You are unlikely to develop Lyme disease if you just see a tick crawling on you which has not yet attached and fed.

    In those that do develop Lyme disease, a spreading ‘bullseye’ rash at the site of the tick bite is the most common symptom, which develops between 3 to 30 days after the bite. The rash does not occur in all cases and other symptoms include a fever, headache and fatigue, a facial droop, nerve pains and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.

    While cases were reported across all regions, most confirmed cases in 2024 were reported in people living in the South West, South East and London regions.

    Cases of Lyme disease peak in the spring and summer months as the risk of exposure increases, which is why it’s important to be aware of the steps you can take to prevent being bitten over the next few months.

    Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics so if you do notice these symptoms after a tick bite, it is important to contact your GP to ensure you receive prompt treatment if needed.

    Christina Petridou, Consultant Microbiologist at UKHSA, said:

    It’s really important that people continue to be tick aware this summer to protect themselves against Lyme disease.

    The disease is usually acquired when spending time outdoors in green spaces, which people do more of in the summer months. After spending time in nature, people should take precautions such as checking for ticks and promptly and safely removing them which will reduce chances of infection.

    While not all ticks carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease and not all bites will result in human infection, it’s still important to check for ticks when you return from outdoor activities. If you notice any symptoms like a spreading circular rash, flu-like symptoms, nerve pain or a droop on one or both sides of the face within a few weeks of being bitten by a tick, contact your GP or dial NHS 111.

    To reduce your risk of tick bites, while walking in green spaces, stick to clearly defined paths and try to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks might be present.

    Also consider wearing clothing that covers your skin to make it more difficult for ticks to access a suitable place to bite.

    Use insect repellent (for example DEET) and regularly check clothing or exposed skin so that you can spot any crawling ticks and brush them off. After spending time outside, it’s very important to check yourself, your clothing, your pets and others for ticks. Remove any attached tick as soon as you find it using a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers. Fine-tipped tweezers are different from regular tweezers that might be used to remove eyebrow hair. They are very narrow and pointed at the tip and ensure that ticks are not squashed during removal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The company tax regime is a roadblock to business investment. Here’s what needs to change

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alex Robson, Deputy Chair, Productivity Commission, and Adjunct Professor, Queensland University of Technology

    Erman Gunes/Shutterstock

    Productivity growth is a key driver of improvements in living standards. But in Australia over the last decade, output per hour worked grew by less than a quarter of its 60-year average.

    We urgently need to turn this around.

    That’s why the government has asked the Productivity Commission – where I am deputy chair – to conduct five inquiries and identify priority reforms.

    As a first step to boost productivity growth, we need business to expand and invest in the tools and technology that help us get the most out of our work.

    Unfortunately, some of our most important policy settings are holding us back.

    Business investment has slumped

    Capital expenditure by all non-mining firms is down 3.2 percentage points as a share of the economy since the end of the global financial crisis in 2009.

    And the ever-growing thicket of rules and regulations faced by business is a significant handbrake on growth.

    The Productivity Commission’s first interim report, Creating a more dynamic and resilient economy, focuses on two big policy levers: tax and regulation.

    Lower company tax rates are likely to attract more overseas firms to invest in Australia and help people start and grow businesses. They may strengthen the ability of smaller firms, which contribute the bulk of capital investment, to compete with larger ones.

    Our draft recommendations include:

    • Cutting the company tax rate to 20% from 25% or 30% for businesses with revenue under A$1 billion – the vast majority of companies

    • Introducing a new 5% net cash-flow tax on all firms. This supports companies’ capital expenditure by allowing them to immediately deduct the full value of their investments.

    The company tax rate would remain at 30% for firms earning over $1 billion. This would affect about 500 companies.

    In line with other developed nations

    The reduction in Australia’s headline company tax rate would move Australia from having one of the highest to one of the lowest rates for small and medium-sized firms among developed economies.

    And if the net cashflow tax is effective, it could be expanded over time and fund broader reductions in company income tax.

    Our modelling indicates these two changes would increase investment in the economy by $8 billion and boost Australia’s GDP by $14 billion, with no net cost to the budget over the medium term.

    An abundance of red tape

    The interim report also notes regulation can enhance productivity and protect against harms. But too much, or inappropriate, regulation can disproportionately inhibit economic dynamism and resilience.

    Australia’s regulatory burden has grown. Businesses report spending more and more on regulatory compliance.

    Regulators and policymakers have a broad mandate to further the public interest. But they can face incentives to be overly risk-averse and to downplay the burden that regulations place on businesses. They may pursue narrow goals at the expense of broader economy-wide goals.

    There are many practical examples that illustrate the problem.

    In the Australian Capital Territory, for example, the average time a house builder must wait for a planning decision is nearly six months. In New South Wales, it takes an average of nine years to get approval to build a wind farm.

    This kind of unnecessary and costly over-regulation ultimately benefits nobody.

    More scrutiny needed

    Simply put: Australia’s regulatory culture needs to change. And cultural change starts at the top.

    As a first step, the government needs to make a clear, whole-of-government public commitment to reducing regulatory burdens, and ensure new regulatory proposals face greater cabinet and parliamentary scrutiny.

    Regulators need to look for ways to promote economic growth, while continuing to ensure Australians are protected against avoidable harms.

    Ministers could issue statements of expectations to regulators and regulatory policymakers that clearly indicate how much risk they should tolerate in pursuit of business dynamism.

    To improve the evaluation of cumulative regulatory burdens, the Productivity Commission should be tasked with a regular and systematic stream of reviews. These would focus on sectors or regulatory systems where complex and enduring thickets of regulation have emerged.

    The draft recommendations on tax and regulation set out in the interim report are clear, actionable and ambitious reforms. They will support governments in delivering a meaningful and measurable boost to Australia’s lagging productivity.

    Alex Robson is deputy chair of the Productivity Commission.

    – ref. The company tax regime is a roadblock to business investment. Here’s what needs to change – https://theconversation.com/the-company-tax-regime-is-a-roadblock-to-business-investment-heres-what-needs-to-change-261652

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: England’s new free speech law comes into force – what it means for universities

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Eric Heinze, Professor of Law and Humanities, Queen Mary University of London

    Matej Kastelic/Shutterstock

    The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 comes into force throughout England on August 1 2025. Designed to stop universities from censoring controversial or unpopular ideas, the law gives the Office for Students responsibility for ensuring institutions comply.

    This law will mean that many universities will have to change the way they approach free speech.

    When it comes to adopting campus speech policies, educational establishments have always had three choices.

    One option has been to follow the law, permitting whichever messages the law already allows, while banning whichever messages the law already forbids. UK law prohibits, for example, certain core expressions of racism, anti-LGBTQ+ hatred, Islamophobia, antisemitism, or glorification of terrorism. I’ll call this the “legalist” option.

    Another approach is to allow more speech than the law allows. This would, for example, permit guest lecturers to advocate white supremacy or the belief that only heterosexual relationships and behaviour are normal. I’ll call this the “libertarian” option. It treats free speech as sacrosanct.

    But this option would never be adopted. Few institutions would welcome the torrent of parental complaints, media publicity, donor withdrawals, police investigations, or full-blown litigation that would follow.

    A third option is to permit less speech than the law allows. This would mean, for example, banning sexist speech, which is otherwise still permitted under UK law. We can call this the “communitarian” option. It views educational institutions as more than just places for exchanging ideas: they must also promote civic values, aiming to build an empathic society.

    Changing approaches

    In the past, British universities could choose option three, cancelling or avoiding events featuring messages that, although legal, risk stoking campus divisions.

    Some institutions have stopped controversial speakers through decisions by senior leadership. For example, in 2013 UCL’s senior administrators banned a group that advocated sex segregation. Other times, efforts to cancel events have been made by students or staff. In 2015, the University of York cancelled events for International Men’s Day after complaints from students and staff.

    The effect of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act will be to shift universities from the communitarian to the legalist model. Campus members wishing to stage events will still have to comply with routine guidelines on reserving campus venues, ticketing participants, ensuring security controls, and the like. However, under the act, universities may no longer impede the communication of otherwise legal messages solely on the grounds of their provocative content.

    For advocates of free speech, this act may still not go far enough since it keeps an escape hatch. Management can still cancel controversial events if the institution lacks the means to ensure adequate security, and such claims are often difficult to verify.

    Yet for others, the act will go too far. Some would argue that existing law in Britain does not adequately protect vulnerable groups, and that universities should stick to the communitarian ideal, creating a refuge that the law often fails to provide.

    These anxieties become ever greater in our internet era, when misinformation can proliferate. Some may fear that abandoning the communitarian ethos will turn the campus into a wild west of free speech, disproportionately affecting its most vulnerable members.

    The act aims to preserve free speech on university campuses.
    Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock

    However, online communications have also proved to be powerful mobilising tools for staff and students, so online power hierarchies may work in more complex ways than meets the eye.

    Note also that nothing in the act abolishes student welfare services. Individually targeted acts of bullying, threats, stalking and harassment will remain under the aegis of campus oversight as well as UK law. Staff or students exhibiting racist, sexist, homophobic, or transphobic conduct will remain as subject as they were before to disciplinary proceedings and even dismissal or expulsion.

    Finally, it is worth bearing in mind that the act’s most salient ingredients are procedural, placing considerable burdens on institutions to facilitate free speech and deal transparently with accusations of censorship. Yet whether this will lead to an explosion of complaints, and whether ideas exchanged on campus will really differ so much from those we already hear today, remains to be seen.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Eric Heinze has received funding for submitting a report to the UK Commission for Countering Extremism.

    – ref. England’s new free speech law comes into force – what it means for universities – https://theconversation.com/englands-new-free-speech-law-comes-into-force-what-it-means-for-universities-262080

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: English universities now have a duty to uphold freedom of speech – here’s how it might affect students’ sense of belonging

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Richard Bale, Director of Academic Development and Research, Associate Professor, The University of Law

    Cast Of Thousands/Shutterstock

    The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, which comes into force on August 1 2025, means universities in England now have a new duty to uphold “robust” strategies to ensure freedom of speech on campus.

    To support universities in navigating the boundaries of lawful and unlawful speech, universities regulator the Office for Students appointed its first director for freedom of speech and academic freedom in 2023. Arif Ahmed, who is also a professor of philosophy at the University of Cambridge, has reportedly said that coming across views students might find offensive is part of a university education.

    It’s possible, though, that feeling offended comes up against the important concept of “belonging” at university. In the context of higher education, belonging is often defined as feeling at home, included and valued. It is linked to more students staying in their courses, having enhanced wellbeing, and being able to learn well at university.

    But feeling offended and feeling you belong at university don’t have to be contradictory. Some of our research has found that belonging can also mean being able to challenge the dominant culture at a university, which may exclude students who don’t fit a particular mould.

