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  • MIL-OSI Translation: Election of parent representatives on October 11 and 12, 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Republic of France in FrenchThe French Republic has issued the following statement: Add to my calendar

    Parents are full members of the educational community, according to the Education Code. Thus, the elections of parent representatives are a highlight of the school year; they allow for a real link to be established between families and the school, and they are the beginning of a relationship of trust between members of the educational community. These representatives are notably responsible for facilitating relations between parents and school staff; they can approach the school principal to discuss a particular problem, or to provide mediation at the request of the parents concerned.

    Every year, elections for parent representatives take place before the end of the 7th week of the school year in all establishments (primary schools, middle and high schools, special education establishments). In 2024, they will be held:

    Friday October 11 or Saturday October 12; Friday October 4 or Saturday October 5 in establishments in Reunion and Mayotte, taking into account the school calendar of these two academies.

    The election day is chosen from these two dates:

    by the electoral commission in primary schools (nurseries and elementary schools); by the head of the establishment in secondary schools (middle schools and high schools).

    The choice of polling day is made in agreement with the parents’ associations present or represented in the school establishment.

    Who can be a parent representative?

    If you wish to become a parent representative, you must:

    exercise parental authority over a child enrolled in the establishment in which the elections take place; be registered on an electoral list of at least 2 candidates (parent representatives are elected by list ballot).

    The electoral list must be submitted at least 10 days before the elections:

    to the elections office, if it is a primary school; to the head of the establishment, if it is a middle or high school.

    Once elected, the parent representatives can take part in the life of the school. In this capacity, they are present at the various council meetings and are in contact with the members of the educational community.

    Who can vote?

    To be able to vote, you must exercise parental authority over the child in school (it is not obligatory to have French nationality).

    Each parent is an elector and eligible, and has only one vote regardless of the number of children enrolled in the same establishment.

    You can vote:

    by going to the polling station set up in the school; by sending your vote by mail in a sealed envelope or by having your child drop it off at the school; electronically on the internet.

    Please note

    In general and technological high schools as well as in vocational high schools, the elections of the representatives of the parents of students close the week of school democracy. The aim of this week is to raise awareness of the issues and the importance of these elections; during this week, the elections of the representatives of the students to the councils of delegates for high school life (CVL) are also organized.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The Middle East North Africa programme: a link between all initiatives linked to the region

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Universities – Science Po in French

    The Middle East North Africa (MENA) program at Sciences Po centralizes initiatives related to the study and research of this region. A study day is organized September 26 on the occasion of the launch of the program on the theme of the wars in the Middle East and their repercussions on the societies of the region.

    An interdisciplinary and transversal structure, the main mission of the MENA program is to promote, coordinate and energize the institution’s activities related to the Middle East and North Africa. By strengthening academic, scientific and cultural collaborations with partner universities, the program supports the work of students at all levels (bachelor, master, doctorate), while creating a unique space for dialogue between researchers, artists and civil society actors, thus promoting an enriched understanding of the region.

    Meeting with the two co-directors of the program: Léa Albrieux, Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, Gulf and Pakistan mission manager at the International Affairs Department, and Bayram Balci, researcher at the Center for International Research (CERI).

    Can you introduce your background and your interest in the Middle East North Africa region?

    We both studied the Middle East and North Africa as part of our studies and spent many years there. Our interest also comes from the fact that this region, its conflicts, but also its culture – including its cuisine – are present in our daily lives in France and we would even say in Europe. Also, the desire to understand this region, whose conflicts have repercussions that go far beyond it, played a central role in the academic choice we made to dedicate ourselves to it. It is also an area that forms a link between several continents, which makes the collaborations to be considered with Sciences Po’s other regional programs, covering Africa and South Asia, all the more interesting.

    What are the major contemporary challenges facing this region and how does this new programme intend to address them?

    The main challenge is to find a path towards peace, stability and democracy that go hand in hand. Cradle of the three great religions, but also of several great cultures and civilizations, the region has been constantly confronted since its emergence from colonial domination with conflicts of varying intensity, security and political challenges that regularly call into question the gains made. Our program is intended to be modest; it does not claim to resolve the tensions that the region in question is experiencing. Helping to analyze and understand it, through research and teaching, would already be a first step.

    Can you explain your vision and ambitions as co-directors of the program?

    This structure brings together the different actors who study and work on the region within the departments, research centers, directorates, campuses and schools at Sciences Po. Its mission is to support and highlight all of the scientific, educational and partnership activities of the institution in relation to the MENA region. To this end, we plan to develop varied activities that combine teaching, research, partnerships, but also actions related to the arts and culture of this region.

    What themes will be highlighted during the launch day on September 26?

    Although the aim of our programme is not to comment on every event that is shaking up the region, the day of 26 September will be mainly devoted to the attack of 7 October 2023 and its effects on the societies of the Middle East. Indeed, the unprecedented attack by Hamas against Israel on 7 October 2023 plunged the Middle East into a new phase of war. While this renewed violence has profound effects on the regional balance, it also has major consequences on the societies of the region, in Israel and Palestine, but also in neighbouring countries. This conference will focus more specifically on this internal and local dimension of the ongoing conflict.

    Sciences Po and the MENA region

    Sciences Po maintains particularly strong links in this vast area stretching from North Africa to Iran. They are reflected in numerous student exchanges with our 35 partner institutions spread across 12 countries, but also in particularly dynamic research: with around twenty researchers and around twenty specialist doctoral and postdoctoral students, Sciences Po is positioned as one of the leading universities in Europe for studies on this region. The region is also present in academic programs, notably with the Mediterranean-Middle East minor of the Menton campus at the bachelor level.

    While 16 nationalities from the MENA region are represented among our initial training students, our institution welcomes an average of 700 students from the region each year. In return, approximately 120 Sciences Po students go on exchange, and 120 on internships, to one of the countries in the region each year. Upon completion of their studies, 5% of young graduates working abroad work in the region.

    Cover image caption: Doha, Qatar, March 2019. (credits: Jaanus Jagomägi / Unsplash)

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Smoke Free website launches to help people in Coventry and Warwickshire quit smoking

    Source: City of Coventry

    A new Smoke Free website has launched to help people in Coventry and Warwickshire quit smoking.

    It provides details of local free, confidential stop smoking services, as well as resources and information about smoking and vaping. It was created through a partnership between Warwickshire County Council (WCC) and Coventry City Council (CCC) with funding from the UK Government.

    The website is part of a national effort championed by the UK Government to create the first ever smoke free generation. Under this initiative, earlier this year both councils received funding to increase local authority-led stop smoking services and support to reduce smoking rates across Coventry and Warwickshire.

    An estimated 18.4% of people aged 18+ smoke in Coventry and 13.9% in Warwickshire. In Warwickshire, this varies across the district and boroughs. (Source: Annual Population Survey, Office for National Statistics, 2022.) Those who wish to quit often struggle due to their addiction to nicotine – over 80% of smokers start before they turn twenty, most as children (Source: Tobacco and Vapes Bill 2024). The new Smoke Free website and enhanced services and initiatives aim to tackle this by providing evidence-based support that is free, non-judgemental, and easy to access.

    People aged 12+ who live, work, or are registered with a GP in Coventry or Warwickshire are entitled to free support. Smokers who sign up to their local stop smoking service get access to the following:

    • 12 weeks of one-to-one support (face-to-face or virtual) with a specialist stop smoking practitioner.
    • Help to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
    • Free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products or Vape Quit Kits (18+ only).
    • Access to a Smoke Free App.

    People who quit smoking with the support of a stop smoking service are three times more likely to quit for good.

    A male Warwickshire resident, aged 67, who recently accessed the Warwickshire stop smoking service said : “I have smoked for over 50 years and smoking 30 cigarettes a day I never in a million years thought I could do it, all of the staff I have spoken to during my journey have been amazing and I thank them very much for helping me get where I am today. I have quit and remain confident that I will continue to stay quit for the future ahead.” 

    Allison Duggal, Director of Public Health in Coventry said: “The website will help people to access services and it really makes sense to work alongside Warwickshire colleagues.

    “We have a particular focus on young people, in fact I started smoking myself at a young age and it doesn’t surprise me that eight of 10 smokers started before they turn 20.

    “I managed to stop 21 years ago, but I know it is not an easy process for people. We have lots more work to do to help people through the process of stopping. It’s about managing cravings, withdrawals and the reliance that people have with smoking.

    “People from the age of 12 can access free support so we want everyone to know there is help available.”

    She added: “I feel so much healthier and it’s why I feel able to train for my first marathon.”

