Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dementia Cafe Awareness Day, March 2025

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Perth and Kinross Dementia Cafe will be holding an awareness day event on Wednesday 5 March 2025 from 10am to 12.30pm at the North Church on Perth High Street, to which all are welcome.

    The Dementia Cafe meets on the first Wednesday of each month, providing advice and information to people living with dementia in Perth and Kinross, their families and carers.  

    Alongside staff from Perth and Kinross Council’s Safer Communities and Trading Standards teams and Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership, organisations also being represented at the session will be NHS Tayside (Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, Community Mental Health), Telecare Services, Alzheimer’s Scotland, SCARF, Live Active Leisure, PKAVS Carers Support, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Blueberry Hill Meals and Macnabs Solicitors.  

    Hot filled rolls from Langs Foods will be available as well as a selection of other refreshments. 

    Last modified on 27 February 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Jim Allister highlights threat of US tariffs imposed on the EU catching Northern Ireland

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Speaking ahead of the Prime Minister’s discussions with President Trump North Antrim MP Jim Allister said:

    “Although we are entering unchartered territory, we have to assume for now that if President Trump proceeds with his 25% tariff on the EU that this will apply to Northern Ireland since the courts have ruled that we are part of the EU Customs territory.

    “This is something the Prime Minister, if he cared about Northern Ireland, should discuss with President Trump when he sees him later today. However, as Prime Minister his first job should be to reclaim sovereignty over Northern Ireland and thereby remove us from this bind of being within the EU’s customs control.

    “A 25% tariff would have a devastating effect on Northern Ireland exporters.

    “This provides yet another object lesson in the fact that, despite all talk of ‘having got Brexit done’ this is a fallacy.

    “Part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland remains in the EU.

    “The answer to this development is not for the UK Government to effectively apply the costs of the tariff to the whole UK and refund Northern Ireland businesses the difference.

    “It is rather that they stand up for the people of the whole United Kingdom and explain to the EU that an arrangement that disrespects the territorial integrity of the UK, that disenfranchises 1.9 million UK citizens, that causes trade diversion in violation of Article 16 of the Windsor Framework, and that has the effect of leaving any part of the UK vulnerable to 25% US tariffs cannot be allowed to continue.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA warns of potential second norovirus wave

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UKHSA warns of potential second norovirus wave

    People who have already had the virus this winter could be at risk again, as new data shows shift in circulating strains.

    The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows norovirus cases continue to rise across the country, with laboratory reports at the highest levels since reporting data this way began in 2014.

    Laboratory confirmed cases in the 2 weeks from 3 to 16 February 2025 were 29.4% higher than the previous fortnight and more than double the 5-season average (168.0%) for the same 2-week period. The impact is particularly severe in hospitals and care homes, with cases highest among people aged 65 and over. Cases usually start to decline around this time of year as the weather gets warmer, but it is too soon to conclude whether or not norovirus has peaked this season.

    The increased activity this season is associated with the recently emerged GII.17 genotype. However, the latest data shows that a different, but commonly seen genotype (GII.4) is now increasing. Prior to the emergence of GII.17, GII.4 is the genotype that most commonly detected and increased each winter. While the GII.17 genotype remains dominant, accounting for 59% of cases, its prevalence has dropped from 76% since November. Meanwhile, the GII.4 strain has sharply risen, now representing 29% of cases compared to just 10% three months ago.

    This means that people who have already had norovirus this season may catch it again, as having one genotype does not fully protect against the other. However, at present there is no indication that either GII.17 or GII.4 leads to more severe illness.

    Common symptoms of norovirus include:

    • nausea and vomiting
    • diarrhoea
    • high temperature
    • abdominal pain
    • aching limbs

    Some people, particularly young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe symptoms, which can cause dehydration. Anyone with these symptoms should drink plenty of fluids.

    Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

    Norovirus levels are still exceptionally high and now with multiple genotypes spreading at the same time, people could end up getting infected more than once this season.

    We are seeing the biggest impacts in health and social care settings, such as hospitals and care homes. Symptoms of norovirus can be more severe in older adults, young children and those who are immunocompromised. If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, please do not visit hospitals and care homes or return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped. And don’t prepare food for others, as you can still pass on the virus during this time.

    Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus. Wash your hands with soapy warm water and clean surfaces with bleach-based products where possible to help stop infections from spreading.

    While it is likely the GII.17 genotype has driven up norovirus cases this season due to a lack of previous immunity, the higher numbers we are seeing may also reflect UKHSA’s improved testing capabilities and changing patterns of infection since the COVID-19 pandemic. Norovirus also spreads more easily in lower temperatures as people spend more time indoors and typically peaks during winter months.

    UKHSA experts estimate that reported cases represent only a small fraction of actual infections. For every case reported to national surveillance, approximately 288 cases occur in the community, suggesting around 3 million cases annually in the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City’s biggest summer event buoyed by new wave of sponsors – including the University of Aberdeen The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 has announced a significant wave of new sponsors, joining previously confirmed partners in supporting this summer’s must-attend event.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 has announced a significant wave of new sponsors, joining previously confirmed partners in supporting this summer’s must-attend event.
    The latest businesses and organisations to sign up include the University as well as Boskalis, Clarksons Port Services, Dales Marine, DC Thomson, Glen Garioch, Greenwell Equipment, Sea-Cargo, Shell, Streamline Shipping Group, Targe Towing and TotalEnergies.
    Professor Peter Edwards, Vice-Principal Regional Engagement at the University, said: “World renowned, international in its approach, collaborative by nature and always looking to the horizon –  we share many of the traits which make the Tall Ships Races such a special and unforgettable experience.
    “A community of more than 130 nationalities, we are also more than just an ancient university with a deep connection to the region’s maritime history. We are an active champion for our local community and are delighted to be supporting the 2025 Races and showcasing the best of the North-east of Scotland.”
    The festival – billed as Europe’s largest free family event – takes place between 19-22 July and nearly 50 Tall Ships have already signed up from South America, the Middle East and Europe which will create a dazzling parade of sail.
    The Tall Ships Aberdeen ‘Quayside Concerts’ in Peterson Seabase – a freight yard being transformed into one of Scotland’s biggest outdoor music venues – will feature three nights of ticketed events with major headline acts, and a free gig on Sunday night featuring renowned Scottish headliners.
    This is alongside an exciting free events programme, featuring renowned Scottish headliners on the Sunday night and a vibrant schedule of daytime, family-friendly entertainment that is expected to draw an estimated 400,000 visits to Aberdeen.

    We are an active champion for our local community and are delighted to be supporting the 2025 Races and showcasing the best of the North-east of Scotland.” Professor Peter Edwards, Vice-Principal Regional Engagement at the University

    Councillor Martin Greig, Chair of Aberdeen’s Tall Ships 2025 organising committee, said: “The Tall Ships experience will have a massive, positive impact on Aberdeen and the region. The importance of the Tall Ships is reflected in the support that has been given by our generous sponsors.
    “I am absolutely delighted that high-profile partners have agreed to contribute so positively to make the event a success. This is the biggest event that Aberdeen, and its region, has seen in almost 30 years. The support from these distinguished businesses is truly appreciated.” 
    The new supporters join previously announced sponsors ASCO, Aspect: The Strategic Communications Experts, Balmoral Group, Equinor, Global Maritime, John Lawrie Metals, OPITO, Peterson Energy Logistics and Serica Energy.
    Aberdeen is the only UK host port for the Tall Ships Races this summer and – based on the experience of previous host ports – the event stands to inject tens of millions of pounds into the city and wider economy.
    Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Everyone involved in the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen is delighted by the wave of support shown by businesses and organisations getting on board as sponsors. We can’t thank them enough and I would urge others to become sponsors, too.
    “Their contribution is invaluable in making the spectacular event in July the best it can be, while leaving a lasting legacy for the city’s economy and its reputation for hosting large-scale events that can attract hundreds of thousands of visits.”
    The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 is supported through EventScotland’s International Events Funding Programme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New defibrillator installed at Belgrave Hall

    Source: City of Leicester

    A NEW life-saving defibrillator has been installed at Belgrave Hall in Leicester, as part of the Heartshield initiative.

    Heartshield was launched by Leicester City Council’s public health team, East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) and local heart charity the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT). Its aim is to map out the council’s available defibrillators and fill in the gaps by installing new ones where needed. As a result, in the last year, 10 new defibrillators have been installed at council venues across the city, including Belgrave Hall.

    All of the defibrillators are available for public use 24 hours a day, whenever they are needed.

    Every year in the UK, ambulance services attend more than 30,000 callouts to people who are in cardiac arrest (their heart has stopped beating). Currently, fewer than one in 10 of these people will survive. Early use of a defibrillator can make a huge difference to someone’s chances of survival.

    Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor responsible for public health, said: “Availability of public-access defibrillators and confidence in using them is vitally important to improving survival rates. We’ve made excellent progress, but there is always more to be done, which is why we’re delighted to be working with the ambulance service and the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust on this.

    “If you own a public building or a small business in Leicester, or any place where people gather, please consider installing a defibrillator to an external wall, so that it can be accessed easily at any time of the day or night. There are funding sources that can help with this. Together, we can help to make Leicester a heart-safe city.”

    The defibrillator at Belgrave Hall was funded by Leicester City Council’s public health team and Government funding. In other areas of the city, ward councillors have used community grants to support installation.

    Dr Laura French, consultant in public health at Leicester City Council, said: “By working together with communities, we aim to improve survival rates. As well as encouraging the installation of more defibs, it’s important that the ones we already have in Leicester are registered on a national database called The Circuit, so that emergency services can direct people to the nearest defibrillator in the event of a cardiac arrest. We also encourage people to access free training so that they know how to use a defibrillator.”

    Dr Mike Ferguson from the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust said: “Out of hospital cardiac arrests can happen to anyone, of any age, at any time. Together with our communities, the Heartshield project will continue in 2025 to help spread the word about this important issue and get more defibs installed.

    “Do you and the people you work with feel confident in how to give CPR if you were to see someone collapse? Would you feel confident using an automated defibrillator? If not, consider accessing some of the training freely available through us at JHMT, or through other sources such as EMAS. Being prepared is key to saving lives.”

    As well as providing free CPR and defibrillator training, the JHMT works hard to raise awareness of sudden, unexpected heart deaths (SADS), helps to provide community defibrillators and runs Inspire, a local grants scheme for inspirational young people in the city and county.

    To find out more about the work of the Trust, apply for training and support, or to help out with the charity’s work, visit the website at www.jhmt.org.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sharandeep is named Good Citizen

    Source: City of Coventry

    A young carer has been presented with a Good Citizen Award by Coventry’s Lord Mayor for the support she has given to the community.

    Sharandeep Sahota has cared for her disabled relatives since age seven and founded the Young Carers’ Council with the Carers Trust Heart of England, to ensure young carers like her in the city, are represented.

    In 2023, Sharandeep was named as the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s “Change Maker of the Year as well as being nominated for a Coronation Champions Award. She also has had a special mention for being a young carer, volunteering and creating packages for the homeless in the Carer’s Trust  ‘Who cares wins, Young Hero’ category.

    Sharandeep has a strong volunteering ethos which includes speaking to students about volunteering at the Birmingham Youth Summit, helping at the International Children’s Games, teaching at the Streetlaw Project, campaigning about knife crime and fundraising with the National Citizen Service.

    Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Mal Mutton, said: “We have so many wonderful young carers in the city who look after loved ones and I am delighted that Sharandeep has been named a Good Citizen. To think that she has also found the time in her young and busy life to volunteer to help Coventry host the International Children’s Games and support the work to combat knife crime, is truly inspiring. Congratulations to her, and many thanks on behalf of the city of Coventry.”

    If you would like to nominate someone who you feel should receive a Good Citizen Award in Coventry, complete an online form coventry.gov.uk/GoodCitizen .

    Published: Thursday, 27th February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Family Hub hosts youth takeover day

    Source: City of Coventry

    Young people took over one of the city’s Family Hubs for a day, for a range of services designed to bring people together as a community.

    The Family Hub and Community Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV) Youth Takeover event was held at the Moat Family Hub, and saw a total of 450 people attend, including 266 young people aged between eight and 18, parents, carers and representatives from local businesses, organisations and partners.

    The event enabled many teams to

    • Engage with young participants in meaningful conversations and create an environment where their voices are valued.
    • Give young people a safe space to express themselves during half term and access activities which are constructive.
    • Link young people and youth services together to promote activities they can be regularly involved in to further develop.
    • Highlight all the great work that’s happening in Coventry for young people.

    The day also included workshops and over 30 activities, including music, multisports, virtual reality, arts and crafts, food and much more.

    The main aims were to increase awareness of the services available at the Family Hubs, to bring young people together and share information on a range of other services and organisations in the city that offer support.

    Cllr Patricia Seaman, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “The Youth Takeover event gave our young people the chance to voice their opinions, share their experiences and to see just what is there for them in our city.

    “It was a great day, with many able to try some new experiences and to meet new people, whether that was building friendships with other young people, or talking to organisations like the Council and Police and having their voices heard.

    “It was a part of our work through Child Friendly Cov to deliver on our pledge to ensure young people be and feel loved, valued, safe, healthy and have opportunities.

    “Thanks to everyone involved for making it such a success and giving our children and young people such a memorable day.”

    The range of interactive workshops covered topics such as mental health awareness, coping strategies, and skill-building activities, and young people also took part in a knife crime awareness chat with an expert from Precious Lives.

    Comments included:

    “Today was amazing, it’s fantastic to see so many young people and youth services in one space with smiles on their faces. Today has been great for us to share our opportunities to the young people.” Youth Service.