    Being able to challenge opinions is important.
    Matej Kastelic/Shutterstock

    Some students explained that they proactively resist the prevalent image of the “typical” student. For example, in highly selective universities, students are often extremely competitive and industrious with a tendency to overwork. But this culture may not align with the work-life balance prioritised by some students.

    This form of “positive not-belonging” often takes the form of friendship groups and communities that cultivate an alternative kind of belonging. These groups may well enable greater freedom of self-expression, without fear of being judged or feeling pressured to conform to pre-existing academic cultures.

    While some students are able to carve out these collective and alternative communities for belonging, many others feel their presence and sense of belonging is conditional – especially minority ethnic students. Clearer advocacy for free speech might help these students feel more comfortable speaking up and building a stronger sense of belonging.

    We must not forget that the idea of belonging carries power dynamics, and often has implications for what is perceived as up for debate – and what is not.

    Existing free speech

    What’s more, the views of students suggest that free speech is already part of their experience at university. In 2023, the Office for Students added a question about freedom of expression to the annual National Student Survey, which gathers final-year undergraduates’ opinions on their higher education experience. The question, added for students at English universities only, asked how “free” students felt to express their ideas, opinions and beliefs.

    The results showed that 86% did feel they had this freedom. This has remained stable in the latest survey, with a slight increase to just over 88% in the 2025 results.

    The Office for Students also commissioned YouGov to poll research and teaching staff at English universities about their perceptions of free speech in higher education in 2024.

    Some positive results mirrored the student data. For example, 89% of academics reported that they are confident they understand what free speech means in higher education. But the polling also found that 21% did not feel free to discuss controversial topics in their teaching.

    This lack of perceived freedom of expression does not only have a negative impact on staff. It is widely understood that a key purpose of higher education is to nurture students’ independent thinking and self-awareness. A key step toward this goal is not to be afraid of engaging in difficult conversations, including asking questions.

    However, this does not happen automatically. Universities need to provide clear scaffolding, guidance and practical steps to protect freedom of speech. It is also important to normalise and promote conversations about topics such as cultural differences and intercultural competence, which refers to the ability to interact with people from different cultural backgrounds effectively and appropriately.

    If addressed, these discussions can help to foster inclusion, and promote diversity of thought and expression.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. English universities now have a duty to uphold freedom of speech – here’s how it might affect students’ sense of belonging – https://theconversation.com/english-universities-now-have-a-duty-to-uphold-freedom-of-speech-heres-how-it-might-affect-students-sense-of-belonging-260867

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Natural England launches dive survey to monitor kelp forests

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Natural England launches dive survey to monitor kelp forests

    The survey will take place in the waters of the Fal and Helford rivers next week to track changes and inform conservation action.

    Marine senior officer Angela Gall of Natural England surveying kelp. Photo: Ian Saunders, Natural England

    Natural England is returning to the waters of the Fal and Helford rivers next week to carry out a new dive survey of the region’s kelp forests to check on their health and the area they cover.

    Last carried out in 2012, this survey will assess kelp forest communities, which play a vital role in supporting marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems

    Kelp forests are a key feature of this protected marine area, cloaking the shallow reefs that fringe the bay and estuaries. They provide shelter, food and nursery grounds for a wide range of marine species including fish, crustaceans and molluscs. As one of the ocean’s most productive habitats, kelp also helps to store carbon, improves water quality and supports coastal resilience.

    Underwater forests

    Corkwing wrasse in a kelp forest. Photo: Angela Gall, Natural England

    The Fal and Helford Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is one of England’s designated Marine Protected Areas, chosen for its rich marine life and unique underwater habitats. Regular monitoring of kelp forests is essential to track changes, inform conservation action and help safeguard the long-term health of these ecosystems which may be threatened by poor water quality, displacement by invasive non-native species, damage through human activities and climate change.

    Lucy May, Natural England’s deputy dive officer, said:

    As part of our national marine monitoring programme, Natural England’s dive team will survey underwater sites to collect data on kelp cover, species diversity and overall habitat condition.

    This evidence will be used to assess the condition of this habitat within the site and guide management of the SAC.

    Other ways you can kelp

    Kelp forests are a key feature of the region’s protected marine area. Photo: Angela Gall, Natural England

    To support public engagement around kelp forests, Natural England has developed a range of outreach resources including a children’s book and a virtual reality experience that brings the hidden world of kelp forests to life.

    Captivating Kelp Forests, by Emma Rosen is a beautifully illustrated story highlighting the role of these ecosystems.

    The virtual reality experience, created by Natural England’s Jasmine Rix, lets you experience immersion within the habitat whilst staying completely dry.

    The book and VR experience are designed to help young people and communities explore the value of healthy seas and learn more about the marine life on their doorstep and have already been used in schools in Cornwall.

    Angela Gall, marine senior officer at Natural England, said:

    Kelp forests are one of our most valuable marine habitats, yet they are often overlooked. Beautiful, three-dimensional and bursting with colourful life, they provide food and shelter for so many of our most loved marine species like seals and brown crabs.

    As a diver, it is a pleasure to explore these underwater forests, to have an opportunity to check in on how these key ecosystems are doing and ensure we are doing all we can to protect them.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Natural England launches dive survey to monitor kelp forests

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Natural England launches dive survey to monitor kelp forests

    The survey will take place in the waters of the Fal and Helford rivers next week to track changes and inform conservation action.

    Marine senior officer Angela Gall of Natural England surveying kelp. Photo: Ian Saunders, Natural England

    Natural England is returning to the waters of the Fal and Helford rivers next week to carry out a new dive survey of the region’s kelp forests to check on their health and the area they cover.

    Last carried out in 2012, this survey will assess kelp forest communities, which play a vital role in supporting marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems

    Kelp forests are a key feature of this protected marine area, cloaking the shallow reefs that fringe the bay and estuaries. They provide shelter, food and nursery grounds for a wide range of marine species including fish, crustaceans and molluscs. As one of the ocean’s most productive habitats, kelp also helps to store carbon, improves water quality and supports coastal resilience.

    Underwater forests

    Corkwing wrasse in a kelp forest. Photo: Angela Gall, Natural England

    The Fal and Helford Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is one of England’s designated Marine Protected Areas, chosen for its rich marine life and unique underwater habitats. Regular monitoring of kelp forests is essential to track changes, inform conservation action and help safeguard the long-term health of these ecosystems which may be threatened by poor water quality, displacement by invasive non-native species, damage through human activities and climate change.

    Lucy May, Natural England’s deputy dive officer, said:

    As part of our national marine monitoring programme, Natural England’s dive team will survey underwater sites to collect data on kelp cover, species diversity and overall habitat condition.

    This evidence will be used to assess the condition of this habitat within the site and guide management of the SAC.

    Other ways you can kelp

    Kelp forests are a key feature of the region’s protected marine area. Photo: Angela Gall, Natural England

    To support public engagement around kelp forests, Natural England has developed a range of outreach resources including a children’s book and a virtual reality experience that brings the hidden world of kelp forests to life.

    Captivating Kelp Forests, by Emma Rosen is a beautifully illustrated story highlighting the role of these ecosystems.

    The virtual reality experience, created by Natural England’s Jasmine Rix, lets you experience immersion within the habitat whilst staying completely dry.

    The book and VR experience are designed to help young people and communities explore the value of healthy seas and learn more about the marine life on their doorstep and have already been used in schools in Cornwall.

    Angela Gall, marine senior officer at Natural England, said:

    Kelp forests are one of our most valuable marine habitats, yet they are often overlooked. Beautiful, three-dimensional and bursting with colourful life, they provide food and shelter for so many of our most loved marine species like seals and brown crabs.

    As a diver, it is a pleasure to explore these underwater forests, to have an opportunity to check in on how these key ecosystems are doing and ensure we are doing all we can to protect them.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu Attends the Opening Ceremony of O-Bank’s Sydney Representative Office

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    irector General David Cheng-Wei Wu was honoured to attend the opening ceremony of O-Bank’s Sydney Representative Office, alongside distinguished guests including the Hon. Anthony Roberts MP, the Hon. Rod Roberts MLC, Dr. Hugh McDermott MP, President of the Australia-Taiwan Business Council John Toigo, President of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in Australia Peter Huang, as well as leaders from the Taiwanese banking, business, and community sectors.
    O-Bank President Elton Lee envisions the Sydney Representative Office as a pivotal hub in the bank’s roadmap for global expansion. The bank aims not only to upgrade the office to a full branch but also to establish additional locations across Australia. By collaborating with fellow Taiwanese financial institutions in Australia, O-Bank seeks to deepen financial, trade, and cultural ties between Taiwan and Australia.
    Director General Wu began his remarks by thanking the three members of the New South Wales Parliament for their presence, which demonstrated bipartisan support for the Taiwanese community, the Representative Office, and O-Bank. He noted that, as Taiwan’s first native digital bank, O-Bank’s presence marks the ninth Taiwanese bank in Sydney and the twelfth in Australia — a clear indication of growing financial ties between Taiwan and New South Wales. He further emphasized Taiwan’s active pursuit of membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), with the support of Australia. Taiwan’s inclusion would strengthen supply chain integration among like-minded democracies and generate concrete economic benefits at both bilateral and multilateral levels. In short, the CPTPP will be stronger with Taiwan on board.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigating serious motorbike crash at Herdsmans Cove

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigating serious motorbike crash at Herdsmans Cove

    Thursday, 31 July 2025 – 11:32 am.

    Police are investigating a motorbike crash in Herdsmans Cove last night where two people sustained serious injuries. 
    About 11pm, two trail bikes were travelling in opposite directions on a walkway near Zena Drive. The area is poorly lit, the bikes did not have headlights, and one of the riders was not wearing a helmet.  
    The bikes collided, and both riders, a 19-year-old woman and an 18-year-old man, were transported to hospital in serious but stable conditions.  
    “Police remind all road users, particular motorcyclists, to prioritise their safety,” said Inspector Luke Horne. 
    “Please – if you’re a rider – protect your safety and the safety of others every time you ride.”  
    Anyone with information in relation to the crash is asked to contact Bridgewater Police on 131 444.  
    Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Free webinar to help local hospitality and retail businesses beat the power bills

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is holding a free webinar to provide local hospitality and retail businesses with energy saving advice.

    The Smart Energy Solutions for Hospitality and Retail Businesses webinar will take place from 4 to 5pm on Wednesday August 6 as part of the City’s Beat the Power Bills program.

    City of Greater Bendigo Climate Change and Environment Acting Manager Ian McBurney said the session is tailored specifically for small to medium operators in cafes, restaurants, bars, shops, and service-based retail.

    “It will provide practical advice on understanding energy bills, identifying costly inefficiencies in day-to-day operations, and assessing the value of upgrades like solar, batteries, or switching off gas,” Mr McBurney said.

    “The webinar will be presented by the City’s Zero Emissions Business Officer Tim Drylie and will cut through the jargon and provide hospitality and retail owners with the facts they need to make informed, cost-saving decisions.”

