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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster Council invests £1.3m to improving Pimlico | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has approved more than £1.3 million for a new programme which will deliver improvements across Pimlico.

    The new funding will be used to support and strengthen our local communities, as well as allowing us to develop long-term improvement plans for the area.

    Headline announcements for the Pimlico Programme include:

    • £1million to extend our High Streets Programme for Pimlico – this aims to create safe, sustainable, welcoming places, a vibrant local economy and connected communities. This funding will be used to develop a long-term improvement plan for Lupus street and areas around the station. We will speak to residents, visitors and local businesses to develop the plan.
    • £200,000 for the Community Priorities Programme – this provides grant funding for community-led work to support the health and wellbeing of residents, such as counselling for carers, housing advice workshops, and stay and play activities for parents and children. 
    • £50,000 for Digital Dash – provides training opportunities for local talent, bridging the gap between education and work, helping young residents access opportunities with global tech leading businesses.
    • £35,000 for Helping Hands – the Young Westminster Foundation programme providing funding and support to those members of the community who are affected by youth violence.   
    • £24,000 for Green After School Clubs at Churchill Gardens – gives residents the chance to grow food and to learn about air quality and climate change. 
    • Pimlico businesses will also benefit from new support programmes, following the approval of additional funding for high streets across Westminster.

    Westminster City Council Cabinet Member Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, Cllr Geoff Barraclough, said:

    “We’re investing in high streets and local areas to become more sustainable, resilient and enrich the local community, which is part of our Fairer Westminster commitments.

    “I’m really pleased the funding will be used to make Pimlico even more welcoming to residents, visitors and businesses and help community groups to continue to deliver their excellent and important services.”               

    Westminster City Council’s Pimlico Programme Lead Member, Cllr Jason Williams, said:

    “We’ve worked with local people and community groups in Pimlico to find out about any issues they have and how we can tackle them through our improvement plan. 

    “We want to see Pimlico progress and improve outcomes and opportunities for local people by developing welcoming spaces, enhancing the appearance of Lupus Street the high street and supporting local organisations.”

    Maggie Harper, Coordinator from Pimlico Toy Library, said:

    “I am thrilled to see the approval of this local government fund, a testament to the open and proactive partnership between our Community and Westminster City Council. Through transparent communication and a shared vision, we’ve worked together to develop a program that will make a meaningful impact in Pimlico.

    “I am excited to see the positive changes it will bring and look forward to continuing this strong collaboration.”

    The Council carried out engagement with residents by hosting the Pimlico Community Conversations, which asked the local community how the Council can support improving and rejuvenating their local area.

    From these conversations, the community’s highest priorities were:  

    1. Community Activities, Events and Spaces 
    1. Crime and Safety 
    1. Housing 
    1. Children and Young People 
    1. Green and Resilient 

    Suggestions were also raised about a number of locations that could be improved – especially Lupus Street and the areas around Pimlico Station. The community asked for improvement to also include support for local businesses.

    The £1.3 million fund is in addition to other ongoing investment across Pimlico which includes plans for a new Community Hub on Rampayne Street, the Warwick Way Highways Scheme, improvements to Pimlico Gardens and increased CCTV for the area.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Colour Runner event back in Hanley for centenary celebrations

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 2nd April 2025

    Caudwell Children’s Colour Runner event is coming to Hanley Park this year as part of Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary celebrations.

    The 5km charity fun run will see participants covered in environmentally-friendly paints at special “paint stations” along the route. 

    The event – developed as a fundraiser in support of Caudwell Children – encourages families and individuals of all ages to come together, have fun and raise vital funds to support disabled and autistic children across the UK. 

    This year’s event, which also commemorates the 25th anniversary of the charity, will be held on 19th July and run from 10:30am-2pm.

    The event is a non-competitive, fully accessible 5km, which is open to people of all ages and fitness levels. Participants can walk or run and wheelchair users will also be able to take part.

    Kathryn Turner-Morgan, Challenges Manager at Caudwell Children, said “We’re thrilled to welcome back our Colour Runner as we celebrate 25 years of Caudwell Children and Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary. 

    “Collaborating with Stoke-on-Trent City Council has been fantastic, and we’re determined to make this our biggest, most vibrant event yet.

    “We encourage as many individuals, schools, and local businesses as possible to get involved to help us change disabled and autistic children’s lives. With a fully accessible route, it’s a challenge the whole family can enjoy.”

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I am thrilled that we are working in partnership with Caudwell Children and adding the Colour Runner to our stacked centenary programme.

    “Caudwell Children carry out amazing, important work that has supported SEND children for 25 years. This event is a great opportunity to raise money for a worthwhile cause, whilst also having fun and celebrating 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent.

    “The course is for all ages and abilities, so I encourage everyone to register for the event. It promises to be a fun day out that everyone can enjoy.”

    For more information and to register for the event, visit the Caudwell Children website: https://www.caudwellchildren.com/our-challenges/colour-runner-2025/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spring planting at Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden workshop

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    The first No Dig workshop of 2025 was held at Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden in Oxford Island

    Planting, seed sowing and lots of helpful advice were on offer at the first monthly No Dig workshop held at the Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden in Oxford Island last week.

    The Bushcraft Team in ABC Council are hosting weekly sessions on Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8.30pm, starting from Thursday 6 March, while on the last Thursday of each month, council staff join with Natural World Products to deliver a series of No Dig workshops.

    No-dig gardening cares for soil by cutting out the need for cultivation which damages soil structure and disrupts the natural processes which makes no-dig a better choice for soil health.

    Natural World Products process the organic waste from brown bins collected in the ABC Borough and produce peat free composts one of which ‘New Leaf Compost’ is being used at the Kinnego Community Garden.

    The Community Garden offers a wide range of benefits including shared beds to plant crops; supportive, friendly community of gardeners; and a share of the seasonal harvest.

    Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a complete novice, the workshops will cover a wide range of topics with helpful advice on; No Dig practices; crop planning; composting; pest control; backyard gardening; chemical free fruit and veggie growing; seed sowing and transplanting.

    Contact Sandra or Wayne by email at

    *protected email*

    to register up for the workshops, or to find out more information.

    Keep an eye on the ‘Oxford Island’ and ‘getactiveabc’ Facebook pages for details on the events at the Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden throughout the year.

    Craigavon Building Sustainable Communities Project at Bushcraft is funded by Department of Communities.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Getting the basics right for transport and environment in the Capital

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson.

    Writing in today’s Evening News, Transport and Environment Convener Stephen Jenkinson looks ahead to another busy Transport and Environment Committee meeting tomorrow.

    In my time as an elected member the concern which comes up time and again in my conversations with residents is our roads. We’ve been told in no uncertain terms that the people of Edinburgh want continued work and investment in our network and that’s what I’m committed to delivering. Road safety also goes hand in hand with road condition and investment, better maintained roads equal safer roads.

    We have two important reports to consider at Committee which address these key issues. Our Road Safety Delivery Plan combined with our Roads and Infrastructure Investment -Capital Delivery Priorities will see over £30m invested across our city in the next financial year. These works cover everything from major projects like the Dalmahoy Junction, through to carriageway resurfacing and maintaining our pavements, speed reduction measures, accident and investigation prevention, safer travel around our schools and much more.

    For roads, pavement and paths improvements, this is an area we’ve committed extra funding to in successive budgets, with £11m in 2023/24, £12.5m in 2024/25 and £12.5m this year. As a result, last year, we saw a record 460,000m² of carriageways receiving treatment and I’m hopeful we’ll see similar results this year. We’ll also be looking to build on our promising Road Condition Indicator (RCI) score, which saw a record positive shift last year.

    This is far from the only area we are making significant investments. In February I was lucky enough to visit Bankhead Depot to meet colleagues and see our new fleet of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) with enhanced safety features. We’ve invested over £25m in these HGVs along with our welfare buses for pupils with Additional Support Needs (ASN) and I’m confident that we now have the most advanced local authority fleet in Scotland when it comes to safety features. Our residents can take comfort in the fact that safety is at the heart of delivering our core services.     

    Another important project which we’ll hear about at Committee is the King’s Theatre Public Realm Improvements which intersects with the Meadows to Union Canal active travel project. Working collaboratively with the King’s Theatre refurbishment team, our aim is to incorporate a new walking, wheeling and cycling route that aligns with existing plans that were in development to avoid the need for future works to be carried out. From enhancing accessibility through step free access, increasing pavement areas for those walking and wheeling, and introducing contraflow cycling arrangements, there are a host of positive proposals which have now been shared with Tollcross Community Council, ward councillors and other project stakeholders. This is an excellent example of working together with a large-scale development to create the best outcome for the people of our city.

    Finally, there was some welcome news last week which saw the roads on North Bridge reopening slightly ahead of schedule, with footways to fully reopen later in the year. This temporary closure to northbound traffic was due to essential resurfacing works which began in February. We’re now getting towards the final phase of the project which is hugely promising for the city.

    I’m aware there is much still to be done, however I’m confident that we’re on the right track for delivering the changes which our city deserves.  

    Published: April 2nd 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool and Dublin reignite twin city agreement

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool and Dublin have begun the process of reinvigorating their twinning agreement.

    A sister city arrangement was signed back in 1997 as a mark of the long and shared history between the two.

    Now, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain, has visited Liverpool to meet with her counterpart Cllr Richard Kemp, Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, and Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram.

    They have discussed mutually beneficial ways in which the two cities can work together in areas such as culture, tourism and the wider economy.

    Councillor Robinson said: “Here in Liverpool, 75% of us have some form of Irish heritage, so it was brilliant to welcome the Lord Mayor of Dublin, so we could talk about how we reinvigorate our partnership.

    “We have a great opportunity to work together post-Brexit, and focus on some of the economic links that we share as two cities and how we can strengthen that over the years ahead.”

    Lord Mayor Blain said: “It is my immense pride and pleasure to visit the city of Liverpool to reactivate the twinning agreement between Dublin and Liverpool.

    “Our two cities have long shared a much cherished connection and I hope that this visit will help strengthen those bonds.

    “Dublin and Liverpool have strong historic cultural, social and economic connections which extend across all aspects of Liverpool’s renowned reputation for music and arts, commerce and industry, sport and education.

    “I am looking forward to visiting the University of Liverpool Materials Innovation Factory and Institute of Irish Studies as part of my visit, and wish to thank them for hosting us.

    “Like many Dubliners, I have a family connection to the City of Liverpool, it is a place I have visited many times and am always struck by the warmth and welcoming of the people. I hope that my visit will be seen as a reciprocation of this warmth and welcoming from the people of Dublin.

    “My sincere thanks to The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Richard Kemp CBE, and to the Leader of Liverpool City Council, Liam Robinson, for their gracious invitation and their eagerness to develop this connection even further.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Preparing engineers of the future: GUU to open laboratory with CNC machines

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The State University of Management has become the winner of a grant from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation for universities to create modern educational laboratories for the aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding and innovative transport industries.

    The modern laboratory for the aircraft construction and innovative transport industry, created on the basis of the State University of Management, in terms of automated development of control programs and studying the basics of working on the CNC system (numerical program control) for machines of various technological groups, will become an important element of the university infrastructure. The laboratory will facilitate the integration of practical activities into the educational process, and in the future – the creation of mechanisms for opening scientific and production associations with partners of the real sector of the economy in the direction of more active cooperation with them and solving applied problems.

    The key goal of the created Laboratory of CNC Control is to improve the engineering skills of young people, to involve students in solving practical problems and challenges of Russian industry and engineering science in the field of innovative technologies.

    The development strategy of the State University of Management involves building up competencies and scientific and technical groundwork in the field of managing the technological process of manufacturing high-tech products to form basic technical training for university graduates. The laboratory will become a practical basis for implementing academic disciplines and additional professional education as part of developing international cooperation in programs for training senior and middle management personnel to work with high-tech CNC equipment in the field of intelligent manufacturing.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/02/2025

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI: RYVYL EU Payments-as-a-Service Contracts Rapidly Onboarding New Accounts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    – Onboarded over 10,000 accounts; averaging 1,000 new accounts per day with first digital banking partner –

    – Second digital bank has completed API integrations and expects to begin onboarding mid-April –

    SAN DIEGO, CA, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RYVYL Inc. (NASDAQ: RVYL) (“RYVYL” or the “Company”), a leading innovator of payment transaction solutions leveraging electronic payment technology for the diverse international markets, is rapidly onboarding new accounts with its two recently announced digital banking partners at RYVYL EU – Mar. 20, 2025 – RYVYL Secures Major Payments-as-a-Service Contracts.

