Category: Politics

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ13: Allocation arrangements for public housing

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

(7) of the three most common reasons given by ordinary families waiting for PRH for refusing the units allocated to them; whether the Government has reviewed the savings in administrative costs in processing PRH applications with successful allocations on the first offer as compared to those requiring several offers before an allocation is successful?

Reply:

President,

The objective of the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) is to provide public rental housing (PRH) to those who cannot afford private rental accommodation. With regard to the question raised by the Hon Tang Ka-piu, my reply is as follows:

(1) Given the limited PRH resources, it is the prevailing policy of the HA to accord priority to general applicants (i.e. family applicants and elderly-one person applicants) over non-elderly one-person applicants in the allocation of PRH flats. The relative priority of flat allocation to general applicants is determined according to the principle of rational allocation of PRH resources and strictly in accordance with the order of registration date/G-number Equivalent Date (Note) (if any) of applications. Apart from the general applicants, we have set another queue for non-elderly one-person applicants and the priority of flat allocation is determined by the Quota and Points System (QPS). Unlike that of general applicants, the order of the applications is not in accordance with the sequence of the date of registration, but is determined by the total points accumulated by such applicants under QPS.

To cater to the housing needs of the elderly, encourage younger families to take care of their elderly parents or dependent relatives, and provide incentives to families applicants to encourage childbearing, there are several allocation priority schemes under the HA, including “Elderly Persons Priority Scheme”, “Harmonious Families Priority Scheme”, “Single Elderly Persons Priority Scheme” and “Families with Newborns Allocation Priority Scheme”. Eligible applications under individual priority schemes will generally be processed earlier than applications by ordinary families. For example, eligible applications under the “Harmonious Families Priority Scheme” and “Families with Newborns Allocation Priority Scheme” will be processed earlier by six months and one year respectively, and will be assigned a G-number Equivalent Date. Details on the above-mentioned schemes and arrangement are set out at Annex.

(2) The progress of PRH allocation depends on various factors, including the applicants’ choice of district, the number of applications with same family size in individual districts, the supply of new and refurbished PRH flats in individual districts, the acceptance of flat offers by other applicants of higher priorities, the change of family particulars during the waiting period, etc. Therefore, the waiting time of applicants in individual districts may vary. For individual applicants, the latest allocation status of PRH applications in various districts can better enable them to estimate the waiting time required for them to be housed. In this regard, the Housing Department (HD) would publish in newspapers the latest allocation status of each district on a monthly basis, and would upload relevant information to the HA’s/HD’s website (www.housingauthority.gov.hk/en/flat-application/allocation-status/index.html
Moreover, general applicants can make reference to the future supply of PRH in different districts so as to estimate their waiting time. To this end, the Housing Bureau (HB) would update and publish the public housing production forecast for the next five years, and would upload the relevant public housing project information (including name of project, location, estimated number of flats, completion year, etc.) to the HB’s website (www.hb.gov.hk/eng/publications/housing/public/phpf/index.html
(3) The HA has enhanced the allocation mechanism since September 2023 by taking into account an applicant’s place of residence when allocating flats based on his/her choice of district. In processing individual application under the enhanced allocation mechanism, the computer system will allocate a PRH flat which is near to the applicant’s place of residence to the applicant, subject to the availability of public housing resources in the applicant’s chosen district, in order to increase the applicant’s chance of accepting the allocated PRH flat nearer to his/her current place of residence. Following the system enhancement, the proportion of applicants who are allocated with flats near their place of residence has increased by about 10 per cent, and the acceptance rate has increased by about 5 per cent accordingly.

Eligible applicants are entitled to three housing offers (one at a time). If applicants have special requests for PRH allocation (such as wishing to be accommodated to a specific area or a specific type of PRH flat in their choice of district) and have obtained the recommendation from government departments or organisations concerned (such as the Social Welfare Department or the Hospital Authority) supporting their special requests, the HD will, having regard to the applicants’ individual circumstances and subject to the availability of resources, arrange allocation of PRH flats to the applicants according to the area or type of flat recommended as far as practicable. If the applicant can furnish sufficient reasons that are acceptable by the HD for refusing the housing offer, the HD will arrange an extra flat offer for him/her according to his/her special need.

(4) In view of the supply and demand situation as well as the distribution of PRH flats, the HA had, on several occasions, reviewed and regrouped the geographical districts to speed up the allocation of suitable flats to applicants. Due to the different number of flats supply and distribution in all geographical districts, the choices available for applicants in different district may vary. Therefore, the smaller the district boundary, the chance for successful flat allocation will be lower. In order to improve the situation, the HA consolidated the number of PRH districts from fourteen to eight in 1993. This could expedite the allocation process and enable early allocation of suitable flats to applicants.

In tandem with urban development, the number of public transportation facilities connecting various districts is increasing, which greatly shortens the travelling time between districts. The HA further reduced the number of PRH districts from eight to four in 1998 in order to speed up the allocation work even more flexibly and further expedite the PRH allocation. The prevailing arrangement with four districts allows a more even distribution of supply of flats in each district and more effective allocation work. In fact, the Average Waiting Time (AWT) of general applications as at March 1998 was 6.6 years. Upon consolidating the PRH districts to four districts by the HA, and coupled with the increased supply of PRH, the AWT gradually reduced to around two years in 2000, proven that it is a good arrangement for consolidating the districts.

(5) Comparing with the 1990s, the infrastructure and transportation facilities in Tung Chung are well-developed today. The public transport links between districts are also very convenient. Reservation of some newly completed PRH flats in Tung Chung for special allocation arrangements would be unfair to other applicants who are waiting for allocation.

(6) Among the general applicants who were allocated PRH flats in the past three years (i.e. from 2022-23 to 2024-25), around 43 per cent of the applicants accepted the first offer, while around 27 per cent and 30 per cent of the applicants accepted the second and third offer respectively. If a flat is not accepted by an applicant, we will immediately allocate it to another applicant.

(7) Putting into consideration that each applicant has different housing needs for PRH flats, the HA will provide up to three housing offers to eligible applicants. Applicants can decide whether to accept the offers in accordance with their individual preferences and circumstances. Applicants may refuse to accept the housing offer for different reasons (not limited to a single reason). The HA does not maintain relevant statistical information.

Note: The HA will issue a registration date to the applicant upon registration of a PRH application. As the registration date cannot be changed, the HA will issue an adjusted registration date (i.e. G-number Equivalent Date) reflecting the adjusted waiting time due to implementation of PRH allocation policies (e.g. waiting time credit of one year will be given for “Families with Newborns Allocation Priority Scheme”, waiting time will be frozen for one year if all members included in the application are currently living in PRH, etc). If there is a G-number equivalent date in the application, that date will be taken as the basis for future flat allocation and implementation of PRH application policies. When a G-number Equivalent Date is issued, the applicant will, at the same time, be issued with a corresponding range of application numbers which may be used as a reference for enquiring about the PRH application status.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ECI strengthens field readiness with 2-day training for electoral officers at IIIDEM

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 30 APR 2025 12:24PM by PIB Delhi

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India Shri Gyanesh Kumar inaugurated a two-day capacity-building training programme for Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Booth Level Officers (BLOs) from Bihar, and EROs and BLO Supervisors from Haryana, NCT of Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh at the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), New Delhi today. The training programme is part of the Election Commission of India’s ongoing preparations for the upcoming General Elections to the Legislative Assemblies. A total of 369 grassroots election officials are taking part in this mixed-batch training programme.

2. In his inaugural address CEC Gyanesh Kumar said that the BLOs and EROs along with the Booth Level Agents (BLAs) are responsible for ensuring correct and updated electoral rolls and they are to function strictly as per the Representation of People Act 1950, Registration of Electors Rules 1960 and instructions issued by the ECI from time to time. Earlier this month, around 280 BLAs from Bihar of 10 recognised political parties were also trained at IIDEM.

3. The training is designed to enhance participants’ practical understanding especially in the areas of voter registration, form handling, and field-level implementation of electoral procedures. The officials will also be provided technical demonstrations and training of EVMs and VVPATs. The participants were also familiarised with the provisions of first and second appeals against the final electoral rolls as published with the DM/District Collector/Executive Magistrate under section 24(a) of RP Act 1950 and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the State/UT under section 24(b) respectively. It may be recalled that no appeals were filed from Bihar, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi after the completion of the Special Summary Revision (SSR) exercise as of 6th-10th of January 2025.

4. The curriculum includes interactive sessions, role plays simulating house-to-house surveys, case studies, and hands-on exercises for filling Forms 6, 6A, 7, and 8. Additionally, participants will receive practical training on the Voter Helpline App (VHA) and the BLO App.

5. Sessions are being conducted by experienced National Level Master Trainers (NLMTs) and expert Resource Persons from the IT and EVM Divisions of the Commission. The sessions are interactive and will address common field-level errors and how to avoid them.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nominations for Young Astronaut Training Camp 2025 to start tomorrow

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The nomination for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department’s Young Astronaut Training Camp 2025 will open for local secondary schools starting from tomorrow (May 1) until May 31. Selected participants will experience astronaut training on the Mainland free of charge this summer to learn about space science, astronomy and China’s aerospace achievements.

The training camp will run from July 25 to August 2. During the nine-day training camp, participants will visit Beijing, Jiuquan and Xi’an. The itinerary includes visiting various key astronomy and aerospace facilities such as Beijing Aerospace City, the Xinglong Observatory of the National Astronomical Observatories and the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. In addition, participants will experience astronaut training activities and have a chance to meet with astronauts and aerospace experts.

The quota for the training camp is 30. Candidates must be local full-time students currently enrolled in Secondary Two to Secondary Six for the 2024/25 academic year, aged 12 or above and be nominated by their respective schools. Each school can nominate two students at most. There will be three rounds of selection – a quiz, a pre-camp training and an interview. Candidates with outstanding performance will be selected to join the camp. A briefing on the Camp will be conducted on May 6, at 5pm in the Lecture Hall of the Hong Kong Space Museum. Please visit the Hong Kong Space Museum website at hk.space.museum/en/web/spm/activities/yatc.html for more details.

The training camp is jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce in association with the Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre. The training camp is organised by the Hong Kong Space Museum and sponsored by the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce.

The camp is also one of the activities in the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. The LCSD has long been promoting Chinese history and culture through organising an array of programmes and activities to enable the public to learn more about the broad and profound Chinese culture. For more information, please visit www.ccpo.gov.hk/en/.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Reforming GEM

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

LCQ20: Reforming GEM
Question:

     In 2023, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) conducted a consultation on the GEM (formerly known as “Growth Enterprise Market”) Listing Reforms and completed the amendment to the GEM Listing Rules. However, it has been reported that upon the introduction of a series of enhancement measures, only three enterprises were listed on GEM last year. Some members of the sector are of the view that GEM has still failed to perform its functions properly. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it knows if the HKEX has assessed the effectiveness of the GEM reform, including whether the expected targets (not limited to the number of new listings and the amount of funds raised) have been achieved, and of the specific data or indicators showing that the attractiveness of GEM to issuers has been enhanced after the reform; if an assessment has been conducted, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) as there are views pointing out that insufficient market liquidity and relatively low investor participation are the core problems of GEM, of the concrete measures put in place by the Government to enhance the market liquidity of GEM, so as to attract the participation of more overseas and local investors, thereby strengthening the vitality and resilience of the market;

(3) whether the Government will join hands with the HKEX to review afresh the positioning of GEM and formulate strategies for its long-term development, as well as to work for co-ordination with other financial policies to ensure competitiveness and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s investment and capital raising markets;

(4) as many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have relayed that their desire to go listing on GEM has been dampened by the costs of listing which are on the high side, whether the Government will encourage the regulatory bodies to carry out reforms or relax the relevant listing requirements, so as to alleviate the financing costs of SMEs when going listing on GEM; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

(5) how the Government will provide a suitable financing platform to enable SMEs which are unable to meet the listing requirements of the Main Board to go listing in Hong Kong (irrespective of whether they are listed on the GEM or other new boards)?