    Councillor Margaret Bell, Portfolio Holder for Social Care and Health at WCC, said: “We know how challenging quitting smoking can be, but having the right support makes all the difference. Our new website is part of a wider enhancement of the stop smoking support available to people in Warwickshire.

    “Smoking has a huge impact on an individual’s health – quitting can reduce your risk of developing dementia, lung disease, heart disease, cancer and stroke. Stopping smoking also boosts your mental health and wellbeing. We encourage any residents who smoke to visit the website and learn more about the support available, and in doing so, take their first step towards happier, healthier lives.”

    Smokers are encouraged to learn more by visiting smokefreecw.co.uk. Free stop smoking support can also be accessed via phone on 0800 122 3780 for Coventry services or 0333 005 0092 for Warwickshire services.

    Stopping smoking is hard, but when a new baby is due, quitting smoking is one of the best choices people can make as a family to give their baby the best start in life. Across Coventry and Warwickshire, there are specialist Stop Smoking in Pregnancy advisors trained to support pregnant people and their families through their journey to stop smoking. Information on stop smoking in pregnancy services.

    Both WCC and CCC are also increasing the awareness of the impact of vaping, with the clear message: if you don’t smoke, don’t vape and children should never vape. Vaping information and advice.

    Further work is being scoped to provide additional support and initiatives to reduce smoking prevalence across Coventry and Warwickshire with a particular focus on priority groups.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre organises start-ups sharing session in Guangzhou (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre (Promotion Centre) of the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau held a luncheon sharing session on Start-ups and Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) in Guangzhou today (September 26). The sharing session aimed to provide start-ups with the latest information on ESG development and trends, assist start-ups in formulating ESG policies, and promote sustainable business development.
     
         The Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Ms Maisie Chan, attended the sharing session in Guangzhou and delivered a welcome speech. Ms Chan said that ESG and sustainable development are the foci of global attention. Apart from investors, clients of enterprises are also paying more attention to environmental protection, civic social responsibility and corporate governance. For enterprises, the formulation of ESG strategies to achieve sustainable development has transitioned from being optional to becoming an essential requirement. Today’s sharing session was organised by the Promotion Centre to provide information in this regard to start-ups.
     
         Ms Chan emphasised that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to providing support to Hong Kong residents and enterprises pursuing development in the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), as well as enhancing the promotion of the enormous opportunities GBA development has to offer. The Promotion Centre, established in Guangzhou in April last year, seeks to better understand the development needs of Hong Kong residents and enterprises in the Mainland cities of the GBA and to provide practical assistance through various forms of activities. The Promotion Centre encourages Mainland talent and enterprises to capitalise on Hong Kong’s unique advantages and status under the principle of “one country, two systems”, and to develop overseas markets through Hong Kong, thereby fully leveraging Hong Kong’s dual roles in “going global and attracting foreign investment”.
     
         The sharing session today, held at Guangzhou Oâ‚‚ PARK, received support from the Human Resources and Social Security Department of Guangdong Province and attracted nearly 100 start-up representatives. In addition to keynote speeches, practical case studies were presented on how enterprises could achieve sustainable development in terms of environmental, social and corporate governance. At the sharing session, four representatives from Hong Kong enterprises also shared their experiences in implementing ESG practices across cultural and creative, environmental protection, architectural design, and educational technology industries. There was an interactive session as well to discuss strategies for implementing the best ESG initiatives to help enterprises stand out from their competitors.
     
         Moreover, participants of the sharing session took the opportunity to visit Oâ‚‚ PARK, a city revitalisation project that has integrated ESG concepts into its development since the design stage. During the visit, participants also further learned from successful cases about the benefits of integrating ESG concepts into the operating strategies of enterprises.      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: October Play 2024

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    This October holidays, we are arranging a range of activities to support children and families across Perth and Kinross throughout.

    This offer is being across Perth and Kinross. There will be a main session daily which is open to all families, no pre-registration will be required. Families can turn up on the day and join in the fun. There will also be smaller group sessions in different localities which will require pre-registration in advance. 

    For further details, please go to the October Play 2024 page.

    Last modified on 26 September 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plans set out for provision of new affordable housing in Perth and Kinross

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2025/26 – 2029/30 sets out the investment priorities of the Council and its local Housing Association partners for affordable housing over the coming years.

    The SHIP sits alongside the Local Housing Strategy (LHS) as one of the main delivery plans for additional local housing. It has been developed through engagement with Registered Social Landlords, the Health and Social Care Partnership, tenants, housing developers and the Council’s Housing, Planning and Economic Development teams.

    Since 2016/17 the Council and its partners have delivered almost 2,000 affordable homes in Perth and Kinross, averaging 274 affordable homes per year against our target of 210.

    The projection for 20024/25 is an additional 223 affordable homes, and then a yearly average of 230 new affordable homes over the next five years.

     A report on the updated SHIP to be considered by the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee on Wednesday 2nd October estimates that the Council and its local housing partners could deliver an additional 1,152 new affordable homes over the period 2025/26 – 29/30, using Scottish Government subsidies and local investment.

    This housing will be provided through Council new build projects, replacing older homes, bringing empty homes back into use as housing, buying back ex-Council homes, re-modelling existing buildings for new housing and buying ‘off-the shelf’ housing from developers.

    The homes will:

    • All be built to the highest standards, with energy efficiency measures included to help meet local and national climate change targets. 
    • Include housing for people with particular needs, helping them to live independently and happily in the community.
    • Be built in areas of high demand, including rural areas, giving people access to housing of a type and in an area suitable for their current and future needs.

    Housing and Social Wellbeing Convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “High quality affordable homes significantly enhance the overall quality of life for the people who live in them. This in-turn has a positive effect on social issues such as health, employment opportunities and poverty, and that is why delivering more affordable housing is a priority for this Council.

    “With demand for housing in Perth and Kinross continuing to rise, and the housing needs of our communities becoming more complex, our commitment to provide a wide range of affordable housing options remains a key strategic aim.

    “We have made great progress over the last five-years in Perth and Kinross, consistently delivering more new affordable homes than our target. Here in Perth and Kinross we have a very good working partnership with our partner housing providers, and this has been one of the key factors in the success we have seen.

    “I am pleased that the updated SHIP for the next five years continues to be very ambitious. This plan will help us achieve the outcomes set out in our Local Housing Strategy and support the Scottish Government’s ‘Housing to 2040’ agenda which states that everyone should have a safe, energy-efficient home that is affordable and meets their needs, in the place where they want to be.”

    Members of the Committee will be asked to approve the updated SHIP and its submission to the Scottish Government.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Annual Assurance Statement confirms Housing Services continue to perform well

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Housing Service is responsible for delivering high-quality services for all tenants and other customers. We are required to publish an Annual Assurance Statement in line with Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) guidance to confirm to tenants and the SHR that we are meeting all regulatory requirements, and to also highlight areas for improvement.

    The statement is made available to tenants to give them assurance that the Council is meeting its responsibilities and providing quality services.

    A report asking councillors to approve the Annual Assurance Statement for 2023/24 will be considered at a meeting of the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee on Wednesday 2nd October.

    A report to the committee says that during 2023/24 the Council’s Housing Service complied with all but one regulatory requirement as set out by the SHR – our legal obligations around tenant and resident safety:

    • We did not fully comply with Electrical Inspection Certificate Reports (EICR) for 28 of our properties. This represents 0.35% of our 8,053 homes. This non-compliance was mainly due to the reluctance of some tenants to grant access to their home so the testing could be carried out, as well as the complex support needs of some tenants. Some properties were also waiting to have an EICR carried out as part of the voids process.

    Overall, the report confirms that we achieved the standards and outcomes in the Scottish Social Housing Charter for tenants, people who are homeless and others who use our services. We complied with legal obligations relating to housing and homelessness, equality and human rights.

    Committee Convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “The Council’s Housing Service continues to deliver very high levels of service, with strong performance across all areas despite ongoing challenges such as the cost-of-living crisis. In many areas we are exceeding the standards required by the SHR. This has been achieved in the context of maintaining our rents at affordable levels, demonstrating our commitment to delivering a value for money service for our tenants.

    “To ensure continuous improvement we have an Action Plan in place to build on progress, implement improvement actions and ensure ongoing compliance with regulations. Safety remains a key priority for the Service, and we now have a dedicated Housing Compliance Team to ensure key areas such as gas, electrical, water, fire and asbestos safety are closely monitored, and that appropriate checks and governance arrangements are in place.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two years of terror following Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukrainian oblasts: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ambassador Holland calls out Russia’s illegal attempted annexation of Ukrainian territory and the system of violence and terror that accompanies Russian occupation.