    Under the first contract, a fast-growing financial services provider is leveraging RYVYL EU’s infrastructure to issue digital and physical payment accounts. So far:

    • Over 10,000 accounts have been successfully opened;
    • Onboarding is currently averaging 1,000 new accounts per day; and
    • More than €10 million in transaction volume has been processed.

    This contract is on track to exceed 50,000+ active accounts in 2025.

    The second contract, with a fully digital banking platform, has completed API integrations ahead of plan and is scheduled to onboard 900,000 new customer accounts within the next 12 months.

    Rui Helder, Chief Business Development Officer, RYVYL EU, said: “Our PaaS platform and support team offer partners exceptional value and means to leverage their customer base as well as accelerate growth. We are providing seamless onboarding, compliance expertise, and the operational scale required to power modern digital Payment ecosystems. Now, we are exceeding our initial onboarding goals for our two new PaaS contracts and are rapidly scaling our footprint with new accounts throughout Europe. I’m proud of our team’s strong execution in the initial onboarding of these key digital banking partners and confident we will reach our goal of opening nearly 1 million new customer accounts within the next 12 months.”

    The foregoing guidance is based on the Company’s continuation of the business, as currently conducted. On January 24, 2025, the Company entered into an agreement with a financing source that was structured as a pre-funded asset sale with a 90-day closing period, which ends on April 23, 2025 and may be extended an additional 30 days to May 23, 2025, if the Company pays $500,000 for such extension. Shares in the Company’s RYVYL EU subsidiary were placed in escrow during the closing period. Although there are no guarantees, the Company intends to terminate the asset sale within the closing period by paying $16.5 million in consideration of such termination. The Company’s financial guidance for 2025 is based on fully retaining its RYVYL EU subsidiary.

    About RYVYL

    RYVYL Inc. (NASDAQ: RVYL) was born from a passion for empowering a new way to conduct business-to-business, consumer-to-business, and peer-to-peer payment transactions around the globe. By leveraging electronic payment technology for diverse international markets, RYVYL is a leading innovator of payment transaction solutions reinventing the future of financial transactions. Since its founding as GreenBox POS in 2017 in San Diego, RYVYL has developed applications enabling an end-to-end suite of turnkey financial products with enhanced security and data privacy, world-class identity theft protection, and rapid speed to settlement. As a result, the platform can log immense volumes of immutable transactional records at the speed of the internet for first-tier partners, merchants, and consumers around the globe. www.ryvyl.com

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes information that constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs, assumptions, and expectations regarding future events, which in turn are based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding the anticipated number of account activations and new customers onboarded, anticipated revenues and margins, timely payment of the second tranche, the benefit to stockholders from the repayment of the Note and repurchase of the Preferred Stock, and the timing and expectation of revenues from the contracts described herein and are charactered by future or conditional words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate” and “continue” or similar words. You should read statements that contain these words carefully because they discuss future expectations and plans, which contain projections of future results of operations or financial condition or state other forward-looking information. By their nature, forward-looking statements address matters that are subject to risks and uncertainties. A variety of factors could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those expressed in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements, including the risk that the licensee understands and complies with various banking laws and regulations that may impact the licensee’s ability to process transactions. For example, federal money laundering statutes and Bank Secrecy Act regulations discourage financial institutions from working with operators of certain industries – particularly industries with heightened cash reporting obligations and restrictions – as a result of which, banks may refuse to process certain payments and/or require onerous reporting obligations by payment processors to avoid compliance risk. These statements are also subject to any damages the Company could suffer as the result of previously announced litigation or actions of any governmental agencies. These and other risk factors affecting the Company are discussed in detail in the Company’s periodic filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether because of the latest information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable laws.

    IR Contact:
    David Barnard, Alliance Advisors Investor Relations, 415-433-3777, ryvylinvestor@allianceadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Plantro Ltd. Announces Premium All-Cash Tender Offer to Acquire up to 15% of Class A Limited Voting Shares of Information Services Corporation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Premium tender offer of $27.25 per Class A Share in cash for up to 2,777,342 Class A Shares, representing an attractive premium of approximately 9% to the trailing 10-day VWAP, for a total value of approximately $75.7 million.
    • Plantro’s Tender Offer provides shareholders with an opportunity to receive cash consideration in a stock that has been highly illiquid for many years.
    • Plantro is optimistic that the Board will recommend in favour of this opportunity for shareholders to receive liquidity for their stock at a premium to the market price and avoid entrenching behaviours that deprive shareholders of value.

    ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plantro Ltd. (“Plantro”), today announced an offer to acquire up to 2,777,342 Class A Limited Voting Shares (the “Class A Shares”) in the capital of Information Services Corporation (TSX: ISC) (“ISC” or the “Company”), (the “Tender Offer”) at a price of $27.25 per Class A Share, payable in cash (the “Tender Price”). The Tender Price represents an attractive premium of approximately 10% to the closing price of the Class A Shares on March 31, 2025, and an approximately 9% premium to the volume-weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Class A Shares for the ten trading days preceding the announcement of the Tender Offer. The total value of the Tender Offer, if fully taken up, is approximately $75.7 million. The Tender Offer is not a “take-over bid” under Canadian securities laws.

    Shareholders who have questions with respect to the Tender Offer should contact Carson Proxy, information agent for the Tender Offer, at 1-800-530-5189 (North America Toll Free), 416-751-2066 (Local and Text), or by email at info@carsonproxy.com. Tender Offer materials will be available on the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The Plantro Tender Offer

    The Tender Offer is open for acceptance by shareholders of the Company until 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on April 11, 2025 (the “Expiry Time”), unless the Tender Offer is extended, varied or withdrawn. Plantro is making the Tender Offer to all shareholders of the Company (other than Class A Shares held by the Crown Investment Corporation of Saskatchewan or any other entity wholly-owned by the Province of Saskatchewan). If the Tender Offer is withdrawn, Plantro shall cause all Class A Shares delivered pursuant to the Tender Offer to be returned to shareholders. The Tender Offer is not subject to any financing condition and Plantro confirms that it has sufficient cash resources to pay for all Class A Shares subject to the Tender Offer.

    If more than the maximum number of Class A Shares for which the Tender Offer is made are delivered in accordance with the Tender Offer and not withdrawn at the time of take up of the Class A Shares, the Class A Shares to be purchased from each depositing shareholder will be determined on a pro rata basis according to the number of Class A Shares delivered by each shareholder, disregarding fractions, by rounding down to the nearest whole number of Class A Shares.

    The complete terms and conditions of the Tender Offer will be set out in an offer letter to shareholders, which will be publicly disclosed by way of a separate press release, as well as a form of letter of transmittal (the “Letter of Transmittal” and together with the offer letter to shareholders, the “Offer Documents”) to be used to accept the Tender Offer. The Tender Offer is subject to certain conditions as set out in the Offer Documents which, unless waived, must be satisfied. In particular, the Offer Documents provide that each depositing shareholder whose Class A Shares are taken up and paid for will appoint representatives of Plantro as its nominees and proxy for the Company’s annual meeting of shareholders to be held on May 13, 2025.

    Plantro is relying on the exemption under section 9.2(4) of National Instrument 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations to the circular requirements of applicable Canadian proxy solicitation laws. For further details, please see below under the heading “Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption Under Canadian Law”. The Tender Offer is not a formal or exempt take-over bid under Canadian securities laws and regulations. In no event will Plantro (or its affiliates or associates) make any such purchases of Class A Shares that would result in Plantro, together with its affiliates and associates, beneficially owning or exercising control or direction over more than 15% of the outstanding Class A Shares upon completion of the Tender Offer.

    Full details of the Tender Offer are included in the Offer Documents and will be available online on the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Reasons to Accept Plantro’s Tender Offer:

    (a)   All-Cash Premium. Shareholders will receive liquidity at an attractive premium to the current trading price of the Class A Shares (a premium of approximately 10% to the closing price of the Class A Shares on March 31, 2025, and approximately a 9% premium to the VWAP of the Class A Shares on the TSX for the ten (10) trading days preceding the announcement of the Tender Offer).
         
    (b)   Limited Liquidity. Plantro believes that another liquidity event for shareholders is unlikely. There is persistent and extreme lack of trading volume and liquidity in the Class A Shares and the Tender Offer represents a unique opportunity for shareholders to receive liquidity at an attractive premium to the current trading price of the Class A Shares, in cash.


    Background to the Tender Offer:

    Plantro is making the Tender Offer to all shareholders of the Company (other than Class A Shares held by the Crown Investment Corporation of Saskatchewan or any other entity wholly-owned by the Province of Saskatchewan) following a recent unsuccessful attempt to open discussions with the board of directors (the “Board”) and management of the Company, on issues that included Board refreshment and a potential strategic investment.

    Plantro also considered acquiring Class A Shares in the market, but the extreme and persistent lack of liquidity in the stock, made this impossible. For example, on Friday, March 28, 2025, only 251 Class A shares traded on the TSX. This represents a meager $6,144 of value traded versus a market capitalization of almost $0.5 billion.

    Plantro is drawn to ISC because it believes that ISC enjoys a durable competitive moat around its core offerings, which drive healthy cash flow and a strong balance sheet. Plantro remains hopeful that the Board will engage constructively with Plantro, and recommend in favour of the Tender Offer.

    Plantro’s Advisors

    Plantro has engaged Goodmans LLP as its legal advisor, Carson Proxy as its information agent, Odyssey Trust Company as depositary, and Gagnier Communications as its strategic communications advisor.

    About Plantro

    Plantro is a privately-held company, with an established track record of making successful investments in undervalued and high quality legal, financial, and information services businesses.

    Shareholder Questions

    Shareholders who have questions with respect to the Tender Offer, or who need assistance in depositing their Class A Shares, please contact the depositary and information agent for the Tender Offer:

    Depositary: Odyssey Trust Company

    Toll Free (US & Canada): 1-888-290-1175
    Calls (All Regions): 587-885-0960
    Email: corp.actions@odysseytrust.com

    Information Agent: Carson Proxy

    North America Toll Free: 1-800-530-5189
    Local and Text: 416-751-2066
    Email: info@carsonproxy.com

    Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption Under Canadian Law

    Plantro is relying on the exemption under section 9.2(4) of National Instrument 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations to make this public broadcast solicitation. The following information is provided in accordance with corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations.

    This solicitation is being made by Plantro, and not by or on behalf of management of ISC. The information agent will receive a fee of up to $250,000 for its services as information agent under the Tender Offer, plus ancillary payments and disbursements. Based upon publicly available information, ISC’s registered and head office is located at 300 – 10 Research Drive, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 7J7, Canada. Plantro is soliciting proxies in reliance upon the public broadcast exemption to the solicitation requirements under applicable Canadian corporate and securities laws, conveyed by way of public broadcast, including press release, speech or publication, and by any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian securities laws. In addition, this solicitation may be made by mail, telephone, facsimile, email or other electronic means as well as by newspaper or other media advertising and in person by representatives of Plantro. All costs incurred for such solicitation will be borne by Plantro.

    A registered shareholder who has given a proxy under the terms of the Letter of Transmittal may, prior to its Class A Shares being taken up and paid for under the Tender Offer, revoke the proxy by instrument in writing, including a proxy bearing a later date. The instrument revoking the proxy must be deposited at the registered office of ISC at least 48 hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, preceding the date of the meeting or an adjournment or postponement thereof, or with the Chair of the meeting on the day of the meeting, or in any other manner permitted by law, provided that, in each circumstance, a copy of such revocation has been delivered to the depositary, at its principal office in Toronto, Ontario, Canada prior to the Class A Shares relating to such proxy having been taken up and paid for under the Tender Offer.

    A non-registered shareholder may revoke a form of proxy or voting instruction form given to an intermediary at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered shareholder by its intermediary. Non-registered shareholders should contact their broker for assistance in ensuring that forms of proxies or voting instructions previously given to an intermediary are properly revoked.

    None of Plantro nor, to its knowledge, any of its associates or affiliates, has any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the commencement of ISC’s most recently completed financial year, or in any proposed transaction which has materially affected or will materially affect ISC or any of its subsidiaries. None of Plantro nor, to its knowledge, any of its associates or affiliates, has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at any upcoming shareholders’ meeting, other than as set out herein.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release may contain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Specifically, certain statements contained in this press release, including without limitation statements regarding the Tender Offer, taking up and paying for Class A Shares deposited under the Tender Offer, Plantro’s assessment of the consequences of what it believes to be governance failings at ISC, as well as Plantro’s assessment of ISC’s future prospects, contain “forward-looking information” and are prospective in nature. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “an opportunity exists”, “is positioned”, “estimates”, “intends”, “assumes”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking statements.