    “Thank you so much for today, all of my kids loved it. They can’t stop speaking about how much fun they have had and when the next one will be. Thank you to you and all your team for providing such a fun and engaging experience.” A parent.

    Other “Youth takeover” events are now being planned across the city – watch out for details coming soon.

    Learn more about Family Hub Offer

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Enerflex Ltd. Announces Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial and Operational Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ADJUSTED EBITDA OF $121 MILLION AND FREE CASH FLOW OF $76 MILLION1

    EI CONTRACT BACKLOG AND ES BACKLOG OF $1.5 BILLION AND $1.3 BILLION, RESPECTIVELY, PROVIDING STRONG OPERATIONAL VISIBILITY

    REDUCED BANK ADJUSTED NET DEBT-TO-EBITDA RATIO2TO 1.5X TIMES AT YEAR-END

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enerflex Ltd. (TSX: EFX) (NYSE: EFXT) (“Enerflex” or the “Company”) today reported its financial and operational results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024.

    All amounts presented are in U.S. Dollars (“USD”) unless otherwise stated.

    Q4/24 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW         

    • Generated revenue of $561 million compared to $574 million in Q4/23 and $601 million in Q3/24.
    • Recorded gross margin before depreciation and amortization of $174 million, or 31% of revenue, compared to $158 million, or 28% of revenue in Q4/23 and $176 million, or 29% of revenue during Q3/24.
      • Energy Infrastructure (“EI”) and After-Market Services (“AMS”) product lines generated 67% of consolidated gross margin before depreciation and amortization during Q4/24 and 69% on a full-year basis in 2024.
      • ES gross margin before depreciation and amortization increased to 21% in Q4/24 compared to 15% in Q4/23 and 19% in Q3/24, benefiting from favorable product mix and strong project execution.
    • Adjusted earnings before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“adjusted EBITDA”) of $121 million compared to $91 million in Q4/23 and $120 million during Q3/24. The year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA reflects improved gross margin and favorable foreign exchange rate movements.
    • Cash provided by operating activities was $113 million, which included net working capital recovery of $39 million. This compares to cash provided by operating activities of $158 million in Q4/23 and $98 million in Q3/24. Free cash flow was $76 million in Q4/24 compared to $139 million during Q4/23 and $78 million during Q3/241.
    • Invested $47 million in the business in Q4/24, consisting of $32 million in capital expenditures and $15 million for expansion of an EI project in the Eastern Hemisphere (“EH”) that will be accounted for as a finance lease.
    • Recorded ES bookings of $301 million inclusive of a $75 million derecognition, with no associated gross margin on future revenue, related to the termination of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility project contract in Kurdistan. The majority of bookings originated in the North America segment and relate to gas compression solutions. Total backlog as at December 31, 2024 was $1.3 billion, providing strong visibility into future revenue generation and business activity levels.
    • Enerflex’s USA contract compression business continues to perform well, led by increasing natural gas production in the Permian basin and continued discipline across industry competitors.
      • This business generated revenue of $36 million and gross margin before depreciation and amortization of 78% during Q4/24 compared to $33 million and 76% in Q4/23 and $37 million and 70% during Q3/24.
      • Utilization remained stable at 95% across a fleet size of approximately 428,000 horsepower. Enerflex expects its North American contract compression fleet will grow to over 475,000 horsepower by the end of 2025.
    • The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of CAD$0.0375 per share, payable on March 24, 2025, to shareholders of record on March 10, 2025.

    BALANCE SHEET AND LIQUIDITY

    • Enerflex exited Q4/24 with net debt of $616 million, which included $92 million of cash and cash equivalents, a reduction of $208 million compared to Q4/23 and $76 million lower than the third quarter.
    • During Q4/24, Enerflex redeemed $62.5 million (or 10% of the aggregate principal amount originally issued) of its 9.00% Senior Secured Notes due 2027. The redemption was completed at a price of 103% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest up to, but excluding, the redemption date. The redemption was funded with available liquidity, which included cash and cash equivalents and the undrawn portion of Enerflex’s lower cost $800 million revolving credit facility.
    • Enerflex’s bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio was approximately 1.5x at the end of Q4/24, down from 2.3x at the end of Q4/23 and 1.9x at the end of Q3/24. The leverage ratio at the end of Q4/24 is within Enerflex’s target bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio range of 1.5x to 2.0x.
    • The Company maintains strong liquidity with access to $614 million under its credit facility.

    __________________________________________
    1 During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company modified its calculation of free cash flow. Free cash flow is now defined as cash provided by (used in) operating activities, less total capital expenditures (growth and maintenance) for PP&E and EI assets, mandatory debt repayments, and lease payments, while proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets are added back. Refer to the “Free Cash Flow” section of this press release for further details.
    2 The Company defines bank-adjusted net debt to EBITDA as borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility (“RCF”) and its 9.00% Senior Secured Notes due 2027 (the “Notes”) less cash and cash equivalents, divided by EBITDA as defined by the Company’s lenders for the trailing 12- months.


    MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

    “We delivered a strong finish to the year, with solid operating results across Enerflex’s geographies and product lines,” said Marc Rossiter, Enerflex’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our Energy Infrastructure and After-Market Services business lines continue to provide steady, reliable performance and revenue streams, reinforcing Enerflex’s ability to deliver sustainable returns across our global platform. Our Engineered Systems business delivered solid performance throughout 2024, highlighted by strong project execution.”

    Rossiter continued, “As we enter 2025, visibility across our business remains solid, underpinned by a $1.5 billion contract backlog for our Energy Infrastructure assets, the recurring nature of our After-Market Services business, and a $1.3 billion Engineered Systems backlog. By focusing on operational execution, optimizing our core business, and maintaining disciplined capital allocation, we expect to further reduce debt and create meaningful long-term value for our shareholders.”

    Preet S. Dhindsa, Enerflex’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, stated, “Enerflex delivered fourth-quarter results that exceeded the ranges included in our 2024 guidance. We are particularly pleased with our ongoing progress in efficiently managing working capital, lowering net finance costs, and optimizing the Company’s debt stack. Backed by Enerflex’s strong global leadership team and talented employees, we continue to enhance the profitability and resilience of our operations. Our focus remains on generating sustainable free cash flow, further improving our balance sheet health and positioning the Company for long-term growth and value creation.”

    SUMMARY RESULTS

      Three months ended
    December 31,
    Twelve months ended
    December 31,
    ($ millions, except percentages and ratios)   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Revenue $ 561 $ 574 $ 2,414 $ 2,343
    Gross margin   140   119   504   457
    Gross margin as a percentage of revenue   25.0%   20.7%   20.9%   19.5%
    Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”)   92   74   327   293
    Foreign exchange (gain) loss   (2)   16   4   43
    Operating income   50   29   173   121
    EBITDA1   92     364   240
    EBIT1   47   (51)   179   42
    EBT1   21   (76)   81   (52)
    Net earnings (loss)   15   (95)   32   (83)
    Cash provided by operating activities   113   158   324   206
                     
    Key Financial Performance Indicators (“KPIs”)2                
    ES bookings3 $ 301 $ 265 $ 1,401 $ 1,306
    ES backlog3   1,280   1,134   1,280   1,134
    EI contract backlog4   1,545   1,700   1,545   1,700
    Gross margin before depreciation and amortization (“Gross margin before D&A”)5   174   158   642   609
    Gross margin before D&A as a percentage of revenue5   31.0%   27.5%   26.6%   26.0%
    Adjusted EBITDA6   121   91   432   378
    Free cash flow7   76   139   222   95
    Net debt   616   824   616   824
    Bank-adjusted net debt to EBITDA ratio   1.5x   2.3x   1.5x   2.3x
    Return on capital employed (“ROCE”)8   10.3%   2.1%   10.3%   2.1%


    1
    EBITDA is defined as earnings before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBIT is defined as earnings before finance costs and income taxes. EBT is defined as earnings before taxes.
    2These KPIs are non-IFRS measures. Further detail is provided in the “Non-IFRS Measures” section of the fourth quarter 2024 MD&A.
    3Refer to the “ES Bookings and Backlog” section of the MD&A for more information on these KPIs.
    4Refer to the “EI Contract Backlog” section of the MD&A.
    5Refer to the “Gross Margin by Product line” section of the MD&A for further details.
    6Refer to the “Adjusted EBITDA” section of the MD&A for further details.
    7During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company modified its calculation of free cash flow. Free cash flow is now defined as cash provided by (used in) operating activities, less total capital expenditures (growth and maintenance) for PP&E and EI assets, mandatory debt repayments, and lease payments, while proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets are added back. Refer to the “Free Cash Flow” section of this press release for further details.
    8Determined by using the trailing 12-month period.

    Enerflex’s consolidated financial statements and notes (the “financial statements”) and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) as at December 31, 2024, can be accessed on the Company’s website at www.enerflex.com and under the Company’s SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

    OUTLOOK        

    During 2025, Enerflex’s priorities include: (1) enhancing the profitability of core operations; (2) leveraging the Company’s leading position in core operating countries to capitalize on expected increases in natural gas and produced water volumes; and (3) maximizing free cash flow to further strengthen Enerflex’s financial position, provide direct shareholder returns, and invest in selective customer supported growth opportunities.

    Industry Update

    Enerflex’s preliminary outlook for 2025 reflects steady demand across its business lines and geographic regions. Operating results will be underpinned by the highly contracted EI product line and the recurring nature of AMS, which together are expected to account for approximately 65% of our gross margin before depreciation and amortization. Enerflex’s EI product line is supported by customer contracts, which are expected to generate approximately $1.5 billion of revenue during their current terms.

    Complementing Enerflex’s recurring revenue businesses is the ES product line, which carried a backlog of approximately $1.3 billion as at December 31, 2024, the majority of which is expected to convert into revenue over the next 12 months. During 2025, ES gross margin before depreciation and amortization is expected to be more consistent with the historical long-term average for this business line, reflective of the weakness in domestic natural gas prices during much of 2024 and a shift of project mix in Enerflex’s ES backlog. Notwithstanding, near-term revenue for this business line is expected to remain steady. Enerflex is encouraged by initial customer response to improved domestic natural gas prices, and the medium-term outlook for ES products and services continues to be attractive, driven by expected increases in natural gas and produced water volumes across Enerflex’s global footprint.

    The Company continues to closely monitor geopolitical tensions across North America, including the potential application of tariffs. Based on currently available information, the direct impact of tariffs on Enerflex’s business is expected to be mitigated by the Company’s diversified operations and proactive risk management. Enerflex’s operations in the USA, Canada and Mexico are largely distinct in the customers and projects they serve, and the Company has been working to mitigate the impact of potential tariffs. The United States is Enerflex’s largest operating region, generating 45% of consolidated revenue in 2024 by destination of sale, and we believe the Company is well positioned to benefit from growth in domestic energy production. Enerflex’s operations in Canada and Mexico generated 10% and 3% of consolidated revenue in 2024, respectively.

    Capital Spending

    Enerflex is targeting a disciplined capital program in 2025, with total capital expenditures of $110 million to $130 million. This includes a total of approximately $70 million for maintenance and PP&E capital expenditures. Similar to 2024, disciplined capital spending will focus on customer supported opportunities in the USA and Middle East. Notably, the fundamentals for contract compression in the USA remain strong, led by expected increases in natural gas production in the Permian basin and capital spending discipline from market participants. Enerflex will continue to make selective customer supported growth investments in this business.

    Capital Allocation

    Providing meaningful direct shareholder returns is a priority for Enerflex. With the Company operating within its target leverage range of bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 1.5x to 2.0x, Enerflex is positioned to increase direct shareholder returns. This is reflected through the previously announced 50% increase of the Company’s quarterly dividend.

    Going forward, capital allocation decisions will be based on delivering value to Enerflex shareholders and measured against Enerflex’s ability to maintain balance sheet strength. In addition to increases to the Company’s dividend, share repurchases, and disciplined growth capital spending, Enerflex will also consider reducing leverage below its target range to further improve balance sheet strength and lower net finance costs. Unlocking greater financial flexibility positions the Company to capitalize on opportunities to optimize its debt stack and respond to evolving market conditions.

    DIVIDEND DECLARATION

    Enerflex is committed to paying a sustainable quarterly cash dividend to shareholders. The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of CAD$0.0375 per share, payable on March 24, 2025, to shareholders of record on March 10, 2025. With this dividend declaration, Enerflex has shortened the number of calendar days between its record date and payment date to better align the Company’s dividend approach with peers.

    CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST DETAILS

    Investors, analysts, members of the media, and other interested parties, are invited to participate in a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. (MST), where members of senior management will discuss the Company’s results. A question-and-answer period will follow.

    To participate, register at https://register.vevent.com/register/BI3947144f36ac4488be4e38db59385a7f. Once registered, participants will receive the dial-in numbers and a unique PIN to enter the call. The audio webcast of the conference call will be available on the Enerflex website at www.enerflex.com under the Investors section or can be accessed directly at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/dvksnz6g/.