    The webinar is free to attend. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 31, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 31, 2025.

    5 reasons why wind farms are costing more in Australia – and what to do about it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Magnus Söderberg, Professor and Director, Centre for Applied Energy Economics and Policy Research, Griffith University Saeed Khan/Getty Building a solar farm in Australia is getting about 8% cheaper each year as panel prices fall and technology improves, according to an official new report. Battery storage costs are

    Sporty spice: how romance fiction is adding a new dynamic to sports fandom
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kasey Symons, Lecturer of Communication, Sports Media, Deakin University Sports fans might love their teams, cheer or curse each game’s result and admire their favourite athletes, but we rarely associate sports with romance. However, that may be slowly changing thanks to the recent spike in the popularity

    Just as NZ began collecting meaningful data on rainbow communities, census changes threaten their visibility
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lori Leigh, Research Fellow in Public Health, University of Otago Getty Images New Zealand’s 2023 census was the first to collect data on gender identity and sexual orientation, showing one in 20 adults identify as LGBTQIA+. But just as reports from this more inclusive census are being

    Big tech says AI could boost Australia’s economy by $115 billion a year. Does the evidence stack up?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Uri Gal, Professor in Business Information Systems, University of Sydney Imaginima / Getty Images AI is on the agenda in Canberra. In August, the Productivity Commission will release an interim report on harnessing data and digital technology such as AI “to boost productivity growth, accelerate innovation and

    Progress on Closing the Gap is stagnant or going backwards. Here are 3 things to help fix it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Madeleine Pugin, Research Fellow, School of Government and International Relations, Griffith University The Productivity Commission’s latest data on Closing the Gap progress represents an unsurprisingly grim overview of the socioeconomic inequalities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Closing the Gap is the plan federal and

    More than 2 in 5 young Australians are lonely, our new report shows. This is what could help
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle H. Lim, Associate Professor, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney Oliver Rossi/Getty Images Loneliness is not a word often associated with young people. We tend to think of our youth as a time spent with family, friends and being engaged with school and work

    How migrant business owners turn their identity into an asset, despite some bumps along the way
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shea X. Fan, Associate Professor, Human Resource Management, Deakin University Odua Images/Shutterstock Too often, it’s anti-immigration sentiment dominating headlines in Australia. But a quieter story is going untold. Migrants are not just fitting into Australian society, they’re actively reshaping it through entrepreneurship. Starting a business is difficult

    The Man from Hong Kong at 50: how the first ever Australian–Hong Kong co-production became a cult classic
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Ferris, Senior Lecturer, Media Arts & Production, University of Technology Sydney LMPC via Getty Images A cinematic firecracker of a film exploded onto international screens 50 years ago this week, blending martial arts mayhem, Bond-esque set pieces, casual racism – and a distinctly Australian swagger. From

    Rules for calculating climate risk in financial reporting by NZ businesses need revisiting – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Martien Lubberink, Associate Professor of Accounting and Capital, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Andrew MacDonald/Getty Images The recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision on climate action marked a significant step forward in formalising an idea many already accept: climate inaction is not merely

    Climate justice victory at the ICJ – the student journey from USP lectures to The Hague
    By Vahefonua Tupola in Suva The University of the South Pacific (USP) is at the heart of a global legal victory with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivering a historic opinion last week affirming that states have binding legal obligations to protect the environment from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. The case, hailed as a

    Climate justice victory at the ICJ – the student journey from USP lectures to The Hague
    By Vahefonua Tupola in Suva The University of the South Pacific (USP) is at the heart of a global legal victory with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivering a historic opinion last week affirming that states have binding legal obligations to protect the environment from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. The case, hailed as a

    Kamchatka earthquake is among top 10 strongest ever recorded. Here’s what they have in common
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dee Ninis, Earthquake Scientist, Monash University Today at about 11:30am local time, a magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula in the country’s far east. Originating at a depth of roughly 20 kilometres, today’s powerful earthquake – among the ten strongest in recorded

    Kamchatka earthquake is among top 10 strongest ever recorded. Here’s what they have in common
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dee Ninis, Earthquake Scientist, Monash University Today at about 11:30am local time, a magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula in the country’s far east. Originating at a depth of roughly 20 kilometres, today’s powerful earthquake – among the ten strongest in recorded

    Tsunami warnings are triggering mass evacuations across the Pacific – even though the waves look small. Here’s why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor and Principal Fellow in Urban Risk and Resilience, The University of Melbourne Last night, one of the ten largest earthquakes ever recorded struck Kamchatka, the sparsely populated Russian peninsula facing the Pacific. The magnitude 8.8 quake had its epicentre in the sea just

    NAPLAN is just one test. Here’s what to do if your child’s results were in the bottom bands
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sally Larsen, Senior Lecturer in Education, University of New England Rawpixel/ Getty Images The latest round of NAPLAN results are out, along with a string of news reports about “students falling behind” and “failing”, and experts sounding the “alarm” about school progress. In March, all Australian students

    Inflation slows again — but is it enough for the Reserve Bank to cut interest rates?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stella Huangfu, Associate Professor, School of Economics, University of Sydney Doublelee/Shutterstock Inflation is moving in the right direction, but new figures released today may not be soft enough to trigger a cut in official interest rates in August. The Australian Bureau of Statistics released the June quarter

    With the UK and France moving toward recognising Palestine, will Australia now follow suit?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University One of the smallest and most exclusive clubs in the world belongs to states. The US Department of State puts the number of independent recognised states at 197, while others count 200. The United Nations, meanwhile, has 193

    With the UK and France moving toward recognising Palestine, will Australia follow suit?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University One of the smallest and most exclusive clubs in the world belongs to states. The US Department of State puts the number of independent recognised states at 197, while others count 200. The United Nations, meanwhile, has 193

    An underwater observatory keeping the pulse of the Southern Ocean for nearly 30 years yields fresh results
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Traill, PhD Candidate Southern Ocean biogeochemistry, University of Tasmania Elizabeth Shadwick In a world affected by climate change, the Southern Ocean plays an outsized role. It absorbs up to 40% of the human-caused emissions taken up by the oceans while also being home to some of

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Human remains located in Port Lincoln

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke, the Officer in Charge of Major Crime provided an update to the media in relation to human remains being located in scrubland near Port Lincoln, believed to be that of Julian Storey.

    Remains located north of Slipway Road and east of Hindmarsh Street where the white box with three stripes is located on the map

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Gradual v sudden collapse: what magnets teach us about climate tipping points

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By John Dearing, Emeritus Professor of Physical Geography, University of Southampton

    Andrey VP / shutterstock

    Some of Earth’s largest climate systems may collapse not with a bang, but with a whimper. Surprisingly, experiments with magnets are helping us understand how.

    We now widely accept that greenhouse gases and the way we use natural resources are putting enormous stress on the world’s climate and ecosystems. It’s also well known that even small increases in stress can push Earth systems, like rainforests, ice sheets or ocean currents, past tipping points, leading to major and often irreversible changes.

    But there’s a lot we still don’t know about tipping points. When might they happen? What will they look like? And what should we do about them?

    Some local tipping points have already been reached. For example, many lakes have abruptly shifted in the past few decades from clear water to slimy, algae-choked pools, usually in response to fertilisers running off nearby farmland.

    Smaller systems, like this pond, can very suddenly shift from one state to another.
    Janet J / shutterstock

    For larger systems, like the entire Amazon forest or the West Antarctic ice sheet, the longer timescales involved mean direct observation – and certainly experiments – are impossible.

    But we can look for clues elsewhere. In fact, we can now learn about tipping points from something much smaller and far more controllable: magnets.

    Magnets have tipping points too

    In our recent research, we used magnetic materials to mimic the behaviour of an ecosystem stressed by global warming. Just like Earth’s climate systems, magnets can tip from one stable state to another – flipping from positive to negative – when pushed hard enough.

    We found that magnets don’t all flip the same way. Some shift abruptly – a characteristic of many hard materials. Others shift smoothly and more easily – as commonly found with soft magnets.

    Whether a magnet collapses abruptly or smoothly is determined by its structure. As a general rule, hard materials are simple structures that absorb stress up to a point and then suddenly flip – much like a small, well-mixed lake that stays clear until one day, when enough fertiliser has leaked in, it turns green and slimy almost overnight.

    Soft magnets, on the other hand, are more complex inside. Different parts respond to stress at different rates. This is similar to a large forest, where some species can handle rising temperatures but others are less resilient.

    The result is a reorganisation. Some species die out, others take over, and the whole system gradually transitions into a different type of forest – or even into a new ecosystem like a grassland.

    Some Earth systems are more prone to abrupt collapse.
    Steve Allen / shutterstock

    The same principles may apply beyond biology. Ocean currents and ice sheets with their many varied and moving parts might also behave like soft magnets, reorganising gradually rather than collapsing in one sudden movement.

    Softer systems are easier to flip back

    Our experiments with magnets uncovered something else with implications for Earth’s climate systems and their tipping points.

    The softer a system is, the easier it is to reverse the change – but only if you act before the stress builds up. If the pressure has built up too much, even soft systems start behaving like hard ones, flipping suddenly and dramatically.

    We also found that what may look like a soft and complex system – a whole rainforest or ice sheet, for instance – can be made up of lots of smaller hard elements. Each of these elements has its own sensitivity to a specific level of stress. Zoom in far enough, and you’ll see many more abrupt tipping points at the level of a single lake or patch of trees.

    This matters because the speed of change is just as important as the amount. In magnets, the faster we applied stress, the more likely they were to tip suddenly. Climate systems seem to behave the same way: the faster we heat the world, the greater the risk of sudden collapse.

    If we see these big complex systems slowly shifting and think there’s still time to act – we may be wrong. Like the proverbial frogs in boiling water, we may not notice we have passed the point of no return until it is too late.

    This is why we must watch closely, especially at the local level, for any warning signs. A patch of wetland drying out or a small tract of forest dying back. These might seem like small changes, but they may signal a much larger decline is already underway.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    John Dearing is a member of the Green Party of England and Wales.

    Roy Thompson and Simon Willcock do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Gradual v sudden collapse: what magnets teach us about climate tipping points – https://theconversation.com/gradual-v-sudden-collapse-what-magnets-teach-us-about-climate-tipping-points-258606

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: How the UK’s cold weather payments need to change to help prevent people freezing in winter

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Thomas Longden, Senior Researcher, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University

    DimaBerlin/Shutterstock

    The UK government recently expanded the warm home discount by removing restrictions that had previously excluded many people who can’t always afford to heat their homes. Now, the payment of £150 will be received by 2.7 million more households than last winter.

    The UK government has also reversed its decision to limit winter fuel payments to only the poorest pensioners. This could benefit up to 9 million people.

    The UK government has two other mechanisms for reducing heating costs over winter. The warm home discount and winter fuel payment are both one-off payments that help people pay their heating bills. The cold weather payment aims to support people during spells of very cold weather.