Reply:

President,

     In consultation with the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX), the reply to the five parts of the question is as follows:

     GEM is positioned to provide a fundraising platform for small and medium enterprises to support their innovation and development, value creation and business growth. To enhance the attractiveness of GEM to issuers and investors, the HKEX implemented a series of GEM reform measures in January 2024. These include introducing a new financial eligibility test for high growth enterprises that are heavily engaged in research and development activities; introducing a new “streamlined transfer mechanism”; aligning the continuing obligations of GEM issuers with those of the Main Board, etc.

     The Government, regulators and the HKEX have been closely monitoring the development of stock markets in different places and the effectiveness of relevant measures, as well as continuously reviewing the implementation experience and market conditions. Overall speaking, the initial public offering (IPO) market had gradually become more vibrant in 2024, and enterprises have been increasingly confident about Hong Kong’s financing prospects. In 2024, the amount of total IPO funds raised in Hong Kong exceeded $87 billion, an increase of close to 90 per cent year-on-year and ranking fourth globally. Since the GEM reform, three companies were listed on GEM in 2024. As of the end of March this year, the HKEX was processing over 100 listing applications including that for listing on GEM. As regards liquidity, trading volume in the securities market hit new highs, with the overall average daily turnover of the Main Board and GEM increasing by 26 per cent year-on-year. The overall average daily turnover for the first three months of this year increased by 144 per cent year-on-year. The average daily turnover of GEM in March this year was about $78 million, up 77 per cent year-on-year. Under the newly implemented “streamlined transfer mechanism”, one company was successfully transferred to the Main Board for listing in February this year.

     There are many factors that affect IPO listing activities and liquidity of GEM. For example, geopolitics affects global markets and capital flows, where investors’ risk appetite has become more conservative, placing more attention on mature companies supported by business track records. The demand of small and medium enterprises for listing and fundraising is also affected by various external factors such as economic growth slowdown, industry prospects, market investment sentiment, interest rate policies, etc.

     To dovetail with the latest economic trends and corporate needs, and thereby further enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness as an all-rounded fundraising centre, the SFC and the HKEX are taking forward a comprehensive review on reforming the listing regime, including reviewing listing requirements and post-listing ongoing obligations, evaluating listing-related regulations and arrangements to improve the vetting process, optimising the thresholds for dual primary listing and secondary listing, and reviewing the market structure. The reform will study the functions and positioning of different segments to better serve the financing needs of enterprises of different types and backgrounds, including small and medium enterprises and start-ups. The HKEX and the SFC target to put forward enhancement proposals in different areas by batches when they are ready within this year for market consultation.

     Vetting of listing applications is an important step to review the compliance of listing applicants and maintain market quality. Its fundamental objective is to protect the rights and interests of the investing public who subscribe to the relevant stocks, especially some retail investors who may not have professional knowledge of corporate finance. According to the information of the HKEX, for the listing applications presented to the Listing Committee for consideration in the 12 months ended March 31, 2025, the median of total business days taken by the HKEX from listing application acknowledgement to issuance of hearing bundle letter was 28 days, while the median number of days required by listing applicants (Note) was 49 days. In maintaining certainty in listing schedule of enterprises, in addition to having clear and standardised procedures, efficient services provided by various professional institutions are also crucial to assist listing applicants in submitting the required information and responding to relevant issues raised by regulators. Currently, the cost of listing of enterprises mainly includes fees paid to sponsors, legal advisors, accountants and other professional services. The relevant fees are determined between listing applicants and professional institutions in accordance with market mechanism based on the circumstances of individual listing applications, which are not directly related to the requirements of regulators for approval of listing applications.

Note: Including the time to respond to comments from the HKEX and the regulator, etc.
Issued at HKT 14:30

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Enhancing effectiveness of waste management

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Carmen Kan and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (April 30):

Question:

The Government has indicated in the 2024 Policy Address that it will continue to promote waste reduction and recycling, including expanding the community recycling network, and reviewing the tender arrangements and requirements for the GREEN@COMMUNITY project to enhance its cost-‍effectiveness and improve service quality. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) given that, under the 2024 Legislative Programme, the Government plans to amend the Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap. 354) to require the property management companies and owners’ organisations of major housing estates and single-block residential buildings with relatively large number of flats (the property management sector) to separately collect common types of recyclables and pass them to downstream recyclers for processing, but the relevant legislative proposals have yet to be submitted to this Council, and the Promotion of Recycling and Proper Disposal of Products (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025 (the Bill), which involves amendments to Chapter 354, does not include the aforesaid legislative proposals, of the reasons for that; whether the Government has assessed the impact of its failure to implement the aforesaid legislative proposals on the effectiveness of its efforts to expand the community recycling network as indicated in the 2024 Policy Address; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) given that the Waste Reduction and Recycling Charter (the Charter) was launched in June last year for private residential premises to enhance residents’ awareness of recycling, of the following information on the signing of the Charter by management groups of private residential premises each month since its launch (set out in a table): the number of private residential premises involved (and their proportion to the total number of private residential premises in Hong Kong), the number of households involved, and the recycling data for such premises; whether the authorities have studied the reasons why some management groups of private residential premises have not signed the Charter, and when legally-binding waste reduction and recycling regulatory measures will be implemented for the property management sector based on the implementation experience of the Charter;

(3) given that the plastic shopping bag (PSB) charge under the existing Plastic Shopping Bag Charging Scheme (the Charging Scheme) is retained and handled by business operators on their own, whether the authorities have required business operators to submit information on the number of PSBs distributed and the amounts of income involved for each of the past five years (i.e. 2020-2021 to 2024-2025); if so, of the relevant annual data, with a tabulated breakdown by business sectors; if not, the reasons for that;

(4) given that the fixed penalty under the current Charging Scheme can be paid via electronic platforms (e.g. the Faster Payment System), and taking into account the current fiscal position of the Government, whether the authorities will consider adjusting the policy and drawing on the practice of penalty payment to allow members of the public to pay the PSB charge to the Government directly via electronic payment methods; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

(5) given that, based on the information provided by the Government in response to my question regarding the Estimates of Expenditure for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the operating expenditure of the GREEN@COMMUNITY project has increased annually, with the budget for 2025-2026 being $507 million, an increase of 61.98 per cent over the actual expenditure of $313 million in 2023-2024, there are views that the operational model of the project is unsustainable, and the Government has indicated in the 2024 Policy Address that it will review the tender arrangements and requirements for the project to enhance its cost-effectiveness, of the details and specific timetable of the relevant work?

Reply:

President,

The Government continues to vigorously promote waste reduction and recycling, enhance the community recycling network and strengthen public education to promote a green culture of waste reduction and recycling in our society. The recycling network, comprising the Programme on Source Separation of Waste and GREEN@COMMUNITY, has reached a coverage over 90 per cent of the population in Hong Kong. The various waste reduction and recycling initiatives implemented have achieved encouraging results to date. The current-term Government has reversed the rising trend of waste disposal amount. The daily average quantity of municipal solid waste (MSW) disposed of at landfills has consistently declined for three consecutive years since 2021. The daily quantity of MSW disposed of at landfills decreased from 11 358 tonnes in 2021 to 10 510 tonnes in 2024, amounting to a total reduction of 7.5 per cent.

The reply to the question raised by the Hon Carmen Kan is as follows:

(1) and (2) Having consulted the property management trade and owners’ organisations, we consider that prior to implementing legislation to regulate separation and recycling of domestic waste, it would be appropriate to further promote participation of residential premises and increase the quantity and variety of domestic waste recycling facilities by way of enhancing publicity and public education first. In this connection, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) launched the Waste Reduction and Recycling Charter (the Charter) in June 2024 to encourage private residential premises (PRPs) to set up more waste separation and recycling facilities which are easily accessible within the premises. In addition to the collection of common types of recyclables including paper, metals and plastics, the signees of the Charter are required to collect glass containers, beverage cartons and food waste, and ensure that the collected recyclables are handed over to downstream recyclers. The signees are also obligated to maintain delivery records of various types of recyclables and regularly publish recycling data for residents’ information with a view to enhancing the performance management of recyclables and instilling residents’ confidence in the practice of waste separation and recycling. The Charter has received very positive feedbacks from the housing estates. In about nine months, as at the first quarter of 2025, 858 PRPs have already signed the Charter, covering about 740 000 households, representing about 40 per cent of the total number of households in PRPs with property management companies/owners’ corporations/residents’ organisations across the territory. About 2 000 waste separation and recycling facilities have been set up additionally. According to the preliminary data, the average recovery rate per household participating in the Charter is showing an increasing trend.

The number of signees of the Charter by quarter is tabulated below:

Quarter for signing the Charter	Number of PRPs signing the Charter	Number of households in PRPs signing the Charter	Percentage of households in PRPs with property management companies/owners’ corporations/residents’ organisations
Q3 2024	215	168 597	9.5 per cent
Q4 2024	480	409 019	23.0 per cent
Q1 2025	163	163 020	9.2 per cent
Total	858	740 636	41.7 per cent

The EPD will continue to encourage more PRPs to join the Charter through various channels such as publicity at district level and engagement with property management sector, in order to provide enhanced recycling facilities for more members of the public. Some PRPs have reflected that they have not joined the Charter due to inadequate space. The EPD will continue to maintain communication with these premises and explore whether we could offer any assistance.

(3) and (4) During the initial phase of the Plastic Shopping Bag (PSB) Charging Scheme from 2009 to 2015, retailers subject to the regulation were required to submit returns and remit their levy income to the Government on a quarterly basis. When the Scheme was extended to cover the entire retail sector in 2015, the Government decided to adopt a “retention” approach after public consultation, under which retailers are allowed to retain and handle the PSB charges on their own without the need of remitting to the Government or submitting returns, so as to reduce the administrative burden and compliance costs on small and medium enterprises. Following the implementation of the Enhanced Scheme on December 31, 2022, the number of PSBs disposed of in 2023 decreased significantly by around 31.5 per cent compared to that in 2022, among which the flat-top bags disposed of dropped by more than 60 per cent alone. In view of the effectiveness of the Enhanced Scheme, the EPD so far has no plan to adjust the existing mode of operation. As retailers are not required to remit the PSB charges to the Government, the EPD does not have the figures of PSBs distributed by retailers or the PSB charges involved in the past five years.

(5) As mentioned above, the EPD is continuously expanding the community recycling network GREEN@COMMUNITY to strengthen the recycling facilities at district level. The number of GREEN@COMMUNITY public collection points has notably increased from around 250 in 2023 to over 800 at present. These include 12 Recycling Stations focusing on both environmental education and recycling support, 82 Recycling Stores located in close proximity to clusters of single-block buildings or set up in public rental housing (PRH) estates, around 600 Recycling Spots, and over 100 sets of smart recycling bins. As the 50 Recycling Stores set up in PRH estates mainly commenced operation progressively in the first half of 2024, their expenditures were not reflected in 2023-24. Together with an increase in some 470 Recycling Spots thereafter, the estimated operating expenditure of 2025-26 increases to some extent compared to that of 2023-24. However, the quantity of recyclables collected by GREEN@COMMUNITY has been continuously increasing remarkably at the same time from around 26 900 tonnes in 2023 to around 41 800 tonnes in 2024, with a year-on-year increase of nearly 60 per cent. The quantity of recyclables collected in the first quarter of 2025 was around 11 270 tonnes, representing a further increase compared to the same period last year.