    NON-IFRS MEASURES

    Throughout this news release and other materials disclosed by the Company, Enerflex employs certain measures to analyze its financial performance, financial position, and cash flows, including net debt-to-EBITDA ratio and bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio. These non-IFRS measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, non-IFRS measures should not be considered more meaningful than generally accepted accounting principles measures as indicators of Enerflex’s performance. Refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” of Enerflex’s MD&A for the three months ended December 31, 2024, for information which is incorporated by reference into this news release and can be accessed on Enerflex’s website at www.enerflex.com and under the Company’s SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

    ADJUSTED EBITDA

    Three months ended
    December 31, 2024
    ($ millions)   NAM   LATAM   EH   Total
    Net earnings1             $ 15
    Income taxes1               6
    Net finance costs1,2               26
    EBIT3 $ 34 $ 11 $ 4 $ 47
    Depreciation and Amortization   19   12   14   45
    EBITDA $ 53 $ 23 $ 18 $ 92
    Restructuring, transaction and integration costs   1       1
    Share-based compensation   11   2   3   16
    Impact of finance leases                
    Principal payments received       10   10
    Loss on redemption options3               2
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 65 $ 25 $ 31 $ 121


    1
    The Company included net earnings, income taxes, and net finance costs on a consolidated basis to reconcile to EBIT.
    2Net finance costs are considered corporate expenditures and therefore have not been allocated to reporting segments.
    3EBIT includes $2 million loss on redemption options associated with the Notes. Debt is managed within Corporate and is not allocated to reporting segments.

    Three months ended
    December 31, 2023
    ($ millions)   NAM   LATAM   EH   Total
    Net loss1             $ (95)
    Income taxes1               19
    Net finance costs1,2               25
    EBIT $ 47 $ (84) $ (14) $ (51)
    Depreciation and amortization   18   14   19   51
    EBITDA $ 65 $ (70) $ 5 $
    Restructuring, transaction and integration costs   3   2   13   18
    Share-based compensation   (1)       (1)
    Impact of finance leases                
    Principal payments received       9   9
    Goodwill impairment     65     65
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 67 $ (3) $ 27 $ 91


    1
    The Company included net earnings, income taxes, and net finance costs on a consolidated basis to reconcile to EBIT.
    2Net finance costs are considered corporate expenditures and therefore have not been allocated to reporting segments.

    Twelve months ended
    December 31, 2024
    ($ millions)   NAM   LATAM   EH   Total
    Net earnings1             $ 32
    Income taxes1               49
    Net finance costs1,2               98
    EBIT3 $ 166 $ 29 $ (33) $ 179
    Depreciation and amortization   74   53   58   185
    EBITDA $ 240 $ 82 $ 25 $ 364
    Restructuring, transaction and integration costs   7   4   3   14
    Share-based compensation   19   5   5   29
    Impact of finance leases                
    Upfront gain       (3)   (3)
    Principal payments received     1   44   45
    Gain on redemption options3               (17)
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 266 $ 92 $ 74 $ 432


    1
    The Company included net earnings, income taxes, and net finance costs on a consolidated basis to reconcile to EBIT.
    2Net finance costs are considered corporate expenditures and therefore have not been allocated to reporting segments.
    3EBIT includes $17 million gain on redemption options associated with the Notes. Debt is managed within Corporate and is not allocated to reporting segments.

    Twelve months ended
    December 31, 2023
    ($ millions)   NAM   LATAM   EH   Total
    Net loss1             $ (83)
    Income taxes1               31
    Net finance costs1,2               94
    EBIT $ 127 $ (90) $ 5 $ 42
    Depreciation and amortization   69   48   81   198
    EBITDA $ 196 $ (42) $ 86 $ 240
    Restructuring, transaction and integration costs   11   10   23   44
    Share-based compensation   4   1   1   6
    Impact of finance leases                
    Upfront gain       (13)   (13)
    Principal payments received     1   35   36
    Goodwill impairment     65     65
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 211 $ 35 $ 132 $ 378


    1
    The Company included net earnings, income taxes, and net finance costs on a consolidated basis to reconcile to EBIT.
    2Net finance costs are considered corporate expenditures and therefore have not been allocated to reporting segments.


    FREE CASH FLOW AND DIVIDEND PAYOUT RATIO

    The Company modified its calculation of free cash flow to include a deduction for growth capital expenditures and exclude the deduction for dividends paid. Free cash flow is now defined as cash provided by (used in) operating activities, less total capital expenditures (growth and maintenance) for PP&E and EI assets, mandatory debt repayments, and lease payments, while proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets are added back. This modification is aimed at providing additional clarity into Enerflex’s free cash flow and help users of the financial statements assess the level of free cash generated to fund other non-operating activities. These activities could include dividend payments, share repurchases, and non-mandatory debt repayments. Free cash flow may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies as it does not have a standardized meaning under IFRS. Management has adopted this non-IFRS measure to improve comparability with its peers.

      Three months ended
    December 31,
    Twelve months ended
    December 31,
    ($ millions, except percentages)   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital and other1 $ 74 $ 46 $ 218 $ 193
    Net change in working capital and other   39   112   106   13
    Cash provided by operating activities2 $ 113 $ 158 $ 324 $ 206
    Less:                
    Capital expenditures – Maintenance and PP&E   (21)   (13)   (53)   (45)
    Capital expenditures – Growth   (11)   (4)   (22)   (61)
    Mandatory debt repayments     (10)   (10)   (20)
    Lease payments   (5)   (3)   (20)   (15)
    Add:                
    Proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets     11   3   30
    Free cash flow $ 76 $ 139 $ 222 $ 95
    Dividends paid   2   2   9   9
    Dividend payout ratio   2.6%   1.4%   4.1%   9.5%


    1
    Enerflex also refers to cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital and other as “Funds from operations” or “FFO”.
    2Enerflex also refers to cash provided by operating activities as “Cashflow from operations” or “CFO”.


    BANK-ADJUSTED NET DEBT-TO-EBITDA RATIO

    The Company defines net debt as short- and long-term debt less cash and cash equivalents at period end, which is then divided by EBITDA for the trailing 12 months. In assessing whether the Company is compliant with the financial covenants related to its debt instruments, certain adjustments are made to net debt and EBITDA to determine Enerflex’s bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio. These adjustments and Enerflex’s bank-adjusted net-debt-to EBITDA ratio are calculated in accordance with, and derived from, the Company’s financing agreements.

    GROSS MARGIN BEFORE DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION

    Gross margin before depreciation and amortization is a non-IFRS measure defined as gross margin excluding the impact of depreciation and amortization. The historical costs of assets may differ if they were acquired through acquisition or constructed, resulting in differing depreciation. Gross margin before depreciation and amortization is useful to present operating performance of the business before the impact of depreciation and amortization that may not be comparable across assets.

    ADVISORY REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and “forward-looking statements” (and together with “forward-looking information”, “FLI”) within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are FLI. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “future”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “potential”, “predict”, “should”, “will” and similar expressions, (including negatives thereof) are intended to identify FLI.

    In particular, this news release includes (without limitation) forward-looking information and statements pertaining to:

    • expectations that the North American contract compression fleet will grow to over 475,000 horsepower by the end of 2025;
    • the Company’s expectations to further reduce debt, provide direct shareholder returns and create meaningful long-term value for Enerflex shareholders, and the timing associated therewith, if at all;
    • disclosures under the heading “Outlook” including:
      • steady demand will continue across our business lines and geographic regions for 2025;
      • the highly contracted EI product line and the recurring nature of AMS will, together, account for approximately 65% of Enerflex’s gross margin before depreciation and amortization;
      • customer contracts within Enerflex’s EI product line will generate approximately $1.5 billion of revenue during their current terms;  
      • a majority of the ES product line backlog of approximately $1.3 billion as at December 31, 2024, will convert into revenue over the next 12 months;
      • ES gross margin before depreciation and amortization is expected to be more consistent with the historical long-term average for this business line with near term revenue remaining steady;
      • the potential application of tariffs and the anticipated impact of such tariffs including the Company’s expectation that such impact to Enerflex will be mitigated by the Company’s diversified operations and proactive risk management;
      • that the Company is well positioned to benefit from growth in domestic energy production;
      • total capital expenditures in 2025 will be $110 million to $130 million which includes approximately $70 million for maintenance and PP&E capital expenditures; and
      • the fundamentals for contract compression in the USA remain strong, led by expected increases in natural gas production in the Permian and capital spending discipline from market participants;
    • the ability of Enerflex to continue to pay a sustainable quarterly cash dividend.

    FLI reflect management’s current beliefs and assumptions with respect to such things as the impact of general economic conditions; commodity prices; the markets in which Enerflex’s products and services are used; general industry conditions, forecasts, and trends; changes to, and introduction of new, governmental regulations, laws, and income taxes; increased competition; availability of qualified personnel; political unrest and geopolitical conditions; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Enerflex. More specifically, Enerflex’s expectations in respect of its FLI are based on a number of assumptions, estimates and projections developed based on past experience and anticipated trends, including but not limited to:

    • any potential tariffs imposed will have a manageable impact on our operations and cost structure and increased domestic energy production will offset any negative effects of such tariffs;
    • market dynamics, including increased energy demand, infrastructure development, and production activity, will drive growth in natural gas and produced water volumes across Enerflex’s core operating countries;
    • market conditions, customer activity, and industry fundamentals will support stable demand across our business lines and geographic regions throughout 2025;
    • the high level of contractual commitments within the EI product line and the predictable, recurring revenue from AMS will continue;
    • existing customer contracts within the EI product line will remain in effect and with no material cancellations or renegotiations over their remaining terms;
    • the execution of projects within the ES product line will proceed as scheduled and the conversion to revenue will proceed without significant delays or cancellations;
    • no significant unforeseen cost overruns or project delays;
    • Enerflex will maintain sufficient cash flow, profitability, and financial flexibility to support the ongoing payment of a sustainable quarterly cash dividend, subject to market conditions, operational performance, and board approval.

    As a result of the foregoing, actual results, performance, or achievements of Enerflex could differ and such differences could be material from those expressed in, or implied by, the FLI. The principal risks, uncertainties and other factors affecting Enerflex and its business are identified under the heading “Risk Factors” in: (i) Enerflex’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, dated February 27, 2025; and (ii) Enerflex’s Annual Report dated February 28, 2024, copies of which are available under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

    The FLI included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and are based on the information available to the Company at such time and, other than as required by law, Enerflex disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any FLI, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. This news release and its contents should not be construed, under any circumstances, as investment, tax, or legal advice.

    The outlook provided in this news release is based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on Management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available. The outlook is based on the same assumptions and risk factors set forth above and is based on the Company’s historical results of operations. The outlook set forth in this news release was approved by Management and the Board of Directors. Management believes that the prospective financial information set forth in this news release has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting Management’s best estimates and judgments, and represents the Company’s expected course of action in developing and executing its business strategy relating to its business operations. The prospective financial information set forth in this news release should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. Actual results may vary, and such variance may be material.

    ABOUT ENERFLEX

    Enerflex is a premier integrated global provider of energy infrastructure and energy transition solutions, deploying natural gas, low-carbon, and treated water solutions – from individual, modularized products and services to integrated custom solutions. With over 4,600 engineers, manufacturers, technicians, and innovators, Enerflex is bound together by a shared vision: Transforming Energy for a Sustainable Future. The Company remains committed to the future of natural gas and the critical role it plays, while focused on sustainability offerings to support the energy transition and growing decarbonization efforts.

    Enerflex’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFX” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFXT”. For more information about Enerflex, visit www.enerflex.com.

    For investor and media enquiries, contact:

    Marc Rossiter
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    E-mail: MRossiter@enerflex.com

    Preet S. Dhindsa
    Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    E-mail: PDhindsa@enerflex.com

    Jeff Fetterly
    Vice President, Corporate Development and Investor Relations
    E-mail: JFetterly@enerflex.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Relatives of slain PNG police officer block Highlands Highway over unresolved killing

    By Scott Waide, RNZ Pacific PNG correspondent

    The family of a Papua New Guinea police constable, killed in an ambush last month, has blocked a section of the Highlands Highway in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, demanding justice for his death.

    Constable Harry Gorano succumbed to his injuries in intensive care two weeks ago after spending three weeks in a coma.

    He was attacked alongside colleagues in the Southern Highlands in January, during which fellow officer Constable Noel Biape was fatally shot.

    Gorano’s relatives, frustrated by the lack of arrests in the case, staged the roadblock early today, halting traffic on a key transit route.

    They have repeatedly called for authorities to arrest those responsible for the ambush.

    Additional personnel have been deployed to Goroka to assist local officers in managing tensions.

    Forces in neighboring regions have also been placed on standby amid concerns that the protest could spark broader unrest.

    The incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by PNG’s police force.

    Since 2017, more than 20 officers have been killed in the line of duty, with many perpetrators still at large.

    Investigations into Constable Gorano’s death remain ongoing.

    Protesters block a section of the Highlands Highway outside Goroka. Image: RNZ Pacific/Lae-Morope Crime Alert via WhatsApp

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    Family of late constable urges authorities to fast-track investigation

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £230m DHL investment in Coventry to create hundreds of local jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £230m DHL investment in Coventry to create hundreds of local jobs

    DHL Group has announced a £230 million e-commerce hub investment in Coventry creating up to 600 local jobs.

    • Major £230m investment in new state-of-the-art e-commerce hub in Coventry will create up to 600 local jobs.
    • New hub near Coventry Airport can handle up to 1 million parcels a day and is part of DHL e-Commerce’s wider £482m investment into the UK.
    • Minister Justin Madders will open the hub today, celebrating the latest in a series of job-boosting investments across the country.

    Logistics giant DHL has invested £230 million in a new state-of-the-art e-commerce hub in Coventry which will create up to 600 local jobs, in the latest in a series of job-boosting investments across the UK. 

    Today (27 February), Business Minister Justin Madders will formally open the new hub which covers 25,000 m² of space and can handle up to a million parcels a day, speeding up delivery times for UK consumers in a major win to the Coventry and wider West Midlands economy. 

    During his visit, the Minister will meet with DHL Group’s senior leadership, including CEO of DHL eCommerce Pablo Ciano, tour the new site to see the latest e-commerce technologies in action, and learn about how the new hub will benefit not only Coventry but the wider West Midlands.