    Recipients of specific means-tested benefits in England, Wales and Northern Ireland automatically receive £25 after cold weather occurs in their region. Another policy applies in Scotland, where some people get a single winter heating payment.

    While these changes to the winter fuel payment and warm home discount are welcome, the cold weather payment has long been seen as an outdated, old-fashioned scheme in need of change. For example, it is paid after cold weather happens. Our research indicates that it can be improved by changing this.

    The wide use of smart meters means that researchers like us can now produce data-driven studies that improve our understanding of energy use and expenditure during cold weather. Our recent studies of prepayment meter customers’ energy use indicate ways to improve the cold weather payments.

    Analysis of electricity and gas smart-meter data from 11,500 Utilita Energy prepayment customers showed that 63% of households self-disconnected from energy supply at least once a year. In this study, published in Energy Research & Social Science, we found that more homes self-disconnected from gas during cold periods than at other times. There was no evidence to show that the cold weather payment as presently designed reduced this risk.

    Also using smart meter data from energy company Utilita Energy, a recent study published in the journal Energy Economics shows that prepayment gas customers in regions with high fuel poverty tend to struggle at temperatures below −4°C. Below this temperature, prepayment gas customers need to top up more often and with higher amounts. People using prepayment tend to top-up their credit in advance of cold weather.

    Cold weather payments could be sent directly to customers with smart meters.
    Daisy Daisy/Shutterstock

    In colder weather, more people use emergency credit and disconnect from power more often. Emergency credit is provided by the utility as a short-term loan. Self-disconnections occur when the household has no credit left and they have no energy supply.

    The government’s payment is triggered when the average temperature falls below 0°C for seven consecutive days. As this metric is not reported by news media or meteorology services, it’s hard to know when the cold weather payment will be received. The easiest way to find out if a payment will be made, after cold weather, requires people to enter their postcode at a Department for Work and Pensions website.

    If people are unsure if severe weather is forecast, they may not increase their top-up in advance. They may, however, self-ration or limit energy use to save money.

    The cold weather payment is only paid once even when there are multiple periods of cold. This “overlap penalty” severely affects those living in northern England and particularly Yorkshire, which is a colder region where cold weather spells are more common.

    Cause for reform

    The payment should be made in advance of cold weather, and utility companies could pay it directly to customers who have smart meters. Credits could be applied for those using other types of meters. This is likely to reduce self-disconnections and self-rationing during very cold nights.

    Payments should be triggered by the minimum night-time temperature. The temperature measure used at present is confusing and the money is not paid until up to two weeks after extremely cold weather, which is problematic for those on tight budgets.

    To better match the support needed during cold weather, the amount paid should be increased to £10 a day for every day that minimum temperatures are forecast to be below −4°C. This would improve energy security for people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

    A policy will only be effective when it is clearly communicated and understood by those it applies to. To prevent self-rationing, people need to know that payment support has arrived, otherwise they may hesitate to turn up the heating on the coldest days of winter, with all the risks that involves.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Thomas Longden has recently received funding from Energy Consumers Australia and Original Power – a community-focused, Aboriginal organisation. He is a member of the ACT Climate Change Council and the NSW branch of the Economic Society of Australia.

    Brenda Boardman is affiliated in the UK with the End Fuel Poverty Coalition and the Labour Party. Her research on pre-payment meter households was co-funded by Utilita Giving.

    Tina Fawcett currently receives funding from UKRI. Her research on pre-payment meter households was co-funded by Utilita Giving.

    – ref. How the UK’s cold weather payments need to change to help prevent people freezing in winter – https://theconversation.com/how-the-uks-cold-weather-payments-need-to-change-to-help-prevent-people-freezing-in-winter-259339

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • Bumrah not ruled out of fifth test, says India captain Shubman Gill

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India captain Shubman Gill has refused to rule pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah out of contention for the fifth test against England starting at the Oval on Thursday.

    Bumrah, who is the joint-leading wicket taker in the series with 14, was expected to miss the decisive clash as India’s medical staff want to manage his workload.

    But Gill said any decision would be left late.

    “We will take a decision (on Bumrah) tomorrow; the wicket looks very green. So we will see how it turns out,” Gill told a press conference at the Oval on Wednesday.

    Bumrah was scheduled to play only three of the five tests and has already featured in the opener at Headingley and the back-to-back tests at Lord’s and Old Trafford.

    India need to win the final test to level the series 2-2.

    “2-2 will be very significant for this team,” Gill said. “Every match we have played, it was difficult to decide the winner after the first four days.”

    Should Bumrah miss out, India would likely select Akash Deep or even hand a debut to Arshdeep Singh.

    “He has been asked to get ready but we will take a call on the playing eleven after looking at the pitch by this evening,” Gill said. “England haven’t gone with a frontline spinner.

    “We have Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, who have done such a good job with the ball and the bat. On that front, it’s a no-brainer for us.”

    India are without wicket keeper Rishabh Pant, ruled out by a foot injury in the fourth test which ended in a draw on Sunday. Dhruv Jurel is set to stand in.

    The build-up to the series finale has been overshadowed by a spat on Tuesday between India head coach Gautam Gambhir and the ground staff at the Oval after Gambhir tried to take a close look at the square.

    Gill said the incident was “absolutely unnecessary”.

    “It’s not the first time that we were having a look at the wicket, we have been there for almost two months,” he said.

    “A coach has every right to be able to go close quarters and have a look at the wicket and I didn’t think there was anything wrong with that. I actually don’t know why the curator would not allow us to go have a look at the wicket.

    “All of us have played so much cricket, we have gone to the pitches so many times, including the coaches and captain, I don’t know what the fuss was about.”

    (Reuters)

     

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Adjusting Imports of Copper into the United States

    Source: US Whitehouse

    class=”has-text-align-center”> BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
     
    A PROCLAMATION

    1.  On June 30, 2025, the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) transmitted to me a report on his investigation into the effects of imports of copper in all forms (copper), including copper ores, copper concentrates, refined copper, copper alloys, scrap copper, and derivative products, on the national security of the United States under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended, 19 U.S.C. 1862 (section 232).  Based on the facts considered in that investigation, the Secretary found and advised me of his opinion that copper is being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States.

    2.  The Secretary found that the present quantities of copper imports and the circumstances of global excess capacity for producing copper are weakening our economy, resulting in the persistent threat of further closures of domestic copper production facilities and the shrinking of our ability to meet national security production requirements.  Because of these risks, and taking into account the close relation of the economic welfare of the Nation to our national security and other relevant factors, see 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), the Secretary found that the present quantities and circumstances of copper imports threaten to impair the national security as provided in section 232.

    3.  In reaching this conclusion, the Secretary found that copper is essential to the manufacturing foundation on which United States national and economic security depend.  Copper is the second most widely used material by the Department of Defense and is a necessary input in a range of defense systems, including aircraft, ground vehicles, ships, submarines, missiles, and ammunition.  Copper also plays a central role in the broader United States industrial base.  The metal’s exceptional electrical conductivity and durability also make it indispensable to critical infrastructure sectors that support the American economy, national security, and public health.  Alternatives to copper are insufficient substitutes for these vital industries and products in many circumstances.

    4.  The Secretary found that the United States was a world leader across the value chain of copper production (mining, refining, semi-finished goods, and finished goods containing copper) for most of the 20th century.  But despite copper being a crucial material in manufacturing and for the national and economic security of the United States, United States copper production has plummeted.  Today, a single foreign country dominates global copper smelting and refining, controlling over 50 percent of global smelting capacity and holding four of the top five largest refining facilities.

    5.  The Secretary found that unfair trade practices abroad, exacerbated by overly burdensome environmental regulations at home, have hollowed out United States copper refining and smelting, caused the United States to be overly reliant on foreign copper imports, and prevent a path forward without strong corrective action.  Foreign competitors leverage state subsidies and overproduction to flood international markets with artificially low-priced copper products, driving United States producers out of business.  The United States is now dangerously dependent on foreign imports of semi-finished copper, intensive copper derivative products, and copper-containing products, and imbalances in the global markets make domestic investment increasingly unviable.

    6.  The Secretary found that United States dependency on foreign sources of copper is a national security vulnerability that could be exploited by foreign countries, weakens United States industrial resilience, exposes the American people to supply chain disruptions, economic instability, and strategic vulnerabilities, and jeopardizes the United States defense industrial base. 

    7.  In light of these findings, the Secretary recommended a range of actions to adjust the imports of copper so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security.  For example, the Secretary recommended an immediate universal 30 percent import duty on semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products.  The Secretary also recommended a phased universal tariff on refined copper of 15 percent starting in 2027 and 30 percent starting in 2028.  The Secretary further recommended a domestic sales requirement for copper input materials starting at 25 percent in 2027, a domestic sales requirement of 25 percent for high-quality copper scrap, and export controls for high-quality copper scrap. 

    8.  After considering the Secretary’s report, the factors in section 232(d), 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), and other relevant factors, among other things, I concur with the Secretary’s finding that copper is being imported into the United States in quantities and under circumstances that threaten to impair the national security of the United States.  In my judgment, and in light of the Secretary’s report, the factors in section 232(d), 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), and other relevant factors, among other things, I also determine that it is necessary and appropriate to impose tariffs, as described below, to adjust imports of copper and its derivatives so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security of the United States.

    9.  To ensure that the tariffs on copper in this proclamation are not circumvented and that the purpose of this action to address the threat to impair the national security of the United States posed by imports of copper is not undermined, I also deem it necessary and appropriate to set up a process to identify and impose tariffs on certain derivatives of copper, as further described below.

    10.  In my judgment, the action in this proclamation will, among other things, help increase domestic production of semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products, thereby reducing our Nation’s reliance on foreign sources.  It will ensure that domestic fabricators are able to supply sufficient quantities of copper products essential for infrastructure, defense systems, and advanced manufacturing.  This action will also promote investment, employment, and innovation in the domestic copper fabrication sector, strengthen supply chains, enhance industrial resilience, and generate meaningful economic benefits.  This action will adjust the imports of semi-finished copper products, intensive copper derivative products, and certain other copper derivatives and is necessary and appropriate to address the threat to impair the national security of the United States posed by imports of such articles.

    11.  Section 232 authorizes the President to adjust the imports of an article and its derivatives that are being imported into the United States in such quantities or under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security. 

    12.  Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended, 19 U.S.C. 2483, authorizes the President to embody in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) the substance of statutes affecting import treatment, and actions thereunder, including the removal, modification, continuance, or imposition of any rate of duty or other import restriction.