    Statements containing forward-looking information are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the future outcomes expressed or implied by the statements containing forward-looking information.

    Although Plantro believes that the expectations reflected in statements containing forward-looking information herein made by it (and not, for greater certainty, any forward-looking statements attributable to the Company) are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Material factors or assumptions that were applied in formulating the forward-looking information contained herein include the assumption that the business and economic conditions affecting the Company’s operations will continue substantially in the current state, including, without limitation, with respect to industry conditions, general levels of economic activity, continuity and availability of personnel, local and international laws and regulations, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, inflation, taxes, that there will be no unplanned material changes to the Company’s operations, and that the Company’s public disclosure record is accurate in all material respects and is not misleading (including by omission).

    Plantro cautions that the foregoing list of material factors and assumptions is not exhaustive. While these factors and assumptions are considered by Plantro to be appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances as of the date of this press release, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of Plantro and there is no assurance that they will prove correct.

    Important facts that could cause outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information include, among other things, actions taken by the Company in respect of the Tender Offer, the content of subsequent public disclosures by the Company, the failure to satisfy the conditions to the Tender Offer, general economic conditions, legislative or regulatory changes and changes in capital or securities markets. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the opinions, estimates or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results or future events might vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Although Plantro has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known to Plantro or that Plantro presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information.

    Statements containing forward-looking information in this press release are based on Plantro’s beliefs and opinions at the time the statements are made, and there should be no expectation that such forward-looking information will be updated or supplemented as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise, and Plantro disclaims any obligation to do so, except as required by applicable law. All of the forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

    1380-9916-3157

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitfarms Enters into Initial Agreement for Private Debt Facility with a division of Macquarie Group for up to $300 Million to Fund Initial HPC Project Development at Panther Creek

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Initial draw at close of $50 million, with up to a total of $300 million available upon entry into definitive project loan documentation
    • Early-stage investment from a division of Macquarie Group, one of the world’s largest infrastructure investors, further validates the attractiveness of Bitfarms’ potential HPC data center development pipeline, especially its near-term project at Panther Creek
    • A $300 million facility is expected to provide the necessary capital for Bitfarms to fund the initial portion of the Panther Creek data center development and buildout in a non-dilutive manner

    This news release constitutes a “designated news release” for the purposes of the Company’s amended and restated prospectus supplement dated December 17, 2024, to its short form base shelf prospectus dated November 10, 2023.

    TORONTO, Ontario and BROSSARD, Québec, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitfarms Ltd. (Nasdaq/TSX: BITF), a global energy and compute infrastructure company (“Bitfarms” or the “Company”), announced today that the Company has entered into an initial agreement for a private debt facility for up to $300 million from Macquarie Equipment Capital, Inc., a division of Macquarie Group’s Commodities and Global Markets’ business (“Macquarie”). The initial tranche of the facility is $50 million at the parent level and proceeds will be used for project development soft costs and other general corporate purposes. The second tranche of the facility may be up to $250 million and is drawable as the Company achieves specific development milestones at its Panther Creek location, at which time the entirety of the loan becomes secured at the project level only, resulting in a total project debt facility of $300 million and termination of the initial loan. The maturity of each facility is two years from the date of closing and each facility bears an interest at a rate of 8% per annum, with interest on the initial draw of $50 million paid in kind for the first three months. Draws under the second tranche of the facility are subject to the entry into definitive documentation, mutually agreed between the Company and Macquarie, on terms appended to the initial agreement, in addition to certain other conditions.

    CEO Ben Gagnon stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Macquarie, a global leader in infrastructure investment with deep expertise and relationships across the HPC-related infrastructure value chain. This partnership marks the beginning of our investment in the near-term development of our Panther Creek data center, strategically located in Pennsylvania’s PJM region within close proximity to Philadelphia and NYC metropolitan areas. Panther Creek alone has a potential capacity of nearly 500 MW, supported by multiple power sources. Having multiple energy sources enhances reliability and redundancy while reducing anticipated CapEx and OpEx for HPC, making these sites particularly attractive to potential HPC customers. We are confident that this partnership will not only accelerate our buildout at Panther Creek, but also open doors to future opportunities with Macquarie as we look to scale our project and potentially expand to other sites within our portfolio.

    “Amidst the surging AI revolution and the growing demand for power and infrastructure, this financing arrives at a pivotal time following the close of our transformational acquisition of Stronghold Digital Mining and the recent appointments of both James Bond, SVP of HPC, and Craig Hibbard, SVP of Infrastructure. We believe the analyses provided by our strategic partners, ASG and WWT, along with Macquarie’s due diligence and industry expertise, validate our HPC opportunity thesis at Panther Creek, strengthen our HPC pipeline and strategy, and position Bitfarms as a market leader in sourcing and developing large-scale, high-quality HPC data center projects.”

    Joshua Stevens, Associate Director, Macquarie Group’s Commodities and Global Markets business, said, “We are proud to partner with Bitfarms and look forward to supporting the continued development of its innovative Panther Creek project, as well as future infrastructure that will be essential to the advancement of AI. Panther Creek is well located, within 100 miles of New York City and Philadelphia, and we expect it will be sought after by HPC tenants once construction of the project is underway.”

    CFO Jeff Lucas stated, “Our highly valued North American assets, strong cash flow from mining operations, and the potential for higher-margin, stable, and predictable earnings characteristic of an HPC business model have enabled us to secure this attractive debt financing from a respected infrastructure partner. With an interest rate of 8%, we believe we can fund our energy and HPC infrastructure development at a significantly lower cost of capital and with much less dilution than equity funding, creating long-term shareholder value. The net proceeds from the initial $50 million will accelerate the launch of our HPC project at Panther Creek and finance the soft costs as we move forward with the HPC development. Importantly, this valuable partnership with Macquarie provides the necessary capital and expertise in datacenter development to accelerate our next chapter of growth.”

    Key Financing Terms

    • The $300 million project loan is intended to fund the development of the data center project at Panther Creek.
    • The $50 million initial tranche of the facility, which is earmarked for project development soft costs and other general corporate purposes, is at the parent level and is secured by a first priority lien on all assets of the U.S. and Canadian guarantors and the borrower, with customary exclusions. The second tranche of the facility will be for up to $250 million and will be drawable as the Company achieves specific development milestones at its Panther Creek location and upon entering definitive documentation, at which time the entirety of the loan will become secured at the project level only and would result in a total project debt facility of $300 million and termination of the initial loan.
    • The maturity of each facility is two years from the date of closing. Each facility will bear interest at a rate of 8% per annum, with interest on the initial draw of $50 million paid in kind for the first three months. 
    • In connection with the initial tranche of the facility, Macquarie will receive warrants for the purchase of $5 million in shares of Bitfarms at a strike price equal to a 25% premium to the average of the past 5 days’ closing price (subject to a minimum strike price floor equal to the last closing price of Bitfarms’ shares on the TSX) and with a tenor of five years. The warrants and underlying shares are subject to customary registration rights for the resale of the underlying shares. Up until $125 million has been drawn under the second tranche of the facility, Macquarie will receive warrants equal to 10% of the amount drawn under the facility at a strike price equal to a 25% premium to the average of the past 5 days’ closing price (subject to a minimum strike price floor equal to the last closing price of Bitfarms’ shares on the TSX prior to grant) with a tenor of five years.
    • The loan agreement for the initial tranche of the facility includes various affirmative and negative covenants for Bitfarms and its subsidiaries, including restrictions on dispositions, dividends, the incurrence of debt and liens, material changes in the nature of its business, related party transactions, and investments, in each case subject to certain customary exclusions and carveouts. In addition, Bitfarms must maintain a minimum of $25 million balance in cash at all times while the initial tranche is outstanding and must deposit additional amounts of cash if the average bitcoin price drops below certain thresholds as provided in the loan agreement (which funds will be returned if the bitcoin price returns to the previous thresholds).

    Northland Capital Markets acted as sole placement agent to the Company. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP acted as legal counsel to the Company. Latham & Watkins LLP acted as legal counsel to Macquarie.

    About Bitfarms Ltd.
    Founded in 2017, Bitfarms is a global energy and compute infrastructure company that develops, owns, and operates vertically integrated HPC and Bitcoin mining data centers. Bitfarms currently has 15 operating Bitcoin data centers situated in four countries: the United States, Canada, Argentina and Paraguay.

    Powered primarily by environmentally friendly hydro-electric and long-term power contracts, Bitfarms is committed to using sustainable and often underutilized energy infrastructure.

    To learn more about Bitfarms’ events, developments, and online communities:

    www.bitfarms.com.

    https://www.facebook.com/bitfarms/
    http://x.com/Bitfarms_io
    https://www.instagram.com/bitfarms/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/bitfarms/

    About Macquarie Group

    Macquarie Group Limited (Macquarie) is a global financial services group providing clients with asset management, retail and business banking, wealth management, leasing and asset financing, market access, commodity trading, renewables development, specialist advice and access to capital and principal investment. Founded in 1969, Macquarie employs over 20,000 people in 34 markets. Commodities and Global Markets (CGM), an operating group of Macquarie, has more than 40 years of partnering with clients to provide capital and financing, risk management, market access, and physical execution and logistics solutions across commodities, financial markets, and asset finance sectors. For further information, visit www.macquarie.com.

    Glossary of Terms

    • MW = Megawatts or megawatt hour
    • HPC/AI = High Performance Computing / Artificial Intelligence
    • CapEx = Capital Expenditure
    • OpEx = Operating Expenses
    • PJM = Pennsylvania- New Jersey-Massachusetts regional transmission market
    • NYC = New York City
    • WWT = World Wide Technology
    • ASG= Applebee Strategy Group, LLC

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains certain “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) that are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release and are covered by safe harbors under Canadian and United States securities laws. The statements and information in this release regarding the completion of definitive documentation relating to the second tranche of the facility and the draw of an additional $250 million in funds, the development of the Company’s Panther Creek data center, its potential capacity, and its attractiveness to potential HPC customers, and other statements regarding future growth, plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking information.

    Any statements that involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “prospects”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

    This forward-looking information is based on assumptions and estimates of management of Bitfarms at the time they were made, and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Bitfarms to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors, risks and uncertainties include, among others: the ability to successfully negotiate and deliver definitive documentation relating to the second tranche of the facility, that the second tranche may not close within the timeframe anticipated or at all or may not close on the terms and conditions currently anticipated by the parties; the development and operation of Panther Creek may not occur as currently planned, or at all; expansion of existing facilities may not materialize as currently anticipated, or at all; new miners may not perform up to expectations; revenue may not increase as currently anticipated, or at all; the ongoing ability to successfully mine digital currency is not assured; failure of the equipment upgrades to be installed and operated as planned; the availability of additional power may not occur as currently planned, or at all; expansion may not materialize as currently anticipated, or at all; the power purchase agreements and economics thereof may not be as advantageous as expected; potential environmental cost and regulatory penalties due to the operation of plants which entail environmental risk and certain additional risk factors including, land reclamation requirements may be burdensome and expensive, changes in tax credits related to coal refuse power generation could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations and future development efforts, competition in power markets may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations, cash flows and the market value of the assets, the business is subject to substantial energy regulation and may be adversely affected by legislative or regulatory changes, as well as liability under, or any future inability to comply with, existing or future energy regulations or requirements, the operations are subject to a number of risks arising out of the threat of climate change, and environmental laws, energy transitions policies and initiatives and regulations relating to emissions and coal residue management, which could result in increased operating and capital costs and reduce the extent of business activities, operation of power generation facilities involves significant risks and hazards customary to the power industry that could have a material adverse effect on our revenues and results of operations, and there may not have adequate insurance to cover these risks and hazards, employees, contractors, customers and the general public may be exposed to a risk of injury due to the nature of the operations, limited experience with carbon capture programs and initiatives and dependence on third-parties, including consultants, contractors and suppliers to develop and advance carbon capture programs and initiatives, and failure to properly manage these relationships, or the failure of these consultants, contractors and suppliers to perform as expected, could have a material adverse effect on the business, prospects or operations; the digital currency market; the ability to successfully mine digital currency; it may not be possible to profitably liquidate the current digital currency inventory, or at all; a decline in digital currency prices may have a significant negative impact on operations; an increase in network difficulty may have a significant negative impact on operations; the volatility of digital currency prices; the anticipated growth and sustainability of hydroelectricity for the purposes of cryptocurrency mining in the applicable jurisdictions; the inability to maintain reliable and economical sources of power to operate cryptocurrency mining assets; the risks of an increase in electricity costs, cost of natural gas, changes in currency exchange rates, energy curtailment or regulatory changes in the energy regimes in the jurisdictions in which Bitfarms operates and the potential adverse impact on profitability; future capital needs and the ability to complete current and future financings, including Bitfarms’ ability to utilize an at-the-market offering program ( “ATM Program”) and the prices at which securities may be sold in such ATM Program, as well as capital market conditions in general; share dilution resulting from an ATM Program and from other equity issuances; volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance; the risk that a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting could result in a misstatement of financial position that may lead to a material misstatement of the annual or interim consolidated financial statements if not prevented or detected on a timely basis; historical prices of digital currencies and the ability to mine digital currencies that will be consistent with historical prices; and the adoption or expansion of any regulation or law that will prevent Bitfarms from operating its business, or make it more costly to do so. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to Bitfarms’ filings on www.sedarplus.ca (which are also available on the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC“) at www.sec.gov), including the Management’s Discussion & Analysis for the year-ended December 31, 2024. Although Bitfarms has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including factors that are currently unknown to or deemed immaterial by Bitfarms. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Bitfarms does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking information other than as required by law. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, or any other securities exchange or regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tracy Krumme
    SVP, Head of IR & Corp. Comms.
    +1 786-671-5638
    tkrumme@bitfarms.com