    This announcement comes as the latest research shows the UK is expected to reach a turnover in e-commerce of £176 billion by 2029, leading all European economies. The latest figures from the Department for Business & Trade also show the West Midlands region landed 133 foreign direct investments in 2023/24, generating 7,581 new jobs.

    Securing investment is central to the Government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off as part of our Plan for Change.

    Since entering office, the Government has been focused on restoring economic stability – which is the foundation of growth – to give businesses the confidence to invest and expand in the UK, and today’s announcement from DHL is a major vote of confidence in the UK’s investment environment.  

    Business Minister Justin Madders said:

    The West Midlands is a powerhouse for investment, and this state-of-the-art hub in Coventry will not only create hundreds of local jobs but give a major boost to our logistics sector and speed up delivery times for consumers. 

    The UK is open for business, and DHL’s investment is the latest vote of confidence in the country which will deliver economic growth and raise living standards, showing our Plan for Change is working.

    Stuart Hill, CEO of DHL eCommerce UK said:

    As e-commerce continues to shape the way we live and work, this expansion will enable us to meet growing demand. The investment reflects our confidence in British business and our dedication to helping our customers thrive in the digital marketplace through innovation and best-in-class service delivery.

    By increasing our capacity with a state-of-the-art operation, we’re creating long-term jobs, growth opportunities for our customers and a blueprint for more sustainable logistics.

    DHL’s cutting-edge new site will help to grow UK e-commerce businesses and improve delivery to consumers across the UK, as well as improving export logistics for businesses in the region. The hub features secure bonded storage and customs capabilities to support international e-commerce, making it quicker and easier to dispatch parcels internationally.  

    The hub also provides EV charging points and 7,000m² of solar panels along with LED lighting. This minimises the site’s environmental impact and preserves the area’s natural biodiversity – supporting the government’s ambitions to make the UK a clean energy superpower. 

    Economic growth is the foundation of our Plan for Change, and DHL’s vote of confidence will play a vital role in not only unlocking further investment but turbocharging the UK’s logistics sector. 

    DHL’s announcement today is the latest in a series of recent investment wins for the UK, including: 

    • Creating nearly 38,000 jobs across the UK following our record-breaking International Investment Summit last October, with £63 billion worth of investment secured by companies such as Amazon Web Services, Iberdrola and Octopus Energy.
    • Car manufacturer Nissan, and the Japan Automatic Transmission Company (JATCO) securing a £50 million investment deal in partnership with the government to create a new manufacturing plant in Sunderland.
    • US company Knighthead’s £3 billion regeneration project in East Birmingham, creating 8,400 new jobs annually, paving the way for a new 60,000-seater stadium alongside a sports campus of training facilities, a new academy, and community pitches.
    • Rolls Royce investing £300m in the expansion of their Goodwood facility to meet the growing demand for bespoke upgrades.
    • JLR investing £500 million in its Halewood facility to enable the production of electric vehicles, alongside existing combustion and hybrid models.
    • Blackstone’s £10 billion investment to create the biggest AI data centre in Europe, creating 4000 jobs.
    • Eren Holding investing £1 billion in the redevelopment of Shotton Mill in North Wales, safeguarding 147 jobs and creating a further 220 jobs.
    • Heathrow Airport announcing a multibillion-pound investment programme to expand the airport, including new terminal buildings, aircraft stands, passenger infrastructure and work towards its third runway.

    Background:

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Asimily and Blood Centers of America Partner to Protect the Nation’s Blood Banking Network from Cyberattacks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Asimily, a leading innovator in IoT, OT, and IoMT risk management, today announced a partnership with Blood Centers of America (BCA), whose 60+ member and affiliate organizations are responsible for over 50% of the U.S. blood supply. This partnership makes Asimily’s comprehensive Lab, Medical Device, and IoT security and risk management platform directly available to all BCA members, enabling blood centers to protect their critical connected equipment and sensitive data.

    This partnership addresses protecting the various connected devices in the blood bank ecosystem, from collections through testing and ultimately distribution.

    “The security of our members’ operations directly impacts the safety and availability of America’s blood supply,” said Sam Keith, Senior Vice President, Blood Centers of America. “By partnering with Asimily, we’re ensuring our nationwide member organizations have the industry-leading solution to secure their Lab, Medical, and IoT devices and to protect their critical equipment and sensitive data. The Asimily platform’s capabilities, the trust that other healthcare-industry customers have in Asimily, and BCA’s support have made this an ideal solution for securing our operations and protecting the communities we serve. This partnership reflects our commitment to providing our members with proven solutions that strengthen their operations and resilience.”

    Asimily’s platform combines comprehensive device visibility, vulnerability management, continuous threat monitoring, and streamlined remediation workflows that are optimized for healthcare and life sciences environments like blood centers. The company has extensive experience securing organizations’ critical healthcare operations, with customers including MemorialCare and Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. Asimily is also the top-ranked medical device security solution by Gartner Peer Review Insights.

    “Recent security breaches continue to underscore how attractive healthcare and life sciences targets are for cybercriminals—unfortunately, blood centers have been part of that story,” said Mike McDermott, Vice President, Asimily. “Particularly with FDA guidance becoming more specific and urgent for blood centers, Asimily’s technology ensures that all devices and equipment can be monitored for the most current and serious vulnerabilities and threats. With Asimily, blood centers can confidently scale IoT assets with the visibility and continuous monitoring required to protect data thoroughly and efficiently.”

    The Asimily platform enables BCA members to:

    • Monitor all connected devices, including critical blood testing and processing equipment
    • Reduce their threat surface by mitigating exploitable vulnerabilities
    • Detect and respond to threats before they impact blood center operations
    • Automate security operations with healthcare-optimized workflows
    • Meet stringent compliance requirements and follow FDA guidance
    • Safeguard sensitive patient data and intellectual property

    For more information about Asimily’s security solutions for blood centers, BCA members can contact Asimily’s IoT specialist team.

    About Asimily

    Asimily has built an industry-leading risk management platform that secures IoT devices for organizations in healthcare, manufacturing, higher education, government, life sciences, retail, and finance. With the most extensive knowledge base of IoT and security protocols, Asimily inventories and classifies every device across organizations, both connected and standalone. Because risk assessment—and threats—are not a static target, Asimily monitors organizations’ devices, detects anomalous behavior, and alerts operators to remediate any identified anomalies. With secure IoT devices and equipment, Asimily customers know their business-critical devices and data are safe. For more information on Asimily, visit https://www.asimily.com

    About BCA

    Blood Centers of America (BCA) is the largest blood supply network in the U.S., uniquely positioning us to sustain, advocate and mobilize for the nation’s blood supply. Our 60+ independent community blood centers collect and distribute 50% of the nation’s blood supply, delivering reliable service with a profound commitment to the communities we serve. For more information about BCA, visit https://www.bca.coop

    Asimily Contact

    Kyle Peterson

    kyle@clementpeterson.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Will Jeffery, Sessional Academic, Discipline of Film Studies, University of Sydney

    Gene Hackman, an acting titan of 1970s and ‘80s Hollywood with more than 80 screen credits to his name, has died at 95. He was found dead in his home with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and his dog.

    Hackman had a rugged, dominating and commanding presence on screen, known for his emotionally honest, raw and fierce performances. Always the tough guy, never the romantic lead, off camera he was shy and enjoyed the quiet life.

    I first saw Hackman as a child in The Poseidon Adventure (1972). My dad put the film on for the upside-down ocean liner disaster sequences, but it was Hackman who left a lasting impression. I vividly remember being so moved by his final speech berating God for deserting the ship’s passengers and crew while he hangs from a pressure valve door over flames.

    There is no actor who comes close to conveying authority with such humanity and reserve.

    He was often referred to as the actor’s actor and mentioned by Hollywood A-listers such as Kevin Costner as the best actor they’ve ever worked with. Clint Eastwood, once Hackman retired, described him as “too good not to be performing”.

    Hackman will leave a legacy to be studied and appreciated for years to come.

    Finding a foot in show business

    Born in San Bernardino, California, on January 30 1930, Hackman’s family moved to Danville, Illinois, when he was three. Hackman’s father left when he was 13, which he described to James Lipton on Inside the Actors Studio as his father “driving by with a casual wave goodbye”.

    Hackman joked to Lipton the departure of his father at an early age made him a better actor.

    Hackman left Danville at the age of 16 to join the marines, where he spent roughly four years. He was a rebellious child, but as Peter Shelley detailed in his biography of Hackman, the marine corps was the first time he gave in to authority.

    After the marine corps, Hackman moved to New York wanting to become an actor, telling people he was inspired by tough guy James “Jimmy” Cagney.

    In New York, Hackman struggled making a living as an artist while waiting for his breakthrough (his uncle told him to give up and get an honest job). Moving to California, he became friends early on with Dustin Hoffman (they finally appeared opposite each other in Hackman’s penultimate film, 2003’s Runaway Jury).

    After struggling for years, Hackman landed his first credited screen role in 1964’s Lilith at the age of 34. He played a small part opposite upcoming star Warren Beatty.

    As Hackman recounted to Lipton, Beatty told director Arthur Penn how great Hackman was in a scene they did together. That landed Hackman his breakthrough role playing Buck Barrow opposite Beatty and Faye Dunaway in the 1967 hit Bonnie and Clyde, earning him an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor.

    Breaking through in the 1970s

    It wasn’t until the 1970s that Hackman began his leading role career, starring in The French Connection (1971) as the unforgettable hard-boiled New York detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle. This role earned him his first Academy Award, for best actor.

    He was to wait more than 20 years for his second and final Academy Award, for playing the ruthless Little Bill Daggett opposite Clint Eastwood in Unforgiven (1992).

    Throughout the 1970s, Hackman was gaining huge popularity on screen, sharing records with the likes of Robert Redford and Harrison Ford as the highest grossing stars at the box office.

    There are too many great Hackman performances to mention, but my favourites are Unforgiven, The French Connection, The Poseidon Adventure, The Conversation (1974), Hoosiers (1986), Mississippi Burning (1988) and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).

    The French Connection’s director, William Friedkin, said in an interview Hackman was anti-authority and anti-racism because of his upbringing in an area known for its large Ku Klux Klan presence, and his absent father.

    Hackman almost pulled out of The French Connection one week into shooting because he didn’t like “beating on people” for a four-month shoot. He told Friedkin “I don’t think I can do this,” but Friedkin refused to let him go.

    Hackman recalled he was eternally grateful Friedkin didn’t, as it was “the start of [his] career”.

    Hackman said his character Popeye Doyle was a “bigot, an antisemitic, and whatever else you wanted to call him”, and he famously struggled to say the N-word in one key scene. He initially protested the line but eventually went with it, believing “that’s who the guy is […] you couldn’t really whitewash him”.

    Hackman often played the character who had the greatest authority on the surface but slipped up, whether he was playing the hero or the villain. Even for a role such as Reverend Scott in The Poseidon Adventure, in which Hackman played a self-righteous preacher onboard the capsized SS Poseidon, he questions his religion as he leads the entire band of escapees to safety.

    A life after acting

    Hackman retired from acting in 2004 at age 74.

    There are many stories about why he retired, like, as Shelley writes, not wanting to play Hollywood “grandfathers” and his “heart wasn’t in shape”, but his life after acting gives a strong hint: he had other interests.

    Over the past 20 years, Hackman wrote three historical fiction novels, was a keen painter, and enjoyed exercise such as cycling. Married to classical pianist Arakawa from 1991 until their death, they lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he designed his own home (yes, he also loved architecture!).

    A man of many talents who played a kaleidoscopic range of authoritative roles, Hackman will almost certainly be remembered mainly for his tough-guy performance in The French Connection – though many will also remember him as the Hollywood actor’s actor.

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

    ref. Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor – https://theconversation.com/gene-hackman-will-be-remembered-as-the-hollywood-actors-actor-233109

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Leaders Unite to Mobilize African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063

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

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, February 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    On the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, African Heads of State, Government and Business Leaders convened for a Presidential Breakfast Dialogue to address the continent’s financing and investment gaps. The event was held under the theme “Africa at the Forefront: Mobilizing African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063”.

    The dialogue, which was hosted by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana and Champion on African Union Financial Institutions, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to accelerating self-reliant, sustainable economic development.

    In his keynote address, President Mahama emphasized the urgency of strengthening Africa’s financial independence through domestic resource mobilization, concessional financing, and strategic public-private partnerships. “Africa must harness its own financial and investment capacities to drive the transformative vision of Agenda 2063. We cannot continue to rely on external financing mechanisms that do not align with our long-term development goals,” he stated.

    Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General, World Trade Organization (WTO) emphasized the need for Africans to take charge of their own development by shifting mindsets and strengthening financial self-sufficiency.

    She Said, “The Africa Club is a crucial step toward looking inward and harnessing our own potential. However, we need to focus on four key priorities for Africa’s financial and economic transformation: Firstly, strengthening African financial institutions – If we are to finance our continent’s development, we must capitalize our own financial institutions, including national development banks, ensuring they have the resources to support Africa’s needs. Secondly, let’s address debt challenges to attract investment – we must focus on attracting and retaining investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI), and implementing coordinated strategies to leverage equity financing. Instead of relying on aid, Africa should push for partnerships that channel financial resources into investments. Thirdly, let’s leverage domestic resources – with over $250 billion in pension funds on the continent, we must tap into these resources for development. Strengthening our capital markets, integrating African financial institutions, and utilizing diaspora bonds can significantly boost Africa’s financial resilience. Lastly, let’s drive trade and economic growth – sustainable financing hinges on Africa’s ability to grow its economies, trade more, and add value to its products. Without economic expansion, the resources needed to bridge financing gaps will remain out of reach.”

    Speaking during the dialogue, H.E. Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, highlighted Africa’s immense potential and the critical role of collaboration. “This is an exciting time for Africa, which has been stretching and renewing itself economically, politically, and socially in recent years. Only the grumpiest pessimists will bet against this new era of ‘Africa Time’ for its economic and social transformation as envisioned under Agenda 2063.”

    Dr. Nsanzabaganwa urged investors to seize the opportunities within Africa’s evolving economic landscape. “You will be right to have faith and believe in investing in Africa. The continent is perceived as the ‘new frontier,’ the ‘future paradise’ that sharpens a race to markets by an increasing number of investors.”

    Speaking on behalf of AAMFI, Prof. Benedict O. Oramah, Chairperson of AAMFI’s Governing Council and President of Afreximbank, underscored the significance of African financial institutions leading the charge in development finance. “AAMFI represents Africa’s collective financial strength, and through coordinated action, we will mobilize resources at scale to achieve Agenda 2063,” he stated. He further emphasized Africa’s need for financial solidarity in debt resolution: “We have developed a platform that will make it possible to jointly invest in projects that are impactful to the continent. There is no reason why the bridge across Congo Brazzaville and Congo Kinshasa should not be built, the cost is a mere US$500 million; there is no reason why railways cannot be built across Africa, at best they cost about US$1-2Bn. We cannot call for a reform of the international financial architecture on weak legs, no one will listen to us if they view us as mere beggars. We must rely on our own institutions and use this platform to leverage our individual and collective resources to transform our continent. Let’s strengthen our alliance to meet our set objectives.”

    The dialogue featured a high-level panel of distinguished leaders and finance experts, including: Dr. Donald Kaberuka, African Union (AU) High Representative for Financing of the Union and the Peace Fund; Samaila Zubairu, 1st Vice Chairperson, AAMFI and President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC); Dr. Corneille Karekezi, 2nd Vice Chairperson AAMFI and Group Managing Director & CEO, African Reinsurance Corporation; Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, UNDP; and H.E. Amb. Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals, African Union Commission.

    Discussions centered on innovative strategies for mobilizing African capital, strengthening financial institutions, and leveraging the role of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AMFIs) in financing critical development sectors such as infrastructure, industrialization, and trade.

    The event also witnessed special investment announcements:

    • African Trade Transformation Fund (ATTF), a groundbreaking USD5 billion concessional finance window initiative by Afreximbank to provide concessional financing to unlock new opportunities for African businesses and governments.
    • Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) introduced the Catalytic Capital Replenishment Fund to bridge the housing and urban infrastructure gap in Africa which is reported to be a 53-million-unit deficit requiring $1.3 trillion to bridge. 
    • The African Reinsurance Corporation (Africa Re) Group has pledged $1 million to the African Union Peace Fund. Additionally, the Corporation donated $500,000 to the Africa CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic and has now authorized the use of the balance for Mpox response efforts. The Group Managing Director further stated that Africa Re has committed 2% of its net profits to the African Re Foundation, which will allocate funds to support various initiatives across the continent, including disaster risk financing.
    • The African Solidarity Fund (ASF) established two key partnerships: a $320 million Guarantee Line to enhance access to housing credit and a $240 million Credit Line Guarantee to support women and youth empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship in the WAEMU.
    • Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) launched a Debt for Equity initiative to support the capitalization of African Multilateral Financial Institutions by mobilizing resources from the Arab world towards sub-Saharan Africa. 

    African Heads of State & Government, including leaders from Angola, Nigeria, Mauritania, Rwanda, Zambia, Libya, Kenya, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin, and Equatorial Guinea, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Africa’s financial ecosystem and supporting the growth of AAMFIs as key instruments of economic transformation.

    The event concluded with a unified call to action for African governments, financial institutions, and the private sector to strengthen coordination and build strategic partnerships to accelerate Africa’s development by His Excellency Ambassador Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry at the African Union Commission.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: London leaders unveil Growth Plan to turbocharge productivity and add more than £100bn to London’s economy

    Source: Mayor of London

    • London Growth Plan aims to put an extra £11k a year in the pocket of every Londoner and provide £27bn extra tax revenue to fund vital public services in the capital and across the country  
    • The plan targets restoring London’s productivity growth back to 2% per year – making London’s economy £107bn larger by 2035 
    • Plan’s inclusive growth ambitions include a 20% rise in household income for the lowest earning 20% of Londoners 
    • £21m additional funding this year will revitalise local high streets  
    • The Mayor and London Councils issue joint call on UK Government for more investment and devolution to boost local and national growth 

     

    The Mayor of London and London Councils have come together today (Thursday 27 February 2025) with local leaders from business, education and the voluntary sector to launch a bold new plan to turbocharge economic growth and increase prosperity across the capital.

     

    Developed together with London & Partners – in collaboration with businesses, trade unions and London’s communities – the London Growth Plan sets out a blueprint to kickstart the capital’s productivity, which has flatlined since the 2008 global financial crisis.

     

    The plan aims to restore productivity growth to an average of two per cent a year in the next decade, which would make London’s economy £107bn* larger by 2035 and put an extra £11,000 on average in the pockets of the near-nine million Londoners. This would also mean the capital contributing an extra £27.5bn in taxes to the Treasury in 2035, providing vital revenues for investment in public services.

     

    London’s productivity grew by an average of 3.16 per cent each year between 1998 and 2007, but between 2008 and 2022, average productivity growth was just 0.12 per cent a year. Growing productivity is the key to higher wages, higher living standards and increased investment in public services in London and across the UK.

     

    The new plan focuses on inclusive economic growth to make sure that more Londoners can contribute to and benefit from the capital’s success. Helping more Londoners into work, bringing down housing costs and improving public transport are all vital to reducing poverty in London, improving living standards and driving growth. The plan aims to achieve a 20 per cent rise in the household weekly income (after housing costs) of the lowest earning 20 per cent of Londoners – which would mean more than a million London households would have an extra £50 to spend each week, on average, after paying for housing costs. 

     

    The London Growth Plan outlines huge opportunities for turbocharging the capital’s economy and harnessing the growth potential of sectors such as AI, life sciences, robotics, clean tech, quantum computing and the creative industries. Key drivers to deliver the plan’s growth ambitions for the capital include a renewed focus on nurturing world-class talent, helping Londoners get the skills they need for productive careers, backing business innovation with new investment and technology, taking a bolder approach to housing and infrastructure, and reinvigorating London’s local high streets. 

     

    A long-term strategic relationship between London and the UK Government will be a crucial part of delivering the plan. London is the engine of the UK economy and, with national support, this plan can harness its economic power and potential for the benefit of all Londoners and the whole country, helping to fund investment in public services across Britain.

     

    Priorities in the London Growth Plan include:  

     

    • Backing business: London government will help to power ‘industrial innovation corridors’ around the capital – supporting new space, facilities and infrastructure to ensure innovation can thrive. This will build on the potential of the WestTech Corridor (anchored in White City going through Old Oak and Park Royal), the UK Innovation Corridor (anchored in the Knowledge Quarter going towards Cambridge) and the Thames Estuary (anchored in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park going out to Essex and Kent).  A new proposed London Tech and Inclusive Growth Fund could provide up to £100m loan and equity funding for high-growth small and midsize enterprises.  
    • Talent and skills: An Inclusive Talent Strategy will build the capital’s skilled workforce to unleash the potential of Londoners and – in turn – London’s economy. This will help create at least 150,000 high quality jobs, with a focus on fair pay and good work, to deliver Mayoral manifesto commitments. As well as supporting more people into work and ensuring all Londoners can get the skills or training needed to progress their careers, the strategy will help attract world-class talent to study and work in the capital. New rent-controlled Key Worker Homes will also help London to attract and retain its essential workforce. 
    • Housing and infrastructure: Local leaders will work with UK Government to extend and upgrade London’s public transport network, prioritising transformational projects to unlock new affordable homes and growth – including the Docklands Light Railway extension to Thamesmead, the Bakerloo line extension and the West London Orbital. The plan also calls for more devolution of London’s suburban rail services. This will be reinforced by the next London Plan, which will prioritise growth, increase housing delivery and ensure better digital connectivity.  
    • Inward investment and promotion: London will take the lead in implementing national reforms to the Local Government Pension Scheme, exploring the development of a major joint fund to invest in places that encourage innovation, including venture capital. The plan will also support London’s goal to be a net-zero city by 2030, attracting significant institutional capital for green infrastructure. There will be support to set up a new quantum tech incubator, London Life Sciences Week will be backed to become a key global event for the sector, and London leaders will explore a new business visitor centre to promote the capital’s world-leading offer by bringing companies together with agencies and developers.  
    • High streets and local economies: £21m additional funding this year will support boroughs with town centre regeneration, including potentially creating a publicly owned High Street Estate Agency to bring empty properties back into use. The plan also reiterates the Mayor’s commitment to revitalising neighbourhood policing so that the capital’s high streets always feel welcoming and safe.  

     

    Delivering the London Growth Plan will be a genuine partnership between the Mayor, local government leaders and central government, working in coalition with universities, incubators, accelerators, venture capitalists, innovation districts, corporate innovators, capital markets and international investors.  

     

    London’s leaders want central government to help unleash the capital’s economic potential by giving the Mayor and boroughs more freedoms to fund their own growth priorities, and the flexibility to spend money in the best way to drive good growth. This is on top of continuing to lobby the Government to secure agreements with our biggest international trading partners that ensure London’s key sectors can continue to grow and thrive.  

     

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This growth plan provides a golden opportunity to turbocharge growth and unlock London’s full potential – for the benefit of all Londoners and the whole country.  

     

    “It’s a blueprint for how we can help to create 150,000 good jobs, build more affordable homes, deliver major new transport upgrades and skill up Londoners for the well-paid jobs of tomorrow. From AI, life sciences and climate tech to our financial and creative industries, London is home to many of the best businesses in the world, which we want to back to grow and thrive over the next decade. 

     

    “Ultimately, growth means little if people cannot feel the benefits or see the positive change it brings to their area. So our goal is to deliver economic growth in every corner of our city that helps to raise living standards, puts more money in people’s pockets and enables us to invest in our public services, as we continue to build a fairer and more prosperous London for all.” 

     

    Cllr Claire Holland, leader of London Councils, added: “The London Growth Plan is a blueprint to drive inclusive economic growth in the capital and across the UK, boosting productivity and ensuring more Londoners can feel the benefits of growth.

     

    “It sets out our ambitions to unleash growth in the industries of the future, deliver new housing and infrastructure to support the London economy, and develop a new Inclusive Talent Strategy, helping more people to get into work and get the skills they need to progress.

     

    “Boroughs are resolutely pro-growth and are committed to working with business, the Mayor of London and national government to turbocharge growth in every corner of our city.” 

     

    Laura Citron, chief executive of London & Partners, concluded: “This is a huge moment for our city: a shared vision, a clear plan, and now the momentum to make it happen. As the capital’s growth agency, we’ll be working closely with investors, entrepreneurs, partners, and places across the city to drive growth for London and Londoners – attracting investment, scaling our businesses, bringing in visitors and world-class events, while telling London’s story brilliantly. Our city is built on reinvention, and this is our next big chapter.”

    London’s universities and research institutes will be key partners in nurturing the talent and innovation required to deliver the Plan’s growth targets. The Plan highlights University College London’s Person-Environment-Activity Research Laboratory and Imperial’s recent purchase of the Victoria Industrial Estate in the proposed WestTech innovation corridor as examples of the specialist spaces needed to support inclusive growth. 

    Prof Hugh Brady, President of Imperial College London, said: “Universities like Imperial play a critical role in attracting and nurturing world-class talent, fuelling inclusive growth, and strengthening London’s position as a global leader in innovation. That’s why the best innovation ecosystems have world-renowned research universities at their heart.

    “The WestTech Corridor, anchored by Imperial College London, will be central to delivering the Mayor’s ambitious London Growth Plan, driving a vibrant innovation ecosystem in West London and acting as a powerful engine for investment, economic growth and job creation across the UK and the wider world.”

    Dr Michael Spence, President and Provost at UCL, said: “Innovation, driven by universities working with local government and businesses, has huge potential to spur growth and create jobs in London. The London Growth Plan reflects the importance of universities like UCL in helping to attract, nurture and realise inclusive growth in our capital city.

    “UCL’s campuses are at the heart of London’s innovation corridors, driving the talent pipeline alongside our cutting-edge facilities delivering world class research. Within ten minutes of our Bloomsbury campus, one of the world’s largest and most collaborative innovation districts is taking shape in the Knowledge Quarter, with huge potential to bring together life science, technology, healthcare and academia in one place. On Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, UCL East is at the heart of the UK’s newest culture and learning quarter at East Bank, a driving force behind cultural and creative industries innovation and regeneration in London.”

    The newly published London Growth Plan has also been welcomed by leading voices from across the capital’s business community.  

    Karim Fatehi OBE, Chief Executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “LCCI welcomes the Mayor’s London Growth Plan to maximise London’s economic potential and maintain its position as the best city in the world to do business. Businesses of all sizes are the lifeblood of the London economy, and measures such as the London Tech and Inclusive Growth fund will help them grow and attract investment.

    “We especially welcome the Growth Plan’s focus on skills – giving Londoners access to industry-relevant training, employment and careers support. This inclusive strategy will ensure London’s economic success means prosperity for all Londoners.”

    Laura Timm, London Policy Representative at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “FSB is delighted to see a strong, ambitious and upbeat Growth Plan that hones in on three key FSB drivers for small business growth—namely, access to targeted finance, cultivating a high-functioning skills system, and presenting opportunities for small firms to win public procurement contracts.

    “Over 99 per cent of all firms in the capital are small in size but significant in growth potential. We look forward to working with the Mayor of London, the Deputy Mayor for Business and other stakeholders in implementing the Growth Plan – which we hope will create the environment that helps a local small firm take on their first apprentice, seal an exporting opportunity, and tackle the scourge of business crimes up and down our high streets.”

    John Dickie, Chief Executive of Business LDN, said: “The bold ambitions set out in the London Growth Plan rightly focus on unlocking the city’s full potential so that businesses can succeed and Londoners thrive. Delivering on this agenda will require the city to double down on existing efforts to tackle barriers to inclusive growth such as housing and skills where we have the agency to act.

    “The Government needs to ensure London has the tools it needs to turbocharge growth and help the UK get out of the economic slow lane. This means stepping up by providing long-term, flexible funding to unlock vital infrastructure and affordable housing so that the city remains an attractive place to live, work, visit and do business.”

    Read more at www.growthplan.london.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council sets budget and vows to invest for residents

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    That’s the commitment from Council Leader Stephen Simkins after budget plans for 2025/26 were agreed last night (Wednesday 27 February, 2025).

    Councillor Simkins said that by managing its financial challenge well, the council could continue to deliver excellent services and invest in what matters most to residents.

    He said: “We’re delighted to set a budget for next year that allows us to invest in our residents and city. We take great pride in getting the basics right as a council but remain very ambitious.

    “We prioritise looking after vulnerable adults and providing care for children in need while improving educational achievement. We’re also boosting the city’s economy with hundreds of millions of pounds of investment in new homes, new roads, new jobs, leisure activities and more.

    “As well as delivering excellent front line services like waste collections and road maintenance programmes, we’re using technology to crack down on issues like fly tipping and spending an extra £500,000 to help fix potholes and maintain highways – that’s on top of the £9.2m already earmarked for our city highways next year.

    “We’re also investing in a more vibrant city centre, providing people with opportunities to get into employment and supporting residents with the cost of living.”

    The budget for 2025/26 was approved at last night’s meeting of Full Council. The meeting heard how the council has cut its savings target by almost half, reducing the amount it needs to save over the next 2 years from £32.6 million to £17.2 million by 2026/2027.

    Councillor Louise Miles, Cabinet Member for Resources, said the budget demonstrated the council’s ability to manage its finances well.

    She said: “Despite significant financial challenges, we have once again set a balanced budget, showing how this is a well run council that looks after taxpayers’ money well.  

    “It is thanks to the hard work of everyone involved that we’ve been able to deliver savings across the council and reduce our deficit.  

    “We know the financial challenge hasn’t gone away and we won’t shirk the difficult decisions ahead, but we will always continue to deliver for our residents and have a positive impact on their lives.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: February 27 – International Polar Bear Day

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Every year on February 27, International Polar Bear Day is celebrated, the purpose of which is to attract additional attention to the protection of the largest land predator on our planet.

    Preservation of the population of this polar animal is one of the main priorities of Rosneft’s environmental program. The polar bear is one of the main indicator species of the sustainable state of Arctic ecosystems. A significant part of the population lives in the Russian sector of the Arctic. At the same time, the polar bear has a special conservation status and is included in the Red Book of the Russian Federation and the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

    Since 2013, Rosneft has been caring for 35 polar bears in 16 Russian zoos, providing them with adequate feeding, care, and veterinary support. As part of the corporate polar bear care program, 7 new enclosure complexes have been built in zoos, and existing enclosures are repaired and reconstructed annually. With the support of the Company, special toys have also been developed to increase the animals’ physical activity.

    Rosneft also implements a comprehensive program to support and protect polar bears living in the wild without the care of their mothers. Thanks to this, since 2016, six orphaned bear cubs have already been rescued in the Russian sector of the Arctic.

    Since 2012, Rosneft has been organizing complex expeditions in the regions of the Far North. Hydrometeorological, geological, and biological research is conducted in cooperation with the country’s leading scientific institutes on the coast, islands, and archipelagos in all seas of the Russian sector of the Arctic — from the Barents to the Chukchi.

    In 2024, a full-scale polar bear census was conducted during the Tamura scientific expedition. Scientists surveyed the coastal area and adjacent islands of the Kara Sea. To obtain information about the movements of polar bears, ear satellite transmitters were installed on the animals for the first time.

    During field research in the territory of the “Russian Arctic” National Park on the islands of the Novaya Zemlya and Franz Josef Land archipelagos, coastal observations of the Kara-Barents Sea population of polar bears were carried out. Scientists collected biological samples and collected animal samples for subsequent laboratory processing.

    The samples obtained during the expedition allowed for unique molecular-genetic, serological, microbiological, hematological and toxicological analyses. Toxicological blood analysis allows for the identification of the composition and levels of pollutants, including those of anthropogenic origin.

    The results obtained help to significantly expand and update information about the polar bear population living in the Russian Arctic – their migration routes, physical condition, and also to develop measures to preserve the animals.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft February 27, 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 Russia: Scientists have studied the neurobiology of pragmatic thinking

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    An international team with the participation of HSE scientists studied how the brain understands hidden meanings in speech. Using fMRI, the researchers discovered that if the meaning is obvious, the areas responsible for decision-making are active, and with complex and ambiguous statements, the areas that analyze the context and intentions of the interlocutor are activated. The more difficult the task, the more these areas interact, helping the brain figure it out. Studypublished in the journalTerround.

    Every person has encountered a situation when the words of the interlocutor do not match their real meaning. We understand hints, sarcasm and even irony, although the formally spoken words may indicate the opposite. This process in cognitive science is called pragmatic thinking – the ability to extract meaning from context, even if it was not explicitly expressed.

    An international team of scientists tried to understand how the brain copes with such situations. The study participants played a “referential game” — a method for studying how people interpret ambiguous messages. In each test, four available characteristics and three monsters — potato, eggplant, or pear — appeared on the screen. Each of them had an accessory: a blue cap, a red cap, or a yellow scarf. The speaker gave a hint, highlighted with a yellow rectangle, for example: “red cap.” The subjects had to understand which character was being discussed, but the hint was not always unambiguous, and the correct answer depended on the context. The tasks were divided into three difficulty levels: simple, complex, and unambiguous. There were 96 tasks in total — 32 for each level.

    To understand which areas of the brain are involved in the interpretation process, the scientists recorded the participants’ brain activity using functional MRI (fMRI). This is a neuroimaging method that allows studying brain activity in real time. The authors of the article also developed six computer models to understand how people analyze information and what strategies their understanding is based on.

    The results showed that when a person quickly understands the meaning of a phrase and is confident in their answer, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), which helps make decisions, and the ventral striatum (VS), which is associated with the feeling of making the right choice, are active.

    But when the meaning of a statement is not obvious, the brain restructures its work, involving other areas. The dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) analyzes the intentions of the interlocutor and helps to understand a complex situation. The anterior insular cortex (AI) reacts to uncertainty and tension, participating in the formation of emotions. The inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) is responsible for speech processing. The more complex the task, the more actively these areas interact, helping the brain correctly interpret the meaning.

    The researchers also found that the ability to understand the thoughts and feelings of others affected how well they performed on the task. Those who performed better had more active connections between the prefrontal and anterior insular cortex, indicating that they were more flexible in their thinking. Previously, pragmatic thinking had been studied within the framework of general models that assumed common cognitive mechanisms. However, this study showed that people’s interpretation strategies differed.

    “Understanding speech is not just a matter of intelligence or memory. Our brains use a complex system that integrates language, social thinking, and contextual analysis,” comments the research fellow. International Laboratory of Social Neurobiology, National Research University Higher School of EconomicsMario Martinez Saito: “These findings could also have practical applications. Perhaps, thanks to such research, your voice assistant will finally understand the difference between sincere praise and sarcasm.”

    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 China: China leads global effort with int’l standard for elderly-care robots

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 27 — The International Electrotechnical Commission has released a global standard for elderly-care robots, designed to guide the healthy development of the elderly-care robotics industry.

    The standard, led by China during its formulation, provides technical benchmarks for product design, manufacturing, testing, and certification of such robots, according to a statement from the State Administration for Market Regulation released on Thursday.

    To meet the multifaceted needs of elderly users in daily living and health care, the standard outlines requirements for elderly-care robots in areas such as accessibility, reliability, energy efficiency, and noise control.

    It also puts forward technical requirements for health monitoring services, communication support, activity assistance, as well as information and data management.

    The issuance of this standard is expected to guide manufacturers to accurately focus on the characteristics and needs of the elderly in product design and enhance the quality of robot products, so as to nurture new growth drivers of the elderly-care robotics industry, the administration noted.

    China has issued policies to encourage the development of smart elderly care amid challenges from the aging population. The latest data shows that by the end of 2024, the population aged 60 and above in the country was 310 million, accounting for 22 percent of its total population. It is predicted that this percentage will further rise to 30 percent by 2035, with the elderly population to exceed 400 million by then.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Perth and Kinross to commemorate 80th anniversary of VE Day

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Victory in Europe Day took place on May 8 1945 when the Allies accepted the unconditional surrender of Germany.

    To mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, a series of events is planned across Perth and Kinross.

    On the morning of May 8, wreaths will be laid at the Veterans’ Memorial on St John Street in Perth and at The 51st Highland Division Memorial at the North Inch.

    That night, a series of VE Day 80 beacons will be lit at seven locations across Perth and Kinross – Perth, Blairgowrie, Auchterarder, Crieff, Kinross, Pitlochry and Aberfeldy – to commemorate the end of the Second World War in Europe.

    On Sunday May 11, there will be a commemorative church service in St John’s Church, Perth. There will also be a display of military vehicles, live music from pipe and brass bands, and other street entertainment, on the streets outside the church.

    Provost of Perth and Kinross Xander McDade said: “Commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day allows us to honour the immense sacrifices made by millions of people during World War II.

    “This allows us to reflect on our shared history, educate younger generations about the importance of peace, and express our gratitude to those who fought for our freedom.”

    Bailie Chris Ahern, Armed Forces and Veterans Champion for Perth and Kinross Council, said: “This will be a historic occasion and a chance for people across Perth and Kinross to remember the sacrifices made during the Second World War.”

    Stephen Leckie, Lord-Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross, added:So many people from Perth and Kinross gave their lives in the defeat of the Nazis and their allies in Europe. This is such an important anniversary, and the Lieutenancy is delighted to be working with Perth and Kinross Council and The Black Watch to lay on a series of events on the 8th and 11th of May for the veterans, those others who lived through the second world war, as well as the serving armed forces, cadets and general public. 

    “We encourage you to come along and join us.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Will Jeffery, Sessional Academic, Discipline of Film Studies, University of Sydney

    Gene Hackman, an acting titan of 1970s and ‘80s Hollywood with more than 80 screen credits to his name, has died at 95. He was found dead in his home with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and his dog.

    Hackman had a rugged, dominating and commanding presence on screen, known for his emotionally honest, raw and fierce performances. Always the tough guy, never the romantic lead, off camera he was shy and enjoyed the quiet life.

    I first saw Hackman as a child in The Poseidon Adventure (1972). My dad put the film on for the upside-down ocean liner disaster sequences, but it was Hackman who left a lasting impression. I vividly remember being so moved by his final speech berating God for deserting the ship’s passengers and crew while he hangs from a pressure valve door over flames.

    There is no actor who comes close to conveying authority with such humanity and reserve.

    He was often referred to as the actor’s actor and mentioned by Hollywood A-listers such as Kevin Costner as the best actor they’ve ever worked with. Clint Eastwood, once Hackman retired, described him as “too good not to be performing”.

    Hackman will leave a legacy to be studied and appreciated for years to come.

    Finding a foot in show business

    Born in San Bernardino, California, on January 30 1930, Hackman’s family moved to Danville, Illinois, when he was three. Hackman’s father left when he was 13, which he described to James Lipton on Inside the Actors Studio as his father “driving by with a casual wave goodbye”.

    Hackman joked to Lipton the departure of his father at an early age made him a better actor.

    Hackman left Danville at the age of 16 to join the marines, where he spent roughly four years. He was a rebellious child, but as Peter Shelley detailed in his biography of Hackman, the marine corps was the first time he gave in to authority.

    After the marine corps, Hackman moved to New York wanting to become an actor, telling people he was inspired by tough guy James “Jimmy” Cagney.

    In New York, Hackman struggled making a living as an artist while waiting for his breakthrough (his uncle told him to give up and get an honest job). Moving to California, he became friends early on with Dustin Hoffman (they finally appeared opposite each other in Hackman’s penultimate film, 2003’s Runaway Jury).

    After struggling for years, Hackman landed his first credited screen role in 1964’s Lilith at the age of 34. He played a small part opposite upcoming star Warren Beatty.

    As Hackman recounted to Lipton, Beatty told director Arthur Penn how great Hackman was in a scene they did together. That landed Hackman his breakthrough role playing Buck Barrow opposite Beatty and Faye Dunaway in the 1967 hit Bonnie and Clyde, earning him an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor.

    Breaking through in the 1970s

    It wasn’t until the 1970s that Hackman began his leading role career, starring in The French Connection (1971) as the unforgettable hard-boiled New York detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle. This role earned him his first Academy Award, for best actor.

    He was to wait more than 20 years for his second and final Academy Award, for playing the ruthless Little Bill Daggett opposite Clint Eastwood in Unforgiven (1992).

    Throughout the 1970s, Hackman was gaining huge popularity on screen, sharing records with the likes of Robert Redford and Harrison Ford as the highest grossing stars at the box office.