    13.  Consistent with the General Terms for the United States of America and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Economic Prosperity Deal (May 8, 2025), the United States intends to coordinate with the United Kingdom to adopt a structured, negotiated approach to addressing the national security threat in the copper sector.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 232; the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.); section 101 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 (DPA), as amended, 50 U.S.C. 4511; section 301 of title 3, United States Code; and section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended, 19 U.S.C. 2483, do hereby proclaim as follows:
    (1)  Except as otherwise provided in this proclamation, all imports of semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products, as set forth in the Annex to this proclamation, shall be subject to a 50 percent tariff.  This tariff shall be effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on August 1, 2025, and shall continue in effect, unless such action is expressly reduced, modified, or terminated.  This tariff is in addition to any other duties, fees, exactions, and charges applicable to such imported semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products, unless stated otherwise below.
    (2)  The Secretary, in consultation with the United States International Trade Commission and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), shall determine whether any modifications to the HTSUS are necessary to effectuate this proclamation and shall make such modifications through notice in the Federal Register if needed.
    (3)  Within 90 days after the date of this proclamation, the Secretary shall establish a process for including additional derivative copper articles within the scope of the duties of this proclamation, consistent with the processes established pursuant to Proclamation 10895 of February 10, 2025 (Adjusting Imports of Aluminum Into the United States) and Proclamation 10896 of February 10, 2025 (Adjusting Imports of Steel Into the United States).
    (4)  The non-copper content of all copper articles subject to this proclamation shall be subject to tariffs pursuant to Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025 (Regulating Imports With a Reciprocal Tariff To Rectify Trade Practices That Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits), and any other applicable duties, including those imposed by Executive Order 14193 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border), as amended, Executive Order 14194 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Situation at Our Southern Border), as amended, and Executive Order 14195 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People’s Republic of China), as amended.  The additional duties described in clauses 1 through 3 of this proclamation shall apply only to the copper content of articles subject to this proclamation.  CBP shall issue authoritative guidance mandating strict compliance with declaration requirements for copper content in imported articles and outlining maximum penalties for noncompliance, including that importers who submit underreported declarations may be subject to severe consequences, such as significant monetary penalties, loss of import privileges, and criminal liability, consistent with United States law.
    (5)  If any product is subject to tariffs under both this proclamation and Proclamation 10908 of March 26, 2025 (Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts Into the United States), as amended, the product shall be subject to the duties imposed pursuant to Proclamation 10908, as amended, and not those imposed pursuant to this proclamation.
    (6)  Any product described in clause 1 of this proclamation, except those eligible for admission as “domestic status” as described in 19 CFR 146.43, that is subject to a duty imposed by this proclamation and that is admitted into a United States foreign trade zone on or after the effective date of this proclamation must be admitted as “privileged foreign” status as described in 19 CFR 146.41, and will be subject upon entry for consumption to any ad valorem rates of duty related to the classification under the applicable HTSUS subheading. 
    (7)  The Secretary shall continue to monitor imports of copper and its derivatives.  The Secretary shall, from time to time, in consultation with any senior executive branch officials the Secretary deems appropriate, review the status of copper and copper derivative imports with respect to national security.  The Secretary shall inform the President of any circumstances that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate the need for further action by the President under section 232.  By June 30, 2026, the Secretary shall provide the President with an update on domestic copper markets, including refining capacity and the market for refined copper in the United States, so that the President may determine whether imposing a phased universal import duty on refined copper of 15 percent starting on January 1, 2027, and 30 percent starting on January 1, 2028, as recommended by the June 30, 2025, report, is warranted to ensure that copper imports do not continue to threaten to impair the national security.  The Secretary shall also inform the President of any circumstance that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate that the duty rate provided for in this proclamation, or any actions modifying this proclamation, is no longer necessary.
    (8)  Separately, I find that copper input materials and high-quality copper scrap meet the criteria specified in section 101(b) of the DPA, 50 U.S.C. 4511(b).  Pursuant to the authority delegated to the Secretary in Executive Order 13603 of March 16, 2012 (National Defense Resources Preparedness), the Secretary shall take all appropriate action to implement the domestic sales requirements that he recommended in the June 30, 2025, report.
    (9)  The Secretary may issue regulations, rules, guidance, and procedures consistent with the purpose of this proclamation, including to address operational necessity.
    (10)  No drawback shall be available with respect to the duties imposed pursuant to this proclamation.
    (11)  CBP may take any necessary or appropriate measure to administer the tariff imposed by this proclamation.
    (12)  Any provision of previous proclamations and Executive Orders that is inconsistent with the actions taken in this proclamation is superseded to the extent of such inconsistency.  If any provision of this proclamation, or the application of any provision to any individual or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this proclamation and the application of its provisions to any other individuals or circumstances shall not be affected.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
     
     
     
                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beta-HPV can directly cause skin cancer in immunocompromised people

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Wednesday, July 30, 2025

    NIH case study finds virus drives creation of cancer cells in context of defective T cells.
    Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have shown for the first time that a type of human papillomavirus (HPV) commonly found on the skin can directly cause a form of skin cancer called cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) when certain immune cells malfunction. cSCC is one of the most common cancers in the United States and worldwide. Previously, scientists believed HPV merely facilitated the accumulation of DNA mutations caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, usually the primary driver of cSCC. The findings were published today in The New England Journal of Medicine.
    “This discovery could completely change how we think about the development, and consequently the treatment, of cSCC in people who have a health condition that compromises immune function,” said Andrea Lisco, M.D., Ph.D., of NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). “It suggests that there may be more people out there with aggressive forms of cSCC who have an underlying immune defect and could benefit from treatments targeting the immune system.”
    There are many different types of HPV, each tending to infect cells in a particular tissue and part of the body. The types of HPV found mostly on the skin—beta-HPV—are considered benign members of the skin microbiome that typically do not integrate into the DNA of skin cells. This contrasts with the alpha types of HPV, known to integrate into the DNA of mucous membrane cells and directly cause cancer of the genitals, anus, head and neck.
    The NIH researchers made their discovery in a 34-year-old woman who came to the NIH Clinical Center for evaluation and treatment of recurrent cSCC on her forehead. She had undergone multiple surgeries and a round of immunotherapy to try to remove or kill the tumor, but it repeatedly grew back. Her local doctors thought this was due to an inherited inability to repair DNA damaged by UV radiation plus an impairment in immune cells called T cells. The tumor was one of many progressively worsening HPV-related diseases the woman was experiencing.
    Through a sophisticated genetic analysis, the NIH researchers discovered that a beta-HPV had integrated into the cellular DNA of the woman’s well-established tumor and was extensively producing viral proteins there. This contradicted the prevailing theory that beta-HPV only facilitates the establishment of cSCC without integrating into cellular DNA and plays no role in maintaining the cancer. Further genetic analysis of the woman’s cells showed they were fully capable of repairing DNA damage from UV radiation, suggesting the virus alone had caused cSCC.
    To understand how beta-HPV could take the unusual steps of integrating into the woman’s skin-cell DNA and multiplying there unchecked, the investigators studied the woman’s inherited immune disorder. They found that her genetic mutations greatly hampered T cells from activating in response to skin-cell infection by beta-HPV. This suggested that the immune disorder itself was responsible for the woman’s worsening HPV-related diseases, including the beta-HPV cSCC on her forehead, and that treating this disorder might cure all of them. 
    Accordingly, NIH investigators developed a personalized plan to give the woman a stem cell transplant to replace her defective T cells with healthy ones. The process required extreme care because she was immunocompromised even before treatment began. The transplant proceeded without complications. Afterward, all her HPV-related diseases including the recurrent, aggressive cSCC resolved and have not recurred during the more than three years since the transplant. This confirms that the woman’s inherited disorder had prevented her T cells from keeping beta-HPV in check, allowing the virus to directly cause and sustain cSCC.
    “This discovery and successful outcome would not have been possible without the combined expertise of virologists, immunologists, oncologists and transplant specialists, all working under the same roof of the NIH Clinical Center,” said Dr. Lisco.
    According to the study authors, their finding suggests that other people with defective T-cell responses may also be susceptible to cancer caused directly by beta-HPV.
    NIAID conducts and supports research—at NIH, throughout the United States, and worldwide—to study the causes of infectious and immune-mediated diseases, and to develop better means of preventing, diagnosing and treating these illnesses. News releases, fact sheets and other NIAID-related materials are available on the NIAID website.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    Institute/Center

    National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

    Contact

    NIH Office of Communications and Public Liaison
    301-496-5787

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: More than 2 in 5 young Australians are lonely, our new report shows. This is what could help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle H. Lim, Associate Professor, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney

    Oliver Rossi/Getty Images

    Loneliness is not a word often associated with young people. We tend to think of our youth as a time spent with family, friends and being engaged with school and work activities. Loneliness is an experience we may be more likely to associate with older people.

    In a new report looking at loneliness in young Australians, we found 43% of people aged 15 to 25 feel lonely. That’s more than two in five young people.

    While one in four felt lonely when asked, one in seven had felt lonely for at least two years (what we call persistent loneliness).

    There’s more we should be doing in Australia to address loneliness among young people and more broadly.

    What else did we find?

    In this report, we analysed data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey from 2022–23. This helped us understand what sort of factors increase the risk of loneliness among young people.

    We found having poor physical health and mental health can double (or more) the likelihood of persistent loneliness among young people.

    Life circumstances, as well as socioeconomic and behavioural factors, also play a role, as shown below.

    Worryingly, young people who report persistent loneliness are over seven times more likely to experience high or very high psychological distress compared to those who aren’t lonely.

    But loneliness in young people should not be seen just as a mental health issue. Research shows it can have consequences for physical health too. For example, a study published in 2024 found loneliness is linked to early signs of vascular dysfunction (functional changes to the arteries) in adults as young as 22.

    Why does loneliness persist?

    As well as analysing data, we also interviewed young people aged 16 to 25 from diverse backgrounds about what helps them make healthy social connections, and what hinders them.

    One of the things they flagged was a need for safe community spaces. A male participant from metro New South Wales, aged between 22 and 25, said:

    After lectures, someone’s hungry, you go to eat together. We used to go to [Name of restaurant] after almost every lecture. Talk or discuss somethings so it gave us that extra opportunity to mingle amongst each other and take that next step towards building a good friendship.

    We found technology could both help and hinder social connections. A female from regional Victoria, aged 22 to 25, who identified as LGBTIQ+, told us:

    If you’re in school or something like that and you don’t really have […] many people within your community to look to, it’s really nice being able to connect with people and make those friends online.

    On the flip side, a female participant from metropolitan Victoria, aged between 16 and 18, said:

    a lot of maybe like mean stuff or like bullying and stuff happens over the Internet […] there’s a big group chat and like everyone’s texting on it or something. And then a lot of the time, people will break off into a smaller chat […] or they’ll break off into one on one and be like, ohh, do you see what she said?

    The high cost of living was also regarded as a hindrance to maintaining social connections. As a male aged 22 to 25 from metro NSW told us:

    you’ll go on [a] drive [with friends] or whatever […] but that is so like incredibly expensive. Having to pay for your own car and like petrol and insurance and maintenance. Sometimes it’s hard to […] even like […] sit down in peace and have a chat. All the cafes will close at 2 and by the time everyone gets out of their jobs, you’re having to go to a restaurant and [you’re] spending 50 dollars.