To enhance the overall cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the operation of GREEN@COMMUNITY, the EPD is reviewing the tender arrangements and requirements for GREEN@COMMUNITY facilities. For example, in the tendering for the follow-on contracts of 12 Recycling Stores conducted early this year, different types of operators (including private enterprises) have been included, with a view to reducing cost through enhanced competition. The EPD will also relocate some of the Recycling Stores to suitable government facilities and make greater use of smart recycling devices to gradually transform the operation of Recycling Stores into self-service recycling facilities, so as to reduce the rental expenses and operating costs. The EPD will review the operation of GREEN@COMMUNITY from time to time and adjust the service arrangements as necessary, with a view to enhancing its cost-effectiveness.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Reduction of civil service establishment

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Lai Tung-kwok and a written reply by the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, in the Legislative Council today (April 30):

Question:

The Government has announced that it will reduce the civil service establishment by two per cent each year in 2026-2027 and 2027-2028, based on the establishment of the preceding financial year. Together with the civil service establishment reduced under the zero-growth policy for the civil service establishment implemented since 2021-2022, about 10 000 posts are expected to be deleted from the civil service establishment by April 1, 2027, within the term of the current Government. In addition, since March 31, 2021, there has been a cumulative reduction of around 2 000 posts in the civil service establishment, of which about 1 200 posts have been reduced between 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) of the cumulative number of posts in the civil service establishment that have been deleted since the current Government’s term of office;

(2) of the changes in the civil service establishment of policy bureaux/government departments/offices since the current Government’s term of office;

(3) as the authorities have indicated that the two per cent reduction in the civil service establishment in 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 will be achieved by treating each policy bureau and its subordinate government departments as a unit and reducing their total establishment by a uniform percentage, of the total establishment of each policy bureau and the government departments under its purview at present;

(4) whether, in conjunction with the reduction of the civil service establishment, the authorities will engage outsourced contract staff or non-civil service contract staff to maintain staffing levels; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

(5) given that the Government is actively implementing computerisation to increase efficiency, whether the Government will study the abolition of obsolete grades or further reduction of posts; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

Regarding the question raised by the Hon Lai Tung-kwok, the consolidated reply is as follows:

To ensure the sustainability of public finances, the civil service establishment (Note) has maintained zero-growth since 2021-22 with the overall establishment controlled at a level not exceeding that as at end-March 2021 (about 196 000 posts). It does not mean there is no growth in the establishment of each bureau/department (B/D), which may still increase having regard to operational needs and with full justifications. Posts no longer required for operation will be deleted. It is anticipated that by March 31, 2026, the civil service establishment will have a reduction by approximately 3 000 posts on a cumulative basis. The current Government’s term of office commenced in July 2022. The change in the civil service establishment by bureaux/departments/offices and the total establishment of each bureau and its departments in 2022-23 and 2025-26 are set out in Annex.

To optimise the use of manpower resources and to control public expenditure, the 2025-26 Budget proposed that the Government will reduce the civil service establishment by two per cent each in 2026-27 and 2027-28 basing on the establishment of the preceding financial year. Together with the civil service establishment reduced under the civil service establishment zero-growth policy implemented before 2026-27 by this term of Government, about 10 000 posts are expected to be deleted from the overall civil service establishment by April 1, 2027 within the current-term Government.

The Government will reduce the establishment on a bureau basis, reducing the total establishment of each bureau and its departments by an across-the-board percentage (i.e. two per cent each in 2026-27 and 2027-28). The reduction rates within a bureau and its departments need not be standardised. A bureau can determine the civil service posts to be deleted and ranks combination after itself and its departments have considered factors like the overall service demand, operational needs and vacancy situations, etc. The resources saved will be counted towards the two per cent savings of the recurrent expenditure of the B/Ds concerned for the respective financial years under the Government’s Productivity Enhancement Programme (PEP).

Under the PEP, B/Ds adopt the most suitable mode of public service delivery, like employing civil servants or non-civil service contract (NCSC) staff, or service outsourcing, having regard to such factors as operational needs, financial resources, service nature and effectiveness, etc. At the same time, B/Ds adopt management measures and digitalisation with a view to enhancing efficiency and optimising the use of manpower resources through reprioritisation, internal redeployment, streamlining of work processes and application of technology, such that high-quality public services will continue to be provided to the citizens, while the civil service establishment is being streamlined in parallel. If B/Ds adopt methods of public service delivery that incur additional expenditure, such as employing NCSC staff or service outsourcing, they must bear in mind that their recurrent expenditure will be reduced by two per cent in the respective financial years under the PEP and they should spend within their means.

The Government will continue to monitor from time to time whether the manpower requirements and functions of different grades and ranks need adjustments due to the changes in operations or circumstances, or due to technology application. For individual grades, if their future manpower needs are uncertain, such as those with surplus staff or those undergoing institutional reviews, they will be classified as “Controlled Grades”. These grades require the approval of the Civil Service Bureau before conducting recruitment exercises, which is not lightly granted unless they have clear prospect for development and the demand for manpower is obvious and certain. Besides, B/Ds will also delete posts which are no longer required for their operations. For grades that no longer have any establishment and strength, we will seek the approval of the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council for deletion of those grades in due course.

Note: The civil service establishment does not include (i) Judges and Judicial Officers, (ii) Independent Commission Against Corruption officers and (iii) locally engaged staff of overseas Economic and Trade Offices.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Report No. 84 of the Director of Audit

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Report No. 84 of the Director of Audit on the results of value for money audits was tabled in the Legislative Council this morning (April 30).

A value for money audit is an examination into the economy, efficiency and effectiveness with which any bureau of the Government Secretariat, department, agency or other public body has discharged its functions. Report No. 84 of the Director of Audit covers a variety of subjects on the administration of government programmes and provision of public services.

Report No. 84 comprises the following eight chapters:

Chapter	Subject
1	Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales
2	Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications
3	Lantau Conservation Fund
4	Management of Mandatory Window Inspection Scheme by the Buildings Department
5	Maritime and Aviation Training Fund
6	Street cleansing services
7	The Society for the Aid and Rehabilitation of Drug Abusers
8	Working Family Allowance Scheme

Report No. 84 of the Director of Audit on the results of value for money audits is available on the Audit Commission’s website at www.aud.gov.hk.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Sukanta Majumdar inaugurates two-day National Workshop on Multi-Disciplinary Education and Research Universities under PM-USHA

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 30 APR 2025 2:42PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of State for Education and Development of the North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, inaugurated a two-day National Workshop on Multi-Disciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU) under Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) today at ICAR, New Delhi. Secretary, Department of Higher education, GoI, Dr. Vineet Joshi; Additional Secretary, Ministry of Education, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal; Chairman, AICTE, Prof. T G Sitharam; Chair Person, NETF, Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe; Former Chairman, UGC, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar; and other dignitaries and Vice chancellors of the Universities were present at the event. Joint Secretary, Ministry of Education, Shri Armstrong Pame, presented the Vote of Thanks.

Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, while addressing the event, highlighted the importance of NEP 2020, which empowers the youth, modernizes institutions, and blends India’s ancient wisdom with modern innovation. Through focused efforts on research, innovation, and international collaboration, NEP 2020 aims to equip India’s students with the skills and knowledge needed to meet global challenges, he added.

He noted that with the participation of over 64 Vice Chancellors from over 64 different universities, along with State officials represented by State Project Directors of Higher Education, the national workshop will provide essential guidance on how best to implement various elements of the NEP in collaboration with central and state government funding. Dr. Majumdar also said that for 35 universities, the Ministry is providing Rs. 100 crore each for implementing 44 mandatory activities under the Multidisciplinary Education and Research University (MERU) components. He urged everyone to move forward with commitment and collaboration to realize the dream of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, where every university becomes a hub of innovation, inclusion, and global excellence.

Dr. Vineet Joshi, in his speech, emphasised the importance of NEP 2020 in preparing students for the 21st century. He also highlighted the significance of research in higher educational institutes and urged the participants to learn and adopt best practices from other institutions, replicating them in their specific context. This collaborative approach, he noted, will ensure the rapid improvement of the country. He also emphasised the need for teaching-learning material in the mother tongue to achieve better outcomes.

During this two-day seminar twelve important sessions will be held on UGC Regulations for NEP Implementation (Status and Challenges); Clustering and Collaboration for Multidisciplinary Education; Holistic Education through Integration of Skilling and Industry Connect (NHEQF, NCrF); Employability through apprenticeship & internship and Future of Work and Courses in Emerging Areas; Digital Initiatives (SWAYAM, SWAYAM-Plus, SATHEE, APAAR, AI); Equity and Access to Higher Education; Indian Knowledge System; e-Governance (SAMARTH); Research, Innovation & Internationalization; Promoting Indian Languages in Higher Education; Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Program – Capacity Building of Faculty of Higher Education; and Providing Quality Education: Accreditation and Ranking (NAAC, NIRF, IQAC). Eminent academicians and officials will share their insight in these sessions.

PM-USHA, or Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan, is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Indian Ministry of Education to improve the quality of higher education in state-run institutions. It aims to enhance accessibility, equity, and excellence in higher education while ensuring efficiency, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness.

*****

MV/AK

MOE/DoHE/30 April 2025/12

(Release ID: 2125442) Visitor Counter : 58

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post-office employment for former politically appointed official

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Post-office employment for former politically appointed official
The Advisory Committee considers and advises on the post-office employment or appointments for former politically appointed officials. In considering each case, the Advisory Committee has regard to the information provided by the former politically appointed official concerned, the assessments by relevant government bureaux or offices, and the criteria for advice as stipulated in the guidance notes on post-office employment for politically appointed officials.
Mr Simon Ip Sik-on (Chairman)
Mrs Margaret Leung Ko May-yee
Mr Cheng Yan-kee
Ms Lo Wing-sze
Dr Miranda Lou Lai-wah
Issued at HKT 16:00

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Costs of developing and operating public housing

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

LCQ1: Costs of developing and operating public housing
Question:

The 2025-2026 Budget mentioned that the total public housing supply would reach 190 000 units in the next five years. Regarding the costs of developing and operating public housing, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) given that the Government has been granting land for the development of public housing at nominal premium, premium below the market value or nil premium, of the respective amounts of land premium waived for public housing projects of the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) and the Hong Kong Housing Society (HKHS) as well as the number of units involved in each of the past five and the coming three financial years, and set out in the table below a breakdown by projects (i.e. (i) public rental housing (PRH)/Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme (GSH) and (ii) other subsidised sale flats under HA, as well as (iii) rental estates and (iv) subsidised sale housing projects under HKHS):

Financial year(2) of the respective average construction costs (including (i) per square foot of the construction floor area and (ii) per flat) of PRH/rental housing units and subsidised sale flats constructed by HA and HKHS in each of the past five and the coming three financial years, with a breakdown by type of projects;

(3) of the respective expenditures spent by HA and HKHS on site formation and infrastructural works for public housing in each of the past five and the coming three financial years, and the respective numbers of flats involved, as well as the respective ratios of expenditures on PRH/rental estates and subsidised sale flats;

(4) given that according to the paper on the budgets and financial forecasts issued by HA in January this year (the paper), the largest expenditure item under the rental housing operating account is the item “other recurrent expenditure”, of the expenditure/estimates incurred by each of the sub-items of this item in each of the past five and the coming three financial years;

(5) of the actual expenditure involving government rent and rates in HA’s rental housing operating account in each of the past five financial years, and the amount of rates concession provided by the Government in each of these years; and

(6) given that according to the paper, HA’s construction expenditure included items such as “Government non-reimbursement projects”, “Government-funded projects” and “in-house supervision and administration costs”, of the specific work covered by these items?

Reply:

President,

In consultation with the Lands Department, the reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Wendy Hong is as follows:

(1) In the past five and coming three financial years, the number of units involved in the public housing projects of the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) and the Hong Kong Housing Society (HKHS), and the respective amounts of land premium waived, are set out by year at Annex.

(2) As a financially autonomous public body, the HA funds its public housing programmes with its own resources. Each year, the Housing Department (HD) prepares the average construction costs per flat of Public Rental Housing (PRH)/Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme (GSH) and other Subsidised Sale Flats (SSF) projects based on the cost of building tenders approved by the HA in the preceding financial year. The construction costs will be released by the HA Finance Committee after being considered in its meeting.

As the number of building tenders approved by the HA in each financial year and factors such as scale and design of projects, market conditions, etc. are different, the average construction cost per flat varies year to year. From 2020-21 to 2023-24 financial years (Note 1), the average construction costs per flat of PRH/GSH projects and other SSF projects based on the cost of building tenders approved by the HA are set out below:

Financial YearEach year, the HD also reports the average construction costs for superstructure (Note 2) of the preceding financial year to the HA. From 2020/21 to 2023/24 financial years (Note 3), the average construction costs per square foot of construction floor area (ft2-CFA) for superstructure are set out below:

Financial Yearfor superstructure ($) (approx.) According to existing mechanism, the HD closely monitors changes in market conditions. In compiling and managing the cost budget of new projects, the HD will take various factors into consideration, including tender price trend, anticipated rate of price increase, development programmes, etc. to ensure smooth implementation of public housing schemes.