    There are too many great Hackman performances to mention, but my favourites are Unforgiven, The French Connection, The Poseidon Adventure, The Conversation (1974), Hoosiers (1986), Mississippi Burning (1988) and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).

    The French Connection’s director, William Friedkin, said in an interview Hackman was anti-authority and anti-racism because of his upbringing in an area known for its large Ku Klux Klan presence, and his absent father.

    Hackman almost pulled out of The French Connection one week into shooting because he didn’t like “beating on people” for a four-month shoot. He told Friedkin “I don’t think I can do this,” but Friedkin refused to let him go.

    Hackman recalled he was eternally grateful Friedkin didn’t, as it was “the start of [his] career”.

    Hackman said his character Popeye Doyle was a “bigot, an antisemitic, and whatever else you wanted to call him”, and he famously struggled to say the N-word in one key scene. He initially protested the line but eventually went with it, believing “that’s who the guy is […] you couldn’t really whitewash him”.

    Hackman often played the character who had the greatest authority on the surface but slipped up, whether he was playing the hero or the villain. Even for a role such as Reverend Scott in The Poseidon Adventure, in which Hackman played a self-righteous preacher onboard the capsized SS Poseidon, he questions his religion as he leads the entire band of escapees to safety.

    A life after acting

    Hackman retired from acting in 2004 at age 74.

    There are many stories about why he retired, like, as Shelley writes, not wanting to play Hollywood “grandfathers” and his “heart wasn’t in shape”, but his life after acting gives a strong hint: he had other interests.

    Over the past 20 years, Hackman wrote three historical fiction novels, was a keen painter, and enjoyed exercise such as cycling. Married to classical pianist Arakawa from 1991 until their death, they lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he designed his own home (yes, he also loved architecture!).

    A man of many talents who played a kaleidoscopic range of authoritative roles, Hackman will almost certainly be remembered mainly for his tough-guy performance in The French Connection – though many will also remember him as the Hollywood actor’s actor.

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

    ref. Gene Hackman will be remembered as the Hollywood actor’s actor – https://theconversation.com/gene-hackman-will-be-remembered-as-the-hollywood-actors-actor-233109

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Eugene Doyle: Yellow Peril!  Red Peril! ‘We cannot hide anymore’. Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea. 

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific.

    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

    The Western media went into overdrive this week to work the laconic Kiwis into a mild frenzy over three Chinese naval vessels conducting exercises in the Tasman Sea a few thousand kilometres off our shores.

    What was really behind this orchestrated campaign?

    The New Zealand government led the rhetorical charge over the Hengyang, the Zunyi and the Weishanhu in mare nostrum (“Our Sea”, as the Romans liked to call the Mediterranean).

     “We cannot hide at this end of the world anymore,” Defence Minister Judith Collins said in light of three Chinese boats in the Tasman.

    Warrior academics were next . “We need to go to the cutting edge, and we need to do that really, really fast,” the ever-reliable China hawk Anne-Marie Brady of Canterbury University said, telling 1 News the message of the live-firing exercises was that China wants to rule the waves.

    The British Financial Times chimed in with a warning that “A confronting strategic future is arriving fast”.

    Could this have anything to do with the fact we are fast approaching the New Zealand government’s 2025 budget and that they — and their Australian, US and UK allies — are intent on a major increase in Kiwi defence funding, moving from around 1.2 percent of GDP to possibly two percent? A long-anticipated Defence Capability Review is also around the corner and is likely to come with quite a shopping list of expensive gear.

    The New Zealand government led the rhetorical charge over the Hengyang, the Zunyi and the Weishanhu in mare nostrum (“Our Sea”, as the Romans liked to call the Mediterranean). Image: www.solidarity.co.nz

    What’s good for the goose . . .
    It is worth pointing out that New Zealand and Australian warships sailed through the contested Taiwan Strait and elsewhere in the South China Sea as recently as September 2024. What’s good for the goose is good for the Panda.

    And, of course, at any one time about 20 US nuclear submarines are prowling in the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean and South China Sea. Each can carry missiles the equivalent of over 1000 Hiroshima bombs — truly apocalyptic.

    Veteran New Zealand peace campaigner Mike Smith (a friend) was not in total disagreement with the hawks when it came to the argy-bargy in the Tasman.

    “The emergence apparently from nowhere of a Chinese naval expedition in our waters I think may be intended to demonstrate that they have a large and very capable blue water navy now and won’t be penned in by AUKUS submarines when and if they arrive off their coast.

    “I think the main message is to the Australians: if you want to homebase nuclear-capable B-52s we have more than one way to come at you. That was also the message of the ICBM they sent into the Pacific: Australia is no longer an unsinkable aircraft carrier.”

    According to the Asia Times, China fired the ICBM — the first such shot into the Pacific by China — just days after HMNZS Aotearoa sailed through the Taiwan Strait with Australian vessel HMAS Sydney.

    Smith says our focus should be on building positive relationships in the Pacific on our terms. “Buying expensive popguns will not save us.”

    China Scare a page out of Australia’s Red Scare playbook
    For people good at pattern recognition this week’s China Scare was obviously a page or two out of the same playbook that duped a majority of Australians into believing China was going to invade Australia. They were lulled into a false sense of insecurity back in 2021 — the mediascape flooded with Red Alert, China panic stories about imminent war with the rising Asian power.

    As a sign of how successful the mainstream media can be in generating fear that precedes major policy shifts: research by Australia’s Institute of International & Security Affairs showed that more Australians thought that China would soon attack Australia than Taiwanese believed China would attack Taiwan!

    Once the population was conditioned, they woke one morning in September 2021 with the momentous news that Australia had ditched a $90 billion submarine defence deal with France and the country was now part of a new anti-Chinese military alliance called AUKUS. This was the playbook that came to mind last week.

    There are strong, rational arguments that could be made to increase our spending at this time. But I loathe and decry this kind of manipulation, this manufacturing of consent.

    I also fear what those billions of dollars will be used for. Defending our coastlines is one thing; joining an anti-Chinese military alliance to please the US is quite another.

    Prime Minister Luxon has called China — our biggest trading partner — a strategic competitor. He has also suggested, somewhat ludicrously, that our military could be a “force multiplier” for Team AUKUS.

    We are hitching ourselves to the US at the very time they have proven they treat allies as vassals, threatened to annex Greenland and the Panama Canal, continue to commit genocide in Gaza, and are now imposing an unequal treaty on Ukraine.


    Australia’s ABC News on Foreign Minister Winston Peter’s talks in China. Video: ABC

    Whose side – or calmer independence?
    Whose side should we be on? Or should we return to a calmer, more independent posture?

    And then there’s the question of priorities. The hawks may convince the New Zealand population that the China threat is serious enough that we should forgo spending money on child poverty, fixing our ageing infrastructure, investing in health and education and instead, as per pressure from our AUKUS partners, spend some serious coin — billions of dollars more — on defence.

    Climate change is one battle that is being fought and lost. Will climate funding get the bullet so we can spend on military hardware? That would certainly get a frosty reaction from Pacific nations at the front edge of sea rise.

    The government in New Zealand is literally taking the food out of children’s mouths to fund weapons systems. The Ka Ora, Ka Ako programme provides nutritious lunches every day to a quarter of a million of New Zealand’s most needy children.

    Its funding has recently been slashed by over $100 million by the government despite its own advisors telling it that such programmes have profound long-term wellbeing benefits and contribute significantly to equity. In the next breath we are told we need to boost funding for our military.

    The US appears determined to set itself on a collision course with China but we don’t have to be crash test dummies sitting alongside them. Prudence, preparedness, vigilance and risk-management are all to be devoutly wished for; hitching our fate to a hostile US containment strategy is bad policy both in economic and defence terms.

    In the absence of a functioning media — one that showcases diverse perspectives and challenges power rather than works hand-in-glove with it — populations have been enlisted in the most abhorrent and idiotic campaigns: the Red Peril, the Jewish Peril and the Black Peril (in South Africa and the southern states of the USA), to name three.

    Our media-political-military complex is at it again with this one — a kind of Yellow Peril Redux.

    New Zealand trails behind both Australia and China in development assistance to the Pacific. If we wish to “counter” China, supporting our neighbours would be a better investment than encouraging an unwinnable arms race.

    In tandem, I would advocate for a far deeper diplomatic and cultural push to understand and engage with China; that would do more to keep the region peaceful and may arrest the slow move in China towards seeking other markets for the high-quality primary produce that an increasingly bellicose New Zealand still wishes to sell them.

    Let’s be friends to all, enemies of none. Keep the Pacific peaceful, neutral and nuclear-free.

    Eugene Doyle is a community organiser and activist in Wellington, New Zealand. He received an Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian award in 2023 for community service. His first demonstration was at the age of 12 against the Vietnam War. This article was first published at his public policy website Solidarity and he is a regular contributor to Asia Pacific Report and Café Pacific.

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cruise Ship Levy consultation

    Source: Scottish Government

    Views sought on proposed new power for councils.

    Local authorities could be given the optional power to introduce a tax on cruise ships that visit their areas in future.

    The Scottish Government is seeking views on the practicalities of such a levy, as well as the potential market implications and effect on local economies and communities.

    Analysis shows there were around 1,000 cruise ship visits to Scottish ports in 2024, bringing 1.2 million passengers – an increase of almost 400,000 per year compared with 2019.   

    Finance Secretary Shona Robison said:

    “The tourism sector is a crucially important part of the Scottish economy and cruise visits are increasing. The consultation will help to inform the Scottish Government’s decision over whether or not to bring forward legislation and it is really important that we hear from a wide variety of voices on this matter.

    “Last year, we held events to hear the views of the cruise ship industry, local government, and others. We want to continue the helpful dialogue which started at those events, and explore further what a cruise ship levy could mean in a Scottish context.”

    Background

    Consultation on a potential local authority Cruise Ship Levy in Scotland – gov.scot

    The Scottish Government has no plans to introduce a nationwide cruise ship levy.

    The areas that welcome the most cruise passengers are Invergordon, Orkney, Edinburgh, Lerwick, and Greenock, and the average ship in the five busiest ports carries over 1,000 passengers. 

    In 2024 the Scottish Parliament passed the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, which for the first time gave local authorities the power to introduce a visitor levy on overnight accommodation in their area. As the Act was being considered by Parliament, calls were made for a similar levy power to be given to local authorities in relation to cruise ship passengers.

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Consortium to tackle inactivity in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council is working with a consortium of local partners to tackle inequalities and improve health outcomes for Landport and Buckland residents with physical activity and community engagement.

    Portsmouth City Council is part of a group of Portsmouth based organisations working together that have successfully attracted a share of funding from Sport England.

    The consortium, coordinated by Active Partnership Energise Me, has been formed to collaboratively tackle inequalities and improve health outcomes for residents in Landport and Buckland by helping them to move more.

    The investment covers the first year of a three-year programme. Landport and Buckland is among the 53 places set to benefit from a share of Sport England’s £250million investment into the heart of communities across England.

    The first stage of the investment will see the group deploy Community Coordinators through local organisations to work with communities to understand what will help them to move more.

    Landport and Buckland were highlighted by Sport England as a place for investment using inactivity insight and other social need indicators, to target funding in areas it could have the biggest impact.

    Inactivity data for Portsmouth indicates over 14,000 children and young people are not meeting the recommended activity levels for good health. Over 52,000 adults in Portsmouth are not meeting the guideline.

    Sport and physical activity contribute significantly to the health and wellbeing of residents. Just last month it was announced the potential social value combining the wellbeing benefits that individuals experience and cost savings to public services like healthcare in Portsmouth is £363 million.

    Made up of local government, health and education partners and community and charitable organisations, the groups will initially focus on engaging with the community to find out the things that get in the way of people being active. They’ll also be looking to identify what great work is already going on in the community that can be built upon.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “The council are pleased to collaborate on this programme, which aligns with our ongoing commitment to improve outcomes and opportunities for residents through the physical activity offer in the city.

    “We welcome this opportunity to work alongside local partners and with residents, to learn what could support more physical activity in their local areas, particularly for those who may be experiencing barriers to keeping active.”

    Cllr Matthew Winnington, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Health and Care at Portsmouth City Council said: “Staying active is important for our health and wellbeing, both for physical and mental health and it can bring opportunities to meet and connect with others in the community.

    “This funding will provide a boost to the communities in Landport and Buckland, and importantly, the programme will be co-produced with communities so we will develop local solutions together.”

    Place Development Lead at Energise Me, Lee Timothy said: “Landport and Buckland already have such a great sense of community. It’s been fantastic to see so many people step forward to be a part of creating happier and healthier communities.

    “It’s a truly collaborative effort. Everyone’s relationship with movement is different and by working with community coordinators we’ll able to test opportunities residents have told us they enjoy, leading to more sustainable participation in being active.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: HSBC Leader Encourages Businesses to embrace ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’

    Source: City of York

    HSBC UK’s Head of Technology Sector has encouraged York businesses to adapt to thrive in the climate of ‘functional disruptive change’ represented by the rapid development of AI.

    In his keynote address to over 60 businesses at the first York Tech Forum on 13 February, Roland Emmans from HSBC UK explored the fast-moving tech landscape and underlined the importance for businesses of all shapes and sizes of keeping pace with rapid technological change.

    Roland Emmans said:

    AI has vast potential to help businesses solve challenges and serve their customers better. The pace of change is increasing day by day, we need to embrace this change, its impact on technology, our teams and consumer demands.

    “A combination of great technology and great people is key – leveraging complementary strengths like AI’s processing power alongside expert human judgement.”

    The event, held at City of York Council’s West Offices headquarters on Thursday 13 February, began with a welcome from Cllr Pete Kilbane, the council’s portfolio holder for Economy and Culture, who reflected on how York’s tech sector has thrived in recent years.