    So what can we do?

    Loneliness has long been treated as a personal issue but it’s increasingly clear we have to shift our approach to include community-wide and systemic solutions.

    The World Health Organization’s Commission on Social Connection recently released a report pointing to loneliness as a public health, social, community and economic issue.

    In Australia, the economic burden of loneliness stands at A$2.7 billion each year for associated health-care costs including GP and hospital visits.

    And there are additional costs including lower workforce productivity and educational outcomes that have yet to be accounted for.

    Some countries have already developed and implemented strategies to address loneliness. In 2023, Denmark, for example, commissioned the development of a national loneliness action plan led by a consortium of organisations. This was underpinned by an investment of around 21 million Danish kroner (roughly A$5 million) over 2023–25.

    Australia now stands at a crossroads.

    Australia needs a national loneliness strategy

    A national strategy underpinned by evidence and by lived experience is crucial to effectively address loneliness. This approach would:

    • coordinate efforts across sectors: health, education, social services and business

    • identify effective strategies that should be included in a comprehensive response, and the principles to guide their delivery in communities and other settings

    • highlight sub-groups at risk of persistent loneliness who should be prioritised within population-wide strategies

    • commit to the delivery of a national awareness campaign that can educate the public and reduce stigma around loneliness.

    With the right national strategy, we will be able to increase our capacity to help all Australians, not just young people, connect in meaningful ways.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. You can learn more about youth loneliness and how to help at Ending Loneliness Together.

    Michelle H. Lim is the CEO and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together. She is also the Vice-Chair of the International Scientific Board of the Global Initiative on Loneliness and Connection, and is part of the Technical Advisory Group – Social Connection at the World Health Organization.

    Ben Smith is a member of the Management Committee and Scientific Advisory Board of Ending Loneliness Together. He is also the Conjoint Chair of Public Health with the Western Sydney Local Health District.

    – ref. More than 2 in 5 young Australians are lonely, our new report shows. This is what could help – https://theconversation.com/more-than-2-in-5-young-australians-are-lonely-our-new-report-shows-this-is-what-could-help-261260

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman on assault police charge, dangerous dog seized

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Woman on assault police charge, dangerous dog seized

    Thursday, 31 July 2025 – 9:09 am.

    A 57-year-old woman has been charged with assaulting police, and a dangerous dog seized, after an incident in East Devonport on Wednesday.
    The North-West woman was remanded in custody overnight and is scheduled to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court today.
    She is facing charges of assaulting police, abusing and threatening police, and being the owner of a dog that attacks a person.
    The charges stem from an incident at Melrose Street, East Devonport, on Wednesday afternoon.
    Police had been called to assist Devonport Council and North West Animal Control Services issue a warrant to seize an American pit bull, a dog that had been identified as being dangerous.
    Police will allege the woman refused to surrender the dog and that she threatened and verbally abused officers during the issuing of the warrant.
    Tasmania Police specialist resources were deployed and negotiations with the woman continued for several hours.
    During this time, the unrestrained dog was released by the woman and the animal ran off.
    The woman is then alleged to have assaulted police officers before being arrested without further incident and taken into custody.
    The dog was subsequently located and safely seized by police in collaboration with Animal Control Services. Police drone resources were used to help locate the dog.
    Tasmania Police would like to thank members of the public for their assistance in reporting sightings of the dog, which played a key role in its safe recovery.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment

    Source: Scottish Government

    A vision for improving access to support for disabled people.

    Issued on behalf of the Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment

    A landmark independent review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has called for a simplified and more accessible application process, urging the Scottish Government to protect and improve access to support for disabled people.

    Led by experienced charity leader, Edel Harris OBE, the review highlights that while Adult Disability Payment is significantly more compassionate than the UK benefit it replaced, some people still face barriers, complexity and distress when applying for the benefit.

    While the review notes that there are several welcome changes such as the cessation of DWP-style assessments and recognises the compassionate approach of Social Security Scotland staff, it concludes that there is still more that can be done to deliver a truly human-rights based approach.

    Edel Harris, Chair of the Adult Disability Payment Review, said:

    “Adult Disability Payment has been described by many as a step change – kinder in tone and more dignified in approach. But too often, disabled people still find the system difficult to navigate, time-consuming, and anxiety-inducing.

    “I heard consistently that if we are to realise social security as an investment in people, it is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria fulfil this goal.

    “This review highlights the importance of a system that is not only compassionate, but practical and accessible. The recommendations are based on real experiences and a shared commitment to making Adult Disability Payment work better for everyone who needs it.”

    The review engaged extensively with disabled people and the organisations that support them. It drew on evidence from a public consultation, written submissions, in-person and online events, and the lived experience of an advisory group made up of third sector representatives, disabled people and people with long-term health-conditions.

    Over the course of the review, Edel Harris also met with stakeholder groups, third sector organisations, and officials from the Scottish Government and Social Security Scotland to understand a variety of experiences of Adult Disability Payment.

    The review makes over 50 recommendations including:

    • Enhancing the client experience and embedding trauma-informed, stigma-free approaches.
    • Simplifying the application form and improving the decision-making process.
    • Training, guidance, and clearer communication for staff and clients.
    • Reviewing eligibility criteria and improving fairness in decision-making.

    A key recommendation from the review is that eligibility should be based on the real-life experience of clients and not just on a list of activities. It also recommends that the application process should be made easier for those with fluctuating conditions and mental health problems and take into consideration the environment in which the person lives.

    The report also calls for sustainable funding for welfare advice services, more inclusive communication, and automatic entitlement in some circumstances.

    Edel visited Inspire by Community Integrated Care an Aberdeen-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and additional support needs. The visit offered an insight into the role of social security in promoting independence, inclusion, and dignity.

    Community Integrated Care’s Managing Director for Scotland, Sara Murphy, said:

    “It was a privilege to welcome Edel to our Inspire by Community Integrated Care service and show how financial support like Adult Disability Payment can make a visible difference in people’s lives. As a care provider, we see every day how inclusive, person-centred support enables people to build confidence, develop skills, and live more independently.

    “We welcome the review’s call for a system that truly listens to disabled people and reflects their real-life experiences. We hope it leads to meaningful change that makes accessing support fairer, simpler, and more empowering for those who need it.”

    Background

    The full report is available at: https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781836918912

    The review was commissioned by the Scottish Government in February 2024 to examine the first year of Adult Disability Payment delivery, with the aim of identifying improvements to the eligibility framework, decision-making process and client experience.

    Implementation of the recommendations in the review will be assessed against criteria including deliverability, cost, and alignment with human rights principles.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment

    Source: Scottish Government

    A vision for improving access to support for disabled people.

    Issued on behalf of the Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment

    A landmark independent review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has called for a simplified and more accessible application process, urging the Scottish Government to protect and improve access to support for disabled people.

    Led by experienced charity leader, Edel Harris OBE, the review highlights that while Adult Disability Payment is significantly more compassionate than the UK benefit it replaced, some people still face barriers, complexity and distress when applying for the benefit.

    While the review notes that there are several welcome changes such as the cessation of DWP-style assessments and recognises the compassionate approach of Social Security Scotland staff, it concludes that there is still more that can be done to deliver a truly human-rights based approach.

    Edel Harris, Chair of the Adult Disability Payment Review, said:

    “Adult Disability Payment has been described by many as a step change – kinder in tone and more dignified in approach. But too often, disabled people still find the system difficult to navigate, time-consuming, and anxiety-inducing.

    “I heard consistently that if we are to realise social security as an investment in people, it is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria fulfil this goal.

    “This review highlights the importance of a system that is not only compassionate, but practical and accessible. The recommendations are based on real experiences and a shared commitment to making Adult Disability Payment work better for everyone who needs it.”

    The review engaged extensively with disabled people and the organisations that support them. It drew on evidence from a public consultation, written submissions, in-person and online events, and the lived experience of an advisory group made up of third sector representatives, disabled people and people with long-term health-conditions.

    Over the course of the review, Edel Harris also met with stakeholder groups, third sector organisations, and officials from the Scottish Government and Social Security Scotland to understand a variety of experiences of Adult Disability Payment.

    The review makes over 50 recommendations including:

    • Enhancing the client experience and embedding trauma-informed, stigma-free approaches.
    • Simplifying the application form and improving the decision-making process.
    • Training, guidance, and clearer communication for staff and clients.
    • Reviewing eligibility criteria and improving fairness in decision-making.

    A key recommendation from the review is that eligibility should be based on the real-life experience of clients and not just on a list of activities. It also recommends that the application process should be made easier for those with fluctuating conditions and mental health problems and take into consideration the environment in which the person lives.

    The report also calls for sustainable funding for welfare advice services, more inclusive communication, and automatic entitlement in some circumstances.

    Edel visited Inspire by Community Integrated Care an Aberdeen-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and additional support needs. The visit offered an insight into the role of social security in promoting independence, inclusion, and dignity.

    Community Integrated Care’s Managing Director for Scotland, Sara Murphy, said:

    “It was a privilege to welcome Edel to our Inspire by Community Integrated Care service and show how financial support like Adult Disability Payment can make a visible difference in people’s lives. As a care provider, we see every day how inclusive, person-centred support enables people to build confidence, develop skills, and live more independently.

    “We welcome the review’s call for a system that truly listens to disabled people and reflects their real-life experiences. We hope it leads to meaningful change that makes accessing support fairer, simpler, and more empowering for those who need it.”

    Background

    The full report is available at: https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781836918912

    The review was commissioned by the Scottish Government in February 2024 to examine the first year of Adult Disability Payment delivery, with the aim of identifying improvements to the eligibility framework, decision-making process and client experience.

    Implementation of the recommendations in the review will be assessed against criteria including deliverability, cost, and alignment with human rights principles.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Rebels charged over criminal association

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Three alleged Rebels members were arrested for criminal association on Wednesday 30 July.

    It will be alleged that three men were present together at the Adelaide Airport about 11.30am on Wednesday 30 July.

    The Rebels, an Outlaw Motorcycle Gang, is a declared criminal organisation and it is an offence for participants of a declared criminal organisation to be in a public place with two or more other persons who are also participants in a declared criminal organisation.

    The three men, a 43-year-old man, 27-year-old man and a 34-year-old man all from Western Australia, were arrested and charged with criminal association.

    They were all refused bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court later today.

    Crime Gangs Task Force will continue to investigate reports of Outlaw Motorcycle Gang members gathering in public places in contravention of this law to ensure the safety of the public.

    MIL OSI News –

  • Trump says many are starving in Gaza, vows to set up food centres

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday many people were starving in Gaza and suggested Israel could do more on humanitarian access, as Palestinians struggled to feed their children a day after Israel declared steps to improve supplies.