To further enhance cost-effectiveness of public housing construction, the HD will continue to explore and implement enhancement measures on construction cost control.

The study direction includes the development of a framework for optimising construction cost control, covering areas such as planning, design, application of advanced technologies and innovative construction methods, procurement models, and approval processes. The framework enables a thorough review and optimisation of various processes to effectively manage the construction costs. It also acts in concert with the inter-departmental “Action Group for Expediting Construction for Public Housing” led by the Secretary for Housing, which identifies, streamlines, and resolves inter-departmental issues encountered during public housing developments through strengthening inter-departmental co-operation so as to expedite the progress and further enhance cost-effectiveness of public housing projects.

According to the information provided by the HKHS, from 2020/21 to 2023/24 financial years (Note 4), the average construction cost per rental flat remained at around $1.1 million based on the project contract sum awarded by the HKHS. As for the HKHS’s SSF, each of which is equipped with a green balcony and utility platform, interior finishes such as tiled flooring, partition walls and doors for each room, as well as household appliances such as air conditioners, water heater, cooking hobs, etc., the average construction cost per flat was around $1.6 million.

Due to the differences in design and provisions of the HKHS’s and the HA’s projects, generally speaking, the average construction cost per flat of the HKHS would be about 15 to 30 per cent higher than that of the HA.

The HKHS is actively enhancing its cost efficiency as well as promoting construction digitalisation by applying Digital Works Supervision System and Smart Site Safety System, with a view to enhancing quality control and project management efficiency.

(3) The Government’s expenses under the Capital Works Reserve Fund (CWRF) Head 711 are for the implementation of public housing-related site formation and infrastructure projects undertaken by the Government, while the HA is responsible for the expenditure on the construction of public housing. Besides, quite a number of projects associated with the supply target of public housing are funded by other heads of expenditure under the CWRF.

As for Head 711 under the CWRF, the yearly expenditures of works projects in the past five and current fiscal year (Note 5), including infrastructure works with funding approved or pending funding approval by the Finance Committee to support the implementation of public housing developments undertaken by the HA, are tabulated below:

Financial Year($ million) As for Head 711 under the CWRF, the expenditures for the past five financial years involve about 98 000 flats for completion in 2024/25 or before, comprising about 83 000 PRH/GSH flats and about 15 000 other SSF flats. The expenditure ratio of the two is about 74 per cent and 26 per cent.

Besides, for Head 711 under the CWRF, some 64 000 flats are estimated to be completed in the coming five-year period (Note 7) (i.e. 2025/26 to 2029/30), comprising about 44 000 PRH/GSH flats and about 21 000 other SSF flats. The expenditure ratio of the two is about 56 per cent and 44 per cent. During project development, the HA will maintain flexibility in housing types and make timely adjustments of the respective supply in order to respond more appropriately to the needs of the community.

As regards the HKHS’s rental and SSF projects, most of the sites handed over to the HKHS by the Government have had the site formation and infrastructure works completed. From 2020/21 to 2025/26 financial years, the HKHS’s total expenditure on site formation works (such as slope maintenance and stabilisation) and infrastructure works (such as temporary roads, road widening, etc.) was approximately over $300 million, concerning six projects.

(4) “Other recurrent expenditures” of the Rental Housing Operating Account are mainly expenses related to estate management, including security, cleansing, electricity charges, estate property management and management fees for estate common areas. The related expenditure for the past five financial years and the next three financial years are as follows:

Financial Year($ million)(5) The actual annual expenditure on government rent and rates of Rental Housing Operating Account in the past five financial years, as well as the rates concessions provided by the Government each year, are as follows:

Financial Year($ million)($ million)# The rates of public rental housing as assessed by Rating and Valuation Department are on a block/floor basis, the HA will pass on the rates concession to tenants according to the respective unit’s share of internal floor area against the total rates of the whole domestic block. As the amount of rates concession is deducted from the rates payable of individual properties, the HA has not calculated the actual total amount of rates concession.

(6) Government non-reimbursable projects mainly include public transport interchanges (PTI) within development projects. Except individual projects which have been committed, the HA is no longer responsible for committing the expenditure related to PTIs after 2007.

The HA provides supervision services and construction of Government-funded projects in new development projects including welfare and community facilities such as schools, residential care homes for elderly, day care centres for the elderly, child care centres, etc.

In-house supervision and administration costs are mainly expenses of the relevant divisions of the HA responsible for supervision of construction projects, including personal emoluments, administrative costs, etc.

Note 1: The figure for 2024/25 financial year is not yet available.
Note 2: The construction cost for superstructure excludes costs of demolition, site formation, foundation, underground drainage, external works, other separate contracts for works such as utilities connection/road diversion, etc. These costs vary a lot from project to project subject to site constraints.
Note 3: The figure for 2024/25 financial year is not yet available.
Note 4: The figure for 2024/25 financial year is not yet available.
Note 5: As the estimate beyond 2025/26 financial year will be subject to the project implementation schedule and works progress, the estimated expenditures of 2026/27 and 2027/28 will be published in the related budgets of the Government in future.
Note 6: 2020/21 to 2023/24 are actual expenditures; 2024/25 expenditures refer to the Revised Estimate; and 2025/26 expenditures refer to the Estimate.
Note 7: Based on the forecast as at December 2024.
Note 8: The figures from 2020/21 to 2023/24 are actual expenditures. The figure of 2024/25 is the Revised Budget and 2025/26 is the Approved Budget.
Issued at HKT 17:15

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MoD & MyGov to conduct national-level ‘Competition for Design of Formation on Gyanpath’ in line with IDC-2025

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 30 APR 2025 1:05PM by PIB Delhi

In the run-up to Independence Day Ceremony 2025 (IDC-2025), the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with My Gov, will conduct a national-level ‘Competition for Design of Formation on Gyanpath’ from May 01^st to 15^th, 2025. The competition aims to instill patriotic spirit and foster creative expression among the youth and citizens across India. Participants will have to conceptualise and design a formation to be created by cadets of National Cadet Corps, National Service Scheme volunteers, and school children, along with an appropriate backdrop, that will be showcased during the IDC 2025 at Gyanpath, Red Fort, Delhi. Individuals can refer to the previous years’ designs for ideas. For more information, please visit the site: https://www.mygov.in/

Salient Features of the Competition:

·         The top three winning entries will receive a cash prize of ₹10,000/- each.

·         The top 250 participants, along with one companion each (guardian/spouse/relative), will receive e-invitations to witness the IDC 2025 at Red Fort.

·         All participants will be awarded an online Certificate of Participation issued by MyGov.

Terms & Conditions

a)    Participants to the competition must be a Citizen of India.

b)    An individual can participate only one time.

c)    Entries should be in JPG/PDF/any other format whether hand designed or computerised as per the requirement of MyGov portal. If the reference of any image/logo has been taken in the preparation of Design for competition, participant is required to upload the referred image along with the final design.

d)    Use of any unfair/spurious means/ malpractices including but not limited to impersonation, double participation etc. during the participation in the competition, will result in rejection of participation.

e)    No copyright image should be used and an undertaking regarding the same to be furnished. Non-furnishing of the same will render the selection null and void. Furthermore, the organizers of the competition or any agency acting on their behalf reserves all rights in this regard.

f)     One mobile number & one email ID cannot be used by more than one participant for one competition/quiz during IDC-2025.

g)    Ministry of Defence will only issue an e-invitation for the event and all the expenses related to travel, lodging, food etc. to attend the IDC-2025 will be borne by the individual himself/herself.

h)    Employees, directly or indirectly connected with organizing the competition, are not eligible to participate in the competition. This ineligibility also applies to their immediate family members.

i)     Winners will be announced on the basis of screening of the entries by a designated Screening Committee in Ministry of Defence.

j)     Designs furnished by any participant may be used by Ministry of Defence partially or fully for the purpose of design of Gyanpath at Red Fort. Any claim for the copyright of the designs submitted during the ibid competition will not be made by the participants at any span of time.

*****

VK/SR/KB

(Release ID: 2125411) Visitor Counter : 8

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI: GPTBots Integrates Alibaba’s Qwen3 Model to Continuously Deliver Cutting-Edge AI for Enterprises
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HONG KONG, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GPTBots, a leading enterprise-grade AI platform, is excited to announce the integration of Alibaba’s Qwen3 model family, marking a significant step forward in delivering state-of-the-art AI solutions tailored for enterprise needs. This integration enhances GPTBots’ ability to provide businesses with unparalleled performance, multilingual capabilities, and advanced reasoning, further solidifying its position as a leader in AI-powered enterprise transformation.

Enhancing Multilingual Capabilities and Hybrid Reasoning to Drive Business Innovation
The integration of Qwen3 into GPTBots brings a host of advanced capabilities that are perfectly aligned with the demands of modern enterprises:
- Hybrid Reasoning for Complex and Routine Tasks
  Qwen3’s hybrid reasoning functionality allows GPTBots to handle a wide range of tasks with precision and efficiency. The “thinking” mode is ideal for solving intricate problems, while the “non-thinking” mode delivers rapid responses for routine inquiries, ensuring businesses can optimize both speed and accuracy.
- Enhanced Multilingual Support
  With support for 119 languages and dialects, Qwen3 significantly strengthens GPTBots’ ability to serve global enterprises. This ensures seamless communication and localization, empowering businesses to engage with diverse audiences and markets effectively.
- Flagship Model Breakthrough: The All-in-One Task Expert
  Powered by the Qwen-3-235B flagship model and the Qwen-3-30B lightweight version, GPTBots’ integration of the Qwen 3.0 matrix delivers industry-leading performance in code generation, mathematical reasoning, and instruction execution.
  • Qwen-3-235B: With exceptional computational power, it excels in complex logical reasoning and multimodal content generation, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as enterprise-level data analysis and strategic decision-making.
  • Qwen-3-30B: Optimized for private deployment, this lightweight model is designed for efficient resource utilization in localized servers and private cloud environments. Tailored for industries like finance, government, and manufacturing, it ensures data sovereignty and compliance while allowing parameter fine-tuning to adapt to specific business workflows. This ensures system stability and flexible AI deployment.
- Seamless Integration with Enterprise Systems
  GPTBots leverages Qwen3’s capabilities to seamlessly integrate with ERP, CRM, CMS, and other enterprise systems. This ensures businesses can break down data silos, streamline workflows, and achieve real-time insights into customer behavior, market trends, and operational performance.
Streamlining SOPs to Redefine Enterprise Operations
The integration of Qwen3 aligns seamlessly with GPTBots’ mission to “Reimagine Enterprise Efficiency with AI.” By combining advanced technology with scenario adaptability, GPTBots delivers three core value enhancements:
- Automated SOPs: Unlocking Workforce Potential
  GPTBots’ AI agents enable 24/7 automation for SOP-driven tasks like customer support, data entry, and report generation, significantly boosting efficiency and cutting labor costs. Supporting 90+ languages, the platform handles high-frequency queries such as order tracking, logistics updates, and return policies with over 90% automation accuracy, reducing customer service costs by 70%. Additionally, real-time integration with ERP and CRM systems automates multi-dimensional reporting, minimizing errors and enabling employees to focus on strategic and creative tasks.
- Global, Round-the-Clock Service: Reaching Diverse Audiences
  With robust multilingual capabilities, GPTBots ensures “native-level” service experiences across 119 languages and dialects, facilitating seamless cross-cultural communication. From English support in North America to Spanish after-sales in Latin America, the platform adapts to local languages and cultural nuances, enhancing customer satisfaction and boosting repurchase rates.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Real-Time Insights
  Powered by Qwen3’s advanced reasoning capabilities, GPTBots provides real-time, actionable insights by analyzing operational data. It identifies potential best-sellers from sales data, uncovers customer pain points for personalized recommendations, and monitors market trends to inform proactive strategies. Seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and BI systems ensures real-time data updates, improving decision-making efficiency by 50%.
Aurora Mobile Founder, Chris Lo, stated, “The integration of Qwen3 marks a significant upgrade in our technological capabilities. By addressing operational pain points in standardized processes, we aim to deliver ‘cost reduction without compromise, efficiency with intelligence.’ Moving forward, we will continue to integrate cutting-edge technologies to empower our clients in building sustainable competitive advantages during their digital transformation journey.”

About GPTBots.ai
GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.

For more information, visit www.gptbots.ai.

Media Contact:
Silvia
Senior Marketing Manager
marketing@gptbots.ai

The MIL Network –
April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: ConocoPhillips President for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to Speak at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

PARIS, France, April 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

Steinar Vaage, President – Europe, Middle East and Africa at ConocoPhillips, has been confirmed to speak at the upcoming Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum (https://apo-opa.co/4d15jtk), taking place in Paris next month.

Underscoring the strategic importance of Libya’s energy sector to global operators and ConocoPhillips’ ongoing commitment to the country’s future, Vaage will join the Libya in Focus session, a key platform for dialogue around one of Africa’s leading energy markets.

IAE 2025 is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

ConocoPhillips is among the major international oil companies maintaining a presence in Libya’s upstream sector. As a long-term partner, the company is working to enhance production following years of disruption, undertaking upgrades to existing infrastructure and targeting underdeveloped reserves.

Current efforts are focused on increasing output at the concession – which presently produces around 375,000 barrels per day (bpd) – to between 600,000 and 700,000 bpd through new collaboration agreements, workover programs and pipeline integrity initiatives. ConocoPhillips’ continued investment (https://apo-opa.co/4lUjJiC) signals renewed optimism in Libya’s ability to stabilize output and reemerge as a significant oil producer.

The Libya in Focus session at IAE 2025 will explore new investment opportunities and operational strategies in Libya’s energy sector, as the country seeks to increase oil production, launch new gas-focused expansion initiatives and strengthen infrastructure to support sustainable growth. Discussions will address ongoing sector reforms, the resurgence of upstream activities and frameworks for securing long-term growth amid a dynamic political environment. As Libya works to unlock its full production potential, the session aims to foster renewed international engagement and support the country’s efforts to drive economic recovery through energy development.

MIL OSI Africa –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile’s GPTBots.ai Integrates Alibaba’s Qwen3 Model to Continuously Deliver Cutting-Edge AI for Enterprises
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHENZHEN, China, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced the integration of Alibaba’s Qwen3 model family into its leading enterprise-grade AI platform GPTBots.ai, marking a significant step forward in delivering state-of-the-art AI solutions tailored for enterprise needs. The integration enhances GPTBots.ai’s ability to provide businesses with unparalleled performance, multilingual capabilities, and advanced reasoning, further solidifying its position as a leader in AI-powered enterprise transformation.

Enhancing Multilingual Capabilities and Hybrid Reasoning to Drive Business Innovation

The integration of Qwen3 into GPTBots.ai brings a host of advanced capabilities that are perfectly aligned with the demands of modern enterprises:
- Hybrid Reasoning for Complex and Routine Tasks
  Qwen3’s hybrid reasoning functionality empowers GPTBots.ai to handle a wide range of tasks with precision and efficiency. The “thinking” mode excels at solving intricate problems, while the “non-thinking” mode delivers rapid responses for routine inquiries, ensuring businesses can optimize both speed and accuracy.
- Enhanced Multilingual Support
  With support for 119 languages and dialects, Qwen3 significantly strengthens GPTBots.ai’s ability to serve global enterprises. This ensures seamless communication and localization, empowering businesses to engage with diverse audiences and markets effectively.
- Flagship Model Breakthrough: The All-in-One Task Expert
  Powered by the flagship Qwen-3-235B model and the Qwen-3-30B lightweight version, GPTBots.ai’s integration of the Qwen 3.0 matrix delivers industry-leading performance in code generation, mathematical reasoning, and instruction execution.
- Qwen-3-235B: With exceptional computational power, it excels at complex logical reasoning and multimodal content generation, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as enterprise-level data analysis and strategic decision-making.
- Qwen-3-30B: Optimized for private deployment, this lightweight model is designed for efficient resource utilization in localized servers and private cloud environments. Tailored for industries like finance, government, and manufacturing, it ensures data sovereignty and compliance while allowing parameter fine-tuning to adapt to specific business workflows. This ensures system stability and flexible AI deployment.
- Seamless Integration with Enterprise Systems
  GPTBots.ai leverages Qwen3’s capabilities to seamlessly integrate with ERP, CRM, CMS, and other enterprise systems. This ensures businesses can break down data silos, streamline workflows, and achieve real-time insights into customer behavior, market trends, and operational performance.
Streamlining SOPs to Redefine Enterprise Operations

The integration of Qwen3 aligns seamlessly with GPTBots.ai’s mission to “Reimagine Enterprise Efficiency with AI.” By combining advanced technology with scenario adaptability, GPTBots.ai delivers three core value enhancements:

● Automated SOPs: Unlocking Workforce Potential
GPTBots.ai’s AI agents enable 24/7 automation for SOP-driven tasks like customer support, data entry, and report generation, significantly boosting efficiency and cutting labor costs. Supporting 90+ languages, the platform handles high-frequency queries such as order tracking, logistics updates, and return policies with over 90% automation accuracy, reducing customer service costs by 70%. Additionally, real-time integration with ERP and CRM systems automates multi-dimensional reporting, minimizing errors and enabling employees to focus on strategic and creative tasks.

● Global, Round-the-Clock Service: Reaching Diverse Audiences
With robust multilingual capabilities, GPTBots.ai ensures “native-level” service experiences across 119 languages and dialects, facilitating seamless cross-cultural communication. From English support in North America to Spanish after-sales in Latin America, the platform adapts to local languages and cultural nuances, enhancing customer satisfaction and boosting repurchase rates.

● Data-Driven Decision Making: Real-Time Insights
Powered by Qwen3’s advanced reasoning capabilities, GPTBots.ai provides real-time, actionable insights by analyzing operational data. It identifies potential best-sellers from sales data, uncovers customer pain points for personalized recommendations, and monitors market trends to inform proactive strategies. Seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and BI systems ensures real-time data updates, improving decision-making efficiency by 50%.

GPTBots.ai Founder, Chris Lo, stated, “The integration of Qwen3 marks a significant upgrade in our technological capabilities. By tackling operational pain points in standardized processes, we aim to deliver cost reduction without compromise and efficiency powered by intelligence. Moving forward, we will continue to integrate cutting-edge technologies that empower our clients to build sustainable competitive advantages throughout their digital transformation journey.”

About GPTBots.ai

GPTBots.ai is a complementary general-purpose LLM AI bot featuring private data input and continuous fine-tuning, which can replace ‘rule-based’ chatbots, improve user experience, and reduce costs. GPTBots.ai aims to provide users with an end-to-end business platform that can seamlessly integrate robots into existing applications and workflows via plug-ins. GPTBots.ai also allow users to have great access to, and more efficiently and effectively using, AIGC to improve overall corporate productivity and output quality.

To know more, please visit https://www.gptbots.ai.

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.

For more information, please contact:

Aurora Mobile Limited
E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

Christensen

In China
Ms. Xiaoyan Su
Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

In U.S.
Ms. Linda Bergkamp
Phone: +1-480-614-3004
Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

The MIL Network –
April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Shanghai

Source: New Development Bank

On April 29, 2025, H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, visited the New Development Bank (NDB) Headquarters in Shanghai.

President Xi Jinping was warmly welcomed by H.E. Mrs. Dilma Rousseff, NDB President, four Vice-Presidents of the Bank and its staff.

President Xi Jinping congratulated Mrs. Dilma Rousseff on her re-election as President of NDB and noted that the Bank is the world’s first multilateral development institution established and led by emerging markets and developing countries.

In his remarks, President Xi Jinping called the Bank “a pioneering initiative for the unity and self-improvement of the Global South,” and said that it conforms to the historical trend of reforming and improving global governance. During the meeting, President Xi Jinping said that the NDB “is the first multilateral development institution initiated and led by emerging markets and developing countries, and that it has grown over the past decade into an emerging force in the international financial system and a symbol of South-South cooperation.” He added that, “as BRICS cooperation enters a phase of high-quality development, NDB is ready to embark on its second golden decade.”

President Xi Jinping called on NDB to always consider the development needs of the Global South, and to provide more high-quality, low-cost and sustainable infrastructure financing.

The Bank needs to improve its management and operations, implement more technology and green finance projects, and help developing countries bridge the digital divide and accelerate green and low-carbon transformation, said President Xi Jinping.

In discussions on the reform of international financial architecture, NDB should amplify the voice of the Global South, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South, and support the countries of the Global South in their pursuit of modernization.

President Xi Jinping noted that as the Bank’s host country, China will always support the operations and development of the New Development Bank. China is willing to strengthen project cooperation with the Bank and focus on green, innovative and sustainable development to achieve more results, he added.

China is also willing to share its development experience through the NDB with other member countries and stands ready to provide more international public goods, said President Xi Jinping.

In her remarks, President Dilma Rousseff expressed her gratitude to China for its enduring strong support for the NDB.

NDB President noted the remarkable development achievements under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, highlighting China’s important role in enhancing global governance. She also emphasized that, in a world marked by turbulence, the Chinese Government protects the interests of the Global South, supports multilateralism, and upholds international fairness and justice, setting an example for the international community. She also commended China’s open approach to technology cooperation, offering important opportunities for the Global South.

President Dilma Rousseff emphasized that the NDB remains strongly committed to its guiding principles and mandate, consistently contributing to sustainable development of all member countries.

NDB President stated that the Bank has already approved more than 120 investment projects, totaling USD 40 billion, focused on logistic and digital infrastructure as well as social infrastructure, such as water supply and sanitation, investments in education, health, and housing — “crucial for improving the quality of people’s lives”. She stressed that NDB is committed to action against climate change, support energy transition, prevention and mitigation of natural disasters. Another goal is to transform NDB in a truly 21st century bank by adopting the newest AI, and Big Data technology.

Strengthening the use of local currency has became a distinguishing feature of NDB. Currently, 31% of the financing projects are carried out in member countries’ currencies.

In this sense, NDB President also mentioned that the Bank is the largest issuer of Panda Bonds — the name given to Chinese currency-denominated bonds issued by non-Chinese institutions — which have already totaled 68.5 billion yuan. “We are expanding this strategy to other local capital markets, supporting our partners in reducing currency mismatch risks, strengthening their local capital markets, and utilizing currency swaps,” said NDB President.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 30, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Amid Dutton’s ‘hate media’ and Trump’s despotism, press freedom is more vital than ever

COMMENTARY: By Alexandra Wake

Despite all the political machinations and hate towards the media coming from the president of the United States, I always thought the majority of Australian politicians supported the role of the press in safeguarding democracy.

And I certainly did not expect Peter Dutton — amid an election campaign, one with citizens heading to the polls on World Press Freedom Day — to come out swinging at the ABC and Guardian Australia, telling his followers to ignore “the hate media”.

I’m not saying Labor is likely to be the great saviour of the free press either.

The ALP has been slow to act on a range of important press freedom issues, including continuing to charge journalism students upwards of $50,000 for the privilege of learning at university how to be a decent watchdog for society.

Labor has increased, slightly, funding for the ABC, and has tried to continue with the Coalition’s plans to force the big tech platforms to pay for news. But that is not enough.

The World Press Freedom Index has been telling us for some time that Australia’s press is in a perilous state. Last year, Australia dropped to 39th out of 190 countries because of what Reporters Without Borders said was a “hyperconcentration of the media combined with growing pressure from the authorities”.

We should know on election day if we’ve fallen even further.

What is happening in America is having a profound impact on journalism (and by extension journalism education) in Australia.

‘Friendly’ influencers
We’ve seen both parties subtly start to sideline the mainstream media by going to “friendly” influencers and podcasters, and avoid the harder questions that come from journalists whose job it is to read and understand the policies being presented.

What Australia really needs — on top of stable and guaranteed funding for independent and reliable public interest journalism, including the ABC and SBS — is a Media Freedom Act.

My colleague Professor Peter Greste has spent years working on the details of such an act, one that would give media in Australia the protection lacking from not having a Bill of Rights safeguarding media and free speech. So far, neither side of government has signed up to publicly support it.

Australia also needs an accompanying Journalism Australia organisation, where ethical and trained journalists committed to the job of watchdog journalism can distinguish themselves from individuals on YouTube and TikTok who may be pushing their own agendas and who aren’t held to the same journalistic code of ethics and standards.

I’m not going to argue that all parts of the Australian news media are working impartially in the best interests of ordinary people. But the good journalists who are need help.

The continuing underfunding of our national broadcasters needs to be resolved. University fees for journalism degrees need to be cut, in recognition of the value of the profession to the fabric of Australian society. We need regulations to force news organisations to disclose when they are using AI to do the job of journalists and broadcasters without human oversight.

And we need more funding for critical news literacy education, not just for school kids but also for adults.

Critical need for public interest journalism
There has never been a more critical need to support public interest journalism. We have all watched in horror as Donald Trump has denied wire services access for minor issues, such as failing to comply with an ungazetted decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.

And mere days ago, 60 Minutes chief Bill Owens resigned citing encroachments on his journalistic independence due to pressure from the president.

The Committee to Protect Journalists is so concerned about what’s occurring in America that it has issued a travel advisory for journalists travelling to the US, citing risks under Trump administration policies.

Those of us who cover politically sensitive issues that the US administration may view as critical or hostile may be stopped and questioned by border agents. That can extend to cardigan-wearing academics attending conferences.

While we don’t have the latest Australian figures from the annual Reuters survey, a new Pew Research Centre study shows a growing gap between how much Americans say they value press freedom and how free they think the press actually is. Two-thirds of Americans believe press freedom is critical. But only a third believe the media is truly free to do its job.

If the press isn’t free in the US (where it is guaranteed in their constitution), how are we in Australia expected to be able to keep the powerful honest?

Every single day, journalists put their lives on the line for journalism. It’s not always as dramatic as those who are covering the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, but those in the media in Australia still front up and do the job across a range of news organisations in some fairly poor conditions.

If you care about democracy at all this election, then please consider wisely who you vote for, and perhaps ask their views on supporting press freedom — which is your right to know.

Alexandra Wake is an associate professor in journalism at RMIT University. She came to the academy after a long career as a journalist and broadcaster. She has worked in Australia, Ireland, the Middle East and across the Asia Pacific. Her research, teaching and practice sits at the nexus of journalism practice, journalism education, equality, diversity and mental health.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 30 April 2025

Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/5Lw0WeIZscQ

Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cn-Szp7Ocso

MIL OSI Video –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 30 April 2025

Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Lw0WeIZscQ

MIL OSI Video –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland just an afterthought for Keir Starmer’s Labour

Source: Scottish National Party

The SNP’s candidate for the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, Katy Loudon, has written to the candidate for Keir Starmer’s Labour, David Russell, challenging him to “call out Labour’s cuts for what they are – austerity in all but name.”

Last month the Labour government announced plans to cut £4.8 billion of support to disabled people. In the weeks since, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has warned these are “the deepest cuts to social security since Osborne was Chancellor.”

Meanwhile, Amnesty International have heavily criticised Keir Starmer’s government for their benefit cuts saying they have attempted to redefine the definition of austerity.

Cllr Loudon said Labour’s attempts to ignore the issue in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse was yet another example of Scotland being treated as an afterthought by this Labour government – just like they did with nationalising British Steel in Scunthorpe whilst ignoring the Grangemouth refinery.

The by-election is a prime opportunity for the people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse to send a message to Labour that they are tired of being treated as an afterthought by Labour.

In her letter, Katy wrote:

Dear David,

The Labour government’s decision to implement nearly £5 billion of cuts to support for disabled people is unconscionable, and yet so far in this campaign you have stayed silent on this issue.

DWP estimates show it will push 250,000 people, including 50,000 children into poverty, and yet your party has pressed ahead with no regard for vulnerable families who will suffer as a result.

The Resolution Foundation estimates that lower income households are set to become £500 a year poorer as a result, and the Glasgow Disability Alliance has warned hundreds of thousands of disabled Scots could lose out.

In South Lanarkshire alone, 11,229 will have their health element of Universal Credit frozen, with new recipients seeing a cut in support.

That’s austerity in all but name, harming incredibly vulnerable people who in most cases are unable to work.

Scotland, as usual, is being treated as an afterthought by this Labour government.

Unsurprisingly, Labour’s Scottish branch office has dutifully fallen in line; with Labour MSPs voting last week to support the cuts or, as Anas Sarwar did, failing to vote at all.

As the Labour candidate in this by-election, will you too put party before constituency, follow Starmer’s orders and defend the indefensible? Or will you do right by Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse and call out these cuts for what they are: Labour austerity.

The people of this constituency deserve a local champion who stands up for them, and so far, your silence speaks volumes about where your priorities really lie.

I look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely,

Katy Loudon

SNP Candidate for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Interim report 01/2025: Collision between passenger trains near Talerddig
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Interim report 01/2025: Collision between passenger trains near Talerddig

Collision between passenger trains near Talerddig, Powys, 21 October 2024.
View of the accident site – train 1S71 is shown on the left of picture and train 1J25 on the right.

IR012025_250430_Talerddig

PDF, 4.46 MB, 20 pages

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RAIB has today released its interim report following the collision between passenger trains near Talerddig, Powys, 21 October 2024.

We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation.

Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry, the British Transport Police and by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

You can subscribe to automated emails notifying you when we publish our reports.

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Published 30 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two Trustees appointed to the Natural History Museum board for four year terms commencing 17 March 2025
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Two Trustees appointed to the Natural History Museum board for four year terms commencing 17 March 2025

The Prime Minister has appointed Kate Robson Brown and Tanuja Randery as Trustees of the Natural History Museum.
Kate Robson Brown

Professor Kate Robson Brown is Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Impact, at University College Dublin, Ireland. In this role she leads both UCDResearch (discovery and applied research) and NovaUCD (enterprise and commercial activities), and is the University AI Champion. She is Professor of Engineering Mathematics and Biological Anthropology. She is a member of the Ireland National Advisory Forum for Space Research, Honorary Fellow of the Alan Turing Institute for Data Science and AI, President of the European Low Gravity Research Association, co-chair of the UK Space Academic Network, and a Visiting Professor in Data Science at Strathmore University in Nairobi. Her previous role was Director of the Jean Golding Institute for Data Science and AI at the University of Bristol. Her research explores the computational modelling of the microstructure and performance of living tissues and manufactured materials and their response to changing and extreme environments, including space. She has a collaborative ESA and UKSA funded experiment currently in orbit on the ISS.

Tanuja Randery

Tanuja is Managing Director of Amazon Web Services EMEA, responsible for setting EMEA strategy and guiding the company’s growth across the region. She leads multi-country, cross-functional teams who work closely with customers to support digital transformation, from start ups through to the world’s largest enterprises. Tanuja has more than 25 years of strategic, commercial and operational experience. She was previously Partner at management consulting firm McKinsey & Company, where she was responsible for leading enterprise transformation projects in the technology and industrial sectors.

Prior to this she served as CEO, UK & Ireland for Schneider Electric, the global energy management firm. Tanuja serves as non-executive director on the board of BusinessLDN and was previously a trustee for Save the Children UK. She is committed to diversity projects and founded the PowerWomen Network—a cross-industry network for senior women business leaders. She was recognised as a top-50 Champions for Women in Business by the Financial Times’ HERoes in 2017 and 2018. She was ranked number 6 on the UK Tech50 2022 list of most influential people in IT and was recognised in the Yahoo Finance 2022 Heroes Women Role Model Lists. Tanuja also hosts a podcast, PowerWomen Speak, on what it takes for women to be successful in business. Born and educated in India, with a Master’s degree from Boston University, Tanuja has lived in London for the past 19 years.

Remuneration and Governance Code

Trustees of the Natural History Museum are not remunerated. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s [Governance Code on Public Appointments].

The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Kate Robson Brown and Tanuja Randery have not declared any significant political activity.

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Published 30 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fraud Bill to save £1.5 billion progresses to the Lords
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

Press release

Fraud Bill to save £1.5 billion progresses to the Lords

Plans to recover stolen cash and impose driving bans on those who repeatedly fail to pay back taxpayer money moved a step closer today, as Ministers vowed “to address the unacceptable levels of fraud and error we’ve inherited”
The Public Authorities (Fraud, Error, and Recovery) Bill, set to save £1.5 billion over the next five years, progresses to the Lords 

The Bill follows the biggest welfare fraud and error budget package in recent history 

Changes could help boost investment in public services and protect the public purse, as part of the Plan for Change

New souped-up powers from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), which will allow DWP to recover money directly from the bank accounts of fraudsters who can repay but are wilfully gaming the system in order not to, passed an important stage in the House of Commons as it had its Third Reading. 

The Public Authorities (Fraud, Error, and Recovery) Bill, which could put these measures into law, will help DWP to catch fraudsters, prevent overpayments and protect taxpayer’s money.  

The Bill will save the taxpayer £1.5 billion over the next five years and is part of wider plans set out in the Autumn budget and Spring Statement to save £9.6 billion by 2030. This means taxpayer’s money can be invested in public services as part of the government’s Plan for Change.   

Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western said:   

Enhancing our powers is essential to fulfilling our commitment to the public, as they will enable us to address the unacceptable levels of fraud and error we’ve inherited and better protect public funds.

By strengthening our ability to catch criminals and prevent overpayments, we can keep up with the evolving nature of welfare fraud while reducing the risk of people falling further into debt, ensuring that more resources are directed towards improving the lives of people across the country.

The new legislation comes as the government is dealing with the broken welfare system it inherited, with out-of-control levels of fraud and error costing the taxpayer around £10 billion a year – with a total of £35 billion of taxpayers’ money incorrectly paid to those not entitled to the money since the pandemic.    

The Bill will also give powers to the DWP to get data from banks and other financial institutions to help verify the eligibility of those who receive certain benefits to make sure they are getting the correct payments – this will help to stop people falling further into debt because of incorrect payments and help the DWP spot fraudulent claims. 

No personal information will be shared by DWP to support financial institutions in the identification of these accounts, and DWP will not have access to people’s bank accounts in verifying eligibility and will not be able to see where people are spending their money.   

Protections are central to the Bill, making sure there is proportionate and effective use of the powers, and that DWP is protecting vulnerable customers. For example, people will only be disqualified from driving as a last resort when they don’t rely on their car for work or for caring responsibilities and where they continually avoid repayment. Staff will be trained to the highest standards on the appropriate use of new powers, and we will introduce new oversight and reporting mechanisms. 

On top of the Bill measures, the Chancellor announced in the Spring Statement a further commitment to recruit over 500 additional DWP fraud and error staff who will make better use of government data to correct errors in benefit claims, as well as increasing checks on potential Universal Credit claimants by introducing more ways to verify the amount of savings they hold, as well as their earnings and expenses.

The Cabinet Office’s Public Sector Fraud Authority will also be given more powers under the legislation, allowing the department’s investigators to detect and recover fraud in other departments and bodies across the public sector. 

Minister in the Cabinet Office, Georgia Gould said:   

This Bill will save taxpayers’ money. People are currently getting away with stealing vast sums of cash because our investigators don’t have the powers they need to detect and recover fraud across the public sector.

We’re giving our investigators new powers to tackle fraud wherever they find it – as well as doubling the time available to bring pandemic fraudsters to justice.

An additional new measure will see the time limit for civil claims against Covid fraud doubled from six to twelve years. This step change in the ability to fight fraud committed during the pandemic will give the Covid Corruption Commissioner and the Public Sector Fraud Authority more time to investigate complex cases and apply their new powers retrospectively – including the ability to raid properties and retrieve money from Covid fraudsters’ bank accounts.   

The Bill measures will now progress to the House of Lords to be debated further.

Additional Information

The Fraud, Error and Recovery Bill forms part of wider government plans to save a total of £8.6bn over 5 years in the biggest welfare fraud and error budget package in recent history.

Since the pandemic, a total of £35 billion of taxpayers’ money has been incorrectly paid to those not entitled to DWP benefits.

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Published 30 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: NSU became the only university beyond the Urals to receive government support for training specialists in the field of AI

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

The Ministry of Digital Development of the Russian Federation together with the ANO “Analytical Center under the Government of the Russian Federation” completed the competitive selection of universities that will train highly qualified specialists in the field of artificial intelligence until 2030. Grant support is provided in the form of subsidies from the federal budget, an essential condition is co-financing from industrial partners in the amount of at least 30%. NSU was included in the list of winners, taking fourth place in the ranking of universities, and became the only university beyond the Urals to receive support.

Grant support will be provided for the development and implementation of a new bachelor’s degree program in “Applied Artificial Intelligence” in Institute of Intelligent Robotics NSU, admission to study will begin this academic year. The first intake will consist of at least 150 students.

— One of the key research areas that will be developed on the basis of infrastructure modern campus of NSU, being built within the framework of the national project “Youth and Children”, is the theme “Advanced areas of applied mathematics: artificial intelligence and big data processing, applied engineering”. The new educational program was developed to solve technological problems of the new direction. Graduates of the program will be able to configure existing AI models, further train such models, use previously created software libraries and frameworks to solve applied problems, – commented the rector of NSU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.

The Institute of Intelligent Robotics is the youngest educational division of NSU, where the number of undergraduate students in the Mechatronics and Robotics. Artificial Intelligence program has grown more than 7 times in 5 years, including due to foreign students. In 2024, according to the results of the university ranking for the quality of training specialists in the field of artificial intelligence, NSU became the leader among universities in the Siberian Federal District and entered the top 15 best universities in the country.

— The grant competition was aimed at supporting the best Russian universities with strong educational programs in the field of AI and great potential for training new-level personnel. The high final score of the NSU application, which was prepared jointly by the Institute of Intelligent Robotics and Research Center in the field of artificial intelligence of NSU, confirms the significant potential of the university for training personnel to ensure technological leadership of the country. It is assumed that students in the new bachelor’s program will actively participate in the implementation of strategic technological projects of the NSU Development Program within the framework of “Priority”, – noted Svetlana Sablina, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs of NSU.

The key feature of the training is the focus on the practical application of AI and solving real problems from industrial partners, who provide co-financing of educational programs in the amount of at least 30% of the grant amount. This became one of the essential conditions of the competition.

— Rostelecom. Information Technologies acted as the university’s partner in implementing the new educational program. We have been cooperating with Rostelecom for over a year within the framework of the NSU Artificial Intelligence Center. Among the main joint projects are the development of an intelligent system for managing urban transport flows, a security system, etc. The second company that supported our initiative is T1 Innotech. This is a large company working in the field of IT and AI, our new partner, with whom we are just starting to work. Thanks to such cooperation, the educational program will be focused on the needs of the market and solving the problems of the modern AI industry. Even during the training, we will attract practicing teachers and involve students in work on real projects, — emphasized Alexander Lyulko, Director of the NSU Artificial Intelligence Center.

Reference:

The competition for government grants was held as part of the implementation of the events of the federal project “Artificial Intelligence” of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State”. The competitive selection of universities was carried out at two levels – “TOP DS” and “DS”. In total, 22 universities from 14 regions of Russia became winners, which will train top specialists in the field of AI. The final list included HSE, MIPT, ITMO, St. Petersburg State University and other leading universities in the country. By 2030, more than 10 thousand students are planned to be trained under the new educational programs.

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.

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI: Cheems Memecoin Defies Global Economic Turmoil with Astonishing 3,541% Year-Over-Year Surge

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a stunning turn of events amid global financial uncertainty, Cheems ($CHEEMS), a lighthearted memecoin inspired by the iconic Shiba Inu character, has skyrocketed by 3,541% over the past year with its market cap eclipsing $300 million. This explosive growth defies broader market trends that have been shaken by increasing stock market volatility and rising geopolitical tensions impacting global trade.

Cheems’ performance over the past 12 months has not only surprised investors but has also cemented its position as a leading force in the memecoin arena. With more than 85,000 holders, over 1.8 million on-chain transfers, and an average daily trading volume exceeding $8 million on major exchanges including Binance, Cheems is proving that internet culture and decentralized finance (DeFi) can form a powerful and resilient combination.

Analysts attribute this extraordinary rise to Cheems’ active and humorous online presence, strong community engagement, and its ability to stay relevant in an ever-shifting market. The token’s smart contract security, transparency, and loyal community have turned it from a meme into a movement. Its unique blend of humor and purpose is resonating with a new generation of crypto investors who value both entertainment and innovation.

Christian, core developer of Cheems and founder of Infini, shared his thoughts on the achievement:

“Cheems isn’t just riding the memecoin wave—it’s shaping it. Hitting $8 million in daily trading volume on Binance signals that our community and the broader market recognize the real potential behind this movement. As we continue building, we are committed to maintaining this momentum and ensuring long-term growth for our holders.”

Cheems’ momentum has also been fueled by its increasing presence in pop culture and the broader crypto narrative. With viral memes, influencer endorsements, and trending hashtags, Cheems has managed to stay top-of-mind in an industry that often moves at lightning speed. The project’s creative marketing campaigns and grassroots support have helped it reach audiences far beyond traditional crypto circles, attracting casual users, NFT collectors, and even institutional traders curious about the power of meme economics.

Looking ahead, the Cheems development team has hinted at exciting road map milestones, including a play-to-earn game, a cross-chain bridge to expand utility beyond BNB Chain, and a charitable initiative to support animal welfare causes worldwide. As the token matures, Cheems aims to balance its playful brand with long-term value creation, showing that memecoins can evolve into purpose-driven platforms while retaining the fun that made them famous.

About Cheems

Cheems is a community-first memecoin built on the BNB Chain, known for its playful roots and strong digital culture presence. Launched to embody the spirit of internet humor, Cheems has quickly evolved into a serious contender in the meme asset space. Its mission is to create value through fun, transparency, and utility while bringing the crypto world closer to everyday internet users.

Media Contact:
Cheems Foundation
contact@cheems.pet

Join the Cheems Community:
Twitter: @lordcheems_bsc
Telegram: t.me/LordCheems_Bsc
Website: https://cheems.pet

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Cheems Foundation. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

The MIL Network –

April 30, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: post-election rate cut and phone call from Trump in the pipeline

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

It used to be de rigueur for the prime minister and opposition leader to turn up to the National Press Club in the final week of the election campaign. But now Liberal leaders are not so keen.

Scott Morrison gave it a miss in 2022, although he was there in 2019. Nobody expected Peter Dutton, who has often been reluctant to face the Canberra press gallery in the past three years, to front the club this week.

It’s also happened in the past that a leader has said something significantly newsworthy during the Q&A session on these final big occasions.

Bob Hawke, days away from becoming prime minister in 1983, flagged he would be willing to break election promises if he found, on reaching office, that fiscal circumstances were different from what was anticipated. They were, and he did.

Anthony Albanese on Wednesday made his appearance, but he was not going to grab a headline with anything unexpected.

He delivered a spirited stump speech concentrating on everything Labor is offering voters – improvements to Medicare, tax cuts all round, and much else. He played and replayed his familiar mantra about nobody being left behind or held back. When it came to questions, the prime minister defended and deflected.

Are Australians better off than before he was elected? Well, they’d be worse off if Dutton had had his way.

Will whoever is in government need to increase the tax base in the next decade? “We’ll have not one but two income tax cuts.”

Would he consider a compromise on Labor’s plan to tax unrealised capital gains on some superannuation balances? “We have our policy.”

Is there something he regrets from the last three years? “I don’t pretend to be perfect.” So no regrets? “I’m not saying that at all.”

What he is saying is that the final sprint of the campaign is not the time to enter the confessional.

With the polls, and even most Liberals, at least privately, expecting Albanese to still be PM next week, whether in minority or majority government, he knows he has two challenges in these last days: to avoid being caught on any sticky paper, and to continue to project a sense of momentum by going full tilt (Labor people remember Bill Shorten easing up just before polling day in 2019). He is visiting every state, before he votes in his home electorate of Grayndler where, he indicated, his talisman dog Toto will accompany him to the polling booth on Saturday.

Before his press club appearance, Albanese had encouraging news from the latest consumer price index quarterly figures, which showed underlying inflation falling to 2.9%. This points to another cut in interest rates.

Westpac said, “Inflationary pressures have moderated, and the door is open for a rate cut in May”.

The Reserve Bank doesn’t meet until May 19-20, but the prospect of a cut can be a mood lifter for stretched households – just as the pre-campaign February decrease was.

Also able to be cast positively, US President Donald Trump, who has proved elusive in the face of the government’s attempts to get him to pick up the phone to discuss a tariff deal, confirmed a call would come. Asked whether he would speak to Albanese about trade, the president said, “they are calling, and I will talk to him, yes.”

There is no detail of whether, or what, deal could be in the offing, but Trump, by signalling the call, has given (inadvertently) another bit of help to the government in an election in which the “Trump factor” has played all Albanese’s way.

Instead of the press club, Dutton had done an hour’s “Ask Me Anything” appearance on Tuesday with Paul Murray on Sky, taking around a dozen viewers’ questions. It was an easy, friendly gig, directed squarely at his base. That might be one thing if he’s seeking the preferences of those voting One Nation or Trumpet of Patriots, but it is not where the middle-ground swinging voters are.

In this last week, Dutton has put his anger at a section of the media on display. Earlier in the week he lashed out at the ABC, Guardian and “other hate media”.

On Wednesday he doubled down, in a bit of pointed but embittered humour on FM radio when quizzed on tips for a good election night party. “I think alcohol is the first essential ingredient, I’m sure of that. Responsible drinking as well, but not watching the ABC would be a good start. For any young ones listening at home, forget the ABC.”

Dutton’s disdain for the ABC is long-standing and well-known. But in an election campaign, why he thinks it is a good tactic to expose it so blatantly is a mystery. It shows questionable judgement and a lack of discipline.

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

– ref. Election Diary: post-election rate cut and phone call from Trump in the pipeline – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-post-election-rate-cut-and-phone-call-from-trump-in-the-pipeline-255615

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Experienced practitioners vital for educating youngest children
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Experienced practitioners vital for educating youngest children

Delivering high-quality care and education for babies and toddlers takes skill and expertise, meaning experience and qualifications among early years workers matter when it comes to the youngest children’s development, new research by Ofsted shows.
Ofsted’s report, published today, looks at how early years practitioners care for and educate babies and toddlers up until they are 2 years old. The aim of the report is to help early years leaders and staff refine their approach to supporting the youngest children.  

Read the full report: Getting it right from the start: how early years practitioners work with babies and toddlers

The report highlights the importance of practitioner experience and qualifications, finding that those with greater experience and a higher level of qualifications had better knowledge of child development.

The research also considered to what extent practitioners use the early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework when educating and caring for toddlers and babies. It found that the ‘key person’ role is a strength of many providers, with early years practitioners recognising that this role is vital for babies and toddlers.   

Ofsted also found:

most practitioners recognise the importance of positive relationships with parents in helping them support children more effectively

communication and language, and personal, social and emotional development were well understood by practitioners, but they did not always understand how they could support physical development as well

there is some work to do in understanding how routine times can be used for high-quality interactions, particularly where mixed ages are grouped together  

some survey responses reflected a misconception that babies and toddlers are too young to be taught anything

some of the challenges considered in the research may be partly influenced by ongoing difficulties in recruiting and retaining experienced practitioners 

The report sets out a series of recommendations for practitioners, managers and policy-makers to achieve the best possible outcomes for babies and toddlers. Foremost is support for practitioners to take part in professional development specific to babies and toddlers to improve their qualifications and experience.

Jayne Coward, Ofsted’s Deputy Director of Early Years Regulatory Policy and Practice, said:

We know that a child’s first few years are crucial to their future learning and development. By providing children with an excellent start in those first two years, we can ensure that they gain the foundation they need to thrive throughout school and beyond. 

With the government’s childcare reforms, we can expect to see an increase in the number of babies and toddlers accessing early education. It’s vital we get it right for all of these children from the very start. I hope that this report helps early years practitioners to continue reflecting on and refining their approach to supporting our very youngest children.

Press office

8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday 0300 013 0415

Notes to editors 

The report draws on a series of visits to early years settings, a survey, inspector focus groups and a literature review.

Ofsted will be considering these findings when developing inspector training.

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Published 30 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RSH publishes regulatory judgements for 18 social landlords

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

RSH publishes regulatory judgements for 18 social landlords

The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has today published a range of judgements following inspections of social landlords and ongoing responsive work.

RSH has found serious issues with three councils, which have each failed to meet the outcomes in the consumer standards.

The London Borough of Tower Hamlets:

Does not have an accurate understanding of tenants’ homes, with only 47% of individual property surveys carried out within the last five years
Has thousands of homes that do not meet the Decent Homes Standard (23% of around 11,000 total homes).
Has around 2,500 overdue fire safety actions, 1,400 overdue communal electrical safety actions and 750 overdue water safety actions.

Reading Borough Council:

Failed to provide an effective and timely repairs service, with around 1,600 overdue repairs at the time of the inspection.
Only surveyed half of its tenants’ homes over the past five years.
Failed to provide meaningful opportunities for tenants to scrutinise its performance, and did not give all tenants access to a fair and effective complaints process.

Winchester City Council:

Does not have up-to-date information about the majority of tenants’ homes, with its last stock condition survey completed more than 10 years ago.
Is unable to provide assurance that it is completing required health and safety checks for all homes and communal areas – including those for fire, electrical and water safety.
Has not been able to demonstrate that it provides all tenants with accessible information.

Each council has been given a C3 grade and they must make significant improvements. RSH will continue to engage intensively with them as they deliver their improvement plans and put things right for tenants.

Following a self-referral, RSH found that Mid Devon District Council had overcharged rent for over 1,200 tenants, and undercharged over 1,600. As a result it has failed to meet the outcomes of the rent standard. The council is continuing to investigate these issues and has advised RSH that it will confirm the refunds due to individual tenants.

RSH also continues its important work in checking that housing associations are well run and financially viable. This is reflected in judgements which reinforce the importance of good governance in managing strategic risks.

RSH found weaknesses in how the Community Housing Group and Richmond Housing Partnership are managing their strategic risks. Each landlord needs to improve their internal controls assurance so that consistent improvement is seen in outcomes for tenants. RSH has downgraded both landlords to a G2 grading for governance as a result.

RSH expects all housing associations and other private registered providers to have G1 governance grades. RSH continues to drive improvements in social landlords, with Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association and Watmos Community Housing upgraded to G1 following improvements in their governance.

Kate Dodsworth, Chief of Regulatory Engagement at RSH, said:

“We continue to take action on a wide range of issues when landlords fail to meet our standards.

“Our judgements show the importance of good governance in driving improvements for tenants and ensuring landlords are on top of their strategic risks. A clear theme is the need for accurate, up-to-date information about key risks – whether they are financial or relate to tenants’ health and safety.

“Through our regulation we will continue to support a sector that is well run and financially viable. This is the foundation for providing good-quality homes for tenants and building new homes for the future.”

RSH has also removed a previous regulatory notice for the London Borough of Croydon as the landlord has delivered the required improvements.

RSH has published 18 regulatory judgements in total today, following planned inspections and responsive engagement. The full details are provided in the table below along with links to each of the judgements.

Notes to editors

Social landlord	Consumer grade	Governance grade	Viability grade	Process
Brentwood Borough Council	C2	–	–	Inspection
Broadland Housing Association Limited	C2	G1	V2	Inspection
Gateshead Metropolitan Borough Council	C2	–	–	Inspection
Hastoe Housing Association Limited	C2	G1	V2 (regrade from V1)	Inspection
Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association Limited	–	G1 (upgrade from G2)	V2 (based on previous assessment)	Responsive engagement
London Borough of Tower Hamlets	C3	–	–	Inspection
London Borough of Waltham Forest	C2	–	–	Inspection
Mid Devon District Council	–	–	–	Responsive engagement (rent standard)
Poplar Housing and Regeneration Community Association Limited	C1	G1	V2	Inspection
Raven Housing Trust Limited	C1	G1	V2	Inspection
Reading Borough Council	C3	–	–	Inspection
Richmond Housing Partnership Limited		G2 (downgrade from G1)	V1	Responsive engagement
South Liverpool Homes Limited	C1	G1	V1	Inspection
St Mungo Community Housing Association	C2	G2	V2	Inspection
Teign Housing	C2	G1	V2	Inspection
The Community Housing Group	C2	G2 (downgrade from G1)	V2	Inspection
Watmos Community Homes	C1	G1 (upgrade from G2)	V2	Inspection
Winchester City Council	C3	–	–	Responsive engagement

RSH regulates housing associations and other private registered providers against its full set of standards. Councils are regulated against the consumer and rent standards only.
More information about RSH’s responsive engagement, programmed inspections and consumer gradings is also available on its website.
RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.
For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

Published 30 April 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin signs agreement with Paraguayan Foreign Minister Ramírez on mutual visa exemption for regular passport holders of Taiwan and Paraguay

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Foreign Minister Lin signs agreement with Paraguayan Foreign Minister Ramírez on mutual visa exemption for regular passport holders of Taiwan and Paraguay

Date：2024-11-30
Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

November 30, 2024
No. 442

Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung and Paraguayan Minister of Foreign Affairs Rubén Ramírez Lezcano on November 29 signed an intergovernmental agreement on mutual visa exemption for regular passport holders from Taiwan and Paraguay. After the conclusion of the ceremony, which took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Lin hosted a banquet for the Paraguayan delegation. The two sides exchanged views on such issues as further deepening the diplomatic alliance between Taiwan and Paraguay, promoting bilateral economic and trade exchanges, and pursuing trilateral cooperation together with the United States.

Minister Lin welcomed Minister Ramírez back to Taiwan, following an earlier trip in May to accompany President Santiago Peña to President Lai Ching-te’s inauguration. Minister Lin noted that this demonstrated the deep friendship and close relations between Taiwan and Paraguay. During their meeting, the two ministers discussed international political and economic developments and bilateral cooperation projects. They also exchanged opinions on economic, trade, and investment issues related to Taiwan’s electric bus, food processing, and textile industries and the import of agricultural and livestock products. Minister Ramírez said he was pleased that Taiwan had implemented the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in Paraguay, which he hoped would bring mutual benefits and prosperity to both nations.

Minister Ramírez reaffirmed the staunch support extended to Taiwan by President Peña and the government and people of Paraguay and conveyed sincere greetings on their behalf. He expressed the hope that by building a model of trilateral cooperation, Taiwan, the United States, and Paraguay could jointly safeguard the core values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. He affirmed the earlier signing of the agreement on mutual visa exemption for regular passport holders of the two countries, adding that this would foster people-to-people exchanges and afford greater convenience to Taiwanese businesses investing in Paraguay. (E)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA extends sincere condolences to French overseas department Mayotte in aftermath of Cyclone Chido

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

MOFA extends sincere condolences to French overseas department Mayotte in aftermath of Cyclone Chido

Date：2024-12-16
Data Source：Department of European Affairs

December 16, 2024
No. 462

Cyclone Chido struck the French overseas department of Mayotte on December 14, with gusts exceeding 200 kilometers per hour. It was the strongest cyclone to hit the area in over 90 years. The local government stated that casualties likely numbered in the hundreds and that the storm had caused severe property damage.

Upon receiving news of the disaster, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung immediately instructed the Taipei Representative Office in France to convey President Lai Ching-te’s sincere sympathies and condolences on behalf of the government and people of Taiwan to French President Emmanuel Macron. Minister Lin emphasized that, if necessary, the Taiwan government would gladly provide disaster assistance. He also indicated that Taiwan would donate €250,000 through its representative office to assist with local disaster relief and postdisaster reconstruction efforts.
According to information available to the representative office in France, no Taiwanese nationals have been injured or stranded. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the representative office in France will continue to closely follow developments in Mayotte, maintain contact with the relevant French authorities, and provide any assistance necessary. (E)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: European-first semiconductor facility launches in Southampton
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

European-first semiconductor facility launches in Southampton

A new facility to build the next generation of semiconductor chips, and the first of its kind in Europe, was opened at the University of Southampton.
Science Minister Lord Vallance unveils new electron beam facility for creating incredibly small patterns onto chips to enable breakthroughs in AI and medical tech

Comes alongside nearly £5 million in new government support to boost talent pipeline and address skills gap in growing semiconductor industry

Support will fund new bursaries, chip design courses and outreach in schools – helping deliver growth as part of our Plan for Change by strengthening our sector and creating high-skilled jobs

A new facility using cutting edge electron beam technology to build the next generation of semiconductor chips, and the first of its kind in Europe, was opened at the University of Southampton by Science Minister Lord Vallance today (Wednesday 30 April).

The new E-beam lithography facility is just the second in the world, and first outside Japan, and provides incredible accuracy that is critical to designing the tiny components that power technologies of the future, from medical diagnostics to defence systems.

Semiconductors – the small chips that power devices from smartphones to satellites – already contribute an estimated £10 billion to our economy each year, with the sector projected to grow to an estimated £17 billion by 2030.

Strengthening the sector offers a major opportunity to drive the growth at the heart of our Plan for Change, through boosting innovation and jobs. It also supports the UK’s wider Industrial Strategy to grow key advanced manufacturing sectors and secure global competitiveness.

E-beam lithography uses a focused beam of tiny particles called electrons to create patterns in materials with unrivalled resolution – allowing researchers to create features thousands of times smaller than a human hair.

Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

Britain is home to some of the most exciting semiconductor research anywhere in the world – and Southampton’s new E-beam facility is a major boost to our national capabilities.

By investing in both infrastructure and talent, we’re giving our researchers and innovators the support they need to develop next-generation chips right here in the UK.

Our £4.75 million skills package will support our Plan for Change by helping more young people into high-value semiconductors careers, closing skills gaps and backing growth in this critical sector.

The Science Minister’s visit to Southampton comes alongside new research being published today, which shows that one of the biggest barriers to achieving growth in the UK’s burgeoning semiconductor industry is a lack of emerging talent. With a single semiconductor worker contributing an average of £460,000 to the economy annually, the sector’s economic potential is huge.

In response, the government has launched a new £4.75 million semiconductor skills package to help build the talent base needed to fuel this high-growth industry. The package will also help strengthen R&D capacity at leading universities, such as Southampton, which are central to UK semiconductor innovation and talent development.

By supporting local talent pipelines and university–industry collaboration, the programme will contribute to both regional and national economic growth, fuelling our Plan for Change, and reinforcing the role the semiconductors industry is set to play in the Industrial Strategy.

The package includes:

£3 million for undergraduate bursaries, offering £5,000 each to 300 students starting Electronics and Electrical Engineering degrees this year, alongside specialist semiconductor content to raise awareness of the field, with a focus on courses that include semiconductor design and manufacturing.

£1.2 million for chip design training, with new chip design courses to teach practical chip design skills to undergraduates, postgraduates, and lecturers, as well as a feasibility study for new postgraduate conversion courses.

Almost £550,000 for school outreach, giving 7,000 students aged 15–18 and 450 teachers hands-on semiconductor experience in partnership with local employers, helping raise awareness and diversify the future workforce. This programme will be focused on existing UK semiconductor clusters – such as Newport, Cambridge, and Glasgow – helping to strengthen these ecosystems and create long-term career opportunities.

This targeted skills support will underpin the long-term success of the UK semiconductor sector – helping to attract more students into high-value careers, fill key vacancies and support UK leadership in critical and emerging technologies that will be instrumental to our mission to grow the economy.

University of Southampton’s Professor Graham Reed, who leads its Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), said:

The introduction of the new E-Beam facility will reinforce our position of hosting the most advanced cleanroom in UK academia.

It facilitates a vast array of innovative and industrially relevant research, and much needed semiconductor skills training.

DSIT media enquiries

Email press@dsit.gov.uk

Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

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Published 30 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 30, 2025

Category: Politics

Interim report 01/2025: Collision between passenger trains near Talerddig

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Two Trustees appointed to the Natural History Museum board for four year terms commencing 17 March 2025

Kate Robson Brown

Tanuja Randery

Remuneration and Governance Code

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Fraud Bill to save £1.5 billion progresses to the Lords

Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western said:

Minister in the Cabinet Office, Georgia Gould said:

Additional Information

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Experienced practitioners vital for educating youngest children

Notes to editors

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RSH publishes regulatory judgements for 18 social landlords

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European-first semiconductor facility launches in Southampton

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Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western said:   

Minister in the Cabinet Office, Georgia Gould said:   

Notes to editors 