    Media Contact:
    Caroline Brady Baker
    Director, Communications
    cbaker@bitfarms.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bab8a34f-c6c6-4802-bf43-e7edcb378236

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taiwan’s government and civil society ready to join international efforts to assist Myanmar in postdisaster reconstruction

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Taiwan’s government and civil society ready to join international efforts to assist Myanmar in postdisaster reconstruction

    Date：2025-03-30
    Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    March 30, 2025No. 084A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, causing significant casualties and vast property damage. In response, Taiwan’s government and nongovernmental organizations quickly mobilized needed resources. Through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Myanmar, the Taiwan government expressed concern to the government of Myanmar and conveyed Taiwan’s readiness to assist in rescue operations.While Myanmar was formulating a coordinated response, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung instructed TECO in Myanmar to establish a single contact window (email: mmr@mofa.gov.tw; phone: +95-9-427355550) to ensure that Taiwan’s assistance efforts could proceed smoothly. It would be responsible for coordinating and tallying the forms of assistance that related Taiwan agencies and groups could provide and then contacting the Myanmar government, affected areas, and related institutions, as appropriate.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) stresses that the government of Taiwan is both able and willing to provide assistance. It also appreciates that Taiwanese NGOs have shown initiative and are working together to extend care and support to people in affected areas, highlighting Taiwan’s humanitarian concern. MOFA hopes that the concerted efforts by the Taiwan government and civil society can help speed up postdisaster reconstruction in Myanmar so that people there can rebuild their homes and resume a normal life. (E) 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish taxpayers get the best deal in the UK

    Source: Scottish National Party

    Scottish tax payers are getting the best deal in the UK – with Council tax being on average £737 a year less than in Labour-run England, and £627 a year less than in Labour-run Wales for a Band D property. 

    We’ve also introduced a fairer income tax system – in Scotland, 51% of Scots pay less income tax than they would if they lived in England, thanks to Scottish income tax bands.

    Water Bills are on average £113 a year lower in Scotland than they are in England thanks to public ownership of Scottish Water – while English bills are hiked to line the pockets of shareholders.

    In return, Scots enjoy the highest levels of public services anywhere in the UK. We all benefit from SNP policies that are not available to people south of the border.

    Here are just some examples.

    • Free tuition 
    • Free NHS prescriptions
    • Free eye tests
    • Free personal care for all who need it.
    • Free bus passes for the under 22’s and over 60’s 
    • Expanded free early learning and childcare to 1,140 hours
    • Expanded free school meals 
    • The Baby Box
    • Reintroducing a Universal Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland  
    • Social Security Scotland – including scrapping the two-child cap

    Click here to read our record in full. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local heritage to be protected with £20 million of funding

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Local heritage to be protected with £20 million of funding

    Support to boost people’s access to local heritage, delivering government’s Plan for Change to increase opportunities for all

    • Shops, pubs, parks, and town halls at risk of falling into disrepair will be protected with £15 million grant scheme now open for applications 
    • Comes alongside new £4.85 million Heritage Revival Fund also open for applications, helping communities to take ownership of local heritage sites and bring them back into good use

    Communities across England can now apply for a share of almost £20 million to help care for historic buildings and heritage sites in their local area, ensuring that everyone, everywhere feels proud of where they live. 

    The new £4.85 million Heritage Revival Fund is currently accepting applications for projects that will help to rescue and repurpose neglected historic buildings, like theatres, department stores and former banks. It will do this by supporting community organisations, charities and social enterprises to take ownership of these sites, transforming them into vibrant spaces that meet local needs. 

    The programme will be delivered by the Architectural Heritage Fund and will run from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026. It will be open to charities and social enterprises in England seeking to take ownership of and adapt historic buildings for community uses. 

    This is in addition to the £15 million Heritage at Risk Capital Fund opening today for Expressions of Interest from individuals or organisations, focusing on the most deprived areas to rescue their locally cherished, at risk historic sites and buildings. This funding will support projects which seek to repair and enhance a variety of heritage buildings to benefit the local public and community, like shops, pubs, parks, and town halls. This is in addition to Historic England’s current Heritage at Risk Repair Grants, and will be open to a wider range of local heritage sites, celebrating the historic buildings people care most about. 

    It follows the announcement from the Culture Secretary last month of the £270 million Arts Everywhere Fund as part of the Government’s Plan for Change, which aims to support economic growth and increase opportunities for people across the country.

    Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    It is so important to communities across the country that we preserve local heritage that helps us to tell our national story.

    I am delighted that we have been able to provide this support to save the historic buildings most at risk, whilst simultaneously empowering people all over the country to take over the heritage sites at the beating heart of their communities and bring them back into good use. 

    These new funds are just another step of our Plan for Change, helping to boost local economies and bring opportunity to everyone, everywhere.

    Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England said: 

    Thanks to the £15m additional funding through the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, we will be able to help breathe new life into derelict historic buildings, stimulating economic growth and boosting local pride in some of the country’s most deprived areas. We’re excited to fund projects that will harness the power of heritage to make a difference where it is most needed.

    Ros Kerslake, Chair of the Architectural Heritage Fund, said:

    We are delighted to announce the new Heritage Revival Fund and our renewed partnership with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Historic England. AHF’s work in recent years has demonstrated the impact that the regeneration of historic buildings can have on our town centres and high streets so we are excited to be able to extend the reach of that work.

    Historic buildings aren’t just landmarks—they’re symbols of pride, purpose, and local identity and this funding will unlock the potential of social enterprises and charities to transform neglected heritage into thriving community spaces.

    We would also like to say a huge thanks to DCMS and the Culture Secretary, this investment will breathe new life into these vital spaces.

    Notes to editors: 

    • The Heritage Revival Fund will build on the recent work of the Architectural Heritage Fund to a wide range of community-led projects and will support more projects similar to:  

    1. The Ice House in Great Yarmouth. The Grade II-listed Ice House, originally one of a pair, is now the only building of its kind left in the country and serves as a reminder of the town’s once-thriving fishing industry. Thanks to Out There Arts, the unique building will soon be brought back into full use as a National Centre for Outdoor Arts and Circus, comprising an arts and circus training hub, with opportunities for performances and a bar. This imaginative and creative reuse of the building will further develop Great Yarmouth’s reputation as the capital of circus in the UK, while also strengthening the link between the town’s fishing and circus heritage. 

    2. Across the country in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust has revitalised 170-175 High Street West. Originally a row of houses, the buildings were rapidly adapted for commercial use when they housed the drapery shop of George Binns and his son, Henry. Over subsequent generations, the small drapery shop expanded to regional dominance as Binns Department Store. However, the buildings that provided Binns’ first home eventually fell into disrepair. Now, they have been restored and repurposed as a café, community hub, and the music and arts venue that has cemented the site’s position at the heart of Sunderland’s Community.

    • In February, Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy announced more than £270 million in funding for arts venues, museums, libraries and the heritage sector in a major boost for growth. 

    • The online portal to register Expressions of Interest for the Heritage Revival Fund opened on 1 April 2025. Full guidance, including eligibility criteria and details of how to apply can be found on the Architectural Heritage Fund’s website. 

    • The online portal to register Expressions of Interest for the Heritage At Risk Capital Fund opens on 2 April 2025. Full guidance, including eligibility criteria and details of how to apply can be found on Historic England’s website. 

    • Historic England : We are Historic England, the public body that protects and brings life to the heritage that matters to us all, so it lives on and is loved for longer. From the extraordinary to the everyday, our historic places and spaces matter. From community centres to cathedrals, homes to high streets, markets to mills – there are special places we all choose to hold onto, the legacy we want to pass on and the stories we continue to tell. That’s why we work together with people across England to discover, protect and bring new life to our shared historic environment, providing advice, knowledge, support and services. Follow us on social media @HistoricEngland.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Annexus Welcomes Mike Morrone as New Chief Operating Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Annexus, the leading independent designer and distributor of retirement products in the nation, is pleased to announce the hiring of Mike Morrone as its new Chief Operating Officer.

    Mike brings 25 years of leadership experience from Nationwide, where he made a significant impact across multiple roles, including Annuity and Life Operations and, most recently, leading the Annuity Business Development team for Individual Products and Solutions. Mike played a pivotal role in the formation of the Annexus-Nationwide partnership in March 2014 with the launch of the Nationwide New Heights® Select fixed indexed annuity, resulting in more than $36 billion in premium to date. His ability to drive strategic collaboration and deliver innovative solutions has made him a respected leader within the industry.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Mike to the executive team here at Annexus,” says Ron Shurts, CEO and co-founder of Annexus. “Mike’s proven leadership, deep industry experience, focus on innovation, and commitment to results make him a natural fit as we move Annexus forward as part of the Integrity family.”

    “I’m honored to join Annexus, a company that has consistently set the standard for innovation in retirement solutions,” says Mike. “I look forward to working alongside this talented team as we drive the company into its next chapter of growth and innovation.”

    Originally from Windsor, Ontario, Canada, Mike grew up playing hockey and played professionally in the Hartford Whalers/Carolina Hurricanes organization. He’s been married to Kate for 27 years, and they are the proud parents of Jake, 23, and Beck, 14.

    About Annexus

    For nearly two decades, Annexus has developed market-leading fixed indexed annuities, registered indexed-linked annuities, and indexed universal life insurance products that help Americans grow and protect their retirement savings. The company has built strategic relationships with the industry’s top insurance carriers and some of the world’s largest investment banks. For more information, visit Annexus.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Landmark Taiwan offshore wind deal receives UK backing, unlocking £55 million in contracts for British exporters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 4

    Press release

    Landmark Taiwan offshore wind deal receives UK backing, unlocking £55 million in contracts for British exporters

    UK Export Finance has guaranteed £184 million in financing for one of Taiwan’s largest offshore wind projects.

    Credit: Copenhagen Offshore Partners

    • The deal secures £55 million in manufacturing and service contracts for British suppliers, supporting local jobs and economic growth.

    • Export breakthrough enabled by collaboration with other export credit agencies and with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners – one of the world’s largest fund managers for renewable energy investments.

    UK Export Finance (UKEF) is providing a £184 million credit guarantee to support the construction of the 495 MW Fengmiao 1 offshore windfarm in Taiwan, securing £55 million in manufacturing and service export contracts for British suppliers.

    UKEF is the government’s export credit agency, providing support to help exporters win and deliver new overseas contracts.

    Cadeler – a company with operations based in East Anglia – will be contracted to supply an installation vessel together with crew, sea-fastening services and crane operators.

    This latest Buyer Credit Guarantee from UKEF forms part of a wider $3.7 billion financing package by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). This involves export credit agencies from Denmark, Netherlands, Poland, Belgium, and Taiwan.

    Located off the west-coast of Taichung City, the offshore wind site is due to be completed in 2027.