    As the death toll from two years of war in Gaza nears 60,000, a growing number of people are dying from starvation and malnutrition, Gaza health authorities say, with images of starving children shocking the world and fuelling international criticism of Israel over sharply worsening conditions.

    Describing starvation in Gaza as real, Trump’s assessment put him at odds with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said on Sunday “there is no starvation in Gaza” and vowed to fight on against the Palestinian militant group Hamas – a statement he reposted on X on Monday.

    However, Netanyahu later on Monday described the situation in Gaza as “difficult”, saying his country was working to ensure aid delivery to the besieged strip.

    “Israel will continue to work with international agencies as well as the U.S. and European nations to ensure that large amounts of humanitarian aid flows into the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said, according to a statement from his office.

    Trump, speaking during a visit to Scotland, said Israel has a lot of responsibility for aid flows, and that a lot of people could be saved. “You have a lot of starving people,” he said.

    “We’re going to set up food centres,” with no fences or boundaries to ease access, Trump said. The U.S. would work with other countries to provide more humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza, including food and sanitation, he said.

    A White House spokesperson said additional details on the food centres would be “forthcoming.”

    ‘WHEN YOU GO TO BED HUNGRY, YOU WAKE UP HUNGRY’

    On Monday, the Gaza health ministry said at least 14 people had died in the past 24 hours of starvation and malnutrition, bringing the war’s death toll from hunger to 147, including 88 children, most in just the last few weeks.

    Israel announced several measures over the weekend, including daily humanitarian pauses to fighting in three areas of Gaza, new safe corridors for aid convoys, and airdrops. The decision followed the collapse of ceasefire talks on Friday.

    Wessal Nabil from Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza described the struggle of trying to feed her three children. “When you go to bed hungry, you wake up hungry. We distract them with anything … to make them calm down,” she told Reuters.

    “I call on the world, on those with merciful hearts, the compassionate, to look at us with compassion, to be kind to us, to stand with us until aid comes in and ensure it reaches us.”

    Two Israeli defence officials said the international pressure prompted the new Israeli measures, as did the worsening conditions on the ground.

    U.N. agencies said a long-term and steady supply of aid was needed. The World Food Programme said 60 trucks of aid had been dispatched – short of target. Almost 470,000 people in Gaza are enduring famine-like conditions, with 90,000 women and children in need of specialist nutrition treatments, it said.

    “Our target at the moment, every day is to get 100 trucks into Gaza,” WFP Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Europe, Samer AbdelJaber, told Reuters.

    Jan Egeland, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, told Reuters the situation is catastrophic.

    “At this time, children are dying every single day from starvation, from preventable disease. So time has run out.”

    Netanyahu has denied any policy of starvation towards Gaza, saying aid supplies would be kept up whether Israel was negotiating a ceasefire or fighting.

    A spokesperson for COGAT, the Israeli military aid coordination agency, said Israel had not placed a time limit on the humanitarian pauses in its military operation, a day after U.N. aid chief Tom Fletcher said Israel had decided “to support a one-week scale-up of aid”.

    “We hope this pause will last much longer than a week, ultimately turning into a permanent ceasefire,” Fletcher’s spokesperson, Eri Kaneko, said on Monday.

    Netanyahu’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Compared to last week, U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq said, there had only been a “small uptick” in the amount of aid being transported into Gaza since Israel started the humanitarian pauses.

    TRUMP SAYS HAMAS DIFFICULT TO DEAL WITH

    In his statement on Sunday, Netanyahu said Israel would continue to fight until it achieved the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas and the destruction of its military and governing capabilities.

    Trump said Hamas had become difficult to deal with in recent days, but he was talking with Netanyahu about “various plans” to free hostages still held in the enclave.

    The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked communities across the border in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people and taking another 251 hostage, according to Israeli tallies.

    The Gaza health ministry said that 98 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the past 24 hours.

    Some of the trucks that made it into Gaza were seized by desperate Palestinians, and some by armed looters, witnesses said.

    The Hamas-run Gaza government said only 87 aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip on Monday, with the majority of trucks looted due to what it described as “direct and systematic Israeli complicity”.

    “Currently aid comes for the strong who can race ahead, who can push others and grab a box or a sack of flour. That chaos must be stopped and protection for those trucks must be allowed,” said Emad, 58, who used to own a factory in Gaza City.

    The WFP said it has 170,000 metric tons of food in the region, outside Gaza, which would be enough to feed the whole population for the next three months if it gets the clearance to bring into the enclave.

    COGAT said more than 120 truckloads of aid were distributed in Gaza on Sunday by the U.N. and international organizations.

    More aid was expected on Monday. Qatar said it had sent 49 trucks that arrived in Egypt en route for Gaza. Jordan and the United Arab Emirates airdropped supplies.

    Israel cut off aid to Gaza from the start of March in what it said was a means to pressure Hamas into giving up dozens of hostages it still holds, and reopened aid with new restrictions in May. Hamas accuses Israel of using hunger as a weapon.

    Israel says it abides by international law but must prevent aid from being diverted by militants, and blames Hamas for the suffering of Gaza’s people.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayors and Ministers back British manufacturers and greener buses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Mayors and Ministers back British manufacturers and greener buses

    Government ministers and metro mayors commit to greener transport and greater job opportunities across the regions.

    • Transport Secretary, the Local Transport Minister, and Metro Mayors come together for UK bus manufacturing stocktake, promising to support highly skilled jobs that deliver the Plan for Change.
    • plans advanced to ensure a 10-year pipeline of zero-emission bus orders, with around 60% of zero-emission buses funded by government currently being built by UK-based manufacturers.
    • comes as the Bus Services Bill progresses through Parliament, with the government continuing to drive growth in the industries of the future and put passengers back at the heart of services

    Greener journeys, skilled jobs and stronger UK manufacturing were all on the agenda today (28 July 2025), as government ministers and metro mayors came together in Westminster to commit to greener transport and greater job opportunities across the regions.

    The fifth meeting of the UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel was chaired by the Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, and Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood, with wider attendance from mayors including David Skaith (York and North Yorkshire), Richard Parker (West Midlands), and Steve Rotheram (Liverpool), alongside Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill and the Scottish Government’s Transport Minister, Fiona Hyslop.

    The session focussed on the future pipeline of zero-emission bus orders, in order to give UK manufacturers the long-term certainty needed to invest and grow.

    The panel also committed to ensuring that new zero emission buses bring real social benefits to the communities they serve, and work to support local employment, sustainability, and inclusivity.

    Attendees also committed to ensuring that every pound of public money spent on zero emission buses provides the greatest social benefits for communities and the economy.

    The panel’s inaugural meeting took place in Sheffield earlier this year, and set out to ensure that the UK remains a leader in bus building while helping local authorities to deliver their transport ambitions.

    The government is working closely with local authorities to ensure new bus orders continue to support the UK supply chain and deliver cleaner, more reliable transport for passengers. Currently, around 60% of zero-emission buses funded through the government’s ZEBRA (Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas) programmes are being built by UK-based manufacturers, and the panel is committed to supporting manufacturers as they undertake these new contracts, to ensure that they support regional growth and support opportunities that deliver the Plan for Change.

    Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said:

    It was great to bring mayors together today for the fifth meeting of the bus manufacturing expert panel, where we committed to building a strong pipeline of future zero-emission bus orders.

    By mapping out future demand, we’re giving industry the certainty they need to grow – supporting jobs, delivering better buses for passengers, and accelerating our journey towards a cleaner, greener transport system, while delivering our Plan for Change.

    Earlier this year, the Government announced nearly £38 million to deliver 319 new zero emission buses across 12 cities in England by spring 2027, with each pound of funding matched by at least £3 of private investment. 

    Among the biggest beneficiaries were:

    • Nottinghamshire County Council, who are benefitting from £2.3 million to launch 42 new electric buses
    • Hull City Council, where £3.9 million has been allocated to provide 42 vehicles
    • West of England Combined Authority, who are receiving nearly £20 million for 160 buses

    The UK government has also recently allocated a further £28 million to deliver new zero emission buses in Sheffield and Bradford, to improve air quality on key city centre routes.

    The push for cleaner bus travel is also supported by the Bus Services Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. The Bill will give local authorities more control over how services are planned and delivered, while introducing new powers to end the use of new diesel buses in England from no earlier than 2030.

    Jason Prince, Director, Urban Transport Group, said:

    Investing in buses, especially greener, cleaner buses is good for our transport systems, our health and the economy. Government, operators and our members, working together through the manufacturing panel to unlock the full potential of greener buses will help realise these benefits for passengers and their local communities.

    Roads media enquiries

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    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: His Majesty The King takes in Caithness nuclear history

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    His Majesty The King takes in Caithness nuclear history

    His Majesty The King met with members of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group in Caithness Scotland, to mark series of significant milestones.

    King Charles and NDA Group CEO David Peattie

    The nuclear industry marked three significant anniversaries this week as His Majesty The King met with members of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group in Caithness Scotland, during his annual visit to the region.

    The visit recognised the NDA group’s progress in its national mission to safely decommission the UK’s earliest nuclear sites, and its long-standing contribution to sustainability and economic development in the region and across the UK.

    It coincided with the NDA group marking several significant milestones including the 20th anniversary of the NDA and 70 years for NRS Dounreay, which has been an enduring presence at the heart of the Caithness community.

    The site began its life as the UK’s centre of pioneering fast reactor research and is now once again, at the forefront of science and engineering – developing first of a kind solutions for complex nuclear decommissioning challenges.

    This year also marks 50 years for Pacific Nuclear Transport Ltd (PNTL). Founded in 1975, PNTL is the world’s leading maritime nuclear transporter and part of NDA subsidiary, Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS). The King also viewed the Pacific Heron, part of the PNTL fleet of ships designed to safely transport nuclear materials around the globe.

    His Majesty met members of the crew, the most experienced in the world boasting a flawless safety record, currently in Caithness while undertaking required sea-hours. The King was also introduced to other employees from the NDA group, representatives from UK and Scottish Government, and members of the local Caithness community.  

    King Charles meets Caithness community members

    NDA group CEO David Peattie said:

    I was delighted to welcome His Majesty The King and introduce him to valued staff members and stakeholders. It’s a powerful reminder of the national importance of the mission we’re delivering on behalf on the UK.

    Together with King Charles we share a passion for sustainability and protecting the planet. The NDA group is responsible for one of the biggest environmental remediation programmes in the world, and we are committed to leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

    From decommissioning legacy facilities and driving towards carbon net zero to investing in projects in the local community which help diversify the economy and grow skills, we’re proud to be a responsible neighbour and make a positive difference in our site communities.

    King Charles and NDA Group CEO David Peattie

    The NDA group is one of the largest employers in the region, supporting over 1,500 jobs on site and in the supply chain, and over 50% of Dounreay’s supply chain spend is with Caithness owned or resourced companies.