    Cllr Kilbane highlighted major local developments, from the Institute for Safe Autonomy, a £45 million purpose-built facility which launched at the University of York in 2023, to the 6G Lab of the North, which works with the next generation of innovative telecommunications systems.

    Attendees also heard from Doug Winters, Founder and CTO of Isotoma Ltd, a York-based software development agency. Doug shared challenges and lessons from his business’ 20 year-journey, advising businesses that AI technologies, while useful for businesses, need to be used according to the situation, and are not a ‘silver bullet’ Doug also shared tips on the value of continuous planning throughout a project.

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

    We have big ambitions for York as a vibrant tech hub. Tech sector investment will bring well-paid jobs and marked economic benefits.

    “To truly embrace the benefits of rapid technological change, we need to help businesses in all sectors, from retail to rail, adapt to using technology to become more efficient, innovative, resilient and sustainable. This event is part of a series which includes our upcoming AI skills training for retail and hospitality businesses, delivered by our partners at the Coders Guild, and the Reignite events which have bolstered York’s status as a UNESCO City of Media Arts.

    “I’d like to thank all of our speakers and everyone who joined us for this inspiring and thought-provoking session. To find out more about how we can support businesses to grow and adapt to technological change, start a conversation with our Business Growth Managers at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk.”

    This event was funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 Amendment – Dowlais plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    This announcement replaces the previous announcement released at 09:38 27 February 2025. Amendments to section 2(a). All other information remains unchanged.

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Man Group PLC
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
     
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    Dowlais Group plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    26/02/2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    YES
    Offeror: American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

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

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 11,843,585.00 0.88    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 13,058,610.00 0.97    
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    24,902,195.00 1.85    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Purchase 174,853 0.725 GBP

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 35,450 0.725 GBP

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

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

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

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

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 27/02/2025
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

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

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

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

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: Debating Education | World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    From integrating next-generation technologies into curricula to addressing national perceptions of cultural issues, education is at a pivotal moment in ensuring that it adequately trains and teaches future generations.

    In this town hall, leaders debate what success can look like for education globally.

    Speakers: Sian L. Beilock, Michael Spence, Lawrence H. Summers, Raquel Bernal

    The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum will provide a crucial space to focus on the fundamental principles driving trust, including transparency, consistency and accountability.

    This Annual Meeting will welcome over 100 governments, all major international organizations, 1000 Forum’s Partners, as well as civil society leaders, experts, youth representatives, social entrepreneurs, and news outlets.

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/
    X ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #Davos2025 #WorldEconomicForum #wef25

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGFbNTC1NoU

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Non-Executive Directors appointed to DBS

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Non-Executive Directors appointed to DBS

    The Home Office announces directorial appointments to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

    The Home Office is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Non-Executive Directors to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

    Amanda Arrowsmith and Rob Eason replace Mary Cunneen and Samantha Durrant  from 3 February 2025. The appointments were made following a robust open competition in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments are for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of re-appointment.

    Amanda has a wealth of experience in senior leadership roles within the public and private sectors, with a particular focus on People Strategy, Organisation Development, and Business Transformation.

    Rob has a public sector career background in science & technology and managing large defence projects and contracts.  With a career based in leadership, operational delivery and technology, Rob is an advocate for promoting innovation and innovative thinking driven through inclusive organisations.

    Launched in 2012, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) issues over seven million criminal records checks every year. Its disclosure service enables employers and voluntary organisations in England, Wales and the Crown Dependencies of Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man to make informed recruitment decisions, using information from police records and other sources.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RSH publishes its quarterly survey for Q3 2024-25

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    RSH publishes its quarterly survey for Q3 2024-25

    The regulator’s latest quarterly survey is published today.

    The Regulator of Social Housing has today (27 February 2025) published the results of its latest quarterly survey of private registered providers’ financial health. The report covers the period 1 October 2024 to 31 December 2024.

    Landlords invested £3.9 billion on building and acquiring new homes (up from £3.2 billion in the previous quarter), though the year to December 2024’s investment of £13.7 billion was £0.9 billion lower than the year to December 2023.  

    Social landlords are making vital improvements to tenants’ homes and building new homes for the future.  They continue to invest record amounts in new and existing stock, though there are indications that development spend has peaked.    

    Spend on repairs and maintenance totalled £2.3 billion in the quarter. In the year to December a total of £8.7 billion was spent, with a further £9.8 billion forecast for the next 12 months. 

    Over the next year, they plan to spend a further £14.8 billion on development, only £10.5 billion of which is currently committed.  This is a reduction from £15.6 billion of planned spend and £10.9 billion of committed spend forecast in the previous quarter, meaning forecasts are now at the lowest amount since the start of the pandemic. 

    Lending to the sector remains robust, with £2.6 billion of new finance arranged in the quarter.  

    However, a high level of debt drawdowns resulted in a decrease in undrawn available facilities and cash balances remain at historically low levels.  

    Total cash and undrawn facilities of £33.4 billion are still enough to cover forecast interest costs, loan repayments and development for the next year.  

    Aggregate cash interest cover (excluding sales) stood at 82% for the 12 months to December 2024 and forecasts show a further deterioration is expected.  

    Performance varies among individual landlords. Some of the lowest levels of interest cover are driven by high levels of spend on existing stock by some large providers. 

    RSH continues to monitor and engage with landlords, particularly those that have a reliance on sales to support their cashflows. 

    Will Perry, Director of Strategy at RSH, said: 

    “Social landlords continue to face pressures on multiple fronts. 

    “The sector is building substantial numbers of new homes for the future,  with actual and forecast development spend close to pre-pandemic levels. 

    “That said, there has been a notable drop in forecast development spend as landlords continue to invest record amounts on existing stock, including on vital work to improve fire safety and damp and mould.  

    “Our regulation is key for investor confidence and we will continue to scrutinise the sector’s financial performance and its ability to manage risk through these surveys, alongside our inspections and stability check programme.” 

    Notes to editors 

    1. The report is based on the financial regulatory returns from 203 private registered providers (housing associations and other  private registered providers, including for-profits), who own or manage more than 1,000 homes. 

    2. Through its annual stability checks, RSH considers whether each provider’s current viability grade is consistent with the information contained in their regulatory returns. RSH focuses on indicators of financial robustness and evidence of any significant changes in risk profile. 

    3. RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.

    4. For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Albanese falls victim to a Chinese burn

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

    As the Albanese government struggles to stay on its political feet, who would have thought the China issue would suddenly insert itself into the campaign, leaving the prime minister looking, at best, flat-footed?

    Improving and stabilising what had become a toxic bilateral relationship under Scott Morrison has been one of the Albanese government’s major pluses in its foreign and trade policy.

    China has taken off all of the roughly $20 billion in barriers it had enacted on Australian exports. Australian lobsters are back on Chinese menus. And who can forget the PM’s visit to China, when he was lauded as “a handsome boy”.

    But now, almost on the eve of the election campaign, a Chinese military exercise in the Tasman Sea has not just reminded Australians of Chinese military power, but has left the PM appearing poorly informed. Or not wanting to offend the Chinese.

    Of course, China did not set out to force Anthony Albanese into what were publicly misleading comments. That was all his own doing.

    The China incident was on the morning of Friday last week, when its navy commenced the live-fire exercise.

    Albanese was briefed on Friday afternoon. Later in the day, a reporter asked him about an ABC report of “commercial pilots [being] warned about a potential hazard in airspace” where three Chinese warships had been sailing.

    The PM said: “China issued, in accordance with practice, an alert that it would be conducting these activities, including the potential use of live fire”. This told, at best, a sliver of what was a rather alarming story.

    The government says the Chinese had acted in accordance with the law but the amount of notice they’d given (which was not provided directly to Australia) was inadequate. Representations about this were made by Foreign Minister Penny Wong to the Chinese.

    It took evidence before Senate estimates hearings this week to paint a full picture of what happened.

    On Monday, Rob Sharp, CEO of Airservices Australia (the country’s civil air navigation services provider) told senators: “We became aware at two minutes to ten on Friday morning – and it was, in fact, a Virgin Australia aircraft that advised one of our air traffic controllers – that a foreign warship was broadcasting that they were conducting a live firing 300 nautical miles east off our coast. So that’s how we first found out about the issue.”

    Initially, “we didn’t know whether it was a potential hoax or real”.

    Meanwhile, a number of commercial planes were in the air and some diverted their routes.

    On Wednesday, Australian Defence Force Chief David Johnston was asked at another estimates hearing whether Defence was only notified of what was happening from a Virgin flight and Airservices Australia 28 minutes after the Chinese operation firing window commenced. Johnston’s one-word reply was “Yes”.

    Australia does not know whether the Chinese ships, which proceeded towards Tasmania, intend to circumnavigate the continent, or whether they have been accompanied by a submarine.

    Relations with China won’t be a first-order issue with most voters at this cost-of-living election. But these events play to the Dutton opposition, for whom national security is home-ground territory.

    They reinforce the broader impression, which has taken hold, of Albanese being poor with detail.

    Dutton said on Sydney radio on Thursday, “I don’t know whether he makes things up, but he seems to get flustered in press conferences. You hear it – the umming and ahing, and at the end of it, you don’t know what he’s actually said.

    “But what we do know is that he is at odds with the chief of the Defence force, and he needs to explain why, on such a totemic issue, he either wasn’t briefed, that he’s made up the facts, that he’s got it wrong.”

    Wong hit back, “We have been very clear China is going to keep being China, just as Mr Dutton isn’t going to stop being Mr Dutton – the man who once said it was inconceivable we wouldn’t go to war is going to keep beating the drums of war.

    “The Labor government will be calm and consistent; not reckless and arrogant.”

    There’s one political complication for Dutton in seeking to exploit the China issue. Despite his natural hawkishness, in recent times he has been treading more softly on China, with an eye to the importance of voters of Chinese heritage in some seats.

    The Trump administration has dramatically increased the uncertainty of the international outlook that the Australian government, whether Labor or Coalition, will face during the next parliamentary term.

    Defence Minister Richard Marles this week talked up the US administration’s policy in the region. “We are very encouraged by the focus that the Trump Administration is giving in terms of its strategic thinking to the Indo Pacific.”

    Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who was in Washington lobbying for a tariff exemption was also, declared that “the alliance and the economic partnership between Australia and the US is as strong as it’s ever been.”

    Whether we get that exemption will be an early indication of where we stand in terms of the special relationship with the US. But who knows what the US might want in return.

    A volatile world and perhaps pressure from the US may push Australia into spending more on defence, which on present planning is due to tick past 2% of GDP.

    Dutton has already said he would put more funding into defence, although, like most other aspects of opposition policy, the amount is vague. The Coalition says when it produces its costing (which will be in the last days before the election) there will be more precision.

    We’ve yet to see how the crucial US-China relationship evolves. That trajectory will have implications for Australia, positive or negative. On the very worst scenario, if China, encouraged by US President Donald Trump’s benign attitude to Russia, moves on Taiwan, the security of which the president has refused to guarantee, that could produce a dire situation in the region.

    Australia remains confident of continuing American support for AUKUS. But if Trump becomes even more arbitrary and adventurous, AUKUS could become a lot less popular not in America but in Australia.

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

    ref. Grattan on Friday: Albanese falls victim to a Chinese burn – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-albanese-falls-victim-to-a-chinese-burn-251029

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Thailand: ‘Deportation of Uyghurs’ to China would be ‘unimaginably cruel’

    Source: Amnesty International

    Responding to reports that a group of about 40 Uyghurs who have been detained in Thailand since 2014 were today deported to China, Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks said:

    “The forcible return of these men, or indeed any Uyghurs, to China would place them at risk of serious human rights violations. We urge the government of Thailand to clarify their status.

    “Their ordeal is already chilling: they fled repression in China, only to find themselves arbitrarily detained in Thailand for more than a decade. The fact that they now may be forcibly returned to a country where Uyghur and other non-Han ethnic groups in Xinjiang have faced torture and ill-treatment, arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance is unimaginably cruel.

    “The Thai government should have protected these men, but instead it has wilfully exposed them to these grave risks. In doing so it has ignored pleas from Amnesty International and United Nations experts who urged it not to violate the internationally and domestically recognized principle of non-refoulement. And this just as Thailand has been elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council.

    “We now call on the governments of Thailand and China to disclose the whereabouts of these individuals, and – if they continue to be in custody – to ensure that the full spectrum of their rights is respected, including their right to be free from torture and other forms of ill-treatment.

    “Many of these men are in extremely poor health after enduring years in detention. They must have access to appropriate and adequate medical care. We call for an end to their ordeal, and urge authorities to uphold their right to freedom of movement. It is past time that they are allowed to safely rejoin their families.”

    Background

    The men reportedly deported today are among about 300 Uyghurs who were apprehended by the Thai authorities on 13 March 2014 after they had fled persecution and discrimination in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. A total of 109 people from the group were deported to China in July 2015.

    Amnesty International has documented massive and systematic abuses by the Chinese government against Uyghurs in Xinjiang – including in internment camps, where over a million people have been arbitrarily detained.

    In a 2021 report, Amnesty found that the Chinese government has committed at least the crimes against humanity of imprisonment, torture and persecution against Uyghurs, Kazakhs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic groups in Xinjiang.

    In a letter to the Thai government in January 2025, a group of UN experts said 23 of 48 men remaining in detention were reportedly suffering from serious health conditions including “diabetes, kidney dysfunction, paralysis of the lower body, skin diseases, gastrointestinal illnesses and heart and lung conditions”.

    Thailand is bound by the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the transfer of persons to any country or jurisdiction where they would face a real risk of serious human rights violations.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News