    The Fengmiao 1 project will result in estimated annual greenhouse gas emissions savings equivalent to emissions from a quarter of a million cars.

    Promoting investment into British businesses and employers, UKEF’s decision to back the project supports this government’s Plan for Change to boost economic growth across all regions and promote the UK’s clean-growth expertise.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Being absolutely committed to delivering economic growth under the Plan for Change means we are using every tool at our disposal to enable British businesses to succeed.

    This deal harnesses the power of commerce to drive the energy transition whilst securing lucrative new opportunities for UK businesses and supporting job creation in local communities.

    Mikkel Gleerup, Chief Executive Officer at Cadeler added:

    We are grateful to UKEF for the support they are providing to the Fengmiao 1 Project—an important milestone in Cadeler’s continued expansion into Taiwan’s offshore wind market.

    UKEF’s backing highlights the importance to Cadeler and its clients of our operations in the United Kingdom, with our UK-owned installation vessels and East Anglia-based team supporting offshore wind development both at home and abroad. Cadeler remains committed to advancing offshore wind in the APAC region and beyond.

    Thomas Wibe Poulsen, Partner and Head of Asia-Pacific at CIP, said:

    Financial close on Fengmiao I is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication from the project team, suppliers, contractors, banks, ECAs and offtakers. It is the first offshore wind project in Taiwan to be supported by a portfolio of corporate offtakers in Taiwan and Fengmiao I sets a new benchmark for the country’s rapidly maturing offshore wind market.

    Contact 

    Media enquiries:

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Director: ‘Sandstorm’ blends mystery with social commentary

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Director Tan Jiayan described his new series, “Sandstorm,” as both a gripping suspense drama and a social cautionary tale, exploring how choices made in times of hardship ultimately shape people’s destinies.

    A poster for “Sandstorm.” [Image courtesy of Youku]

    “After reading the script, I found it brilliant and deeply literary, exploring the relationships between people and their environment, and between individuals and fate,” Tan said. “This is truly a great story.”

    “Sandstorm,” directed by Tan and written by Zhao Dongling, stars Duan Yihong, Wang Qiang, Zhang Jianing and Zhang Yao. The online series, which premiered on Youku on March 28, follows two detectives – one a seasoned veteran, the other a young newcomer – as they reopen an 8-year-old murder case, risking everything to expose the truth.

    At a March 24 preview, screenwriter Zhao revealed the show was inspired by a prosecutor’s account of a disturbing case. The image of a charred body retrieved from an industrial boiler became the foundation for the story that examines the human condition under extreme circumstances.

    Tan highlighted Zhao’s admiration for the American series “Fargo,” which influenced her storytelling style. He also reflected on the symbolic significance of the series’ title: “It suggests how a sandstorm engulfs everything, including the complexities of human nature, leaving it all trapped in the tempest.”

    Set in a small town, “Sandstorm” delves into universal tensions that echo through communities across China. Praised for its suspense and intensity, the series reveals how a close-knit frontier community hides connections that link seemingly unrelated lives with dramatic consequences.

    “We repeatedly discussed the series’ core theme, which is how the environment shapes people’s lives,” Tan said. “Here, we see some striving to leave this town, while others are forced to stay. Once this theme crystallized, we realized that a desert town would be the ideal setting.”

    The cast and crew of “Sandstorm” ventured deep into the deserts, working in harsh conditions and using a documentary-style approach to capture the region’s essence. The landscape also sharpens the series’ core tensions: light and darkness, secrets and truth, sin and redemption. The rugged landscape is a character in its own right, grounding the story and heightening its emotional depth.

    The script went through multiple revisions as the team worked to develop each character’s arc, including creating a character who writes a book titled “Sandstorm” in the series. “In this small town, some yearn to leave, others choose to stay, and some are forced to remain. These are all ordinary people living on society’s margins. Once we understood each character’s psychological motivations, their choices and destinies naturally fell into place,” Tan explained.

    Tan was particularly struck by the lead role of a veteran policeman, played by Duan Yihong. The character originally planned to leave the town but is forced to stay due to unforeseen circumstances. Burdened by guilt and self-reproach over his mentor’s fate, he opts for self-exile, working at a prairie police station. Years later, when the murder case is reopened, he returns to confront his past and uncover new truths.

    “What’s remarkable about Duan Yihong is that, despite playing many iconic police roles throughout his career, his character in ‘Sandstorm’ is entirely unique – a new archetype unlike anything he’s done before. For an actor to consistently reinvent the same profession with such breakthroughs isn’t just surprising; it’s extraordinary,” Tan said.

    The cast and crew of “Sandstorm” pose for a photo with the audience at a preview event in Beijing, March 24, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Youku]

    In just 12 episodes, “Sandstorm” weaves together two cases spanning eight years while delving into multiple character arcs, each with fully developed stories.

    Tan stressed the importance of realist storytelling throughout the creative process. “At its core, realism explores human nature and interpersonal dynamics,” Tan said. “Works grounded in realism share a universal truth: They depict a world where characters act according to their own logic and perspectives.”

    Screenwriter Zhao revealed that the story took three years to perfect, from concept to final script. She credited Tan’s analytical rigor for strengthening the narrative’s logic and the cast for bringing emotional depth to their roles.

    “Ultimately, tragedy should be more than a puzzle to solve – it ought to function as a mirror that reflects both our era and human nature,” Zhao said. “I hope ‘Sandstorm’ can serve as that mirror, allowing viewers to see, even after the dust settles, the people caught in the currents of time still struggling to find their way.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Showcase for local suppliers interested in fusion energy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Showcase for local suppliers interested in fusion energy

    Businesses across Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire find out more about fusion energy at an event at Gainsborough Golf Club.

    STEP’s James Heaton and a local supplier – Image credit: UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd.

    More than 120 representatives from small and medium enterprises located close to the home of STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) at West Burton gathered recently for a local supplier engagement event, hosted by the team who are bringing fusion energy to the UK.

    Howard Wilson, STEP’s Director of Science and Technology introduced the session with a presentation on fusion, STEP, plus supporting site information about West Burton where the prototype fusion energy power plant will be built.

    Presenting from the local district councils, Julie Beresford Head of Growth and Economic Prosperity and Sally Grinrod-Smith Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities demonstrated support for STEP from nearby local authorities and their fluid approach to hosting STEP. They covered the history of the area and identified the socio-economic opportunities that will result from the STEP Programme in the future.

    Since the early days of the programme, the STEP team has worked closely in partnership with district and county councils. Both Julie and Sally observed the high levels of engagement on the day and commented on the positive nature of the event and the numerous business enquiries that have followed.

    Commercial team members Andrew Atkinson and Ryan Cload represented the supply chain at STEP. Andrew commented:

    It’s very important to the local economy that STEP brings opportunities to the area. Our initial priority is to establish what services we have on our doorstep and create the right channels of engagement to enable effective ways of future working with local businesses. This event was a great way to share information about STEP and it was encouraging to see the networking that took place amongst the local business representatives.

    Helping to bring the work of STEP to life, a series of local case studies were given, to explore the early relationships already established with STEP. Clive Anderson from Elite Signs of Gainsborough commented on his long-established relationship with the site and what it meant to the business to be able to continue working with the STEP team. He welcomed future requests as the site works continue to grow. Photographer Chris Vaughan’s work was showcased, and he commented that he felt part of the team when commissioned to work for STEP.

    The STEP team always create time for questions when spending time in the community to aid understanding of fusion. These covered the technical side of fusion, site transport, water licences, apprentices, skills and the processes behind tenders for work. The website also includes an area with frequently asked questions which are updated regularly.

    Following the presentations, a speed-dating session was held with the local businesses to give them a chance to share information about their companies, the nature and size of their business and plans for future growth. The range of industry was vast and covered engineering, skills, security, transport, accommodation, catering, manufacturing, materials and many more.

    For those who may have missed this event, future similar events are planned for the local area with all events published and shared with people who have registered their interest on our website: step.ukaea.uk. You can also follow our social channels @STEPtoFusion.

    Notes to Editors

    STEP is a major technology and infrastructure programme to build the UK’s first prototype fusion power plant and to create a UK-led fusion industry. STEP will demonstrate net energy, fuel self-sufficiency and a route to commercialisation. This will catalyse new ideas and technology that will benefit multiple industries and help secure our future on this planet. STEP is a government-funded industry partnership programme led by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of UKAEA Group.

    The West Burton site was selected in October 2022 as the home for STEP. The site is currently a demolition zone, with extensive works to decommission the former coal-fired power station, alongside this activity, the STEP Programme is preparing site characterisation information in readiness for construction.

    Local Authorities in the area recently reported on the potential local impact of jobs and investment in the area. Headlines from Nottinghamshire County Council’s ‘Newsroom’ available here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fantastic early results from food waste campaign

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Fantastic early results from food waste campaign

    Over the last few weeks, you may have noticed we have been out and about putting stickers on black household bins, encouraging residents not to put their food waste in them but instead to recycle it using a food bin/caddy.

    And to help with this, we have been offering discounted outdoor food caddies, reduced to £10 for a limited period.

    There has been a great response to the campaign so far, with lots of people ordering caddies and starting to recycle their leftover food, and we would like to thank everyone for their support.

    Early results have shown an overall 11 per cent increase in food waste tonnages collected since we launched this campaign seven weeks ago, with a bigger increase of 16.7 per cent across weeks four to six.

    And last week, week seven, as the deliveries of the food bins that were ordered really gathered pace, the increase was 22 per cent, which is a fantastic result.

    The extra bit of good news is that, although the sticker roll out is now complete, we still have a few outdoor food caddies left at the discounted price of £10.

    But you need to be quick and get your order in by the end of this Thursday (3 April) – just go to our website:

    Food caddies are emptied weekly using a separate vehicle and are easy to rinse out and keep clean.

    Residents can place any raw or cooked food in their caddy to be recycled, but not anything that is not solid food, such as oils, liquids or packaging of any sort.

    This project has been jointly organised and paid for by us and Kent County Council, and because recycling food uses less energy and is less costly than burning food waste mixed with general rubbish, the money spent on it should be recovered by lower disposal costs in the future.

    When food waste is recycled, it creates gas to power homes and a fertiliser for farms, so it’s a win all round.

    Once again, your support for what we have been seeking to achieve with this campaign has been really appreciated and we look forward to emptying those new food caddies for many years to come.

    Published: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investment programme to improve city school buildings

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council has put forward proposals for a significant investment programme aimed at upgrading school facilities and reducing their carbon footprint.

    The Schools Capital Programme will prioritise essential improvements, including roofing, heating, building fabric, and window replacements, across nursery, primary, and secondary schools in Derby.

    As well as improving the school environment, this investment will enhance buildings’ energy efficiency, reducing their carbon footprint and energy bills. 

    The plans will be discussed by Derby City Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 9 April. One of the programme’s key schemes is a £2.2 million replacement classroom project at Wren Park Primary School in Littleover. This will replace two outdated classrooms with a modern, four-classroom building and a new multi-use games area.

    This upgrade will significantly enhance the learning environment and enable the school to expand by 42 places, creating lasting benefits for the school and local community.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills said:

    We’re committed to providing the best possible educational settings for our children and young people. This significant investment programme will ensure our schools provide the best environment to allow students and staff to focus on learning and growth, while further supporting our climate ambitions.

    The proposed improvements at Wren Park Primary School will significantly enhance the learning environment and enable better classroom organisation.

    Alex Buckley, headteacher at Wren Park Primary, said:

    We’re incredibly grateful for the support and commitment shown by Derby City Council in taking this project forward. This has been an ambition of ours for quite some time and we’re delighted with the prospect of it becoming a reality. 

    It will be a huge boost to our school and we look forward to the exciting time ahead, working with the council and contractors in ensuring the project delivers the very best resource for our children and future generations attending Wren Park.

    If approved by Cabinet, eleven schools in the city will benefit from improvement works in this year’s capital programme. This supports the longevity of the school buildings but also brings benefits to pupils and teachers.

    Carbon reduction and adaptation makes schools warmer, more comfortable spaces to learn and should help to improve educational outcomes. The majority of the schemes are expected to start over the school summer holiday period.

    Other projects included in the capital programme include replacing Dale Community Primary School and Redwood Primary School’s gas-fired boilers with hybrid heat-source heating systems. Murray Park School will benefit from improved energy efficiency with replacement rooflights, enhanced insulation, and roofing work. 