    Location:
    Vienna
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you, Madam Chair.  Next week marks the second anniversary of Russia’s illegal annexation attempts in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts. Russia claims these land grabs, and ten years of control over Crimea, have brought liberty. On the contrary, these years of occupation have brought violence, terror, and occupation. Carried out under the guise of sham referenda and backed by military force, Russia aims to legitimise its aggression and create a false narrative of rightful control over Ukrainian land.

    First implemented in Crimea, the Russian state has expanded to the newly occupied territories a systematic campaign, designed to suppress Ukrainian heritage, history, and language. This campaign goes beyond territorial ambitions; it seeks to dismantle the idea of Ukraine as a distinct nation, stripping away the cultural and national identity of its people.

    We continue to be appalled by widespread reports of violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and violations and abuses of International Human Rights Law (IHRL) within the temporarily occupied territories. As the independent Moscow Mechanism reports have shown, arbitrary detentions, forced deportations, and the persecution of civilians are prevalent. Particularly alarming is the forced deportation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children. The most recent report details the atrocious conditions faced by both civilians and prisoners of war held in detention, and the widespread and systematic use of torture, as well as sexual violence. In recent weeks, we have also seen media reports of POWs being executed in the most barbaric manner.

    Russia is also deliberately targeting Ukraine’s cultural heritage in the territory it occupies. Museums, religious sites, and historic buildings have been bombed, looted, or appropriated. This systematic destruction of cultural sites not only devastates the physical symbols of Ukraine’s heritage but also attempts to erase crucial elements of its national identity.

    Madam Chair, Russia’s annexation attempts are a clear violation of the Helsinki Final Act, which enshrines the principle of territorial integrity and the inviolability of national borders. As a signatory, Russia committed to respect the sovereignty and independence of all states in the OSCE region, including Ukraine. They made the same pledge more directly in the Budapest Memorandum in the 1990s.  By attempting to seize Ukrainian territory through force, Russia has flagrantly disregarded these principles. Moreover, the purported annexations represent a breach of the Paris Charter of 1990, in which all participating nations, including Russia, reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful relations, the rule of law, and the right of nations to determine their own destiny without external interference.

    Russia’s continued imperialist ambitions destabilise the world, creating insecurity for all. We must call it what it is. And We must stand together to resist this dangerous expansionism. Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts, and Crimea are all irrefutably part of Ukraine. The UK will never recognise Russia’s illegitimate claims to these regions. We call upon Russia to immediately cease its unprovoked illegal war and withdraw its forces unconditionally from all of Ukraine. Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategy aims to get tenants involved in Housing Services

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Tenant and Resident Participation (TRP) Strategy for 2024-27 has been produced in partnership with Council tenants and Housing staff and aims to make it as easy as possible for tenants to get involved in shaping the decisions that affect them, at a level they are comfortable with.

    The Council has a legal duty to manage Housing Services so that tenants and other customers find it easy to participate in decision-making. The involvement of tenants is also vital to ensure we continue to provide the type of high-quality services that people want and need.

    Four key strategic priorities for participation have been agreed with tenants, which are:

    • Creating a culture of tenant participation across staff and tenants.
    • Improving communication and keeping tenants informed of the decisions which affect them.
    • Ensuring everyone has a say in the housing decisions that matter to them.
    • Ensuring tenants and communities lead the way in improving neighbourhoods and places.

    To support these priorities, a menu of opportunities has been drawn up to encourage tenants to participate in a range of different ways. These include taking part in online consultations, attending events either in-person or online, joining groups set up to scrutinise services, or even just communicating with staff through our dedicated social media channels for tenants.

    The Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee will be asked to approve the updated TRP Strategy on Wednesday 2nd October.

    Committee Vice Convener, Councillor Sheila McCole, said: “It is vitally important that we work in close partnership with tenants and remove barriers so everyone can have a say in what kind of services we provide for them and so they can tell us where we need to improve.

    “This new Strategy will see a participation built into every piece of work the Housing Service does, so that tenants’ voices are heard loud and clear.

    “The approach set out will provide tenants with a wide range of participation opportunities, from small scale involvement like filling out a survey on their phone at home, to getting involved in meetings that examine the workings of our Housing Revenue Account. The strategy allows tenants to get involved and influence their services at a level that suits them.

    “I would encourage all of our tenants to get involved in any way that they can, to make sure they have a say in important decisions that affect them.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s non-financial ODI up 12.4%

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s non-financial outbound direct investment (ODI) increased 12.4 percent year on year to 94.09 billion U.S. dollars in the first eight months of the year, data from the Ministry of Commerce showed on Thursday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: President  Biden and Vice President Harris Announce Additional Actions to Reduce Gun Violence and Save  Lives