    It also partners with the community to invest around £1million of socio-economic funding each year in programmes across Caithness and North Sutherland as part of its commitment to supporting prosperous communities arounds its sites.

    Since 2019 it’s invested £5 million in developing Scrabster Harbour to enhance its capacity to accommodate cruise ships and help diversify the economy. Since cruising restarted in 2023, 40 ships have brought business to the local community.

    Last week the NDA group also confirmed a further investment of £1million into the Caithness & North Sutherland Fund for the next three years, taking the total investment to £5million.

    So far, the fund has supported more than 251 projects aimed at attracting more people to live, work and invest in the area.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK esports collaboration to boost digital and cyber skills

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New UK esports collaboration to boost digital and cyber skills

    The new partnership with International Defence Esports Games will improve Armed Forces digital talent, while an annual summit will focus on education, recruitment and skills, including AI.

    UK military personnel will improve their digital and cyber skills through a new esports collaboration, which will include a focus on AI and drone operation.  

    The Ministry of Defence has appointed the British Esports Federation to deliver a new first-of-its-kind defence and industry esports tournament through UK Strategic Command, soon to be Cyber and Specialist Operations Command.   

    Improving the digital skills of military personnel will help boost the country’s warfighting readiness, with the UK at the cutting edge of defence AI and technology, supporting the government’s Plan for Change. Lessons from Ukraine, including Ukrainian’s producing their own drone simulator games to improve hand-eye coordination, have shown how esports can be used to successfully train drone operators and cyber security specialists.  

    Through the Strategic Defence Review, defence is enhancing its warfighting capability by developing critical cyber skills, and Esports can provide an accessible environment to improve digital literacy and cyber understanding.    

    The International Defence Esports Games (IDEG) will help members of the Armed Forces develop cyber, digital and wider military skills. Initially open to service personnel, including reservists, IDEG will expand to eventually include cadets, veterans, civil servants and anyone working in the defence industry.   

    Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said: [CLEARED]  

    Esports will help attract, develop, and retain top cyber and digital talent, while fostering this government’s Plan for Change. Our people must now be as adept with code, cybersecurity and a games controller as they are with traditional combat skills.   

    From drone operations to data analysis, modern defence and deterrence needs agile minds that can navigate both physical and digital battlegrounds.   

    The International Defence Esports Games is an exciting initiative that will help foster exactly these skills in a fun, collaborative way, and overcome many traditional boundaries between our international partners.

    The inaugural IDEG finals – where competitions would be held – will be organised in partnership with British Esports and a leading esports production company, and be held in the UK in late 2026.   

    The event is being supported by Defence suppliers, including BAE Systems, as well as several smaller military technology companies.  

    Chester King, President, British Esports said:  

    Military esports has been steadily growing in recent years, and today we’re delighted to announce a first-of-its-kind tournament for military personnel around the world.  

    The UK’s armed forces have recognised video games as a positive activity that can improve personnel welfare and morale, foster digital and cyber skills, and strengthen relations across the armed forces and beyond.    

    We’re happy to announce the International Defence Esports Games and support the future of the military.

    Recently the Royal Navy partnered with British Esports to launch an esports facility aboard UK aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, featuring gaming gear from the likes of Alienware, NVIDIA and Intel. Those in attendance included members of the Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore Esports Association (SGEA), the national body British Esports, and Deputy Commander UK Strategic Command, Lt Gen Sir Tom Copinger-Symes, who has been championing esports across UK Defence.  

    Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes KCB CBE, Deputy Commander UK Strategic Command said:  

    Esports and serious games can contribute to our warfighting readiness. As competition and conflict increasingly play out in cyberspace and the digital arena, these games equip our people to think, operate and innovate across both the physical and virtual worlds, developing team coordination and rapid decision-making under pressure.   

    We’ve learned from our Ukrainian partners about how esports can train drone operators and cyber security specialists. People are quickly grasping how esports can change perspectives and enhance skills, as well as reaching across borders with our international allies and partners.     

    For centuries we’ve used ball games like rugby and football to develop teamwork, hone mental and physical fitness and build resilience. Esports perfectly complement these games in preparing us for 21st Century security challenges.  

    To address additional needs for cyber security specialists in Defence, the Ministry of Defence announced the Cyber Direct Entry Scheme, a bespoke entry route for aspiring cyber professionals and those with existing digital skills, which will see new recruit basic training reduced from 10 weeks to around one month, after which recruits will undergo 3 months’ specialist training in the field.

    The news comes just over a year after the MOD recognised esports as an official military sport, ensuring funding and opportunities for personnel to compete. Today’s announcement also represents a deepening relationship between British Esports and the MOD.   

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Spanish PM urges EU to diversify trade relations after US deal

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    MADRID, July 29 (Xinhua) — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday called on the European Union (EU) to “diversify” the country’s trade relations following the announcement of a new EU-U.S. trade deal late on Sunday.

    Speaking at his residence in Madrid ahead of the summer parliamentary recess, P. Sanchez told the press that he “appreciated” “the efforts made by the European Commission.”

    He said the trade deal showed that “one of the lessons Europe must learn in the face of the US administration is that we must act together in all aspects: in strategic autonomy and in commercial agreements with other countries.”

    “We must diversify our commercial relations with blocs that want to reach an agreement with Europe, such as Mercosur,” said P. Sanchez, stressing that Spain’s foreign policy is based on “commitment to peace, reality and cooperation between nations.”

    US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the new deal on Sunday after trade talks at Trump’s golf club in Turnberry, South Ayrshire, Scotland.

    While both leaders described the agreement as a step toward restoring “trade balance” and promoting more equitable bilateral trade, the deal allows the United States to impose broad 15 percent tariffs on EU goods while providing zero-tariff access to a range of strategic U.S. exports. In return, the EU has committed to purchasing $750 billion in U.S. energy and investing an additional $600 billion in the United States. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chair of the Police Advisory Board for England and Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    New Chair of the Police Advisory Board for England and Wales

    Gaon Hart has been appointed as Chair of the Police Advisory Board for England and Wales for a 3-year term.

    Gaon Hart is a distinguished legal expert and compliance strategist, currently serving as Chair of the NHS Counter Fraud Authority, where he oversees the prevention, protection and investigation of the £1.3 billion annual fraud risk facing the UK health sector.

    He is also Managing Director of Legal Advisory Worldwide, a boutique consultancy specialising in global economic crime prevention in the private and public sectors and also works closely with police on misconduct hearings. 

    Born and raised in London to South African parents, who fled apartheid arrest and persecution, Gaon’s early life was shaped by values of justice, equity, and resilience. His parents’ courageous activism profoundly influenced his lifelong commitment to ethical leadership, diversity, and anti-discrimination.

    Gaon said:

    I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Home Secretary for placing her confidence in me. This is a timely and important moment to serve as the interface between the government’s bold agenda to restore confidence in policing and make our streets safer, and the Police Service entrusted with delivering on those priorities.

    Having worked alongside police officers for many years – including in my former role as the UK Lead Prosecutor for Public Corruption – I have a deep appreciation for the critical and often under-recognised role they play in protecting the public.

    The Police Advisory Board for England and Wales (PABEW) offers a valuable forum for collaborative thinking, enabling the development of innovative ideas and the presentation of practical options to support the Home Office’s objectives. I am passionate about the opportunities this role presents and committed to contributing meaningfully to its success.

    The role of the PABEW is to advise the Home Secretary about matters such as recruitment, diversity and collaboration between forces in England and Wales.

    The PABEW was established as a non-departmental public body under section 46 of the Police Act 1964, now section 63 of the Police Act 1996. The Chair of the Board oversees several statutory functions including:

    • advising the Home Secretary on general questions affecting the police in England and Wales
    • considering draft regulations on matters other than hours of duty, leave, pay and allowance such as the issue, use and return of police clothing, personal equipment and accoutrements
    • considering draft regulations related to pensions under section 1 of the Police Pensions Act 1976
    • establishing the Scheme Advisory Board (SAB) for the Police Pension Schemes, in accordance with s7 of the Public Service Pensions Act 2013

    It may also consider any matter relating to conditions of service and any other matter affecting the police which has been referred to it by the Secretary of State.

    The Home Secretary has appointed Gaon as Chair of the PABEW following an open recruitment competition in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments. He has been appointed for a 3-year term, and will take up his role over the summer.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What to expect as 7 Hills Blues Fest brings music, markets & soul to…

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    The stage is set and the streets are ready as 7 Hills Blues Fest returns to Armagh City from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 August, promising a weekend packed with live music, family fun, and local flavour.

    With over 40 free gigs across 15 venues, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to follow the Blues Trek – a musical trail through Armagh’s historic streets, venues, and open-air spaces. From lunchtime bandstand sessions to late-night blues jams, the city will be alive with sound.

    Expect performances from some of the biggest names in blues and roots, including Rob Strong Band, Clara Rose, Crow Black Chicken, and the Pat McManus Band. Rising stars like Banshee (2024 Buskfest winners) and 17-year-old guitar prodigy Zac Mac will also take to the stage, alongside a strong line-up of local talent such as Villiers and the Villains, Courtnay Giffin, and Freedom 35s.

    Throughout the weekend, students from MD Rafferty Music School will be busking at various city centre locations, adding a fresh, youthful energy to the festival atmosphere.

    Saturday 2 August is set to be a standout day in the 7 Hills Blues Fest calendar, offering a full programme of activities for all ages across Armagh City including:

    • Artisan Market (11am–4pm): Taking place at The Shambles, the market will feature a wide range of artisan stalls offering tasty treats and handcrafted goods from Ballydown Milk, Nice Buns, Wild Shore, Taylor Wood Craft and much more.
    • Street Food on Market Street (11am-5pm): Enjoy sweet and savoury treats from J’s Donuts, Simply Crêpes, and McDonald’s Ice Cream.
    • Live Entertainment (10.30am-5pm): Walkabout performances from the Sally Sod Trio and Steampunks, plus a full schedule of live music throughout the city.
    • Art on the Rails (11am-5pm): An open-air exhibition of original works by members of Armagh Art Club.
    • Family Fun (Throughout the day): Face painting and balloon modelling will add a fun, musical twist for younger visitors.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Alderman Stephen Moutray said:

    “7 Hills Blues Fest is a celebration of everything that makes Armagh special – its music, its people, and its vibrant city centre. It’s a weekend that brings us all together, welcoming visitors from near and far to experience the unique charm of our city. From the soulful sounds echoing through our streets to the artisan stalls and family-friendly fun, this festival showcases the very best of Armagh’s cultural heartbeat. I encourage everyone to come along, soak up the atmosphere, and be part of something truly special.”

    Please note that Market Street will be closed to traffic from 10am to 6pm on Saturday 2 August, from the junction of Thomas Street through to the junction of Russell Street, to accommodate festival activities and ensure pedestrian safety.

    For the full line-up and event times see visitarmagh.com/7hills  

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