    Further detail of the Council’s climate change work can be found in the Climate Change Action Plan, including details on co-benefits. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 1 April 2025 Departmental update Global meeting calls for stronger partnerships to tackle skin NTDs

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The second global meeting on skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs) convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded last week with a strong call for integrated approaches and enhanced partnerships to achieve the 2030 NTD road map targets. The meeting took place amid ongoing challenges in global health financing.

    “The fight against skin NTDs requires a unified effort in the face of growing challenges,” said Dr Ibrahima Socé Fall, Director of the WHO Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Programme. “For three days, participants emphasized the importance of robust partnerships across diseases to effectively implement recommended interventions against skin NTDs.”

    The meeting, held from 24 to 26 March under the theme “Integration to Achieve 2030 Targets,” brought together participants from 97 countries (over 300 participants in person and over 800 online participants) including representatives of ministries of health, health-care workers, individuals with lived experience, researchers and partners. Discussions focused on embedding skin NTD interventions into national health systems to ensure sustainability and broader impact.

    “Achieving the 2030 targets will require a stronger collective commitment to integration,” said the keynote speaker, Professor Roderick Hay, King’s College London. “We must support ministries of heath in implementing innovative strategies that guarantee equitable access to care for affected populations.”

    Key highlights

    • Integrated approaches: country presentations demonstrated the feasibility of jointly delivering interventions against multiple diseases, as well as mainstreaming such interventions within existing programmes; notably, findings revealed that over 90% of patients screened for skin NTDs also presented with other common skin conditions emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach within the primary health-care system.
    • Development of new tools: presentations highlighted the potential of digital and artificial intelligence-based tools for capacity strengthening.
    • Advances in research: discussions on telacebec – a promising new medicine to treat mycobacterial infections (Buruli ulcer, leprosy and tuberculosis) – highlighted the potential to significantly shorten durations of treatment.
    • Psychosocial challenges: experts called for the integration of mental health services into NTD programmes, recognizing the profound psychosocial impact of skin NTDs.
    • Climate change and One Health: discussions focused on mitigation measures against the impact of climate change on spread of skin diseases and stressed incorporating a One Health approach in disease transmission studies.
    • Wound care and rehabilitation: discussions on mycetoma, noma and podoconiosis emphasized the need for early detection, integration of surgical and rehabilitation services into comprehensive health care.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Global NK Cell Therapy Clinical Trials FDA Approval Patent Market Size Report 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delhi, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Global Natural Killer (NK) Cell Therapy Clinical Trials, Proprietary Technologies, Collaborations and Market Opportunity Insight 2025 Report Highlights and Findings:

    • Global & Regional Market Trends By Indication
    • First NK Cell Therapy Approval Expected By 2028
    • Number Of NK Cell Therapies In Clinical Trials: >180 Therapies
    • Highest Phase For NK Cell Therapies Clinical Trials: Phase II/III
    • NK Cell Therapies Granted Fast Track and Orphan Status: > 5 Therapies
    • Global Natural Killer Cell Therapies Clinical Trials By Company, Indication and Phase
    • Insight On Recent Partnerships, Collaborations and Licensing Agreements
    • NK Cell Therapies Proprietary Technologies By Company
    • Monotherapy and Combinational Treatment Strategies

    Download Report: https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-nk-cell-therapy-nk-cell-immunotherapy-natural-killer-cell-therapy

    This Report Exclusively Examines Therapeutic Strategies That Employ NK Cells, Excluding Any Methods That Incorporate Antibody Engagers Intended To Bind To & Activate NK Cells

    Research and development activities for NK cell therapies are rapidly evolving, backed by significant advancements in immunotherapy-centric cancer treatment approaches. Unlike other immune cells, NK cells are capable of recognizing and destroying malignant cells without prior sensitization. This inherent capability makes NK cells a promising tool in cancer treatment, especially for patients who have become resistant to conventional therapies. As a result, NK cell therapies are attracting considerable attention, with several pharmaceutical companies actively involved in research and clinical trials to further develop these therapies.

    Among the most advanced candidates in the NK cell therapy pipeline is SMT-NK, an allogeneic NK cell therapy developed by SMT Bio. SMT-NK is currently undergoing a Phase 2b/3 clinical trial in South Korea for the treatment of biliary tract cancer, making it the most advanced NK cell therapy candidate in development. This trial aims to evaluate the anti-cancer effects of SMT-NK when combined with the PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab, comparing its efficacy to pembrolizumab monotherapy. The combination of NK cell therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab is a promising approach that seeks to enhance NK cell activity, offering potential for improved treatment outcomes in patients with biliary tract cancer, a rare and difficult-to-treat condition.

    In addition to advancements in cancer, NK cell therapies are also being explored for other therapeutic areas. Ongoing research is investigating their potential to treat autoimmune diseases and neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease and dementia. This expansion into non-cancer indications highlights the broad applicability of NK cells, offering new possibilities for patients suffering from diseases that have historically been challenging to treat. The versatility of NK cell therapies underscores their importance in the future of medicine, with ongoing clinical trials and studies pushing the boundaries of their potential uses.

    The commercial landscape for NK cell therapies is growing rapidly, fueled by increasing investments in research and development, as well as regulatory support that facilitates the progression of these therapies through clinical trials. Companies are also focusing on improving manufacturing processes to meet the anticipated demand for NK cell-based treatments. Innovations in cell production technologies are crucial to ensuring that NK cells can be generated consistently and efficiently, allowing for scalable production and accessibility to a broader patient population. As these therapies continue to advance, they are expected to become a key component of modern cancer treatment regimens.

    Despite the promising potential, challenges remain in the widespread adoption of NK cell therapies. One of the main hurdles is ensuring the consistency and quality of the NK cells produced for therapeutic use, as well as optimizing their persistence and effectiveness in the patient’s body. Regulatory complexities also pose challenges, requiring careful navigation as NK cell therapies progress through clinical trials and seek approval. However, the continued collaboration between researchers, biotech companies, and larger pharmaceutical firms is driving the field forward, with the goal of overcoming these obstacles and making NK cell therapies a routine treatment option.

    In conclusion, the NK cell therapy market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by breakthroughs in scientific research and clinical development. SMT-NK stands out as the most advanced NK cell therapy candidate, undergoing late stage trials for biliary tract cancer, which highlights the significant potential of these therapies. While oncology remains the primary focus, ongoing research into non-cancer applications further demonstrates the versatility of NK cell therapies. As more data emerges from clinical trials and innovative technologies are integrated, NK cell therapies are poised to transform the treatment landscape, offering new hope for patients across a range of diseases and improving outcomes on a global scale.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Islanders invited to review and provide feedback on PFAS blood-testing and interventions proposals02 April 2025 ​The Government of Jersey welcomes the publication of the draft third report from the PFAS Scientific Advisory Panel, which sets out recommendations on blood testing, re-testing, and potential interventions… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    02 April 2025

    ​

    The Government of Jersey welcomes the publication of the draft third report from the PFAS Scientific Advisory Panel, which sets out recommendations on blood testing, re-testing, and potential interventions for Islanders affected by PFAS. 

    The report includes 13 draft recommendations, including the establishment of background levels of PFAS in the blood of Islanders outside the affected area. It also recommends offering blood testing to firefighters or others who may have been occupationally exposed during the period when firefighting foam containing PFAS of concern was in use. Additionally, it suggests that Colesevelam, a cholesterol-lowering medication, be offered to Islanders who meet certain criteria on a case-by-case basis. 

    Following the publication of the draft report, a three-week feedback period will commence to allow Islanders to share their views. Feedback will be reviewed by the Panel before finalising the report for Government consideration. 

    Deputy Tom Binet, Minister for Health and Social Services, said: “I welcome the publication of this draft report and encourage Islanders to share their views as part of the feedback process. Once the report has been finalised, the Government’s Water Quality and Safety Board will review its findings and give careful consideration to the recommendations.” 

    The draft report will be available at gov.je/PFAS. To provide feedback on the report please email PFASPanel@gov.je before 24 April. 

    The PFAS Scientific Advisory Panel is an independent panel. It’s made up of external experts recruited from a global pool of specialists in their field. The purpose of the panel is to coordinate and provide expert advice on PFAS issues. This is to enable an effective and evidenced based approach to decision making, enabling a sound and informed response to PFAS matters on the Island. 

    The panel will develop the following reports: 

    • review of therapeutic phlebotomy such as having blood taken to reduce PFAS levels (complete) 
    • assessment of the impact of PFAS exposure on health (complete) 
    • clinical interventions and blood testing and re-testing (draft) 
    • environmental management (in progress) 
    • updates on the previous reports For more information about the Islands response to PFAS, please visit gov.je/PFAS​​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government unveils proposals to transform Fort Regent into a 21st century leisure destination02 April 2025 The Government of Jersey, through its Regeneration Steering Group, has unveiled ambitious proposals to redevelop Fort Regent, restoring its status as the Island’s premier leisure and entertainment… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    02 April 2025

    The Government of Jersey, through its Regeneration Steering Group, has unveiled ambitious proposals to redevelop Fort Regent, restoring its status as the Island’s premier leisure and entertainment hub. 

    The transformation will create a vibrant, modern destination for socialising, entertainment and recreation, with a strong emphasis on facilities for children and young adults. 

    In collaboration with the Jersey Development Company, JDC, the Government’s property development arm, practical and sustainable plans have been developed that balance heritage with state-of-the art leisure and entertainment facilities. 

    Key Features of the proposed redevelopment: 

    Internal transformations 

    • Gloucester Hall redeveloped into a flexible 2,500 seat acoustic theatre, enhancing Jersey’s ability to attract larger live performances and events, and provide flexibility for DJ events, conferences, conventions and/or a show court for sporting events. 
    • Queens Hall (the Rotunda) converted into a multi-functional entertainment complex over two floors, incorporating: A 12-lane ten-pin bowling facility; Arcade and battle café style games space; A six-screen cinema (relocated from the Waterfront) 
    • The Piazza and adjacent perimeter Garrison Rooms redesigned as an arts and culture hub, providing spaces for performing arts, music and artist studios surrounding a large covered space for hosting exhibitions, events and live performances, and serving as the home of Jersey’s winter ice rink. 
    • The former Active Gym space repurposed as a multi-activity facility for all ages, featuring: A ‘Ninja Warrior’-style active play zone; Sky Trail; Climbing and bouldering activities.
    • Additionally, some of the remaining perimeter rooms and Don Theatre are proposed to become egaming zones, virtual golf, cafés and a bar. 

    New outdoor amenities 

    • A destination skatepark catering to all ages 
    • A pump track for BMXers and Mountain Bikers 
    • A play and heritage trail
    • A 500m running track 
    • A teenage zone with a 3×3 ball court and a dedicated social space for older children and teenagers. 

    External enhancements 

    • Improved accessibility and a new entrance building 
    • A cable car link to the Fort 
    • A hotel (on the site of the former swimming pool) 
    • A relocated children’s nursery 
    • A rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic views over St Helier 
    • Landscaped gardens 
    • Uplighting of the Fort’s external walls Cost and funding strategy 

    This initiative is part of a broader Government strategy for longer-term, ongoing investment in Jersey’s infrastructure, housing, healthcare, public spaces and sport, leisure and recreational facilities. 

    The cost of the Fort Regent redevelopment is estimated at £110 million –  excluding the new hotel which will be privately funded. 

    Financing for the project will come from the following sources, details for which are under development: 

    • Revenues from Fort Regent: Income from rental agreements, events revenue and other commercial activities. 
    • Borrowing: To prevent further delays, enabling immediate investment while spreading repayment over time. 
    • Existing Capital Budget contributions: Allocations from annual capital budgets. 
    • Additional Government contributions: Public sector efficiency savings and budget surpluses, where available. 

    Funding proposals will be presented to the States Assembly once the design and costs have been finalised. 

    Government and JDC statements 

    Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham: “​​The long-overdue redevelopment of Fort Regent Leisure Centre represents a transformational investment in Jersey’s community. Working with the Jersey Development Company, we have developed an ambitious plan that delivers modern, high-quality leisure and recreational facilities with a particular focus on children and young adults. I look forward to hearing Islanders’ views during the consultation process and to seeing Fort Regent fully revitalised as a vibrant social hub at the heart of Island life.”

    Minister for Infrastructure, Connétable Andy Jehan: “I am very pleased to share these exciting plans for the future of Fort Regent. I hope that islanders will look closely at what is proposed and give us their feedback, including where they think the plans can be improved. We are listening and want to be sure that the regeneration meets the needs and ambitions of the public. 