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    New Executive Order Directs Federal Agencies to Combat Emerging Firearms Threats andImprove School-Based Active Shooter Drills
    Today, President Biden and Vice President Harris are announcing a new Executive Order directing federal agencies to improve school-based active shooter drills and combat the emerging threats of machinegun conversion devices and unserialized, 3D-printed firearms, as well as additional executive actions that advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s agenda to reduce gun violence and save lives.
    After the prior Administration oversaw the largest one-year increase in murders ever recorded, President Biden and Vice President Harris took action from the start of their Administration to reduce violent crime. The President and the Vice President helped deliver over $15 billion in funding through the American Rescue Plan for law enforcement, community violence interventions, and other public safety strategies. By the middle of 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration had already announced more executive actions to reduce gun violence than any other administration. Then, on June 25, 2022, President Biden signed into law the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the most significant gun violence prevention law in nearly 30 years. On September 22, 2023, to help drive further progress, President Biden established the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, overseen by Vice President Harris.
    Under the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris, in 2023 the United States experienced the single largest homicide rate drop in recent history. The reduction in homicide has accelerated this year. Data submitted to the Department of Justice shows that the homicide rate dropped another 17 percent from January through June 2024, compared to the same time period in 2023. Data from the Gun Violence Archive indicates that the number of mass shootings so far this year is 20 percent lower than it was at this time last year.
    Today, as we mark one year since the establishment of the Office, President Biden and Vice President Harris are announcing additional meaningful actions to reduce gun violence and save lives. This announcement builds on the numerous additional life-saving actions the Biden-Harris Administration has taken, as detailed in the Office’s Year One Progress Report.
    President Biden is signing an Executive Order to accelerate progress on two key priorities: combating emerging firearms threats and improving school-based active shooter drills.
    Combatting Emerging Firearms Threats: In April 2021, one of the Biden-Harris Administration’s first executive actions to reduce gun violence was to address the emerging threat of firearms without serial numbers, often referred to as “ghost guns.” To expand these efforts, ATF established an Emerging Threats Center. This Center focuses ATF’s resources on identifying developments in illicit firearm marketplaces, including the use of new technologies to make and unlawfully distribute undetectable firearms and devices that convert semi-automatic firearms into illegal machineguns.
    Now, President Biden and Vice President Harris are taking additional action on two emerging firearms threats: machinegun conversion devices and unserialized, 3D-printed firearms.
    Machinegun conversion devices enable semi-automatic firearms, including easily concealable handguns, to match or exceed the rate of fire of many military machineguns with a single engagement of the trigger—up to 20 bullets in one second. From 2017 through 2021, ATF recovered 5,454 of these devices, a 570 percent increase over the previous five-year period. Machinegun conversion devices are illegal to possess under federal law, but we continue to see these devices show up at crime scenes because they are small, cheap, and easy to install. Machinegun conversion devices are often illegally imported or illegally made on a 3D printer from computer code found online. The 3D-printing of a machinegun conversion device costs as little as 40 cents and takes fewer than 30 minutes.
    Unserialized, 3D-printed firearms can be used for illegal purposes such as gun trafficking, unlawful possession by people convicted of felonies or subject to domestic violence restraining orders, or unlawfully engaging in the business of manufacturing or selling firearms. These firearms can be 3D-printed from computer code downloaded from the Internet and produced without serial numbers that law enforcement use to trace firearms recovered in criminal investigations. Some 3D-printed firearms can be made to be undetectable by magnetometers used to secure airports, courthouses, and event spaces, even though these undetectable firearms are illegal to make, sell, or possess under federal law. As 3D-printing technology continues to develop rapidly, the safety threat posed by 3D-printed firearms may suddenly increase.
    In this Executive Order, President Biden is establishing an Emerging Firearms Threats Task Force, consisting of leadership from key federal departments and agencies. President Biden is directing the Task Force to issue a report within 90 days that includes: an assessment of the threat posed by machinegun conversion devices and unserialized, 3D-printed firearms; an assessment of federal agencies’ operational and legal capacities to detect, intercept, and seize machinegun conversion devices and unserialized, 3D-printed firearms; and an interagency plan for combatting these emerging threats. The report will include any additional authorities or funding the federal agencies need from Congress in order to complete this work.
    Improving School-Based Active Shooter Drills: The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to preventing gun violence in schools, including by keeping guns out of the hands of potential school shooters and investing more resources in school safety and violence prevention. The majority of schools are currently using drills to prepare for an active shooter situation. Despite the ubiquity of these drills, there is very limited research on how to design and deploy these drills to maximize their effectiveness and limit any collateral harms they might cause. Many parents, students, and educators have expressed concerns about the trauma caused by some approaches to these drills. Federal agencies need to help schools improve drills so they can more effectively prepare for an active shooter situation while also preventing or minimizing any trauma.
    In the Executive Order, President Biden is directing the Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. Surgeon General, to develop and publish, within 110 days, information for K-12 schools and institutions of higher education regarding school-based active shooter drills. The information will include a summary of: existing research on active shooter drills and resources for school districts and institutions of higher education on how to create, implement, and evaluate evidence-informed active shooter drills; how to conduct effective and age- and developmentally-appropriate drills; how best to communicate with students, families, and educators about these drills; how to prevent students and educators from experiencing trauma or psychological distress associated with these drills; and how best to serve people with disabilities and those with language-related needs, including by ensuring compliance with federal civil rights laws, when designing and implementing school-based active shooter drills.
    In addition to the Executive Order, federal departments and agencies are taking the following actions:
    Promoting Safe Gun Storage and Red Flag Laws
    Encouraging Safe Storage of Firearms: Today, the Department of Education is providing schools, school boards, and policymakers with a new tool to promote safe gun storage in their communities. Following up on its initial safe storage actions, the Department of Education is publishing an interactive website that highlights examples of state, community, and school district actions across the nation that promote safe gun storage within school communities. The website includes a map with state safe storage laws, examples of how schools are communicating with parents about safe storage, and examples of local policies on safe storage education. This new resource builds on guidance the Department published earlier this year to highlight physical safety measures schools can pursue to help keep students safe in the event of gun violence in schools.
    Clarifying Medicaid Reimbursement for Counseling on Firearm Safety: Health systems, hospitals, and healthcare workers are an essential component of a healthy gun violence prevention and intervention system. By the end of October, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will announce that states may choose to use Medicaid to pay a health care provider for counseling parents and caregivers on firearm safety and injury prevention. This announcement will build off the coverage that Medicaid provides for “anticipatory guidance,” which is health education and counseling to help parents and caregivers understand and improve the health and development of their children. For example, Bright Futures/American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines include firearm safety guidance, such as safe storage guidance, as recommended anticipatory guidance for pediatricians to provide to parents.
    Implementing State Red Flag Laws: The Department of Justice is announcing over $135 million in formula awards to 48 states under the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (Byrne SCIP), which provides funding for the implementation of extreme risk protection order, or “red flag”, programs, state crisis intervention court proceedings, and related programs/initiatives. The implementation of state red flag laws is supported by the National Extreme Risk Protection Resource Center.
    Funding Community Violence Intervention
    Funding Community Violence Interventions: In furtherance of the Biden-Harris Administration’s strategy to invest in community violence interventions as a proven solution to prevent gun violence, the Department of Justice is announcing an additional $85 million in funding through the Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI). This funding will help 30 agencies and organizations develop and expand their community violence intervention work, including hospital-based violence intervention, street outreach, and cognitive behavioral therapy. These strategies are essential complements to law enforcement and this investment is part of the $400 million in total funding that the Biden-Harris Administration has secured for CVIPI. CVIPI is only one part of how the Administration funds community violence interventions. This fact sheet lists the full range of federal resources available to address community violence.
    Clarifying Medicaid Reimbursement for Violence Intervention: CMS previously clarified that states may authorize health care providers to be reimbursed by Medicaid for violence intervention programs. In October, CMS expects to proactively raise this clarification with states. CMS will also explore how best to convene state governments and healthcare providers on incorporating Medicaid benefits into violence prevention programs.
    Improving the Gun Background Check System
    Facilitating Enhanced Background Checks for Individuals Under Age 21: The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) established enhanced background checks for individuals under age 21 trying to purchase a firearm. These enhanced checks have already stopped over 900 transactions, keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals. But a number of states across the country have privacy laws that prevent state officials from fully responding to enhanced background check inquiries. The Biden-Harris Administration’s Safer States Agenda made fixing this issue a top priority for states, and Connecticut, Vermont, Nevada, Texas, and Kentucky have all recently made necessary changes. Today, the Department of Justice is issuing model legislation that additional states may use to inform their own legislation and allow a carve-out to share juvenile records solely for the purpose of enhanced background checks. In addition, the Justice Department is releasing information on whether state laws permit information-sharing with regard to juvenile records for the purposes of enhanced background checks.
    Maximizing the Enhanced Background Check with Red Flag Laws: Part of the enhanced background check requires requesting records from state and local law enforcement and mental health repositories about potential purchasers under 21.  In these and other circumstances, if a person shows clear signs of being in crisis and a danger to themselves or others, they may qualify for consideration under applicable red flag laws which would generally result in that person being ineligible to possess or receive firearms.  By October 22, the Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) National Resource Center will provide training to state and local law enforcement on the ERPO process, including how it intersects with individuals under 21.
    Improving the Federal Gun Background Check System: BSCA’s enhanced background checks for gun purchasers under age 21 and the law’s narrowing of the “boyfriend loophole,” along with the expanding number of states with red flag laws, are placing new challenges on state and local agencies attempting to ascertain what records they need to send to the federal gun background check system. To address these challenges, there needs to be system-wide improvements and a new era of collaboration among various entities engaging with the federal gun background check system. By December 15, the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs will have evaluated the existing grant programs that support improvements to the gun background check system and make any changes needed to support states looking to improve their records systems, which may include lengthening the duration of grants where appropriate. 
    Expanding Data on Gun Violence and Gun Trafficking
    Publishing Additional Data on Ghost Gun Trends and Firearms Trafficking: This winter, ATF will publish the fourth volume of its National Firearms Commerce and Trafficking Assessment. This volume will provide an update on ghost gun trends and trafficking investigations, as well as expanded information on machinegun conversion device recoveries.
    Expanding Collection of Gun Violence Data: There is a lack of reliable and timely data on gun deaths and gunshot injuries that show what is happening nationwide and in individual communities. This data is critical to focusing investment and enforcement efforts. Today, the FBI is announcing that it will collect additional detail in its data collection for gunshot injury wounds in the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) by June 2025. The FBI will implement a new injury code to reflect a gunshot wound in the NIBRS victim segment. NIBRS will also enable law enforcement agencies to submit additional detail as to how firearms were used in specific crimes, and the nature of the crime at issue.
    Improving Data on Gunshot Injuries: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is improving a data visualization tool to present gun death and injury data faster and at a more local level. Using data from vital statistics and emergency rooms at the local level can help inform prevention strategies and evaluate the effectiveness of programs.
    Supporting Survivors of Gun Violence
    Addressing the Trauma Resulting from Gun Violence: This fall, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will take additional action to support individuals dealing with the trauma that results from gun violence. SAMHSA will release:
    Best practices for local offices of violence prevention to use in addressing trauma resulting from gun violence;A tip sheet for individuals affected by gun violence who may be seeking more information on the behavioral health impacts of gun violence and how to seek help;A report on lessons learned from the federal ReCAST grant program to uplift the voices of communities impacted by violence as well as share strategies other communities can implement to promote healing, recovery, and resiliency; and
    A toolkit for faith-based leaders, educators, and other leaders to help communities affected by the trauma resulting from gun violence.

    Destroying Crime Guns
    Ensuring Appropriate Disposition of Firearms Seized by Law Enforcement: Firearms or firearm parts that were presumed to be destroyed by law enforcement have begun showing up in crimes. Sometimes the guns recovered by law enforcement are sent to a third-party that only partially destroys them. By October 30, the Department of Justice will refresh and clarify best practices for federal law enforcement disposition of seized firearms, including when working in partnership with state and local law enforcement. The Department of Justice will also release a plan to offer new training and education for state and local partners on safe and appropriate firearm disposition.
    Preventing Firearm Suicide
    Facilitating Voluntary Out-of-Home Storage to Prevent Firearm Suicide: Voluntary out-of-home storage of firearms is an effective tactic to saves lives by creating time and space between a person in crisis and a firearm. A number of states, including Colorado, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, and Wisconsin, have developed gun storage maps to show different locations where a gun owner can voluntarily store their firearms. A federally funded program has developed model guidelines, contracts, and standard operating procedures for businesses interested in providing this option. Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs and SAMHSA are using their network of teams committed to preventing Veteran suicide—known as the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and Families—to encourage states to convene federally licensed gun dealers around offering out-of-home storage to our Nation’s heroes and their families.
    Congress must act. While the Biden-Harris Administration’s gun violence prevention actions are saving lives, there is much more to do. President Biden and Vice President Harris continue to call on Congress to enact commonsense gun safety legislation—from a ban on assault weapons and bump stocks to universal background checks to a repeal of gun manufacturers’ immunity from liability—and to enact federal safe storage and red flag laws and fully fund community violence intervention programs and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Big Data and Technology Key to Fast-tracking Development of Smarter Cities, Huawei Says

    Nairobi, September 26, 2024 – Huawei has underscored the transformative impact of Big Data and cutting-edge technologies in fast-tracking the development of smarter, more sustainable, and human-centric cities.

     

    Speaking at the 41st International Association of Science Parks and areas of innovation (IASP) World Conference 2024 held in Nairobi, Steve Kamuya, Executive Director at Huawei Kenya, highlighted the transformative potential of data-driven solutions in urban development.

     

    Kamuya stressed the importance of a human-centric approach to city planning, adding that technology should be used to enhance the quality of life for all residents, making cities more livable, inclusive, and sustainable.

     

    “By leveraging data, we can better understand the needs of diverse populations and address challenges such as traffic congestion, pollution, and resource management. As urban populations grow, data and technology will play an even greater role in ensuring cities remain sustainable, resilient, and adaptable to future needs,” he said.

     

    He further noted that technologies such as 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) were already being integrated to fast-track development of smarter cities like Konza Technopolis and at the same time were being used to optimize critical city operations like transportation, energy management, and public safety, globally.

     

    “Overall, smart cities rely on a combination of cloud computing, robust networking, edge computing, and date aggregation to optimize urban operations. These technologies not only increase efficiency but also reduce environmental impact, a key pillar in creating sustainable urban environments. Huawei’s vision aligns with the broader goals of smart cities worldwide – creating cities that are not just technologically advanced but also prioritize the well-being and inclusivity of their inhabitants,” he added.

     

    Huawei Kenya’s Director for Government Affairs and Policy, Adam Lane, provided a focus talk presentation to kick-off the session on Transformative Models in Sustainable Development. He focused on the large opportunities available from even simple interventions such as using microphones in forests to detect deforestation as well as making advanced AI solutions easier for communities to develop through Huawei Cloud’s Pangu Models, many of which are already pre-trained and easily applicable to different industry uses.

     

    Lane provided further details on how Integrated Operations Centers can transform coordination, management, and governance through integrating data from multiple sources and thus improving public service delivery, efficiency and sustainability. Huawei’s exhibition stand at the conference provided opportunities for participants to interact with these tools and solutions and discuss with Huawei experts.

     

    Huawei is the Platinum Sponsor of IASP World Conference 2024, which is being hosted by Konza Technopolis on behalf of the Kenya Government.

     

    The conference has brought together global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders in the science park and innovation district sectors from more than 50 countries, to explore how demographics, entrepreneurship, and technology are shaping future global economies.

     

    The conference is also featuring discussions on how innovation hubs like Konza Technopolis are pioneering digital transformation in Africa, offering a glimpse into the future of urban development.

     

    The 42nd IASP World Conference will be held in Beijing, China, between September 9-16, 2025.

     

    For more information on Huawei’s initiatives in smart city development, please visit

    https://www.huawei.com

     

    About Huawei

    Huawei is a leading global provider of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. With integrated solutions across four key domains—telecom networks, IT, smart devices, and cloud services—Huawei is committed to bringing digital to every person, home, and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world.

     

    About IASP

    The International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) is a global network that connects professionals managing science, technology, and research parks.

     

    With membership of more than 300 associations, the IASP World Conference brings together experts from around the world to explore the latest trends in innovation ecosystems.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China announces anti-discrimination probe into Canada’s restrictive measures

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) on Thursday announced an anti-discrimination investigation into Canada’s restrictive measures targeting certain imports from China.

    Preliminary evidence and information obtained by the MOC indicates that Canada’s planned additional tariffs and other restrictive measures on imports of Chinese electric vehicles, and steel and aluminum products are discriminatory trade practices, according to China’s foreign trade law, the MOC said in an online statement.

    The investigation began the same day as the announcement and is expected to last for three months, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Dividend Declaration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    For Immediate Release:                                                        26-Sep-24

    WisdomTree Issuer ICAV
    Re: Dividend Payment

    The Directors of WisdomTree Issuer ICAV (the “Fund”) wish to announce the following dividend(s)
    paid by the Fund for the quarter to September 2024.

    Announcement Date: 26-Sep-24
    Ex-Date:                   03-Oct-24
    Record Date:             04-Oct-24
    Payment Date:          18-Oct-24

    Sub-Fund/Share Class ISIN Currency Amount per Share
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Equity Income UCITS ETF IE00BQQ3Q067 USD 0.3381
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF IE00BQZJBM26 USD 0.2714
    WisdomTree US Equity Income UCITS ETF IE00BQZJBQ63 USD 0.1749
    WisdomTree Europe Equity Income UCITS ETF IE00BQZJBX31 EUR 0.1103
    WisdomTree Europe Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF IE00BQZJC527 EUR 0.1438
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ56RD98 USD 0.1239
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE000IGMB3E1 GBP 0.0493*
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ56RN96 USD 0.0873
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE000LRRPK60 GBP 0.0417*
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD (Inst) IE00030Y2P41 USD 27.317
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ0XVF52 USD 1.2643
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD Hedged IE00BFNNN012 USD 1.4246
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged IE00BFNNN236 EUR 1.1825*
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE00BFNNN459 GBP 1.2284*
    WisdomTree USD Floating Rate Treasury Bond UCITS ETF – USD IE00BJFN5P63 USD 0.6632
    WisdomTree UK Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP IE0003UH9270 GBP 0.2753
    * Amount has been converted to share class currency using the WMR 4pm rate on 25 September.    

    Enquiries to:

    State Street Fund Services (Ireland) Limited        Karen Campion                        +353 1 776 0406

    IQ EQ Fund Management (Ireland) Limited        Paul Boland                        +353 1 697 1684

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – NEWRIVER REIT PLC – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 NewRiver REIT PLC  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 25 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES
    Capital & Regional PLC    		  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary (GB00BD7XPJ64)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 5,734,460 1.53 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 5,734,460 1.53 %      
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    1p ordinary (GB00BD7XPJ64) Sale 13,500 .8178 GBP  

    Please note, there were net transfers in of 507

    		  
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 26 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at http://www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – SEGRO plc – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Segro PLC  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 25 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES
    Tritax EuroBox PLC    		  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: 10p ordinary (GB00B5ZN1N88)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 15,343,256 1.13 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 15,343,256 * 1.13 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 193,093 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    10p ordinary (GB00B5ZN1N88) Purchase 849 8.6860 GBP  
    Please note, there were net transfers in of 8,904  
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 26 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at http://www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Participants in the dynamic tariff test parked for free more than 100 times

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Drivers left their cars in the parking lot for free more than 100 times as part of testing the dynamic tariff. Most often, cars were parked at Tverskaya Zastava Square.

    Testing of the pilot project began last week and will last until September 30.

    The dynamic tariff regulates the cost of parking depending on its predicted occupancy. It can be reduced to zero rubles when there are many free spaces left in the parking lot.

    “The testing of the innovative dynamic tariff, which was developed on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin, is going well. We see how participants use the parking lots and process their feedback. The cost has already been reduced to zero rubles several times, meaning that drivers could actually leave their cars in a paid parking lot and not spend money,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    You can apply to participate in the testing on a special website.

    The test participants use a special version of the application to pay for parking. Many of the drivers have already seen how stable it is: the tariff is calculated correctly. They have not had any difficulties with choosing and paying for parking.

    “I tested the new functionality of the app when parking at the Belorussky railway station. In general, I consider the new functionality useful, since sometimes it is difficult to find a parking space even in the center. Dynamic pricing would allow for a more even distribution of cars around the city,” said Pavel Sushko, a participant in the tariff testing.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144499073/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Peace Action Wellington – New Zealand Foreign Minister must be clear at United Nations

    SOURCE: Peace Action Wellington

    26 September 2024 – Foreign Minister Winston Peters is due to give his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday morning in New York outlining the government’s views on the state of world affairs.

    “New Zealanders expect that the Foreign Minister will be absolutely clear in his remarks that Israel’s illegal occupation and genocide will no longer be tolerated. He must be clear that Israel’s attacks on Lebanon must cease immediately,” said Valerie Morse, spokesperson for Peace Action Wellington.

    “We applaud the recent courageous Aotearoa New Zealand vote for a UN resolution calling on Israel to end its unlawful presence in the occupied territories. However, these symbolic resolutions must be backed up by real material actions.”

    “Like the actions taken to stop Russia, Israel must be subjected to sanctions and commercial trade embargos to drain it of the resources to continue its genocide of Palestinian people and its provocation of war in Lebanon.”

    “This session of the United Nations is critically important for Aotearoa New Zealand because the world is at a crossroads: international law is being thrown away in favour of hard power politics. That does not serve the interests of small countries like Aotearoa New Zealand. It is harmful for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

    “The Foreign Minister must be clear that Aotearoa New Zealand will be a force for upholding international law no matter who is involved. Siding with a genocidal regime involved in mass human rights abuses is not the hallmark of a free and democratic society. That the other Five Eyes countries continue to support Israel shows the moral bankruptcy of their claims to care about rights and seriously undermines their credibility on the world stage.”

    “Since October, the world has seen the face of Zionist terrorism exposed in its full horror. There is no going back to the false narratives and double-standards that have upheld Israel since 1948. The UN must act decisively to end the genocide and occupation, and to stop a wider war. Aotearoa New Zealand must be on the right side of history.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – INTERNATIONAL PAPER CO – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 International Paper Co  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 25 September 2024  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 YES
    DS Smith PLC    		  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: common stock (US4601461035)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 4,807,368 1.38 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 4,807,368 * 1.38 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 383,870 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
    common stock (US4601461035) Purchase 20 48.2275 USD  
    common stock (US4601461035) Purchase 3 48.2274 USD  
    common stock (US4601461035) Sale 19 48.2200 USD  
    common stock (US4601461035) Sale 2,410 48.0900 USD  

    Please note, there were net transfers in of 788

    		  
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 26 September 2024  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at http://www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A scientific and educational center for unmanned systems will be created at the Polytechnic University

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Unmanned systems are a priority area for the development of science and technology in the country. Naturally, this area is actively developing at the Polytechnic University: these include our own developments in UAVs, unmanned boats, underwater robotics, and machine vision systems for ground-based UAVs. The university has the status of a federal provider of training in the field of unmanned aircraft systems — design, operation, and piloting of UAVs, including in the form of youth design bureaus. However, the subject matter is very broad and complex.

    Rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy noted during the signing of the agreement with partners on the creation of the UAV scientific and educational center: The tasks in this area can be called global, they cover many technologies and areas of research and training. These include communications, 3D printing, and new materials. Of course, this is impossible without modern digital modeling technologies, which we have full control over. Our university is ready to respond to the challenges of the time and will fully develop this area.

    The agreement was signed with NPO Kaisant, ANO TsPV ZOV-AA, JSC TsNII Cyclone, and Engineering Systems LLC with the participation of the 56th UAV training center of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.

    The partners agreed to organize and develop cooperation in the following areas:

    creation of innovative software products for UAVs; development of circuit solutions for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and their main components; development of radio jamming systems (EW); development of SIGINT systems (electronic intelligence); methodological support for the design, development and operation of unmanned aircraft systems, including legal support; conducting full-scale tests.

    In order to improve the qualifications of the university staff and students, a test site for UAVs/EW/SAR will be used on the basis of two military ranges of the 56th UAV training center of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation. As part of the practice, students will be able to assemble real UAVs, as well as EW/SAR units. The first stage of such practice will be launched on the basis of the Institute of Secondary Vocational Education. In addition, the discussion was about the participation of partners in the military-patriotic education of youth. The basis for all this should be a scientific cluster for the development of technologies in the field of UAVs/EW/SAR.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/education/a scientific-educational-center-for-unmanned-systems will be created at the Polytechnic University/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investing £100 million in mid-market rent

    Source: Scottish Government

    Supporting the delivery of 2,800 homes.

    The construction of 2,800 mid-market rent homes will be supported by £100 million of investment from the Scottish Government.

    As announced as part of the 2024-25 Programme for Government, funding will be used alongside institutional investment – such as pension funds – to grow to at least £500 million.

    This commitment forms part of the Government’s approach to leverage in more private investment to deliver housing, making public funds go further.

    It will build on the success of the Thriving Investments model which has grown an initial £47.5 million investment from the Scottish Government to £222.5 million to deliver up to 1,200 mid-market homes across Scotland.

    Mid-market rent is a type of affordable housing aimed at assisting households on low to moderate incomes to access affordable rented accommodation and helps those who have difficulty accessing social rented housing, buying their own home or renting privately.

    Housing Minister Paul McLennan said:

    “Tackling the housing emergency requires a collective effort and bold decisions. We already have a strong track record in housebuilding in Scotland and this commitment will ensure public funds are used more efficiently.

    “Since 2007, we have supported the delivery of more than 133,000 affordable homes, including more than 94,000 social rented homes. However, we know we can do more to tackle the housing emergency and encouraging more private investment into the sector is one key aspect of that.

    “This new model will encourage more private investment into the mid-market sector that we know is willing and able to invest and it will deliver affordable homes that people need.”

    Background

    • Thriving Investments, (formerly Places for People Capital) was the successful bidder to the MMR Invitation launched in February 2016 to support the continued expansion of MMR in Scotland. A £47.5m loan agreement between SG and PfP was agreed in June 2018. Since then they have grown their fund to £222.5m.
    • Thriving Investments has delivered 736 affordable homes with an additional 335 properties due for completion by early 2025. It is anticipated that the fund will deliver around 1,200 MMR homes across Scotland.
    • Scottish Government will commission a fund manager to deliver the new fund.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Appointment of Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey: 26 September 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons.

    The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, in succession to The Venerable Tricia Hillas following her appointment as Bishop of Sodor and Man.

    Background

    Mark was educated at Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford Universities, initially in Veterinary Science. He trained for ministry at Westcott House Cambridge, served his title at the parish of Cirencester with Watermoor in the Diocese of Gloucester, and was ordained priest in 2001. In 2003 Mark was appointed Chaplain and Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford and in 2006 moved to become Chaplain and co-ordinator of spiritual care at Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice, in Oxford. In 2010 he was appointed as Chaplain at Lord Mayor Treloar’s School and College before moving into parish ministry as Priest in Charge of St Faith, Winchester, in 2012, alongside which he continued in chaplaincy work as Chaplain of the Hospital of St Cross, Winchester. In 2015 Mark was appointed Minor Canon and Chaplain at Westminster Abbey, becoming Sacrist in 2018. He was appointed to his current role as Precentor in 2020.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey: 26 September 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons.

    The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, in succession to The Venerable Tricia Hillas following her appointment as Bishop of Sodor and Man.

    Background

    Mark was educated at Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford Universities, initially in Veterinary Science. He trained for ministry at Westcott House Cambridge, served his title at the parish of Cirencester with Watermoor in the Diocese of Gloucester, and was ordained priest in 2001. In 2003 Mark was appointed Chaplain and Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford and in 2006 moved to become Chaplain and co-ordinator of spiritual care at Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice, in Oxford. In 2010 he was appointed as Chaplain at Lord Mayor Treloar’s School and College before moving into parish ministry as Priest in Charge of St Faith, Winchester, in 2012, alongside which he continued in chaplaincy work as Chaplain of the Hospital of St Cross, Winchester. In 2015 Mark was appointed Minor Canon and Chaplain at Westminster Abbey, becoming Sacrist in 2018. He was appointed to his current role as Precentor in 2020.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NHS Scotland consultants pay offer

    Source: Scottish Government

    £124.9 million investment in consultants pay for 2024-25.

    Consultants across Scotland have been offered a £124.9 million investment in their pay and reward package ensuring it is competitive with other UK nations.

    The offer, if accepted by trade unions, will see the investment applied as a 10.5% uplift to basic pay and an investment of £5.7 million in other contractual elements.

     It will be backdated to 1 April 2024.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “Following weeks of constructive engagement with BMA Scotland, I am pleased to propose a pay offer that will ensure that our consultant workforce feel valued, supported and fairly rewarded.

    “This will bring Scotland back into line with recent pay deals in other parts of the UK, ensuring our NHS remains competitive when recruiting and retaining consultants.

    “I wish to thank our consultants for their dedication and patience. They are a critical part of NHS Scotland’s workforce and we are committed to supporting them.

    “BMA will now put this to their members and I hope the unions will accept our offer.”

    BACKGROUND

    A total of £124.9 million has been committed for consultants’ pay in 2024-25. This will be distributed as a 10.5% pay uplift for all consultants with £5.7 million invested to uplift Discretionary Points from £3204 to £3600 per point.

    Examples of basic pay increases for 2024-25:

    • consultants on pay point 3 will receive £11,015
    • consultants on pay point 9 will receive £12,059
    • consultants on pay point 14 will receive £12,794

    New Proposed 2024-25 Pay Scale

    Pay Point

    2023/24 Pay Scale

    Proposed 2024/25 Pay Scale

    % Uplift

    £ Uplift

    0

    £96,963

    £107,144

    10.50%

    £10,181

    1

    £99,011

    £109,407

    10.50%

    £10,396

    2

    £101,957

    £112,662

    10.50%

    £10,705

    3

    £104,906

    £115,921

    10.50%

    £11,015

    4

    £107,846

    £119,170

    10.50%

    £11,324

    5

    £107,846

    £119,170

    10.50%

    £11,324

    6

    £107,846

    £119,170

    10.50%

    £11,324

    7

    £107,846

    £119,170

    10.50%

    £11,324

    8

    £107,846

    £119,170

    10.50%

    £11,324

    9

    £114,846

    £126,905

    10.50%

    £12,059

    10

    £114,846

    £126,905

    10.50%

    £12,059

    11

    £114,846

    £126,905

    10.50%

    £12,059

    12

    £114,846

    £126,905

    10.50%

    £12,059

    13

    £114,846

    £126,905

    10.50%

    £12,059

    14

    £121,846

    £134,640

    10.50%

    £12,794

    15

    £121,846

    £134,640

    10.50%

    £12,794

    16

    £121,846

    £134,640

    10.50%

    £12,794

    17

    £121,846

    £134,640

    10.50%

    £12,794

    18

    £121,846

    £134,640

    10.50%

    £12,794

    19

    £128,841

    £142,369

    10.50%

    £13,528

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – New book describes the rise of the ocean’s most fearsome predators – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    If you think Jaws is scary, then imagine a 16 metre super-sized shark weighing more than 60 tonnes  attacking a dolphin or small whale.
     
    The rise and fall of the ancient megalodon (Otodus megalodon) is among the stories contained in a major new book by leading Australian palaeontologist, Flinders University Professor John Long.
     
    The Secret History of Sharks, to be launched at a special event hosted by the South Australian Museum, covers the complete, untold story of how sharks emerged as Earth’s ultimate survivors.
     
    Professor Long says: “Sharks have been fighting for their lives for 500 million years and today are under dire threat.
     
    “They are the longest-surviving jawed vertebrate on Earth, outlasting all five major global mass extinction events that decimated life on the planet.
     
    “But how did they thrive for so long? By developing superpower-like abilities that allowed them to ascend to the top of the oceanic food chain.”
     
    As well as the megalodon, the book describes a gigantic shark with a deadly saw blade of jagged teeth and bizarre sharks fossilised while in their mating ritual.
     
    Flinders University Strategic Professor of Palaeontology Long has been studying fossil fishes and sharks all his life, and draws upon his own experiences and adventures in remote localities around the world when he was involved in some of the key discoveries contained in the book.
     
    Over the past 30 years, Professor Long’s own research efforts led to the discovery of the first fossil found in the Kimberley region Gogo fossil field in Western Australia. This demonstrated how early sharks had remnant bone cells in their cartilage. He also named a fossil shark found in Victoria (Maiseyodus).
     
    Among a range of global experts in shark evolution and biology are Flinders University Southern Shark Ecology researchers Professor Charlie Huveneers and Dr Lauren Meyer who study the tourism attraction of White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) cage diving in South Australia and elsewhere.
     
    Other novel research outlined in the book includes ways sharks contribute to medical advances and how Flinders University Professor Youhong Tang and other experts’ discovered the potential for marine vessels to copy the streamlined pattern of shark skin.  
     
    “These amazing scientific discoveries have ramifications far beyond the ocean and can teach us about our own survival.”
     
    Hear Strategic Professor Long discuss his latest book – The Secret History of Sharks: The Rise of the Ocean’s Most Fearsome Predators – at the SA Museum.
     
    Tuesday 8 October 6pm-8pm
    South Australian Museum
     
    Listen to Professor Long on RN Conversations here  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/sharks-megalodon-ocean-history-paleontology/104215338
    The Secret History of Sharks: The Rise of the Ocean’s Most Fearsome Predators by John Long (Quercus Books, Australia; Ballantine Books, USA).

    Professor John Long is the strategic professor of palaeontology at Flinders University, one of Australia’s largest palaeontological research groups. The former vice president of research and collections at the Museum of Natural History of Los Angeles County, Long has published more than 200 peer-reviewed papers, some 25 books and over 150 popular science articles. His groundbreaking research work on the evolution of fishes and the origins of sex has appeared in the magazines Nature, Science, and Scientific American.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: European Day of Languages

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    Olá, Hello, Bonjour, Cześć, Bok, Γειά σου … João

    We are as impressed as you are by how our interpreter can work in 12 languages!

    The EU has 24 official languages, and we are proud of this cultural diversity. More than 180,000 citizens work as translators or interpreters across the EU. Every day they help us break down linguistic barriers within our diverse Union.

    Learning languages brings us closer: it opens doors to new cultures and friends, and it makes our life easier when travelling abroad.

    And now, it’s your turn: Do you parlate vários sprachen? Tell us in the comments the languages you speak!

    #EDLangs #EUDayofLanguages #UnitedInDiversity

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=io8i7PG5Bx8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwater Ship Husbandry Seminar preview

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: Underwater Ship Husbandry Seminar preview

    Published on 26 September 2024

    On Thursday 10 October, delegates will gather in Singapore to explore how we can improve the safety of Underwater Ship Husbandry operations.

    Delegates will hear from IMCA and ACDI chief executives, the Ministry of Manpower in Singapore, clients such as Total Energies. IMCA Members will be represented with a presentation from Subsea7.

    Attendees will be reminded of the real-life consequences and impacts of diving injuries with a young diver sharing his story from the stage and the valuable lessons which should be shared with the industry.

    Commenting on the Seminar, Bill Chilton, Diving Manager, IMCA said: “I’m looking forward to our event which will bring the industry together to explore ways we can improve safety and respond to the rising number of Underwater Ship Husbandry incidents. It is currently the most dangerous area of commercial diving, and we hope that our engaging and informative event will both spread awareness and help us find potential solutions together.”

    We’re also pleased to share the Smart Dives is supporting the Seminar as a platinum sponsor.

    Commenting on their involvement, Ali Qaiser, CEO of Smart Dives said: “We are happy to be part of this important Seminar and once again work with IMCA, continuing our commitment to advancing safety and performance in Underwater Ship Husbandry.”

    “As equipment manufacturers, we focus on delivering tools that support both diver safety and operational efficiency. We look forward to meaningful discussions in Singapore.”

    Owing to unprecedented demand, we have expanded capacity for the Seminar. Make sure you don’t miss out and register your free place today. Find out more on our event entry page.

    IMCA Contact

    Bill Chilton
    Diving Manager
    Contact

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Promoting Gender-Inclusive Growth Through Regional Integration

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The Impact of Economic Opportunities for Women

    Expanding economic opportunities for women trigger widespread benefits. In South Asia, equal employment opportunities for men and women could enhance incomes by 25% and increase intraregional trade of $44 billion. Despite progress in education and health outcomes, low women’s economic participation remains a major issue . In 2021, women’s labor force participation was 22%  in South Asia and 32%  in Sri Lanka, while other regions, except the Middle East and North Africa (18%), surpassed 50%. Also, a 27%  gender wage gap indicates that women in Sri Lanka earn about 20% less than men. Achieving gender parity in South Asia will take 149 years, compared to 67 years in Europe and 95 years in North America.

    Challenges and Opportunities in Regional Integration

    Unlike South Asia, regions like East Asia, Europe, and North America harness the benefits of regional integration by developing strong relationships with their neighbors. Intraregional trade make up 50% of total trade in East Asia and 22% in Sub-Saharan Africa but only 5% in South Asia. In South Asia, intraregional trade accounts for just  1% of regional GDP,  compared to 2.6% in Sub-Saharan Africa and 11% in East Asia and the Pacific.

    South Asia’s regional integration is restricted by high tariffs, non-tariff measures, lack of trust and political will, weak policy implementation, and inadequate infrastructure. Deeper regional integration offers benefits like cheaper goods for consumers, better access to inputs, and expanded market access for producers and exporters.

    Reforming Regional Integration for Gender-Inclusive Growth

    To promote gender-inclusive growth, it is essential to improve the lagging dimensions of regional integration. This process is complex and varies by country due to its multidimensional nature. The six key dimensions are trade and investment, movement of capital, regional value chains, infrastructure and connectivity, people’s mobility, and legal and institutional basis for international policy cooperation.

    Balanced progress across these dimensions leads to stronger regional integration and higher women’s economic participation. The EU, with the most evenly distributed dimensions, is the most integrated regions, with more than 50% women’s participation in the workforce.

    Figure 1: Heterogeneity in the Contribution of Multiple Dimensions of Regional Integration

    NOTE: Regions with the most evenly distributed dimensions have the highest women labor force participation, e.g., the European Union.

    SOURCE: C.Y. Park and R. Claveria. 2018. Does Regional Integration Matter for Inclusive Growth? Evidence from the Multidimensional Regional Integration Index. ADB Economics Working Paper Series. No. 559. Asian Development Bank.

    In contrast, South Asia’s uneven dimensional distribution makes it one of the least integrated and lowest women’s economic participating regions. South Asia prioritizes infrastructure, and connectivity and movement of people, and less on money and finance. Similarly, Sri Lanka has focused heavily on infrastructure, with 60% of public investment directed toward it in recent decades.

    Table 1: Identifying Specific Dimensions of Regional Integration Toward Gender-Inclusive Growth

    Country Year 2020 Highest Share Lowest Share
    Bhutan 0.524 Movement of people Institutional and social integration
    Nepal 0.518 Trade and investment Institutional and social integration
    India 0.487 Institutional and social integration Trade and investment
    Sri Lanka 0.474 Infrastructure and connectivity

    Institutional and social integration

    Money and finance
    Bangladesh 0.415 Money and finance Regional value chains
    Pakistan 0.381 Infrastructure and connectivity

    Trade and investment

    Movement of people
    Afghanistan 0.345 Infrastructure and connectivity Institutional and social integration

    NOTE: The Multidimensional Regional Integration Index (MDRII) provides a cumulative score across six dimensions: 1) Trade and Investment, 2) Money and Finance, 3) Regional Value Chain, 4) Movement of People, 5) Infrastructure and Connectivity, and 6) Institutional and Social Integration. A higher score indicates better integration. Dimensions with scores below 0.4 require significant reforms to ensure that regional integration promotes gender-inclusive sustainable growth.

    Author’s calculations basis:  C.Y. Park and R. Claveria. 2018. Does Regional Integration Matter for Inclusive Growth? Evidence from the Multidimensional Regional Integration Index. ADB Economics Working Paper Series. No. 559. Asian Development Bank.

    Strengthening institutional and social integration, alongside improvements in money and finance, could reduce gender inequality by nearly 50% in South Asia. Enhanced mobility and institutional and social integration benefit women in industry and services but not in agriculture. In developing countries, women often work in low-skilled, labor-intensive, low-skilled, and low-paid sectors—referred to as the “feminization of labor.” Regional integration can reverse this trend by increasing employment in manufacturing and services, resulting in higher wages and demand for women labor. 

    In contrast, trade and integration negatively impact women in agriculture due to limited skills and mobility. Regional integration alters the production structures, where sectors with export potential grow, and import-dependent sectors shrink. Women in shrinking sectors may face job losses, and gender segregation can limit their benefits in growing sectors. Opening specific sectors and providing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling women can mitigate these negative effects. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: GPTBots.ai Partners with QSTP Incubated Startup sKora Tech to Revolutionize AI Services in Sports

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DOHA, Qatar, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GPTBots.ai, a leading global provider of AI bot services for business operations, is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with sKora Tech, a QSTP (Qatar Science & Technology Park) incubated startup. This strategic collaboration marks the first formal partnership between an international tech company and a QSTP incubated startup, and it promises to create significant advancements in the integration of AI technology in the sports industry.

    GPTBots.ai is renowned for its no-code AI platform that seamlessly integrates artificial intelligence across various enterprise domains, including marketing, customer service, HR, IT, and data analysis. By simplifying the integration of AI into business operations, GPTBots.ai empowers companies of all sizes to enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and foster growth through accessible AI solutions.

    sKora Tech, a data-driven sports agency launched ahead of FIFA 2022, is on a mission to empower over 300 million football players worldwide. The company offers a digital platform that leverages decades of sports agency expertise to create personalized growth pathways for athletes. Through its innovative sKora AI-Agent, sKora Tech enables players to convert their athletic data into marketable CVs in just minutes, helping them unlock new career opportunities in the global sports market.

    Key highlights of the partnership include:
    1. Integration of GPTBots.ai’s AI technology with sKora Tech’s sports agency expertise
    2. Enhanced personalization of growth pathways for athletes using advanced AI algorithms
    3. Streamlined process for converting athletic data into comprehensive, marketable CVs
    4. Expansion of AI-driven solutions in the sports management sector

    “We are incredibly excited to be partnering with sKora Tech,” said Jerry Yin, VP of GPTBots.ai. “Our goal is to make AI accessible and user-friendly across all industries, and this collaboration allows us to take a significant step forward in the sports sector. By combining our AI expertise with sKora Tech’s unique platform, we are creating a powerful tool that will help athletes realize their full potential.”

    “Partnering with GPTBots.ai will enable us to leverage cutting-edge AI technology to provide even more personalized and effective services for our athletes,” said Adel Saad, CEO of sKora Tech. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to empower players and democratize access to professional growth opportunities in football.”

    GPTBots.ai’s Vision for the Middle East and Beyond

    As part of its strategic expansion, GPTBots.ai has identified the Middle East as a key growth market, particularly with the region’s increasing focus on innovation and technology. Qatar, with its rapidly growing tech ecosystem and world-class infrastructure, provides an ideal platform for GPTBots.ai to expand its AI services across various sectors, including sports, finance, and education.

    “The Middle East is a region full of potential for AI innovation, and we are committed to establishing a strong presence here,” said Jerry Yin, VP of GPTBots.ai. “This partnership with sKora Tech is just the beginning. We believe that our AI technology can play a transformative role in many industries, and we are excited to contribute to the region’s vision of becoming a hub for technological advancement.”

    GPTBots.ai’s long-term vision is to empower businesses in the Middle East to fully leverage the power of AI, making it accessible and intuitive for companies of all sizes. By partnering with local innovators and startups, GPTBots.ai plans to drive the adoption of AI technology across a wide range of industries, helping to accelerate digital transformation and foster economic growth.

    As part of this partnership, the two companies will work closely to integrate GPTBots.ai’s advanced AI solutions into sKora Tech’s platform, enhancing the user experience for athletes and providing new tools to help them succeed in their professional journeys. This collaboration is expected to unlock new opportunities for both companies and further establish Qatar as a hub for sports technology innovation.

    About GPTBots.ai

    GPTBots.ai is a no-code AI platform designed to integrate artificial intelligence into various enterprise functions, including marketing, customer service, human resources, IT, and data analysis. The company’s mission is to bridge the gap between AI technology and business operations, offering accessible and efficient solutions to improve productivity and foster growth. GPTBots.ai is committed to making AI technology simple and user-friendly for businesses of all sizes.

    For more information, please visit: http://www.gptbots.ai

    About sKora Tech

    sKora Tech is a data-driven sports agency founded in Qatar in the lead-up to FIFA 2022. The company’s platform leverages decades of in-house sports agency expertise to provide personalized growth pathways for footballers. sKora Tech’s AI-Agent allows athletes to turn their athletic data into professional, marketable CVs, empowering them on their journey to success. The company’s mission is to democratize access to professional growth opportunities for football players around the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://www.skoratech.com

    About Aurora Mobile Limited

    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – Equals Group PLC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Downing LLP
    LEI: 213800G3X76VBG9SB504
    26 September 2024
    Form 8.3 re. Equals Group Plc

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Downing LLP
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): Client funds managed by Downing LLP
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Equals Group Plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: n/a
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken: 25 September 2024
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? No

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: Ordinary shares 1p
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 4,098,586 2.17    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 4,098,586 2.17    

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p Ordinary Shares Sale
    Purchase
    Purchase    		 8,993
    8,993
    27,871    		 1.18
    1.18
    1.19

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description Nature of dealing Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:

    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 26 September 2024
    Contact name:  
    Telephone number*: 0207 416 7780

    The MIL Network –