    “Our aim is for Fort Regent to once again be the Island’s premier family leisure and entertainment venue with a wide range of activities, including sport. This consultation marks a turning point, where we can bring Fort Regent back into proper use and make it the vibrant community asset we all know it can be.”

    Lee Henry, CEO of JDC: “Jersey Development Company is honoured to have been entrusted by Government to regenerate Fort Regent. The Fort is a much-loved community asset and we look forward to engaging with the community on the exciting vision for its regeneration. We have carefully ensured that the proposals respect the heritage and focus on delivering much needed all-weather amenities for children, young adults and families. The consultation on the proposals has launched and we hope to hear from as many Islanders as possible in order to inform the plans and we look forward to receiving the community’s views.”

    The full proposals can be viewed at www.jerseydevelopment.je/fort-regent​

    Public Consultation and next steps: 

    JDC invites all islanders to contribute their views by participating in an independent public survey, which will be open from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 18 May 2025.https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/FortRegentSurvey-4insight/ 

    A public presentation will be held on 22 April at the Pomme d’Or Hotel 5:30pm-7pm to ask questions and provide feedback. To register your attendance via Eventbrite here: https://bit.ly/4l6Yh9W. ​Additionally, JDC will conduct presentations for local secondary schools to establish the views of the under-18s. 

    The results of the consultation will be published in June. The first Planning Application for the roof refurbishment will be submitted in August 2025.

    ​Once the Fort is fully vacated, by December 2025, redevelopment will commence in early 2026, with completion scheduled for December 2028.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding delivers upgrades to 11 community buildings in York

    Source: City of York

    The impact of funding to safeguard the future of community spaces in York’s outer wards was highlighted at a celebration held last Friday (28 March) in Bishopthorpe.

    In partnership with Community First Yorkshire, City of York Council has supported 11 venues through the Community Buildings Fund, worth a total £133,059. The programme has also benefited from additional funds from the Decarbonisation Programme.

    The grants have helped community buildings improve energy efficiency and insulation, upgrade broadband and Wi-Fi provision and install hearing loops and other accessibility measures, as well as supporting general improvements and refurbishments.

    These projects will make the buildings more accessible for a wider range of people, improve their facilities, meaning that venues can expand their offer of activities and events, reduce carbon emissions, and reduce running costs, which in turn will make activities using the space more affordable for all.

    Hessay Chapel was awarded a grant of £14,132 to enhance its facilities through the installation of energy-efficient heaters, photovoltaic (PV) panels, LED lighting, and a replacement window, improving both sustainability and comfort for the community.

    Kathryn Wright from Hessay Chapel said:

    The work that has been completed is an incredible achievement for Hessay, we have engaged with the community who are looking forward to helping with some voluntary cosmetic work as the weather improves. We are excited to see greater use of the building with the ongoing improvements.

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member for Economy and Culture at City of York Council, said:

    Community venues like village halls are so much more than just buildings – they are a lifeline for communities. These spaces play a vital role in reducing social isolation, connecting people to key services and helping people of all ages lead healthier, happier lives.

    “That’s why I’m so proud to see that by providing grants to help future-proof community venues – whether that’s through installing new energy-efficient infrastructure or upgrading digital connectivity, this funding will help safeguard these spaces for years to come, ensuring that local residents can continue to enjoy all of the benefits they offer.”

    The celebration event was held at St Andrew’s Church Hall in Bishopthorpe, one of the buildings to benefit from the programme through installing solar panels to reduce their carbon impact and cut running costs.         

    Watch representatives from some of the village halls explain the impact for their communities here: https://youtu.be/iL0UGPeoHJw?si=UOTM_zMw5B7ChoDo 

    The Rural England Prosperity Fund is part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

    For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Innovation thrives in north China’s ‘city of the future’

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Stepping into the exhibition hall of Mech-Mind Robotics, a Chinese unicorn company, visitors are captivated by a robotic arm that responds to voice commands and precisely grasps intricate workpieces.

    With its expertise in equipping traditional robotic arms with “eyes” and “brains,” Mech-Mind Robotics has become one of the leading enterprises in its field, exporting products to over 50 countries and regions.

    Last year, the company relocated its headquarters from Beijing to the Xiong’an New Area in north China’s Hebei Province, aiming to thrive in this “city of the future.”

    “Our company has evolved from 0 to 1 and from 1 to 10, and we believe Xiong’an is a good place for us to advance from 10 to 100, or even 10,000,” said Zhang Dan, head of the president’s office at Mech-Mind Robotics.

    In April 2017, China decided to establish the Xiong’an New Area as part of a strategy to promote the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Xiong’an was designed to be a smart and livable city that is innovative, green and free from “urban ills.”

    This futuristic city, with an urban landscape that has gradually taken shape over the past eight years, has a strong appeal for high-tech companies like Mech-Mind Robotics, with many opting to locate themselves in Xiong’an New Area Zhongguancun Science Park.

    Founded less than two years ago, the science park has already attracted more than 140 companies. Carrying forward the innovative spirit of Beijing’s Zhongguancun, once known as “China’s Silicon Valley,” it is striving to become a paradise for businesses of all sizes seeking to break new ground.

    One such startup is Xiong’an Xingyuan Technology Co., Ltd., which has quickly made its mark in this burgeoning science park. Since launching a year ago, the company has been developing advanced technologies, including metaverse, large-scale virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI).

    Gong Wentong, CEO of Xiong’an Xingyuan, has been impressed by the business-friendly environment encountered at this location since his company’s inception. He recalled obtaining his business license on the same day the company was registered — and noted that the science park facilitates networking events linking startups and established local enterprises, thereby helping entrepreneurs like him access potential business opportunities.

    Through such interactions, Xiong’an Xingyuan has developed cooperative relationships with enterprises in need of technological support. “We plan to cooperate with an elderly care service company, using our VR technology to help senior citizens enjoy immersive travel experiences and social activities,” said Gong.

    Gong’s satisfaction was echoed by Wang Ling, deputy general manager of Zhijue Intelligent, a small company focusing on the application of LiDAR technology.

    In an interview with Xinhua, Wang not only referred to multiple opportunities to communicate with her peers in the science park, but also spoke highly of the favorable policies issued by local authorities.

    In recent years, Xiong’an has responded to the national call for innovation-driven development through a raft of incentive measures to pool talent from various sectors — especially those involved in aerospace information, AI, new materials, and other cutting-edge industries, aiming to build a high-standard platform for innovators.

    As part of these efforts to foster entrepreneurship, competitions have regularly been held to support outstanding innovation projects. Wang’s team won one such competition — receiving housing subsidies, workspace allowances and extra bonuses as reward for their victory.

    There was a time when living conditions in Xiong’an were a great concern for Wang, but the rapid development of the city has since dispelled her doubts and worries. With a batch of public facilities, including schools and hospitals, gradually put into use, people like Wang are now able to relocate their entire families to this city — thus embarking together on a new life journey.

    “We feel that we are being pushed forward by the surrounding opportunities here,” Wang told Xinhua, adding that she even introduced her friends to new possibilities in this area.

    Wang’s experience epitomizes the dynamics of innovation shaped by collaboration between government and market entities — a process that delivers benefits to all stakeholders, with companies thriving, talent converging and all citizens enjoying the fruits of innovative development.

    “This year, we will step up efforts to build an industrial cluster featuring AI and robotics,” said Liu Jingjing, general manager of the science park. Liu also said that more companies are expected to arrive in Xiong’an and contribute to its scientific and technological innovation. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Virtune AB (Publ) (“Virtune”) has completed the monthly rebalancing for March 2025 of its Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP, the first crypto index ETP in the Nordics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stockholm, 2nd of April 2025 – Today Virtune announces that it has finalized its monthly rebalancing for Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP, listed on Nasdaq Stockholm for both the SEK-denominated (ISIN code SE0020052207, ticker name VIR10SEK) and the EUR-denominated (ISIN code SE0020052215, ticker name VIR10EUR) ETP.

    In addition to the Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP, Virtune’s product portfolio includes:

    Virtune Bitcoin ETP
    Virtune Staked Ethereum ETP
    Virtune Staked Solana
    Virtune Staked Polkadot ETP
    Virtune XRP ETP
    Virtune Avalanche ETP
    Virtune Litecoin ETP
    Virtune Chainlink ETP
    Virtune Arbitrum ETP
    Virtune Staked Polygon ETP
    Virtune Staked Cardano ETP
    Virtune Crypto Altcoin Index ETP

    Index allocation as of 31st of March (before rebalancing):

    Bitcoin: 42.41%
    Ethereum: 28.10%
    XRP: 15.66%
    Solana: 7.56%
    Cardano: 3.06%
    Chainlink: 1.11%
    Avalanche: 0.96%
    Litecoin: 0.70%
    Uniswap: 0.45%

    Index allocation as of 31st of March (after rebalancing):

    Bitcoin: 40.00%
    Ethereum: 28.86%
    XRP: 16.39%
    Solana: 8.29%
    Cardano: 2.97%
    Chainlink: 1.14%
    Avalanche: 1.02%
    Litecoin: 0.81%
    Uniswap: 0.51%

    In connection with this month’s rebalancing, there is no change in the crypto assets included in the index. Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP SEK outcome for March was -15.82%.

    The rebalancing is carried out according to the index that the ETP tracks, the Virtune Vinter Crypto Top 10 Index. The purpose of the monthly rebalancing is to ensure that the ETP always reflects the current market conditions and to effectively absorb volatility in the crypto market.

    During March, major crypto assets continued to move downward. Bitcoin and XRP remained relatively stable with declines of -2.19% and -2.52%, while Ethereum dropped by a significant -18.4% and Solana by -15.7%. The best performer in Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP was Cardano with +4.37%.

    The performance of the crypto assets included in Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP in March:

    Cardano: +4.37%
    Bitcoin -2.19%  
    XRP: -2.52%
    Chainlink: -8.76%
    Solana: -15.7%
    Avalanche: -16%
    Ethereum: -18.4%   
    Uniswap: -20.4%
    Litecoin: -35%

    Virtune’s crypto index ETP is the first of its kind in the Nordic region. The ETP includes up to 10 leading crypto assets that are part of the Nasdaq Crypto Index, based on their total market capitalization, with a maximum weight of 40% per crypto asset to promote diversification. This allows investors to benefit from broad exposure to the crypto market without being heavily concentrated in any single crypto asset.

    If you, as an (institutional) investor, are interested in meeting with Virtune to discuss the opportunities our ETPs offer for your asset management services or to learn more about Virtune and our ETPs, please do not hesitate to contact us at hello@virtune.com.

    You can also read more about Virtune and our ETPs at www.virtune.com and register your email address on our website to subscribe to our newsletters, which cover updates on Virtune’s upcoming ETP launches and other news related to digital assets.

    Press contact
    Christopher Kock, CEO Virtune AB (Publ)
    Christopher@virtune.com
    +46 70 073 45 64

    Virtune with its headquarters in Stockholm is a regulated Swedish digital asset manager and issuer of crypto exchange traded products on regulated European exchanges. With regulatory compliance, strategic collaborations with industry leaders and our proficient team, we empower investors on a global level to access innovative and sophisticated investment products that are aligned with the evolving landscape of the global crypto market.

    Cryptocurrency investments are associated with high risk. Virtune does not provide investment advice. Investments are made at your own risk. Securities may increase or decrease in value, and there is no guarantee that you will recover your invested capital. Please read the prospectus, KID, terms at www.virtune.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Inc. Names Aerospike to Its 2025 List of the Fastest-Growing Private Companies in the Pacific

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aerospike, Inc. today announced its inclusion in the annual Inc. Regionals: Pacific list. An extension of the national Inc. 5000 list, this prestigious ranking features the fastest-growing private companies in California, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, and Alaska.

    Aerospike makes it easy to launch in the cloud and choose the right data model for the job—whether document, graph, key-value, or vector search—all within a single, massively scalable real-time database. Developers can build high-performance applications on top of these models while using 80% less infrastructure than legacy or point solutions.

    “Our customers lead their industries with some of the most successful, cost-effective real-time application and AI deployments, turning to Aerospike to quickly deploy in the cloud and scale up and out to meet demand,” said Subbu Iyer, CEO, Aerospike.

    In 2024, Aerospike closed a $114M investment to support company growth and meet market demand. DB-Engines currently ranks Aerospike as the third most popular graph database and fifth most popular vector database in the industry.

    The companies on this list show a remarkable growth rate across all industries in the Pacific. Between 2021 and 2023, these companies had a median growth rate of 124 percent. They also added 7,947 jobs and $5.6 billion to the region’s economy.

    “The honorees on this year’s Inc. Regionals list are true trailblazers driving economic growth in their respective regions, industries, and beyond. This list celebrates their achievements and tells the stories of remarkable companies that are fueling growth and adding jobs in local economies throughout the country,” said Bonny Ghosh, editorial director at Inc.

    About Aerospike

    Aerospike is the real-time database built for infinite scale, speed, and savings. Our customers are ready for what’s next with the lowest latency and the highest throughput data platform. Cloud and AI-forward, we empower leading organizations like Adobe, Airtel, Criteo, DBS Bank, Experian, PayPal, Snap, and Sony Interactive Entertainment. Headquartered in Mountain View, California, our offices are also located in London, Bangalore, and Tel Aviv.

    Aerospike is a registered trademark of Aerospike, Inc.

    Contact:
    John Moran
    Look Left Marketing
    aerospike@lookleftmarketing.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA launches call for evidence to tackle rising TB

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA launches call for evidence to tackle rising TB

    UKHSA launches a call for evidence to shape England’s 2026 to 2031 TB Action Plan as TB rates continue to rise.

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is launching a call for evidence to help shape the next 5-year Tuberculosis (TB) National Action Plan for England, which will run from 2026 to 2031. The latest data for England show that TB rates are rising, and TB epidemiology is changing.

    TB rates are diverging further from the trajectory required to achieve WHO elimination targets and renewed action is necessary to keep rates below the WHO-defined low-incidence threshold of 10 cases per 100,000 population.

    In 2023, England recorded its largest annual increase (11%) in TB cases since enhanced surveillance began in 2000. Provisional figures for 2024 indicate a further 13% rise in TB notifications compared to 2023, continuing the upward trend. This reflects global patterns, with many countries experiencing setbacks in TB control efforts in recent years. Following the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, global TB incidence rates have increased.

    The new Tuberculosis National Action Plan (2026–2031) aims to improve the prevention, detection, and control of TB in England by prioritising the most effective interventions, focusing on those most affected, and addressing health inequalities.

    Our call for evidence seeks insights from:

    • academics
    • health and social care professionals
    • public health experts
    • epidemiologists
    • data and surveillance scientists
    • civil society representatives
    • policymakers
    • politicians
    • those with lived experience of tuberculosis

    Their contributions will help develop targeted strategies to tackle rising TB rates.

    The Call for Evidence will open on 2 April 2025 and close on 2 May 2025.

    Dr Esther Robinson, Head of the TB Unit at UKHSA, said: 

    TB is curable and preventable, but the disease remains a serious public health issue in England. While England is still considered a low-incidence country for TB, the rise in cases over recent years means that we are now just below that threshold. This call for evidence will help us develop an action plan that prioritises the most effective interventions to reverse this trend, focusing particularly on the needs of those most affected.

    The call for evidence builds on the progress made under the current Tuberculosis Action Plan for England, published in 2021, and seeks input to address the evolving TB landscape. UKHSA is consulting a wide range of stakeholders across and beyond government to inform the plan’s development.

    TB is the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, surpassing COVID-19. The bacterial infection primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. Symptoms include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, a high temperature, night sweats, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

    Those with expertise or experience in TB prevention, care, public health, epidemiology, health systems, surveillance, or civil society are encouraged to contribute to the call for evidence via GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Works to commence to transform Chapel Street and New Bailey

    Source: City of Salford

    • Works that will transform a section of Chapel Street due to start on Tuesday 22 April until early 2026
    • The vision for the area encompasses the need to create an accessible and integrated neighbourhood
    • Residents’ and businesses’ access will remain open at all times

    Works that will transform a section of Chapel Street between the junction with Trinity Way and Blackfriars Road on the Bee Network are due to start on Tuesday 22 April  and will run until early 2026 as part of the Chapel Street East (Phase 1) and New Bailey Gateway (Phase 2) scheme.

    During the construction, there will be temporary traffic management in place. From Monday 5 May, there will be a one-way closure on Chapel Street heading towards Salford (westbound), between Blackfriars Road and New Bailey, until early 2026.

    The main diversion will be via Blackfriars Road and Trinity Way and will be clearly signposted when the one-way closure on Chapel Street is in place.

    The vision for the area encompasses the need to create an accessible and integrated neighbourhood that joins together New Bailey with Greengate and connects the surrounding neighbourhoods, such as Trinity and Irwell Riverside, to the core of the city centre.

    The scheme will use a ‘complete streets’ approach to rebalance the space in favour of pedestrians and cyclists while also catering for buses, general traffic and loading with continuous cycle tracks and footways, new greenery and sustainable urban drainage systems.

    Public realm improvements will see the installation of rain gardens, planting beds and new trees introduced. There will also be upgraded surfaces and new street furniture to create a more inviting and dynamic space for all to enjoy.

    Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development at Salford City Council said: “Chapel Street East is a prominent position within Salford city centre and the area is undergoing a period of transformational change and regeneration that has already established it as an attractive and dynamic place to live and work.

    “The works are part of a long-term plan for the city centre, designed to make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists with better road crossings and cycling provision. I’m looking forward to seeing the works finished and open for everybody to use, which will support the wider regeneration of the area to make it a much more attractive area for our residents.”

    Residents’ and businesses’ access will remain open at all times, however there may be some temporary changes to the access routes with diversions in place. Throughout the construction some of the side roads on Chapel Street will also need to be closed for short periods of time. An alternative access route will be provided wherever possible. Buses will continue to operate on Chapel Street eastbound and New Bailey throughout the works but there may be changes to bus stop locations. For full details and information regarding any specific services, please visit Transport for Greater Manchester.

    Any questions on this project from Salford City Council should be directed to MajorWorks@salford.gov.uk. All updates will be posted on 
    www.salford.gov.uk/chapelstreetworks, as well as project plans.

    Share this

    Date published
    Wednesday 2 April 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor secures 935 neighbourhood police officer posts and confirms historic £1.16bn investment in the Metropolitan Police

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Mayor’s landmark £1.159 billion investment will protect neighbourhood policing, save 935 neighbourhood police officer posts and significantly reduce planned cuts to specialist police teams – including forensic teams and the dog support unit
    • Mayor will work closely with the Met police to push for the extra national funding London needs to boost officer numbers, continue to reform and fight crime

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced a record £1.16bn investment in policing from City Hall. This will help to save 935 neighbourhood police officer roles that were previously set to be lost and significantly reduce the level of cuts the Met were planning. There is still £32 million for the Met to allocate of additional funding.

    The previous government chronically underfunded the Met, making cuts to policing in London that in real terms were equivalent to more than £1.1billion. Allowing for inflation in 2024, core government funding will have fallen by nearly a third in real terms. This has left the Met in a very difficult financial position. The overwhelming majority of the Met’s funding comes from central government, but the Mayor is pulling every lever at his disposal to support policing in London. 

    Due to the previous Governments cuts, the Met will still need to reduce its overall workforce and make efficiency savings, but the funding from the Mayor and his prioritisation of neighbourhood policing will mean that the level of neighbourhood policing in communities across London will not be reduced. This will ensure officers are visible in our high streets and working proactively with communities on the issues that matter most to them. 

    The Mayor has more the doubled City Hall funding to the Met since he became Mayor, prioritising investment in local policing throughout his time in office, making difficult decisions on council tax and business rates to mitigate the impact of austerity on frontline policing. Neighbourhood policing remains the bedrock of community confidence, trust and safety in London and the Mayor has been clear that the fresh funding from City Hall will be used to fund police officers, key police staff and the equipment they need to carry out their roles.

    In line with the Mayor’s Police and Crime Plan, the latest budget also ensures:

    1. No cuts to emergency response teams, which the public rely on at times of crisis;
    2. Continued investment in the resources and equipment frontline officers need;
    3. Continued investment in the teams working to provide specialist support for victims so that the Met can continue to improve outcomes for victims of rape, serious sexual offences and child abuse and exploitation;
    4. Continued action to improve Met culture, with ongoing support for the Met’s Culture, Diversity and Inclusion Directorate which will deliver more leadership training, improved vetting processes, and changes to how the Met deals with misconduct and complaints to drive the higher standards;
    5. An extra £32 million to be allocated. 

    Since January’s publication of the draft budget an extra £83million has been added – £10million from City Hall and £73million from central government – for policing in the Mayor’s final budget brings the total mayoral investment in the Met to an historic £1.159 billion for the next year. Overall, there is an additional £320m funding for the Met compared to the current year’s budget, an unprecedented increase following close working between the Mayor and the new government. 

    This means that cuts to specialist teams will be significantly reduced compared to what the Met had been previously thought and was planning for. This includes significantly limiting the reductions to the Met’s Dog Support Unit, forensic teams and Mounted Branch. But given the scale of the previous government’s cuts, and with the reserves that have previously mitigated them having been used up, the Met is still having to make some tough choices to protect frontline policing. This includes moving Royal Parks demand into local neighbourhood ward policing roles. 

    However, the tough choices the Met has outlined are subject to change as there is still £32m from the funding set out that can be used to mitigate the proposed service reductions. In addition, any future funding from the Government in the upcoming Spending Review would mean the Met could look again at its plans.  

    The Mayor is determined to continue being both tough on crime and tough on the causes of crime. This approach – supporting the police at the same time as funding programmes that focus on crime prevention – is working.  It has contributed to the number of homicides, young people being injured with knives, gun crime with lethal barrel weapons and burglary all falling since Sadiq was first elected in 2016. The number of teenage homicides in London last year was also at its lowest level since 2012 with the number of under 25’s killed the lowest since 2003. But there is still much more to do and the Mayor will continue to do everything he can.    

    While Sadiq has welcomed additional government funding announcements for the police in 2024 and 2025, it is clear that it will take further funding to undo more than a decade of cuts by the previous government. That’s why the upcoming multi-year Spending Review will be a key focus for the Mayor and the Met. The Mayor will continue to stand up for London and make the case for the investment the Met needs. 

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The previous government chronically underfunded the Met, making cuts to policing in London that were in real terms equivalent to more than £1.1 billion. This has left the Met in an extremely difficult financial situation. As Mayor, I’m committed to doing everything in my power to support the police. That’s why I’m announcing a record £1.16bn annual investment in the police from City Hall. This historic increase will protect neighbourhood policing in our communities and significantly reduce the level of cuts the Met had been planning.    

    “It will also mean the Met can continue to reform and build on the crime reductions we have achieved in the capital, with violence, knife crime involving young people and burglary all down.

    “However, tough decisions have been made to protect neighbourhood policing and I’m under no illusions about the challenges ahead. As Mayor, I will continue to work with the new government and the Met – ahead of the forthcoming spending review – to ensure the Met gets the sustainable funding it needs to help us to build a safer London for everyone.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University unites students and IT experts

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The Polytechnic University held the CIT Day (Career in IT) on the topic “AI is changing IT”. The central theme was the transformation of the IT sphere under the influence of artificial intelligence technologies. More than a hundred students, teachers and industry professionals exchanged views on modern trends and prospects of information technology.

    Leading experts from Sber, T-Bank, Gazprom Neft, Sovcombank and other companies covered current issues: how artificial intelligence is changing IT professions, what relevant tools have appeared in the arsenal of programmers, how large language models influence the IT landscape. Several reports were devoted to successful cases of companies implementing artificial intelligence technologies in infrastructure and development processes.

    “KIT Day has a history of more than ten years,” said the event organizer, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Software Engineering Alexander Shchukin. “This year, we are glad to see representatives of the largest companies with interesting reports and many motivated, interested students at our university, for whom this is primarily an opportunity to obtain the most relevant specialized knowledge about promising technologies, communicate with professionals, meet and receive offers for internships.”

    There were so many questions for the speakers that the guys did not let them go even after the event ended. For the best questions, the students received branded gifts.

    Everything went great, the audience was very lively, the guys asked a lot of questions. It is not for nothing that we and the Polytechnic University are implementing joint educational programs and training future programmers, – says Mikhail Sukach, Executive Director of Sber’s Block T.

    All participants agreed that the reports aroused genuine interest not only among students, but also among IT specialists from various companies. Thus, St. Petersburg Polytechnic University became a platform for exchanging opinions for IT business.

    It is especially worth noting that most of the work in preparing the event was carried out by second-year students of the Higher School of Software Engineering.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –