Category: Transport

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SEE at opening ceremony of 19th Eco Expo Asia

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, at 19th Eco Expo Asia today (October 30):

Secretary Sun (Secretary of the Leading Party Members Group of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Sun Jinlong), Margaret (Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Margaret Fong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning.

My heartfelt welcome to all of you joining us at the opening of the 19th Eco Expo Asia. This is a golden opportunity for us to discuss and advance our shared commitments to a sustainable future. This year, we are honoured to have about 190 officials from about 40 official delegations from various provinces and cities in Mainland China, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and Belt and Road countries joining this signature annual environmental trade event in Asia.

When people are talking about Hong Kong, what comes into our minds usually is high-rise buildings and very congested streets and roads. But actually we have a lot of well-protected countrysides in Hong Kong. And if you don’t know, I tell you that we are very rich in biodiversity. The number of coral species in our sea is more than the entire Caribbean Sea. Well, surprised? Therefore, we have produced two documentaries, “Beautiful Hong Kong” and also “Enchanting China” so as to bring the very beautiful scenes of our motherland and natural Hong Kong to the world. What you have just seen is just an extract only, and I encourage all of you to enjoy the full version that would be screened at our booth at this Expo which would tell you more about our efforts and achievements in pollution prevention, ecological protection, and nature conservation.

This year, the theme of Eco Expo Asia is “Fostering Green Innovations for Carbon Neutrality”. Our country places a lot of importance on climate change and therefore sets targets to achieve peak carbon emissions before 2030 and also strives to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. As to Hong Kong, our carbon emissions peaked in 2014, and compared to the peak, our carbon emissions today have been reduced by about a quarter already. Actually our carbon emissions per capita is only about one quarter of the United States, and about 60 per cent of the European Union. And therefore we have set an interim target, to cut our carbon emissions by half before 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2050.

We have been striving to achieve these targets through implementing our Climate Action Plan 2050 in Hong Kong, which covers four major decarbonisation strategies, namely aiming to achieve net-zero electricity generation, promote green buildings and also energy efficiency, promote green transport, as well as manage our waste reduction. In terms of green transport, I can tell you that now out of 10 newly registered vehicles in Hong Kong, seven are electric. And therefore I think we are moving at a reasonable speed.

Looking ahead, we will continue to harness the transformative power of innovation and technology to accelerate the growth of green and low-carbon transformation through supporting the development of green industry, promoting development of new energy and more importantly, facilitating green research and development projects with application potentials to transform into commercially valuable products through various measures.

On green tech, we are supporting relevant research and development through various initiatives and funding schemes, including the Innovation and Technology Fund, Green Tech Fund, New Energy Transport Fund, etc. Over HK$800 million has been approved from these funds for a few hundred research and development and pilot projects in net-zero electricity generation, energy saving, green buildings, green transport, and more.

Turning to new energy, our Chief Executive has announced in his Policy Address earlier this month, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government is committed to further promote the development of new energy including setting a target for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) consumption, developing SAF and green maritime fuel supply chains, and promoting green and low-carbon energy such as hydrogen.

Hydrogen is regarded as a low-carbon energy with development potential in the course of energy transition. To prepare for possible wider application of hydrogen energy, the Hong Kong SAR Government published the Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong in June this year. The Strategy sets out the four major strategies of improving legislations, establishing standards, aligning with the market, and advancing with prudency to create an environment conducive to the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong in a prudent and orderly manner, so that we would be able to capitalise on the environmental and economic opportunities brought about by the recent developments of hydrogen energy in different parts of the world.

While the scarcity of land resources has made it difficult for the development of a major manufacturing base for green energy as well as green technologies in Hong Kong, we are determined to leverage our position as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” to serve as the platform for green and low-carbon technologies to facilitate their application in other parts of the world. For instance, we have supported the development of Hong Kong’s first green hydrogen production demonstration project at a landfill which is scheduled for commencement next year, and we are also facilitating the industry to establish a solar-to-hydrogen facility in Hong Kong very soon.

Ladies and gentlemen, decarbonisation cannot wait. Different regions around the world have suffered the devastating consequences of extreme weather events. Heatwaves, severe droughts, extreme rainfall, and extreme storms have attacked every corner of our planet. This year, Hong Kong experienced the hottest ever mid-autumn festival. These events remind us that climate change is indeed a current-day reality. The world must take urgent actions to combat climate change together.

Decarbonisation implies transformational change. Green innovation solutions are of paramount importance in our decarbonisation journey. During Eco Expo Asia, we will see the latest innovation and technologies and products around the world in new energy, climate adaptation and other areas.

Last but not least, I thank you again for coming today. Together, we can drive global sustainability. I hope you will find the Expo and the three-day Eco Asia Conference inspiring. For friends who come from abroad and across the boundary, I wish you all an enjoyable stay in Hong Kong, and spend more money. Thank you.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the speech.)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s speech at ASIFMA’s 5th Annual Sustainable Finance Conference: Enabling Transition Finance in Asia (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at ASIFMA’s 5th Annual Sustainable Finance Conference: Enabling Transition Finance in Asia today (October 30):

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you today at ASIFMA’s 5th Annual Sustainable Finance Conference. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to ASIFMA (Asia Securities Industry & Financial Markets Association) for hosting this significant event, now in its fifth year, and for bringing together an impressive gathering of leaders and advocates in the realm of sustainability. We are here to engage in critical discussions about how we can collectively scale and enable transition finance in Asia – a topic that has never been more urgent.

Today’s theme, “Enabling Transition Finance in Asia”, reflects a vital aspect of our collective effort to combat climate change. As we know, climate change poses unprecedented challenges to our societies and economies. We must take bold steps to address these challenges. Hong Kong serves as a crucial financial gateway in Asia, bridging the East and West. This unique position makes it an ideal location for managing and channelling investments aimed at sustainable development. With our robust banking system, flourishing financial market, and strong regulatory framework, Hong Kong is well-positioned to facilitate transition finance.

As we gather here today, we are acutely aware of the challenges that climate change poses to our societies and economies. Today, I would like to outline Hong Kong’s efforts in driving sustainability, encapsulated in four key “C” pillars: Capital, Creation, Commitment, and Collaboration.

Capital – A vital tool for green financing

The first “C” is Capital, which highlights Hong Kong’s well-developed capacity for green investment. This is not just a financial mechanism; it is a vital tool for green financing that underpins our commitment to sustainability. Hong Kong has set an ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with a target to halve carbon emissions by 2035. To realise these goals, we are implementing a range of policies and initiatives designed to promote green finance and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

As Asia’s leading international financial centre and green finance hub, Hong Kong stands ready to channel international investment toward sustainable purposes. Our financial ecosystem is equipped to facilitate a robust green transition. Recent market research estimates that sustainable bond issuance will approach US$1 trillion in 2024. Moreover, it is projected that annual climate investments must reach US$9 trillion by 2030 and US$10 trillion by 2050, underscoring the immense demand for green finance.

To this end, we launched the Government Green Bond Programme (renamed Government Sustainable Bond Programme) in 2019. This initiative aims to raise funds for government green projects that contribute to sustainable development. I am pleased to report that our issuance has been attracting strong interest from both local and international investors. For example, for the issuance in July this year, our offer of HK$25 billion of bonds attracted more than HK$120 billion equivalent in orders, about five times of the offer size. So far a total of HK$220 billion in government green bonds has been successfully issued, including a diverse array of bonds – retail, institutional, and tokenised – across multiple currencies and tenors. These efforts have effectively raised funds for the Government’s green projects, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a greener future for Hong Kong.

The momentum towards sustainable investment has gained unprecedented traction in our financial markets. Over 230 ESG (environmental, social, and governance) funds have been authorised by our Securities and Futures Commission, collectively managing over HK$1.3 trillion in assets. This represents a significant year-on-year increase of 19 per cent in the number of funds and an 8 per cent rise in assets. These encouraging statistics reflect a growing recognition among investors of the importance of sustainable finance and their commitment to supporting responsible investment initiatives.

Creation – innovating the green fintech market

The second “C” is Creation, which emphasises Hong Kong’s role in innovation for adoption of green fintech. In addition to capital, technology plays a crucial role in green transition. The global shift toward sustainability is not just creating new markets; it is also driving innovation and opening up investment opportunities. The Government recognises that sustainable development and financial innovation must go hand in hand. By positioning Hong Kong as a leader in sustainable finance, we can attract capital, stimulate innovation, and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.

As we strive to integrate fintech with green finance and accelerate our green transformation, we are actively expanding the green fintech ecosystem. This year in June, we launched the Green and Sustainable Fintech Proof-of-Concept Funding Support Scheme. This initiative aims to provide early-stage funding to technology companies or research institutes conducting green fintech activities, allowing them to collaborate with local enterprises to co-develop new projects that address industry pain points. By facilitating the completion of the commercialisation and proof-of-concept stages, this scheme aims to enable wider adoption of green and sustainable fintech solutions in our local business landscape.

Fostering partnerships that drive innovation in financial products is another crucial element in promoting sustainable practices and ensuring that our financial systems are resilient and future-ready. Earlier this year, in March, we launched the Prototype Hong Kong Green Fintech Map, developed in collaboration with various stakeholders. This map serves as a one-stop resource, providing comprehensive information on the current status of green fintech companies in Hong Kong and the related services available. By enhancing the visibility of these companies, we support their growth and ultimately contribute to our vision of a greener and more sustainable financial ecosystem.

Commitment – building a comprehensive foundation

The third “C” is our commitment to building a comprehensive green finance ecosystem. Recent market studies indicate that approximately 90 per cent of issuance in the green bond market relates to financing climate transition projects. Transition finance encompasses more than just capital; it empowers various industries to evolve towards sustainable practices while acknowledging that the journey to a low-carbon economy varies across sectors.

The time is ripe for Hong Kong to seize the opportunities ahead in developing a sustainable community. We are committed to enabling transition finance in Asia and working towards a more sustainable future. As part of this commitment, Hong Kong is a forerunner in setting regulatory requirements and guidance for the financial sector. In the recent Policy Address, the Chief Executive announced significant steps towards enhancing our financial reporting framework.

We will soon launch a roadmap for the full adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards). Our goal is clear: We aim for Hong Kong to be among the first jurisdictions to align our local requirements with these internationally recognised standards. This initiative not only underscores our commitment to transparency and sustainability but also positions Hong Kong as a leader in the global financial landscape.

Transparency and accountability are essential for the success of sustainable finance. As a crucial initial step, Hong Kong Stock Exchange has introduced new climate-related disclosure requirements. These requirements, developed based on the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures, will be implemented for listed companies under a phased approach starting next year. These initiatives reflect our ongoing efforts to foster a sustainable environment that resonates throughout our financial ecosystem.

Collaboration – the key to a sustainable future

The last “C”, but certainly not least, is collaboration. While government initiatives are crucial, the transition to a sustainable economy cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires collaboration among all stakeholders – the Government and regulators, financial institutions, corporations, and the community.

In 2020, the Government established the Green and Sustainable Finance Cross-Agency Steering Group, comprising representatives from various sectors. This group is working diligently to formulate strategies that enhance Hong Kong’s role as a green finance hub and engage industry participants and relevant stakeholders to advance sustainable finance in Hong Kong.

As we look ahead, we are also mindful of the international context. In just a few weeks, the global climate challenge will be front and centre at COP29 (29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) in Azerbaijan. This conference presents an opportunity for world leaders to ramp up climate action and provide stronger protections for those on the frontlines of climate change. COP29 is being billed as the “finance COP”, a pivotal moment for countries to establish a new global climate finance goal. We look forward to actively exploring collaboration with other regions on zero-carbon projects and initiatives, enhancing our collective capacity to address these urgent challenges.

Closing

In closing, the journey to a sustainable future is one that requires capital, creation, commitment, and collaboration. As we gather here today, we reaffirm our shared responsibility to enable transition finance in Asia and harness the power of finance to drive meaningful change. Together, we can create a better world for future generations.

Your commitment to advancing the agenda of sustainable finance in Asia is truly inspiring. I am grateful for your attention to this pressing global issue, and I look forward to the fruitful discussions and insights that will emerge from today’s conference. Together, let us turn our vision of a sustainable future into a reality.

Thank you.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Combating sales activities of duty-not-paid cigarettes

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by Dr the Hon Ngan Man-yu and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):

Question:

     It has been reported that the sales activities of duty-not-paid cigarettes (illicit cigarettes) have become increasingly rampant in recent years. Lawbreakers have employed adolescents with little life experience to distribute illicit cigarette leaflets, commonly known as “dim sum sheets”, in public housing estates, and there are even “cheap whites promotion teams” wearing tops printed with the brand names of “cheap whites” (i.e. illicit cigarettes packaged in the same way as duty-paid cigarettes) to promote illicit cigarettes to smokers in busy areas. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) of the following information on illicit cigarette cases intercepted at source by the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) in the past three years: the number of such cases, the number of persons involved in such cases, and the market value of the illicit cigarettes involved; what measures the authorities have put in place to step up efforts to intercept at source the smuggling of illicit cigarettes into Hong Kong;

(2) of the following information on the law enforcement operations conducted by C&ED to combat illicit cigarette activities in the past three years: the number of such operations, the number of cases detected, the number and dutiable value of the illicit cigarettes seized, the number and age distribution of persons arrested (with a breakdown by seller and buyer), and the penalty imposed on the convicted persons;

(3) regarding the recruitment of young people by lawbreakers to promote illicit cigarettes, whether C&ED and the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health have received the related reports, and of the relevant follow-up situations; what measures C&ED and TACO have put in place to prevent young people from participating in the promotional and trafficking activities of illicit cigarettes;

(4) as it has been reported that lawbreakers have set up websites to advertise illicit cigarettes on the Internet, and to advertise and sell illicit cigarettes through social media platforms and instant messaging applications (e.g. Facebook, Instagram and Telegram), what measures C&ED and TACO have put in place to intercept such advertising and sales activities, and whether it has assessed the effectiveness of such measures;

(5) of the total number of reports on suspected illicit cigarette activities received by C&ED through its 24-hour hotline, dedicated crime-reporting email account or online form in the past three years, and the relevant follow-up situations; and

(6) whether C&ED and TACO have considered, by drawing reference from the policy on combating abuses of public housing, setting up a financial reward mechanism for reporting to encourage members of the public to report the sale of illicit cigarettes, so as to reduce the promotional and trafficking activities of illicit cigarettes in public housing estates?

Reply:

President,

     Tobacco products are dutiable commodities. Tobacco duty is payable by importers or manufacturers according to the specified rates under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109). To protect Government revenue, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) has been combating smuggling and trading of illicit cigarettes on different fronts. As for matters relating to tobacco control, they are mainly enforced by the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health according to the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371).

     Upon consultation with the Health Bureau, the consolidated reply to the question is as follows:

(1) C&ED has been closely monitoring the control points and illicit cigarettes activities in the city closely, and has strengthened intelligence exchange with the Mainland and overseas law enforcement agencies with a view to intercepting illicit cigarettes at source. The relevant numbers on interception of illicit cigarettes at various control points by C&ED from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:

Year
Number of cases
Number of persons arrested
Number of illicit cigarettes seized
(million)
Estimated market value
($million)

2021
3 156
2 856
247
678

2022
2 575
2 246
634
1,753

2023 (Note 1)
10 452
10 276
554
1,896

2024 (Note 1)
(Up to September)
14 198
13 783
191
841

Note 1: The significant increase in the number of cases and arrests as compared with 2022 is mainly due to the large increase in the number of incoming passengers intercepted at control points for possessing tobacco products exceeding the duty-free quantity after the full resumption of normal travel between Hong Kong and the Mainland.

(2) From January 2021 to September 2024, C&ED has conducted 11 large-scale special operations to combat illicit cigarette activities at various control points, as well as telephone-ordering activities for or distribution of flyers of illicit cigarettes at public rental housing estates (PRH). In addition, C&ED has been closely monitoring the latest development in the market and strengthened intelligence gathering. If a retailer is found to be selling duty-not-paid cigarettes, C&ED will take resolute enforcement actions. The enforcement figures of C&ED in combating illicit cigarettes through various channels (including daily inspections, interception at various control points, large-scale special operations, etc.) from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:

Year
Number of cases
Number of persons arrested
Number of illicit cigarettes seized
(million)
Estimated market value
($million)
Duty payable
($million)

2021
4 009
3 555
427
1,176
815

2022
3 438
2 813
732
2,017
1,395

2023Note
11 806
10 994
652
2,256
1,541

2024 (Note 2)
(Up to September)
15 014
14 397
367
1,639
1,208

Note 2: The significant increase in the number of cases and arrests as compared with 2022 is mainly due to the large increase in the number of incoming passengers intercepted at control points for possessing tobacco products exceeding the duty-free quantity after the full resumption of normal travel between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and the seven large-scale special operations conducted by C&ED in 2023 and 2024.

     The number of arrested persons involved in buying or selling illicit cigarettes from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:

Year
Arrested persons
Age distribution

Sellers
Buyers
Total
20 or below
21 to 40
41 to 60
61 or above

2021
259
206
465
13
99
172
181

2022
117
301
418
26
98
165
129

2023
185
401
586
28
145
222
191

2024
(Up to September)
244
262
506
15
86
207
198

     During the above period, the penalties imposed by the court on illicit cigarette cases ranged from a minimum of $200 (involving 200 illicit cigarettes) to a maximum of imprisonment of 18 months (involving about 12 million illicit cigarettes).

(3), (4) and (6) According to the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (the Ordinance), no person shall display or cause to be displayed any smoking product advertisement in any form. Any person who contravenes the prohibitions is liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000, and in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty of $1,500 for each day during which the offence continues. The distribution of smoking product advertisements in PRH not only involves peddling of suspected duty-not-paid smoking products, but also affects the law and order and management of the estates. Hence, TACO has all along been co-operating with the relevant departments with a view to combating these illegal activities more effectively. A co-operation mechanism has been established among TACO, the Police and the Housing Department to conduct enforcement actions against illegal activities of distributing smoking products advertisements in PRH. Since January this year, the relevant departments have conducted over 220 joint operations in PRH in Hong Kong. During the operations, in addition to patrolling the estates, officers from TACO also provided information to the estate security workers and residents on how to deal with suspected violation. They were also reminded to observe the laws and not to purchase smoking products from unknown sources. TACO will refer any suspected cases of illicit cigarettes that involve violations of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance to C&ED for further investigation.

     Regarding the allegation that some people are distributing illicit cigarettes on the streets, under the Ordinance, no person may give smoking product to another person for promotion or advertisement. Any person who contravenes the prohibitions is liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $25,000. TACO has conducted multiple proactive inspections at relevant locations. No illegal activity has been found so far. TACO will closely monitor activities contravening the Ordinance (including those promoting or advertising smoking products), which include arranging covert inspections and taking enforcement actions on an ongoing basis. In addition, TACO will also conduct online inspections. If online smoking product advertisements suspected of contravening the law are found, TACO will request the relevant internet service providers and social media platforms to remove the relevant content.

     From January 2023 to August 2024, TACO issued 124 summonses and 43 warning letters regarding offences of displaying or distributing smoking product advertisements, and removed around 2 550 websites and social media accounts/posts involving advertisements of smoking products. Since 2021, 14 offenders have been convicted of the offence related to distributing smoking product advertisements, with a maximum penalty of $8,000.

     In addition, C&ED has also been conducting online inspections targeting suspected sale of illicit cigarettes. When suspected cases are found, C&ED will immediately express concerns to and follow up with the relevant websites or social media platforms, including blocking the accounts concerned and removing the relevant illicit cigarettes advertisements. From January to September 2024, a total of 429 relevant advertisements have been removed.

     In order to combat illicit cigarettes in a more effective manner and protect non-smokers from tobacco hazards, the Government announced its plan in June this year to implement the next-phase tobacco control measures. They include the introduction of a duty stamp system in order to differentiate duty-paid cigarettes from duty-not-paid ones; to require proofs that tobacco products sold at a price lower than the tobacco duty are duty-paid; and to increase the maximum penalty for dealing with, possession of, selling or buying duty-not-paid cigarettes. The Government expects that the above measures will strengthen the deterrent effect and enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in combating illicit cigarettes. At present, the Government has no plan to introduce financial incentives for reporting illicit cigarette cases. However, C&ED will seriously follow up on reports of suspected illicit cigarette activities.

(5) The numbers of reports on suspected illicit cigarettes activities received by C&ED through different channels from January 2021 to September 2024 are set out below:

Year
Reports

2021
3 054

2022
3 526

2023
3 476

2024
(Up to September)
5 640

     C&ED will follow up each report and refer it to frontline staff for investigation if necessary. Since the investigations are confidential, C&ED will not disclose their progress and details.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Netcompany – Final transactions in connection with share buyback programme

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Company announcement
No. 47/2024

30 October 2024

On 14 August 2024, Netcompany Group A/S (“Netcompany”) announced that a share buyback programme of up to DKK 150m and a maximum of 1,000,000 shares had been initiated with the purpose of adjusting Netcompany’s capital structure and meeting its obligations relating to share-based incentive programmes.

The share buyback programme is executed in accordance with EU Market Abuse Regulation, EU Regulation no. 596/2014 of 16 April 2014 and the provisions of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016 (the “Safe Harbour Regulation”). The share buyback programme was set to end no later than 29 October 2024.

Today, Netcompany announces the final transactions carried out under the current share buyback programme.

The following transactions have been executed in the period 25 October 2024 to 29 October 2024:

	Number of shares	Average purchase price, DKK	Transaction value, DKK
25-10-2024	4,000	308.07	1,232,280
28-10-2024	4,000	308.59	1,234,360
29-10-2024	6,500	309.67	2,012,855
Accumulated for the period	14,500	–	4,479,495
Accumulated under the programme	495,800	–	149,990,713

Detailed information on all transactions under the share buyback programme during the period is included in the attached appendix.

Following the above transactions, Netcompany owns a total of 2,228,909 treasury shares corresponding to 4.5% of the total share capital.

Additional information
For additional information, please contact:

Netcompany Group A/S
Thomas Johansen, CFO, +45 51 19 32 24
Frederikke Linde, Head of IR, +45 60 62 60 87

Attachments

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Centre Remembrance commemorations announced
Source: City of Derby

Preparations are well underway for this year’s Remembrance commemorations.

The city’s Annual Remembrance Sunday Service and Parade will return on Sunday 10 November, with troops from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers 148 Divisional Support Company, as well as members of local veteran and youth organisations, parading through the city centre onto the Market Place.

A short service, led by The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby, is scheduled for 11am, during which a two-minute silence will be observed. Following this, wreaths will be laid at the War Memorial.

For the first time this year, Surtal Arts Community Choir, a Derby-based South Asian performing arts organsation, will be performing on the Market Place at around 10:15am, before the arrival of the Parade.

Members of the public are invited to observe the proceedings and pay their respects. There will be dedicated public viewing areas on the Market Place and the ceremony will be streamed onto a large screen.

Those who are unable to travel into the city centre can also watch the parade and service live on the Council’s YouTube channel.

Citizens will also have a chance to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during a short service held at the War Memorial at 11am on Armistice Day (Monday 11 November).

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy said:

“Remembrance is an incredibly important event within the Civic calendar and I’m very proud that partners from across the city are once again working together to host city centre events on both Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.

“Remembrance is not only about remembering British soldiers who were involved in the World Wars and subsequent conflicts, but the sacrifice of those from across the Commonwealth. It’s fantastic that we’re able to highlight the contribution made by South Asian nations through a performance by the Surtal Arts Community Choir before this year’s parade.

“I encourage as many citizens as possible to take part in and observe this year’s commemorations.”

To protect members of the public and parade participants, there will be road closures on Sunday 10 November, from 8am until 1pm:
- Sowter Road from its junction with St Michael’s Lane
- The junction of Queen Street and Full Street
- Derwent Street
- Corporation Street and Tenant Street
- St James Street, Corn Market and Iron Gate (from its junction with Sadler Gate)
Several parking restrictions will also be in place:
- The Council House car park will be closed to members of the public from 6.00pm on Saturday 9 November until 2pm on Sunday 10 November.
- On-street parking will be suspended on Full Street and Tenant Street from 7pm on Saturday 9 November to 1pm on Sunday 10 November.
- The on-street parking bays on Derwent Street will be reserved for Blue Badge parking on Sunday 10 November.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Catapult Signs New Multi-Year Deal with the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Boston, MA, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Catapult (ASX: CAT), the global leader in sports technology solutions for professional teams, today announced a new deal with the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby that will bring Catapult’s innovative athlete monitoring technology and video integration to rugby union in England. The strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing athlete performance with the national England men’s and women’s rugby teams, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby.

As the preferred provider of athlete monitoring technology, Catapult will make available to the men’s and women’s national teams, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby teams its full performance analysis suite, including the Catapult Vector System, offering a comprehensive understanding of both team and individual performance. The integration of Catapult Vector with MatchTracker gives coaches a detailed visualization of on-field dynamics, allowing them to sort, filter, and rapidly access insights enabling practitioners and coaching staff to identify patterns and trends in player performance. Additionally, Focus captures multi-angle video and data during games and practices, enhancing decision-making and tactical adjustments. Together, these tools will empower the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby practitioners and coaches to make informed choices on strategy, athlete performance, and injury management.

The agreement also includes the Catapult Vector Rugby Analytics Suite, Elite Vests with integrated heart rate, and ClearSky Local Positioning System (LPS) to further enhance player performance tracking and analysis. The Catapult Vector Rugby Analytics Suite is specifically designed for rugby, employing advanced algorithms to monitor key actions such as scrums, kicks, lineout jumps, and contact involvements. The Elite Vest for women athletes optimizes sensor placement for improved heart rate signal quality, while the Elite Vest for men athletes enhances fit and data accuracy with an inlaid chest band that stabilizes sensors during intense movement. ClearSky LPS will be installed in national team venues including the Allianz Stadium and Honda England Rugby Performance Centre in addition to a number of domestic training venues including for teams such as Bristol Bears and Gloucester Rugby providing low-latency, real-time data during training and matches.

“We are excited to begin this new partnership with three of the world’s most respected rugby organizations, the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby,” said Kieran Dannatt, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Development of Catapult. “By investing in Catapult’s technology, the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby are building a sustainable model for the future of rugby. This partnership ensures that the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby teams have cutting-edge technology that enhances both team and individual athlete performance and player care, further solidifying English rugby’s position as a leader in rugby innovation.”

With Catapult, the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby will gain significant advantages in data management and sharing across club, league, and game levels. Each national and domestic team using Catapult will establish its own performance thresholds and operational zones, enabling tailored training strategies throughout the season. This data will seamlessly synchronize with the league’s and domestic team’s overall data architecture, enhancing information flow and improving insights across all levels of rugby. Additionally, Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, and Premiership Women’s Rugby players will benefit from consolidating their performance data directly to Catapult OpenField Cloud. This integration will enable enhanced performance analysis, strategic planning, and collaboration across teams, leagues and the National Governing Body.

“It has been a long-time objective to align player tracking technology across all areas of the professional game,” said Duncan Locke, Head of Technical Performance at the Rugby Football Union. “The partnership between the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Rugby, Premiership Women’s Rugby and Catapult will provide players and practitioners access to a range of best in class products to optimize how players are managed and drive game-wide insights through standardized data capture and integrated data and video analysis. Utilizing Catapult ClearSky technology we can now monitor performance with unprecedented precision. This not only elevates individual and team performance understanding, but also supports player management through consistently and efficiently capturing and monitoring player workloads and movement patterns across all club and international environments, aligning with the Rugby Football Union’s commitment to player welfare and safety.”

”Premiership Rugby is excited to partner with Catapult Sports, making available the latest player tracking technology to our teams,” said Matt Cross, Head of Science and Medical Operations at Premiership Rugby. “By providing practitioners with comprehensive and individualized data using Catapult technology, we empower them to make informed decisions to prioritize player performance and safety. It has been a long-term ambition to align player-tracking technology across the elite game in England, and this partnership provides the opportunity to make this technology available to clubs, allowing for seamless data sharing to support players transitioning across different environments from both a performance and welfare perspective.”

“As a player, having access to detailed performance insights like this is a game-changer for us and ensures every player in Premiership Women’s Rugby can operate at the highest level,” said Marlie Packer, Co-Captain for the Saracens Women. “Catapult athlete monitoring technology will allow us to track our progress, manage our workload, and refine our skills in ways we couldn’t before as we play in the best women’s league in the world. It’s exciting to know that we’re supported by tools designed to prioritize both our performance and our long-term health. This partnership is helping us elevate our game and align with the highest standards in rugby.”

To learn more about Catapult’s solutions for Rugby, visit https://www.catapult.com/sports/rugby.

About Catapult

Catapult exists to unleash the potential of every athlete and team on earth. Operating at the intersection of sports science and analytics, Catapult products are designed to optimize performance, avoid injury, and improve return to play. Catapult works with more than 4,200 elite teams in over 40 sports across more than 100 countries globally. To learn more about Catapult or to inquire about accessing performance analytics for a team or athlete, visit us at catapult.com. Follow us at @CatapultSports on social media for daily updates.

About Rugby Football Union
The RFU is the national governing body for rugby union in England. The organisation aims to enrich lives, introduce more people to rugby union and develop the sport for future generations. The goal is to achieve this by strengthening and uniting rugby union in England and producing consistently winning England teams.

The RFU is a members’ organisation of professional and amateur rugby clubs, referee societies and Constituent Bodies (geographic or national unions of clubs) that reinvests all profits back into the sport.

About Premiership Rugby
Premiership Rugby is the organisation that manages the top league in English club rugby – Gallagher Premiership Rugby.

It acts for its shareholder clubs in all major commercial and strategic negotiations with media and sponsorship partners of the league, as well as with other rugby governing bodies.

About Premiership Women’s Rugby
Premiership Women’s Rugby has been established to deliver a ten-year strategy for women’s rugby in England. As part of that strategy a new, nine-team, Premiership Women’s Rugby league has been launched as a partnership with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and the clubs.

The ambition for Premiership Women’s Rugby is built on a new vision and mission to carry the organisation through the next decade and create a generation of players and fans inspired by world-class club competition.

In the first, historic, season Gloucester-Hartpury were crowned champions, beating Bristol Bears 36-24 in an unforgettable Final at Sandy Park.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: HERE Navigation Powers Connected Driving Experience in Dacia’s All-New Duster and New Spring
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- HERE Navigation provides a connected in-car navigation solution with a seamless user experience integrated into the digital cockpit.
- Over-the-air updates ensure Dacia All-New Duster and New Spring drivers have access to the latest map and service updates for a premium driving experience.
HERE Technologies, the leading location data and technology platform, today announced that Dacia, a Renault brand and the leading retail brand in Europe last year, has selected HERE Navigation to power the All-New Duster, Dacia’s iconic sport utility vehicle (SUV), and New Spring, Europe’s most affordable electric car.

HERE Navigation is a cloud-based navigation application for connected vehicles. With it, Dacia All-New Duster and New Spring drivers will benefit from automotive-grade maps, online and offline search, real-time traffic information, and turn-by-turn voice guidance in an easy-to-use interface. The application’s over-the-air update capabilities deliver drivers the freshest map content and latest service updates.

With its simple interface, clear design, and connectivity, HERE Navigation delivers the ease-of-use of smartphone applications while providing a seamless experience through its integration into the car’s digital cockpit. HERE Navigation is optimized to meet a vast array of hardware needs and enables a comparatively low data footprint with its option to cache maps.

“Thanks to HERE Navigation, Dacia customers now benefit from online navigation with an always up-to-date map and traffic information,” said Damien Laplane, Dacia Cross Car Line and Brand Experience Leader.

“We are proud that the Renault Group has chosen HERE Navigation for its Dacia All-New Duster flagship model and New Spring electric car, so that drivers will get to enjoy an all-inclusive navigation experience that stays up to date,” said Gino Ferru, SVP and General Manager EMEA at HERE Technologies. “We look forward to expanding our collaboration with Dacia and Renault for additional models in the future.”

Media Contacts
Dr. Sebastian Kurme
+49 173 515 3549
sebastian.kurme@here.com

Aurélie André
Dacia Press Officer
+33 6 82 13 50 76
aurelie.andre@dacia.com

About HERE Technologies
HERE has been a pioneer in mapping and location technology for almost 40 years. Today, the HERE location platform is recognized as the most complete in the industry, powering location-based products, services and custom maps for organizations and enterprises across the globe. From autonomous driving and seamless logistics to new mobility experiences, HERE allows its partners and customers to innovate while retaining control over their data and safeguarding privacy. Find out how HERE is moving the world forward at here.cohttps://www.here.com/m.

About Dacia
Born in 1968 then relaunched by the Renault Group from 2004 all across Europe and Mediterranean countries, Dacia has always offered the best value for money cars, by constantly redefining the essentials. As a game-changer, Dacia proposes simple, multi-purpose, reliable cars in tune with customers’ lifestyles. Dacia models became a reference on the market: Sandero, the most sold car to European private customers each year since 2017; Duster, on the podium of SUVs sold to private customers in Europe since 2018; Spring, 3rd electric vehicle sold to private customers in Europe for the second year running; Jogger, 1st non-SUV C-segment vehicle sold to private customers in Europe for the first time. Present in 44 countries, Dacia has sold over 8 million vehicles since 2004.

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) Commits Eur 40 Million to Nakkas- Basaksehir Section of Türkiye’s Northern Marmara Highway Project
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

ISTANBUL, Turkey, October 30, 2024/APO Group/ —
- ICD is investing EUR 40 million in the Nakkaş-Başakşehir section as part of a EUR 1.04 billion funding package.
- The project incorporates solar energy and LED lighting, aiming to cut energy use and emissions significantly.
- It’s backed by a consortium led by Rönesans Holding, with support from MDBs and ECAs.
The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) (www.ICD-ps.org) has signed a EUR 40 million to co-finance the Nakkaş-Başakşehir section of Türkiye Northern Marmara Highway Project.

The Project aimes to enhance Istanbul’s east-west connectivity, improve road safety and reduce congestion. It is being developed under a build-operate-transfer agreement by a consortium led by Rönesans Holding A.Ş. in partnership with Samsung C&T Corporation and other Korean investors. It involves a 31.3-km toll road, including a 1.6-km cable-stayed bridge and multiple overpasses and underpasses.

ICD’s EUR 40 million contribution is part of a broader EUR1.04 billion senior debt package, fully financed by international institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), alongside Atradius and SERV as European export credit agencies, ICIEC, and a consortium of commercial lenders.

Thanks to Solar Energy Production System to be installed within the scope of the Nakkaş-Başakşehir project, which has “sustainability” at the center of its design, the clean energy obtained from solar panels will meet the energy needs of the highway’s operation and management (O&M) center and service stations.

The installation of over 4,500 LED lamps, replacing sodium lamps, will cut energy consumption by 37.5%, saving over 35 MWh. Within the scope of the project, in which all O&M highway vehicles are planned to be hybrid or electric, it is expected to save approximately 112 thousand liters of fuel annually.

While the Nakkaş-Başakşehir Highway Project is expected to prevent 7.9 million tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 30 years, in particular, it will reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions by 1,399 tons, nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 58,699 tons and sulfur dioxide (SO2) by 95 tons. tons reduction is aimed.

MIL OSI Africa –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Technograd opens free courses on programming and protection against cyber threats

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Muscovites can get a profession in the field of programming and information security for free, as well as master design and marketing on free courses at the Technograd innovation and educational complex, subordinate to the capital’s Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development. Training will begin in November.

During the classes you can learn programming languages C

In the same language with the IT sphere

Python is considered an ideal language for starting a career in programming. It will suit students who are attracted by web development and data analysis, machine learning, simplicity of code and a variety of ready-made solutions. Course “Python for Web Development. Flask and Web Application Development” will start on November 1st.

Students will be introduced to the Flask software platform, style templates and writing code to create a request form, databases and much more. Students will learn the basics of web development using Python and the Flask framework, learn how to manage database storage and build user authentication on websites.

Classes under the program will begin on November 3 “Functional Programming in Python. Basic Level”. The teacher will tell about the structure of the language, teach how to write and read program code, solve algorithmic problems and create flow charts. As a result, students will be able to analyze other people’s programs and work with data arrays.

On the same day, November 3, classes on the course will begin. “Functional programming in C. Learning a universal programming language will be useful for students who want to create games, desktop applications for Windows, web services, neural networks or graphics for metaverses. This language is used by banks, digital agencies, communication providers and large IT companies. Choosing this direction of study will help beginners find a job in a short time. During the classes, students will master the language structures, learn to use branches and cycles, work with the selection operator and data arrays.

Well “JavaScript. Basic Level” will start on November 6. Webinars will help expand knowledge in the field of web technologies for designers and marketers, as well as those who are already mastering programming in a comprehensive manner. JavaScript does not require complex concepts and technical details from beginners. The visual part of most websites on the Internet is written in it. Therefore, programmers who have studied this language are always in demand. The course program includes training in the principles of object-oriented programming, working with control structures and data structures, as well as familiarity with the logic of program execution.

In addition, Technograd is opening courses and for advanced JavaScript users. Training will begin on November 6th.

Future mobile developers for iOS and macOS, as well as gamedev and ackend developers will find this useful Webinars on the basic level of programming in Swift. Starting November 16, the teacher will introduce students to the basics of the language, the Xcode development environment, data collection, and user interface elements. During the training, students will create the To-Do List and Exchange Rates applications and test them in the iPhone Simulator.

Russian companies are always in demand for specialists who can find and eliminate vulnerabilities in the system and minimize the consequences of cyber attacks. From November 1, it will be possible to study the specifics of the profession and solve real problems on the course “Computer networks and information security”. Students will learn about the structure, topology, infrastructure and security of networks, protocols and network services. Particular attention will be paid to threat analysis and vulnerability detection, cryptography and advanced security methods.

Creativity and self-realization

Marketing and design are traditionally popular areas among young professionals. These areas offer creative freedom, the opportunity for self-realization and a dynamic career. Given digitalization and the development of new media formats, social networks and online trade, the demand for employees in these areas remains high.

In November, Technograd offers 11 specialized programs, where you can master the graphic editors Figma and Photoshop, the website builder Tilda, the 3D engine Blender, animation and video in After Effects. And also learn how to set up targeted advertising, engage in promotion in social networks and create selling photo and video content.

Upon completion of the training, a certificate or certificate of advanced training is issued. The project is supervised by Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow.

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

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

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145917073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The government will finance the renovation of public transport in the Kaliningrad region and Ingushetia

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Order of October 23, 2024 No. 2971-r and order of October 29, 2024 No. 3054-r

Documents

Order dated October 23, 2024 No. 2971-r

Order dated October 29, 2024 No. 3054-r

The public transport fleet in the Kaliningrad Region and Ingushetia will be replenished with new equipment. The orders to allocate a total of 668.3 million rubles for these purposes were signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

418.3 million rubles will be sent to the Kaliningrad region. It is planned to purchase trolleybuses that will operate on routes in Kaliningrad using funds from the Government’s reserve fund, on a co-financing basis.

The decision taken will increase the share of environmentally friendly transport operating in the city. Trolleybuses have an increased reserve of autonomous running. Thus, they can be used as electric buses on previously operating trolleybus routes. The vehicles will be equipped with media systems. This will make it possible to provide passengers with information in audio and video format.

Speaking about the decision taken during a meeting with deputy prime ministers on October 28, Mikhail Mishustin noted that such vehicles will provide a better level of transport service and make trips more comfortable and reliable.

“The President emphasized that the invested resources should bring maximum benefit to people. We expect that such work will continue in the future,” said the Prime Minister.

For the purchase of 30 medium-class buses for Ingushetia, 250 million rubles will be allocated from the Cabinet’s reserve fund, also on a co-financing basis. The buses are equipped with a cashless fare payment system, as well as equipment for counting passengers. These devices will make the bus schedule more convenient for people.

The work is being carried out within the framework of the state program “Development of industry and increasing its competitiveness.”

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 –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Healthcare services provided by unregistered persons

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chan Wing-kwong and a reply by the Under Secretary for Health, Dr Libby Lee, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):

Question:

It has been reported that there are currently many premises in the community claiming to be pain treatment centres, etc., boasting that they can provide clients with services such as “bone manipulating” and pain treatment, but some members of the public are injured after receiving services provided by persons who are suspected to be non-healthcare professionals at these premises. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it knows the number of the aforesaid premises and, among them, the number of those which have applied for licences for private healthcare facilities (PHFs);

(2) of the number of complaints made against the aforesaid premises and the follow-up situations in the past three years; among them, the number of cases involving unlicensed medical practice, and the respective numbers of persons prosecuted and convicted; and

(3) as it is learnt that some premises which have not applied for PHFs licences are presenting an image of licensed healthcare facilities through means such as promotion and furnishings in order to mislead consumers, of the measures the authorities have put in place to caution members of the public against seeking inappropriate treatments for certain medical conditions, so as to safeguard their health?

Reply:

President,

In consultation with the Security Bureau, I provide a consolidated reply as follows:

Premises providing pain relief services in the community can be classified into three categories:

(1) involving healthcare services which should be provided by registered medical practitioners and/or dentists, e.g. prescription of painkillers or performance of surgical procedures etc.;

(2) involving healthcare services which should be provided by healthcare professions of other different disciplines; and

(3) not providing healthcare services, say conducting only massage which do not concern the practice of healthcare professionals.

These three categories of services are regulated by different legislations. As the premises under the aforementioned categories 1 and 2 provide healthcare services, they are regulated by relevant legislations on healthcare facilities and healthcare professions.

Since 2018, the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance (Cap. 633) regulates premises where registered medical practitioners and/or dentists practise. Operators are required to obtain a licence or letter of exemption in order to operate private healthcare facilities. The existing law specifically covers premises of these two healthcare professions as their daily operation may very likely involve high-risk issues such as infection control and blood management, thereby requiring the most stringent regulatory system under a risk-based principle. In this connection, apart from being regulated by the specific legislations on healthcare professions, such premises are also regulated by the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance. As of the third quarter of 2024, there are 14 licensed private hospitals and 259 licensed day procedure centres in Hong Kong. The Government is also preparing to implement the clinic licensing regime under the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance and will make an announcement shortly.

Premises under category 2 involve healthcare services which are provided by healthcare professions of other multiple disciplines. By nature, services commonly known as “bone-manipulating” and “pain management” may be similar to the treatments provided by Chinese medicine practitioners, physiotherapists and chiropractors under their respective scope of practice. Depending on the actual services performed, relevant ordinances would come into play when healthcare services which must be provided by registered healthcare professionals are involved. This serves to prevent non-professionals from performing such acts so as to safeguard public health.

The provision of a service will be considered as practising Chinese medicine if it involves the performance of any act or activities on the basis of traditional Chinese medicine in general practice, acupuncture or bone-setting as stipulated in the Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap. 549). Any person who is neither a registered nor listed Chinese medicine practitioner providing such service commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 6 and imprisonment for three years. By the same token, any person who practises the profession of a physiotherapist as stipulated in the Supplementary Medical Professions Ordinance (Cap. 359) without registration commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 2 and imprisonment for six months; whereas any person who is not listed in the register of registered chiropractors under the Chiropractors Registration Ordinance (Cap. 428) but practises chiropractic as defined in the Code of Practice by the Chiropractors Council commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 5 and imprisonment for one year.

During the period of 2021 to the third quarter of 2024, available records show that there were a total of 35 suspected cases of providing “bone-manipulating” or “pain management” services in contravention of the various ordinances on healthcare professionals. Of these, 3 cases were successfully prosecuted with conviction, while the others are still being processed or could not be successfully prosecuted possibly due to the individuals involved being subsequently proven to be registered healthcare professionals, etc. Members of the public should report to the Police if they suspect that someone is practising without registration or falsely using the title of a registered healthcare professional. The Department of Health (DH) as well as the statutory boards and councils of relevant healthcare professions will provide professional support to the Police as appropriate.

To prevent the public from seeking improper treatment of certain conditions regardless of the type of premises which provides such services, the Undesirable Medical Advertisements Ordinance (Cap. 231) prohibits/restricts the publication of advertisements that will likely lead to the use of any medicine, surgical appliance or treatment for the purpose of treating or preventing diseases or conditions specified in Schedules 1 and 2 to the Ordinance. These include any disease of the musculo-skeletal system, including rheumatism, arthritis and sciatica. The DH has put in place an established mechanism for screening advertisements. Appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the law against any contravention of the Ordinance.

The Government urges members of the public not to casually believe the claims of being able to offer so-called “treatment” from random persons who are not registered or accredited as healthcare professionals. Since the professional qualifications and standards of these persons have not been attested, the safety and effectiveness of the so-called “treatment” cannot be assured. It may even worsen the condition or cause injury. Before receiving healthcare services, members of the public can browse the online registers of the statutory boards and councils of relevant healthcare professions to ascertain the qualifications of service providers. If members of the public have doubts about the qualifications of the healthcare professionals, they can also request the person concerned to provide relevant certification documents in order to better protect their safety.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Housing Department urges public to be alert to fraudulent website of Cash Allowance Trial Scheme

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Housing Department (HD) today (October 30) alerted members of the public to a fraudulent website (https://cashalwaysget_hk2024.site), which purports to be the website of the Cash Allowance Trial Scheme.

The fraudulent website seeks to obtain the personal and credit card information of members of the public. The HD emphasises that the fraudulent website has no connection with the Cash Allowance Trial Scheme” and has referred the case to the Police for follow-up.

Anyone who has provided his or her personal information to the website concerned should contact the Police. For enquiries, please call the Cash Allowance Office hotline of the HD at 3105 3333.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese able to receive meteorological alerts up to 8 minutes in advance

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

BEIJING, Oct. 30 — With the improvement of China’s meteorological disaster risk warning capability, meteorological alerts can be delivered to the public within three to eight minutes, covering 98.8 percent of the country’s population, China Science Daily has reported.

Xiong Shaoyuan, deputy chief of the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), told a press conference on Tuesday that the accuracy of heavy rain warnings has reached 93 percent, and the lead time for severe convective weather warnings has increased to 43 minutes, marking a significant improvement for the country’s disaster control.

China’s emergency response mechanism, led by meteorological disaster warnings, has been continuously strengthened. A comprehensive national survey of 10 major types of meteorological disaster risks has been completed, and 45 types of meteorological disaster risk products are now released on a daily basis, said Xiong.

Additionally, the services for warning against risks such as flash floods, geological disasters, and forest and grassland fires have been digitized with high precision, said the official.

Xiong further said that meteorological services have been extended to more than 70 sectors of the national economy, contributing to smooth transportation, stable energy supply, improved livelihood and the development of new quality productive forces.

For example, the meteorological service system for agriculture covers the entire chain of grain production, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the CMA issued 12 types of agricultural meteorological disaster risk warnings, said Xiong.

This year, in response to the CMA’s hot and dry wind warnings, the country’s wheat producing regions have taken various measures of disaster control, which have brought an increase in the yield of winter wheat by about 1.5 billion kilograms, he said.

MIL OSI China News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chewing gum litter cleaned up from Oxford’s historic streets for a second year

Source: City of Oxford

ODS, on behalf of Oxford City Council, has successfully completed the removal of chewing gum litter from key city centre streets, thanks to grant funding from the Chewing Gum Task Force.

The cleanup operation, which began in the summer, focused on heavily trafficked areas including George Street, New Inn Hall Street, Carfax, Queens Street, parts of St Ebbes, High Street, and St Aldates down to Christchurch Meadows.

Alongside removing the gum, the team deep-cleaned pavements and steam-cleaned street furniture. Educational materials have also been distributed to encourage proper gum disposal and help maintain the cleanliness of the city’s historic streets.

ODS’ street cleaning team worked early mornings to ensure minimal disruption and adapted their schedule to work around extreme weather conditions and major events, such as St Giles’ Fair and the Oxford Half Marathon.

The gum removal process is time and labour intensive. In the worst affected areas, it took as long as 30 minutes to clean just 1.5msq, this was then followed by a mechanical sweeper to eliminate any stains left by the gum.

In line with the Council and ODS’s commitment to sustainability, no chemicals were used during the cleanup, and ODS completed the work using a repurposed 1973 electric milk float, called Earnie.

This year’s cleanup was made possible by a £26,500 grant from the Chewing Gum Task Force, administered by Keep Britain Tidy. The funding supports both the immediate cleanup and long-term behaviour change to reduce future gum littering.

Comment

“I’m pleased to see our city centre streets gum-free thanks to the hard work of ODS – a big thank you to them.

“The team’s hard work over the past few months, starting early and adapting around large events and extreme weather conditions, doesn’t go unnoticed.

“I hope the clean streets and new disposal guidance will inspire people to keep the streets tidy by properly disposing of their gum in the future.”

Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and an Inclusive Economy

“We’re thrilled to be working on behalf of Oxford City Council which received the Chewing Gum Task Force grant from Keep Britain Tidy for a second consecutive year. The funding helps improve the appearance of our historic streets and supports the city’s sustainability goals, using our repurposed electric milk float. Chewing gum litter affects the beauty and accessibility of Oxford, and last year’s cleanup showed promising results. We’re committed to working with the Council to make a lasting impact and keep our city clean for everyone.”

Adrian Moss, City Centre and Streetscenes Service Manager, ODS

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – HMNZS Canterbury to return items from the Manawanui to New Zealand
Source: New Zealand Defence Force
- The HMNZS Canterbury, departs Apia today, for New Zealand with items from the Manawanui on board.
- Among the items are the three containers removed from the reef following the grounding and subsequent sinking of Manawanui. These have been checked and passed by the Ministry for Primary Industries in Samoa before loading on board.
- NZDF Senior National Representative, Commodore Andrew Brown took the opportunity to visit the Canterbury and thanked the ship’s company, and Embarked Aviation detachment for their contribution to CHOGM and Operation Resolution.
- Commodore Brown said, “The Canterbury supported Operation Resolution by transporting Maritime NZ equipment to Samoa. It’s now returning to New Zealand with Manawanui’s two rigid inflatable boats, equipment, and the three containers removed from the reef last week.”
- The Canterbury is returning home to prepare to respond to the high risk weather season coming up in the Pacific after contributing to New Zealand’s support of CHOGM, by providing a platform to operate helicopters and transport equipment such as Hato Hone St Johns ambulances to Samoa.
- “As Canterbury returns to New Zealand, we remain focused on our priorities and the complex and technical process of fuel removal. Work is continuing on engaging a company to undertake this task,” Commodore Brown said.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Giant transformer is safe, sound and underground

Source: Meridian

30 October 2024 – Following a stunning journey worthy of a Hollywood blockbuster, Meridian’s Manapōuri Power Station has taken delivery of a new transformer that’ll give the hydro station a huge – and timely boost.

A 104-tonne transformer’s not a quick or easy thing to transport, with the New Zealand leg of the journey taking place over several carefully planned days last week.

After arriving in Bluff from Australia, the 135 MVA transformer was unloaded onto a trailer for the 170 km journey by road to Supply Bay, before spectacularly making its way by barge across Lake Manapōuri.

It was the first time a piece of generation equipment this size has travelled by barge across Manapōuri – items this large have previously used Deep Cove in Doubtful Sound and then been transported over Wilmot Pass.

Following the slow and scenic journey across Manapōuri, the transformer was delicately reversed down a two-kilometre road access tunnel into the cavernous machine hall.

“There were plenty of early starts and late finishes, but our Meridian team and suppliers have achieved an outstanding result for New Zealand’s electricity supply ahead of Winter ‘25,” says Meridian acting GM Generation Yanosh Irani.

“This has been months of work, planning, and coordination, and the specialist skills on display have been amazing – Meisters for barge operations, Move Logistics for transportation from Bluff to Supply Bay and then again at West Arm, and E-Type for fabricating and installing two unloading wedges for the delivery. A real – and world class – team effort.”

Manapōuri Power Station has been operating at reduced capacity for around two years, following the discovery of faults in two of its seven transformers, so the arrival of the first replacement transformer is a major milestone.

“We saw this winter just how important every single megawatt is, so this transformer has landed at a brilliant time,” says Yanosh Irani.

“Getting our biggest power station closer to full capacity will boost security of electricity supply next winter and, in the meantime, give us the ability to ease off generation in the Waitaki to help restore storage levels in Lake Pūkaki.”

The new transformer will increase generation capacity at Manapōuri from the current restricted limit of 640 MW to around 768 MW – close to the maximum 800 MW allowed under its consent conditions.

Work to commission it is expected to be completed by Christmas, and the second replacement transformer (along with a spare) is due to arrive in late 2025.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – Plan ahead this Halloween to avoid a fur-raising trip to the veterinary clinic
Source: NZ Veterinary Association

If you’re getting ready to host a Halloween party or expecting trick-or-treaters at your door tomorrow night, you should also be preparing for how you will keep your pets safe and well.

The New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) Te Pae Kīrihe is urging all pet owners to plan for Halloween, a time that can be stressful and potentially dangerous for our furry friends. NZVA Head of Veterinary Services (Companion Animals) Sally Cory says veterinarians often see an increase in dogs swallowing items they shouldn’t at Halloween, such as treats and chocolate. Some injuries may also result from pets being scared by noises and having more people in their environments than they are familiar with.

“When celebrated safely, Halloween can be a fun activity for the whole family, but we need to first ensure our pets are provided with a safe and calm environment,” she says. “For some cats and dogs, having people dressed up in costumes knocking on the front door can be particularly stressful and lead to increased anxiety in our pets. There is also always a risk they will escape.”

Other Halloween hazards include chocolate and sweets being more accessible to pets. Sally warns chocolate is toxic to dogs because it contains theobromine, an alkaloid that causes vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive panting, an abnormal heartbeat, seizures or even death. The darker the chocolate, the higher the risk. Xylitol, also known as wood sugar, birch sugar, or E967, is another one to watch out for as this sugar substitute can result in poisoning that is life-threatening to dogs. Raisins, even in small numbers, can cause toxicity issues in dogs causing damage to their kidneys. Wrappers may also cause obstructions in smaller dogs and cats and take care if you are displaying lanterns with candles in them as curious pets can knock them over, risking burns.

“Another issue is dressing pets up in Halloween costumes,” Sally says. “It may seem like a cute idea, but this is best avoided as costumes restrict an animal’s movement, hearing, breathing, barking or meowing, and can cause overheating and even restrict blood flow. Costumes should never cover the eyes, ears, or muzzle of a cat or a dog.”

To celebrate safely this Halloween, ensure pets are kept in a quiet room away from the front door and bring dogs inside for the night in case visitors accidentally leave a gate or door open. It is also essential cats and dogs are microchipped to ensure a quick reunion should a pet escape and go missing.

In an emergency veterinary situation outside of normal business hours, call your vet for further advice. If you are advised to go to an emergency service provider, you may be asked to ring ahead to let the vet team know you are coming. This helps prepare staff for your arrival.

Here are the NZVA’s top tips for animal safety this Halloween:

Keep sweet treats and wrappers away from your pets – especially chocolate or lollies containing xylitol/birch sugar.

Keep pets in a quiet room away from the front door.

Bring dogs inside for the night in case visitors accidentally leave a gate or door open.

Don’t dress animals up in costumes that restrict their movement, hearing, breathing, barking or meowing – no matter how cute they might look. Spend that time perfecting your own costume instead!

If you’re worried about your animal’s health this Halloween, contact your vet for advice.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence and Employment – Industrial action escalates as NZDF refuses to budge on zero pay rise

Source: PSA

The stubborn refusal of NZDF to lift pay for civilian workers will spark another round of industrial action by PSA members beginning next week.

Further bargaining for a new collective agreement has failed to budge NZDF from its zero-increase position. As a result, members have voted overwhelmingly to reject the offer and to escalate industrial action. The current industrial action legally must end on Thursday.

“NZDF is insulting the thousands of dedicated civilian workers who, like the men and women in uniform, are keeping our country safe from threats, but in the eyes of NZDF are second class citizens who don’t deserve a pay rise,” said Duane Leo, National Secretary for Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.

“This stubborn refusal to increase the zero-pay rise offer shows how little NZDF respects and values its civilian workers who like many are doing it tough in a cost-of-living crisis. It leaves our members with no choice but to send another strong message that this position is unacceptable.”

PSA members are already working to rule and refusing overtime and callouts (unless life preserving services as required). Members will now initiate further industrial action on top of this beginning 9am Thursday 6 November. Kauri Point (Auckland) members, who load and unload ships, will join them on 20 November. This may include a refusal to work in certain circumstances and an escalation of actions. The action ends on 31 January.

“NZDF doesn’t seem to care that its refusal to budge on pay for civilian staff will keep undermining morale. Workloads are already increasing through its current voluntary redundancy programme as it seeks to cut $30m from spending. Forced redundancies may also follow.

“All this will prompt more to consider leaving at a time when the Defence Force is facing critical worker shortages.

“The Government promised no impacts on the frontline from its spending cuts.

“Make no mistake, these cuts will impact the ability of NZDF to deliver on its stated mission to ‘secure the country against external threats’. There is nothing more frontline than that. We urge NZDF to reconsider,” said Duane Leo.

Previous statement

16 Sept: Industrial action looms as NZDF refuses pay rise for civilian workers

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: Key AI Accomplishments in the Year Since the Biden-⁠ Harris Administration’s Landmark Executive Order

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
One year ago, President Biden issued a landmark Executive Order to ensure that America leads the way in seizing the promise and managing the risks of artificial intelligence (AI). The Executive Order directed sweeping actions to manage AI’s safety and security risks, protect Americans’ privacy, advance equity and civil rights, stand up for consumers and workers, promote innovation and competition, advance American leadership around the world, and more.
Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is announcing that Federal agencies have completed on schedule each action that the Executive Order tasked for this past year—more than one hundred in all. Below are some of the Administration’s most significant accomplishments on managing AI’s risks and seizing its promise in the year since President Biden signed his Executive Order.
Managing Risks to Safety and Security:The Executive Order directed the boldest actions ever taken to protect Americans from a broad range of AI’s safety and security risks, including risks related to dangerous biological materials, software vulnerabilities, and foreign actors’ efforts to develop AI for harmful purposes. Over the last year, to protect safety and security, agencies have:
Used Defense Production Act authorities to require developers of the most powerful AI systems to report vital information, including results of safety and security testing, to the U.S. government. These companies have notified the Department of Commerce about the results of their red-team safety tests, their plans to train powerful models, and large computing clusters they possess capable of such training. Last month, the Department of Commerce proposed a rule to require the reporting of this information on a quarterly basis.
Led the way on AI safety testing and evaluations to advance the science of AI safety. The U.S. AI Safety Institute (US AISI) at the Department of Commerce has begun pre-deployment testing of major new AI models through recently signed agreements with two leading AI developers. The Department of Energy (DOE) developed and expanded its AI testbeds and evaluation tools, which it has already used to test models’ risk to nuclear security.
Developed guidance and tools for managing AI risk. The US AISI and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at the Department of Commerce published frameworks for managing risks related to generative AI and dual-use foundation models, and earlier this month, AISI released a Request for Information on the responsible development and use of AI models for chemical and biological sciences. The Department of Defense (DoD) released its Responsible AI toolkit to align AI projects with the Department’s Ethical Principles.
Issued a first-ever National Security Memorandum (NSM) on AI. The NSM directs concrete steps by Federal agencies to ensure the United States leads the world’s development of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI; to enable agencies to harness cutting-edge AI for national security objectives, including by protecting human rights and democratic values; and to advance international consensus and governance on AI. This essential document serves as a formal charter for the AI Safety Institute, designating it as the center of the whole-of-government approach to advanced AI model testing, and will guide rapid and responsible AI adoption by the DoD and Intelligence Community. The NSM also directs the creation of a Framework to Advance AI Governance and Risk Management in National Security, which provides agile guidance to implement the NSM in accordance with democratic values, including mechanisms for risk management, evaluations, accountability, and transparency.
Finalized a framework for nucleic acid synthesis screening to help prevent the misuse of AI for engineering dangerous biological materials. The framework, developed by the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), encourages nucleic acid synthesis providers to identify gene sequences that could be used to pose national security risks, and to implement customer screening to mitigate the risks of misuse. Federal agencies will require that funding recipients obtain synthetic nucleic acids from vendors that adhere to the framework, starting in 2025. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has developed an initial framework with principles for evaluating the effectiveness of screening mechanisms going forward.
Launched a new Task Force on AI Datacenter Infrastructure. The Task Force provides streamlined coordination on policies to advance datacenter development operations in line with economic, national security, and environmental goals.
Identified measures—including approaches for labeling content and improving transparency—to reduce the risks posed by AI-generated content. The Department of Commerce submitted to the White House a final report on science-backed standards and techniques for addressing these risks, while NIST has launched a challenge to develop methods for detecting AI-generated content. President Biden has emphasized that the public has a right to know when content is AI-generated, and agencies are working to use these tools to help Americans to know that communications they receive from their government are authentic.
Combatted AI-generated image-based sexual abuse. Image-based sexual abuse—both non-consensual intimate images of adults and child sexual abuse material—is one of the fastest growing harmful uses of AI to date and disproportionately targets women, children, and LGBTQI+ people. This year, following the Vice President’s leadership in underscoring the urgent need to address deepfake image-based sexual abuse and a White House Call to Action to reduce these risks, leading AI developers and data providers made voluntary commitments to curb the creation of AI-generated image-based sexual abuse material. Additionally, the Department of Justice (DOJ) funded the first-ever helpline to provide 24/7 support and specialized services for victims of the non-consensual distribution of intimate images, including deepfakes. The Department of Education also clarified that school responsibilities under Title IX may extend to conduct that takes place online, including AI-generated abuse.
Established the AI Safety and Security Board (AISSB) to advise the Secretary of Homeland Security on the safe and secure use of AI in critical infrastructure. The AISSB has met thrice this year to develop a set of recommendations for entities that develop, deploy, and promote accountability for AI systems that assist in delivering essential services to millions of Americans. The work of the AISSB complements DHS’s first-ever AI safety and security guidelines for critical infrastructure owners and operators, which were informed by agencies’ assessments of AI risks across all critical infrastructure sectors. To help protect critical infrastructure further, the Department of Treasury released a report on managing security risks of AI use in the financial sector, and the Department of Energy released an assessment of potential risks to the power grid, as well as ways in which AI could potentially strengthen grid resilience and our ability to respond to threats.
Piloted AI for protecting vital government software systems. The Department of Defense and DHS conducted AI pilots to address vulnerabilities in government networks used, respectively, for national security purposes and for civilian governmental organizations.
Standing up for Workers, Consumers, Privacy, and Civil RightsAI is changing the products and services Americans buy, affecting jobs and workplaces, and introducing or exacerbating risks to privacy, equity, and civil rights. President Biden’s Executive Order stands up for Americans in each of these domains, and over the last year, agencies have:
Developed bedrock principles and practices, along with guidance, to help protect and empower workers as AI is built for and used in the workplace. The Department of Labor (DOL) released AI Principles and Best Practices for employers and developers to build and use AI in ways that center the wellbeing of workers and improve the quality of jobs. DOL also published two guidance documents to assist federal contractors and employers in complying with worker protection laws as they deploy AI in the workplace. In addition, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission released resources for job seekers and workers to understand how AI use could violate employment discrimination laws.
Protected patients’ rights and safety, while encouraging innovation, as AI is developed and deployed for healthcare. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) established an AI Safety Program to track harmful incidents involving AI’s use in healthcare settings and to evaluate mitigations for those harms. HHS has also developed objectives, goals, and high-level principles for the use of AI or AI-enabled tools in drug development processes and AI-enabled devices. Additionally, HHS finalized a rule that established first-of-its-kind transparency requirements for AI and other predictive algorithms that are part of certified health information technology. HHS also finalized a civil rights regulation, implementing Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, that requires covered health care entities to take steps to identify and mitigate discrimination when they use AI and other forms of decision support tools for care.
Published guidance and resources for the safe, secure, and trustworthy design and use of AI in education. In July, the Department of Education released guidance calling up on educational technology developers to design AI in ways that protect rights, improve transparency, and center teaching and learning. This month, the Department of Education released a toolkit to support schools and educational leaders in responsibly adopting valuable AI use cases.
Issued guidance on AI’s nondiscriminatory use in the housing sector, which affirms that existing prohibitions against discrimination apply to AI’s use for tenant screening and housing advertisements, while explaining how to comply with these obligations. Additionally, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau approved a rule requiring that algorithms and AI used for home valuations are fair, nondiscriminatory, and free of conflicts of interest.
Set guardrails on the responsible and equitable use of AI and algorithmic systems in administering public benefits programs. The Department of Agriculture’s guidance provides a framework for how State, local, Tribal, and territorial governments should manage risks for uses of AI and automated systems in critical benefits programs such as SNAP, while HHS released a plan with guidelines on similar topics for benefits programs it oversees.
Affirmed commitments to prevent and address unlawful discrimination and other harms resulting from AI. DOJ’s Civil Rights Division convenes federal agency civil rights offices and senior government officials to foster AI and civil rights coordination. Five new agencies also joined a 2023 pledge to uphold America’s commitment to fairness, equality, and justice as new technologies like AI become more common in daily life.
Advanced privacy protections to safeguard Americans from privacy risks that AI creates or exacerbates. In particular, the National Science Foundation (NSF) and DOE established a research network dedicated to advancing the development, deployment, and scaling of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs), while NSF launched the $23 million initiative Privacy-preserving Data Sharing in Practice program to apply, mature, and scale PETs for specific use cases and establish testbeds to accelerate their adoption. Simultaneously, DOE launched a $68 million effort on AI for Science research, which includes efforts at multiple DOE National Laboratories and other institutions to advance PETs for scientific AI. The Department of Commerce also developed guidelines on evaluating differential privacy guarantees. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released a Request for Information (RFI) on issues related to federal agency collection, processing, maintenance, use, sharing, dissemination, and disposition of commercially available information containing personally identifiable information. OMB also released an RFI on how federal agencies’ privacy impact assessments may be more effective at mitigating privacy risks, including those that are further exacerbated by AI and other advances in technology and data capabilities.
Harnessing AI for GoodOver the last year, agencies have worked to seize AI’s enormous promise, including by collaborating with the private sector, promoting development and use of valuable AI use cases, and deepening the U.S. lead in AI innovation. To harness AI for good, agencies have:
Launched the National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) pilot and awarded over 150 research teams access to computational and other AI resources. The NAIRR pilot—a national infrastructure led by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in partnership with DOE and other governmental and nongovernmental partners—makes available resources to support the nation’s AI research and education community. Supported research teams span 34 states and tackle projects covering deepfake detection, AI safety, next-generation medical diagnoses, environmental protection, and materials engineering.
Promoted AI education and training across the United States. DOE is leveraging its network of national laboratories to train 500 new researchers by 2025 to meet demand for AI talent, while NSF has invested millions of dollars in programs to train future AI leaders and innovators. These programs include the EducateAI initiative, which helps fund educators creating high-quality, inclusive AI educational opportunities at the K-12 through undergraduate levels that support experiential learning in fields such as AI and build capacity in AI research at minority-serving institutions.
Expanded the ability of top AI scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to come to the United States, including by clarifying O-1 and H-1B visa rules and working to streamline visa processing.
Released a report on the potential benefits, risks, and implications of dual-use foundation models for which the model weights are widely available, including related policy recommendations. The Department of Commerce’s report draws on extensive outreach to experts and stakeholders, including hundreds of public comments submitted on this topic.
Announced a competition for up to $100 million to support the application of AI-enabled autonomous experimentation to accelerate research into—and delivery of—targeted, industry-relevant, sustainable semiconductor materials and processes.
Established two new National AI Research Institutes for building AI tools to advance progress across economic sectors, science, and engineering. The NSF-led AI Research Institutes launched in September will develop AI tools for astronomical sciences, with broader applications across scientific disciplines. Earlier this year, NSF also funded 10 inaugural Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines), seven of which include a focus on advancing AI.
Announced millions of dollars in further investments to advance responsible AI development and use throughout our society. These include $13 million invested by DOE in the VoltAIc initiative for using AI to streamline permitting and accelerate clean energy deployment, as well as $68M from DOE to fund AI for scientific research to accelerate scientific programming and develop energy efficient AI models and hardware. DOE has also launched the Frontiers in AI for Science, Security, and Technology (FASST) initiative roadmap and request for information to harness AI for scientific discovery, national security, energy and electric grid resilience, and other national challenges, building on AI tools, models, and partnerships. NSF, in partnership with philanthropy, announced an inaugural investment of more than $18 million to 44 multidisciplinary, multi-sector teams across the U.S. to advance the responsible design, development, and deployment of technologies including AI, ensuring ethical, legal, community, and societal considerations are embedded in the lifecycle of technology’s creation.
Issued a first-ever report analyzing AI’s near-term potential to support the growth of America’s clean energy economy. DOE’s National Laboratories also issued a long-term grand challenges report identifying opportunities in AI for energy over the next decade.
Released a vision for how AI can help us achieve our nation’s greatest aspirations. AI Aspirations sets forth goals to create a future of better health and opportunity for all, mitigate climate change and boost resilience, build robust infrastructure and manufacturing, ensure the government works for every American, and more. In furtherance of these goals, HHS launched CATALYST, a research and development program focused on the potential use of AI to better predict drug safety and efficacy before clinical trials start. In complement, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology also authored a report outlining AI’s potential to revolutionize and accelerate scientific discovery.
Published guidance addressing vital questions at the intersection of AI and intellectual property. To advance innovation the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has released guidance documents addressing the patentability of AI-assisted inventions, on the subject matter eligibility of patent claims involving inventions related to AI technology, and on the use of AI tools in proceedings before USPTO.
Bringing AI and AI Talent into GovernmentAI can help government deliver better results for the American people, though its use by Federal agencies can also pose risks, such as discrimination and unsafe decisions. Bringing AI and AI-enabling professionals into government, moreover, is vital for managing these risks and opportunities and advancing other critical AI missions. Over the last year, agencies have:
Issued the first-ever government-wide policy to strengthen governance, mitigate risks, and advance innovation in federal use of AI. OMB’s historic policy, M-24-10, requires agencies to implement concrete safeguards when using AI in a way that could impact Americans’ rights or safety. These safeguards include a series of mandatory risk management practices to reliably assess, test, and monitor AI’s impacts on the public and provide greater transparency into how the government uses AI. OMB’s policy also directs agencies to designate Chief AI Officers to coordinate the use of AI across their agency, while expanding and upskilling their AI workforce and removing barriers to adopting AI for all manner of purposes—from addressing climate change to advancing public health and safety.
Released a government-wide policy to advance responsible acquisition of AI by Federal agencies. M-24-18, published this month by OMB, helps ensure that when Federal agencies acquire AI, they have the information and tools necessary to manage risks, promote a competitive marketplace, and collaborate on strategic planning. This work directs the Federal government—the largest buyer in the U.S. economy—to advance AI innovation and risk management through responsibly exercising its purchasing power.
Hired over 250 AI practitioners into the Federal government through the AI Talent Surge. Tech talent programs ramped up hiring for AI talent, with the Presidential Innovation Fellows bringing on their first-ever AI cohort, DHS establishing their AI Corps with over 30 members onboarded to date, and the U.S. Digital Corps providing pathways for early-career technologists to join Federal service. AI talent has been instrumental in delivering on critical AI priorities, from using AI to deliver top-tier government services, to protecting the public’s rights and safety in the use of AI.
Established the Chief AI Officers Council to harmonize best practices and sharing of resources across the interagency to implement OMB’s guidance and coordinate the development and use of AI in agencies’ programs and operations.
Introduced expanded reporting instructions for the federal AI use case inventory to include identifying use cases that impact rights or safety and how the agency is addressing the relevant risks in line with OMB’s policies.
Bolstered the public interest technology ecosystem. Building on the AI Talent Surge, the White House announced funding across government, academia, and civil society to support education and career pathways that will help ensure government has access to diverse, mission-oriented technology talent.
Activated new hiring authorities to bring AI and AI-enabling talent into agencies. As part of the AI Talent Surge, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) granted new hiring authorities, including direct hire authorities and excepted service authorities, for agencies to rapidly bring on top-tier AI and AI-enabling talent, and released guidance on skills-based hiring and pay and leave flexibilities to best position agencies to hire and retain AI and AI-enabling talent. Additionally, OPM collaborated with partners to run three National Tech to Gov career fairs to connect the public with AI and tech jobs in government, surfacing roles from over 64 Federal, state, and local government employers to over 3,000 job seekers.
Advancing U.S. Leadership AbroadPresident Biden’s Executive Order directed work to lead global efforts to capture AI’s promise, mitigate AI’s risks, and ensure AI’s responsible governance. To advance these goals, the Administration has:
Sponsored and passed a landmark United Nations General Assembly resolution. The unanimously adopted resolution, with more than 100 co-sponsors (including the People’s Republic of China), lays out a common vision for countries around the world to promote the safe and secure use of AI to address global challenges.
Engaged foreign leaders on strengthening international rules and norms for AI, including at the 2023 UK AI Safety Summit and the AI Seoul Summit in May 2024, where Vice President Harris represented the United States. In the United Kingdom, Vice President Harris unveiled a series of U.S. initiatives to advance the safe and responsible use of AI, including the establishment of AISI at the Department of Commerce.
Announced a global network of AI Safety Institutes and other government-backed scientific offices to advance AI safety at a technical level. This network, which will formally launch in November at the inaugural network convening in San Francisco, will accelerate critical information exchange and drive toward common or compatible safety evaluations and policies.
Expanded global support for the U.S.-led Political Declaration on the Responsible Military Use of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy. Fifty-six nations now endorse the political declaration, which outlines a set of norms for the responsible development, deployment, and use of military AI capabilities. DoD has expanded the scope of its international AI Partnership for Defense to align global Responsible AI practices with the Political Declaration’s norms.
Developed comprehensive plans for U.S. engagement on global AI standards and AI-related critical infrastructure topics. NIST and DHS, respectively, will report on priority actions taken per these plans in 90 days.
Signed the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention on AI and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. This first multilateral treaty on AI represents a powerful affirmation of the relevance of existing human rights obligations to AI activities and establishes a strong baseline in international law for responsible government use of AI. The United States’ signature reflects its commitment to ensuring that AI technologies are designed, developed, used, and governed in ways that promote respect for human rights and democratic values.
Led the development of a Joint Statement on Responsible Government Practices for AI Technologies. The Joint Statement, to which the 41 countries of the Freedom Online Coalition committed, calls on governments to develop, use, and procure AI responsibly, including by respecting international obligations and commitments, assessing impacts of AI systems, conducting ongoing monitoring, ensuring adequate human training and assessment, communicating and responding to the public, and providing effective access to remedy.
Launched the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse. The 15-country Global Partnership has advanced international policies to address online safety, and spurred new programs to prevent and respond to technology-facilitated gender-based violence, including through AI.
The Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development published resources to advance global AI research and use of AI for economic development. The AI in Global Development Playbook incorporates principles and practices from NIST’s AI Risk Management Framework to guide AI’s responsible development and deployment across international contexts, while the Global AI Research Agenda outlines priorities for advancing AI’s safe, responsible, and sustainable global development and adoption.
The table below summarizes many of the activities that federal agencies have completed in response to the Executive Order.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: President Biden and Vice President Harris Announce New Actions and Investments to Advance Educational and Economic Opportunity for Latino Communities Across the Country

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Today, President Biden will ceremonially sign Executive Order (EO) 14124, establishing the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity Through Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), alongside nearly two dozen champions for these institutions and Latino communities. President Biden and Vice President Harris will also announce nearly $19 million in transformational investments for five HSIs in Florida, Illinois, Texas, and Puerto Rico to build research infrastructure. These efforts build on the Administration’s historic investment of over $16 billion in more than 500 HSIs across 30 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico that educate more than 4.7 million students annually.
Over the past three years, President Biden and Vice President Harris have taken historic actions to expand opportunity for Latino families and communities, including: creating more than 15 million jobs – with 5 million created for Latinos, helping Latino entrepreneurs start new businesses at the fastest rate in over 10 years, addressing our broken immigration system, and working to ensure equitable educational opportunity for students.
Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is announcing new actions to advance educational opportunities for students at HSIs and giving them a fair shot at achieving the American dream.
Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through HSIs
With student enrollment that is at least one-quarter Latino, HSIs are engines of economic mobility, propelling high numbers of students from low-income backgrounds and first-generation college students into good jobs and brighter futures. Today, President Biden will ceremonially sign EO 14124 to strengthen the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing opportunity for HSIs and the students they serve.
The EO creates a new Initiative and first-ever President’s Board of Advisors on HSIs to:
Increase awareness of opportunities for HSIs to equally participate in Federal programs and enhance the capacity of HSIs to meet the educational needs of their students.
Identify best practices for HSIs to scale effective strategies, programs, and initiatives to support the educational success and economic mobility of their students.
Improve the ability of HSIs to align program offerings with the economic needs of the Nation and their local economies, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and teaching.
Coordinate efforts to help HSIs become or remain fiscally secure institutions.
Foster cross-sector collaboration among HSIs and philanthropic, public, and private sector organizations.
Strengthen Federal recruitment activities at HSIs to build accessible and equal pathways into Federal career opportunities for HSI students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Provide tools, data, and analytics to support HSIs in improving educational equity, excellence, and economic opportunity for students.
Investing Additional $19 Million in Research Infrastructure at HSIs
To remain the most competitive economy in the world, the Nation’s most inclusive institutions of higher education must continue to lead in research and development. Yet too many HSIs report having unmet infrastructure needs that hold back their ability to engage in research that will propel forward these institutions, their students, and the nation as a whole.
To help address these needs, the Biden-Harris Administration established the Department of Education’s Research and Development Infrastructure Program (RDI) for the colleges and universities that play a central role in educating students from diverse backgrounds. The program provides funds to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs), and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs)—including HSIs— to implement transformational investments in research infrastructure, including research productivity, faculty expertise, graduate programs, physical infrastructure, human capital development, and partnerships leading to increases in external funding.
Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced nearly $19 million in new grants to five HSIs to build their research and physical infrastructure including—
Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida received $1.1 million.
National Louis University in Chicago, Illinois received $3 million.
Sam Houston State University in Houston, Texas received $5 million.
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi in Corpus Christi, Texas received $4.7 million.
University of Puerto Rico on the Rio Piedras Campus received $5 million.
The $19 million in grants to HSIs was a part of $49 million in RDI grants to 13 HBCUs, TCCUs, and MSIs.
Building on Historic Investments in HSIs
Today’s announcements build on President Biden and Vice President Harris’ historic investments of over $16 billion in direct funding to HSIs, including through COVID relief funds and the Department of Education’s federal grant program funds.
The chart below provides a state-by-state breakdown of funding to date.
State
Total Funds Received by HSIs in the State
AR
$11,356,918
AZ
$739,602,657
CA
$6,389,050,269
CO
$290,670,467
CT
$81,522,902
DC
$10,396,350
FL
$1,524,890,025
GA
$96,526,460
ID
$12,477,969
IL
$664,298,648
IN
$20,049,711
KS
$20,869,761
MA
$110,295,475
MD
$68,836,836
MN
$12,999,876
NC
$10,750,057
NE
$1,211,270
NJ
$582,987,076
NM
$399,198,109
NV
$336,899,054
NY
$327,800,182
OH
$875,529
OK
$9,372,922
OR
$58,864,009
PA
$66,357,824
PR
$1,135,872,342
RI
$48,066,707
TN
$7,383,933
TX
$3,433,719,411
VA
$14,730,892
WA
$124,035,244
WI
$23,119,648
Grand Total
$16,635,088,533

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Wildlife triumph – orphaned cassowary chick returned to wild
Source: Government of Queensland

Issued: 30 Oct 2024

Open larger image

The healthy juvenile weighed around 28kg when released.

Open larger image

The stripey weighed around 1kg when taken into care.

In a heartwarming tale of survival and conservation, an orphaned cassowary chick that was raised in captivity for almost a year has been returned to the wild.

The juvenile cassowary was found near its father who was killed by a car near Bramston Beach in November 2023.

When the chick was rescued and taken to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation’s Garners Beach Cassowary Rehabilitation Facility, it only weighed one kilogram.

The bird required diligent care, including handfeeding before being moved into a vegetated enclosure that ensured minimal human contact.

Over 11 months of nurturing, members of the conservation group C4 (the Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation) and departmental wildlife officers continuously monitored the bird’s growth and development.

In the enclosure, strategic food placement in different locations meant the chick learned to forage for food, developed its wild instincts and grew into a healthy, juvenile bird.

A recent veterinary assessment by Tropical Vets showed the juvenile cassowary weighed a robust 28 kilograms and was ready to be released back into the rainforest.

Wildlife officers chose a release site near Bramston Beach well away from potential dangers posed by roads or human activity.

Senior Wildlife Officer Alex Diczbalis said the release was a significant success in the ongoing efforts to conserve Queensland’s endangered populations of southern cassowaries.

“This cassowary’s journey from rescue to release embodies the dedication of everyone who was involved in raising it from a stripey to a juvenile,” Mr Diczbalis said.

“It showcases the vital importance of collaboration between the department, community groups and local vets.

“The release of this bird coincided with the age at which a young cassowary would typically leave its father’s side and begin to live independently.

“It was a wonderful moment, and those involved expressed their immense pride and joy over the successful transition of this iconic bird from care to the wild.

“The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service would like to thank the team at C4 and Tropical Vets for their assistance.

“Every cassowary is precious and that’s why we ask people in cassowary country to slow down, restrain their dogs and never feed them.”

The southern cassowary is considered endangered, and its population is limited to rainforest areas of the Wet Tropics and on Cape York Peninsula. Cassowary sightings can be reported to DESI by calling 1300 130 372.

Cassowaries can inflict serious injuries to people and pets by kicking out with their large, clawed feet. People are asked to Be Cass-o-wary at all times in the Wet Tropics.
- Never approach cassowaries.
- Never approach chicks – male cassowaries will defend them.
- Never feed cassowaries – it is illegal, dangerous and has caused cassowary deaths.
- Always discard food scraps in closed bins and ensure compost bins have secure lids.
- Slow down when driving in cassowary habitat.
- Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road.
- Keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.
MIL OSI News –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Business – Welcoming Steve Nadin: A New Era in Functional Consulting at Brainstorm

Source: Brainstorm

Brainstorm is excited to welcome Steve Nadin as its Functional Consultant. With a diverse background in supply chain management and consulting, Steve brings a wealth of experience to the team.

Steve grew up in Nottingham, England, before making the move to Australia in 1991. Family is a big part of his life—he and his ex-wife have 4 children and 11 grandchildren, with one more on the way in February 2025. Steve recently celebrated another exciting milestone, marrying his partner of 9 years, who also has 4 grown-up children and 4 grandchildren. Together, they have built a rich, blended family.

Reflecting on this chapter of his life, Steve shares, “My family means the world to me, and it’s been a beautiful journey blending our lives together. We have a large, vibrant family, and I’m excited about welcoming our newest grandchild next year.”

Steve’s career began at Boots the Chemists, a major UK manufacturing and pharmaceutical retailer, where he spent 14 years in various roles across Accounting, Logistics, and Supply Chain. After relocating to Australia, Steve continued to excel in operational and supply chain management roles, eventually launching his own business improvement consultancy in 2011. Unfortunately, the business was impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, leading Steve to shift gears.

In 2021, he joined SMC as a Senior Consultant, where he helped businesses enhance their operations and navigate digital transformation. His success at SMC led to his promotion to Consulting Manager in 2023, where he played a key role in driving innovation and efficiency for a variety of clients.

Steve first connected with Brainstorm at the CEMAT exhibition in 2024, where he was drawn to the company’s dynamic growth and future potential. “Meeting with Evelyn at the CEMAT exhibition was a turning point for me,” he explains. “Brainstorm’s vision and the direction it’s headed in really sparked my interest. It’s a company that’s truly on the rise, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that.”

Now, as Brainstorm’s Functional Consultant, Steve is eager to contribute his wealth of experience in supply chain management and operational improvement. While his role is still evolving, he is excited about the journey ahead and looks forward to helping Brainstorm continue its impressive trajectory.

Reflecting on Career Milestones, two standout moments in Steve’s career include developing a distribution network in the U.S. for an Australian celebrity chef and managing the setup of a large 28,000m² greenfield warehouse in Melbourne. From board approval to go-live, Steve ensured the project was delivered on time and within budget—a feat that he still looks back on with pride.

“I’m particularly proud of the Melbourne warehouse project,” he recalls. “It was a massive undertaking, but it came together seamlessly. To see everything work out exactly as planned was incredibly rewarding.”

Steve is looking forward to making a significant impact at Brainstorm, and the team is equally excited to have him on board.

BrainStorm is a software company that specialises in two areas. They help distribution and manufacturing businesses get their ERP technology in order, and help scaling businesses implement and integrate their software systems.

They do what they do because there’s too much off the shelf software that doesn’t actually solve the business problems that they’re intended to. BrainStorm has saved their customers over $150million dollars in the past year.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: GAZA – Israeli UNRWA ban will deepen Palestinian humanitarian catastrophe – MSF

Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

30 October, 2024. The Israeli Knesset’s ban on UNRWA’s operations voted on 28 October represents a devastating blow to Palestinian life. It will further undermine people’s survival prospects in Gaza and heavily impact communities in the West Bank.

Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) denounces this legislation, which represents an inhumane ban on vital humanitarian aid. The Knesset’s vote is propelling Palestinians towards an even deeper humanitarian crisis. It is imperative that the world acts to safeguard Palestinians’ fundamental rights. Immediate international intervention is needed to pressure Israel to allow unhindered access to humanitarian aid, implement a ceasefire and bring to an end the current campaign of destruction in Gaza.

“UNRWA is a lifeline for Palestinians,” says Christopher Lockyear, MSF Secretary General. “If implemented, the ban on UNRWA’s activities would have catastrophic implications on the dire humanitarian situation of Palestinians living in Gaza, as well as in the West Bank, now and for generations to come. We strongly condemn this decision, which is the culmination of a long-running campaign against the organisation.”

The newly voted legislation will make it almost impossible for UNRWA to work in Gaza or the West Bank; coordination with Israeli authorities will be impeded and entrance permits to either of the occupied territories will be denied, and essentially blocking delivery of UNRWA aid into and within Gaza. UNRWA handles almost all the distribution of UN aid coming into the strip.

UNRWA is the largest health provider in Gaza, with over half of Gazans relying on UNWRA for essential healthcare services, including for the treatment of chronic diseases, maternal and child heath, and vaccinations; each day UNWRA’s health teams provide over 15,000 consultations in the Gaza Strip. The ban of its activities threatens to create a vast gap in services within an already largely destroyed health system in Gaza – directly and indirectly endangering the lives of Palestinians. Without urgent action, more Gazans could die from preventable diseases and displacement-related conditions.

The impact of UNRWA’s ban will extend beyond Gaza. Critical services, including refugee camp management, health services, education, and social programmes across the West Bank are also at risk of destabilisation under this legislation. This legislation sets a grave precedent for other conflict situations where governments may wish to eliminate an inconvenient United Nations presence.

For months, international leaders and organisations, including MSF, have raised warnings about the disastrous potential of these newly adopted bills. Yet Israel has chosen to press forward with measures that will undermine vital assistance, endangering Palestinian lives and intensifying the collective punishment they face.

This vote adds to the endless physical and bureaucratic impediments imposed by Israel to limit the amount of aid reaching Gaza, and blatantly contradicts Israel’s claims that it is facilitating humanitarian assistance into the Strip.

MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: XRL popular among passengers

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

In the first nine months of 2024, the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL) Hong Kong Section recorded an average daily patronage of about 70,000 passenger trips, Secretary for Transport & Logistics Lam Sai-hung said today.

Responding to questions from lawmaker Yiu Pak-leung in the Legislative Council, Mr Lam said the services of the XRL Hong Kong Section have been popular among passengers, adding that the total number of passenger trips in the first nine months this year is approaching the annual total of approximately 20 million passenger trips in 2023.

According to the ticket sales provided by the MTR Corporation (MTRC), for short-haul destinations, more than 60% of short-haul passengers are destined for stations in Shenzhen, i.e. Futian and Shenzhenbei.

Nearly 30% are destined for Guangzhoudong and Guangzhounan, while less than 10% travel to the remaining short-haul destinations, i.e. Guangmingcheng, Humen, Qingsheng, Dongguannan, Changping and Dongguan.

Regarding the proposal of introducing Xintang Station – located at the core of the new development area in the eastern part of Guangzhou – as a directly connected destination to the XRL Hong Kong Section, Mr Lam said the MTRC and the Mainland railway authorities are actively looking into the matter, with a view to offering passengers a more convenient and comfortable travel experience, while facilitating the flow of people between the two places.

The transport chief also pointed out that a sleeper train service between Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and Beijingxi Station/Shanghai Hongqiao Station was introduced on the XRL Hong Kong Section on June 15, with trains departing in the evening and arriving the following morning.

This arrangement was an upgrade of the original ordinary-speed train service between the Hong Kong Hung Hom Station and Beijing/Shanghai, and reduced the journey time by almost half, he said.

Mr Lam noted that the sleeper train service to Beijing and Shanghai was further upgraded in October, by deploying Fuxing high-speed sleeper trains to serve passengers, along with adjustments to routes and departure times.

In addition, he said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the MTRC have been actively observing the development of the Mainland’s high-speed rail network and striving to further introduce destinations directly connected to the XRL Hong Kong Section, so as to provide passengers with more diversified options and services.

Regarding the western region of the Mainland, direct train services are currently available at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, serving stations such as Chengdudong, Chongqing and Kunming.

As for the introduction of direct sleeper trains to those destinations, he said various considerations and the arrangement of different railway authorities are involved.

The Hong Kong SAR Government and the MTRC will maintain liaison and co-ordination with the Mainland railway authorities and relevant departments to explore feasible options for further enhancing the service of the XRL Hong Kong Section, Mr Lam added.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Protecting the rights and interests of consumers

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by Professor the Hon Priscilla Leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):

Question:

     It has been reported that a chain fitness and beauty group suddenly announced its “temporary business suspension” last month. As at the middle of last month, the Consumer Council received a total of 3 861 relevant complaints, involving a total amount of nearly $130 million, with an average amount of about $33,000 per case, and the largest amount involved in a single complaint was about $1.81 million. Regarding protecting the rights and interests of consumers, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it will re-activate the legislative exercise to stipulate a statutory cooling-off period for beauty and fitness services consumer contracts; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) whether it will consider establishing new industry rules for the beauty and fitness industries, so as to protect the rights and interests of consumers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

(3) whether it will consider setting up an interdepartmental task force to roll out publicity and education programmes (especially targeting underprivileged groups such as poor elders), so as to help members of the public become smart consumers and avoid suffering losses; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

     The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is highly concerned about the recent incident involving the temporary business suspension suddenly announced by a chain fitness and beauty group, and has formed an inter-departmental dedicated investigation team to follow up. The dedicated investigation team, which comprises the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Security Bureau, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED), the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) and the Consumer Council (Council), continues to closely monitor the developments of the incident. In particular, the C&ED and the Police are conducting intensive investigation from the perspectives of offences regarding the unfair trade practices under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362) (the Ordinance) and whether other criminal offences are involved respectively.

     The reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:

(1) and (2) In view of the unfair trade practices involving prepaid mode of consumption (in particular the situation of fitness centres and beauty parlours using aggressive tactics to sell services that involve large amount of prepayments), the Government conducted a three-month public consultation in 2019 to solicit views on the proposal to stipulate a statutory cooling-off period for beauty and fitness services consumer contracts through legislation. However, shortly after the public consultation, there have been drastic changes in the social environment, economic situation and consumption sentiment since the second half of 2019.

     We are aware that different sectors of the community have put forward various suggestions in respect of offering better protection to consumers who make prepayments (including stipulating a statutory cooling-off period, imposing a cap on the length of prepayment contracts and prepayment amounts, and setting up trust accounts), after this incident of the chain fitness and beauty group announcing temporary business suspension. We will conduct an in-depth study into different suggestions and consider their pros and cons and feasibility, with reference to the experience of this incident, other relevant factors (including the economic environment, the operating situation of relevant industries and relevant complaint and enforcement statistics) and the experience in other jurisdictions, with a view to formulating appropriate strategies to strengthen the protection of consumers’ rights and interests.

(3) Currently, various laws in Hong Kong protect consumers’ rights and interests. Among others, the Ordinance covers goods and services, and prohibits traders from subjecting consumers to unfair trade practices, including false trade descriptions, misleading omissions, aggressive commercial practices, bait advertising, bait-and-switch and wrongly accepting payment. The Ordinance is applicable to the trade practices of both physical and online traders.

     The C&ED is the principal enforcement agency of the Ordinance, and adopts a three-pronged approach, covering enforcement actions, compliance promotion and publicity and public education, to combat unfair trade practices proactively. Meanwhile, the Council endeavours to study and promote the protection of consumers’ rights and interests, and carries out its statutory functions in accordance with the Consumer Council Ordinance (Cap. 216), including handling complaints from consumers and resolving disputes between consumers and traders.

     The C&ED and the Council have been maintaining close communication with each other, and have been collaborating with other government departments and social service organisations, etc, to jointly promote the protection of the rights and interests of consumers (including the elderly and other vulnerable groups). They also adjust and strengthen the strategies and work in respect of publicity and public education, having regard to the complaints and the enforcement situation. Among others, the relevant publicity and public education work includes:

(i) Conducting talks and workshops for the elderly and other vulnerable groups (and their family members and carers), with a view to enhancing their understanding of common unfair trade practices and sharing with them tips about “smart consumption”, so as to prevent them from falling into sales pitfalls.

     In particular, targeting common unfair trade practices, the C&ED conducts talks for the elderly and joins hands with the Police, District Councils and District Fight Crime Committees to carry out promotion by distributing promotional leaflets to the elderly, with a view to enhancing the elderly’s understanding of the Ordinance and awareness of “smart consumption”.

(ii) Conducting dedicated educational programmes to enhance the capability of the elderly and other vulnerable groups to guard against unfair trade practices.

     In particular, the Council conducts the Educator Scheme for Senior Citizens, which provides consumer education training to soon-to-be retirees and retirees so as to equip them to host consumer educational talks for other elderly in the community. The Council’s Support Programme for Persons with Special Needs, through virtual reality role-play simulations that cover different scenarios (for example those about the sales pitfalls of fitness and beauty centres), allows persons with special needs to better grasp the skills for guarding against common sales pitfalls.

(iii) Disseminating consumer information to facilitate consumers to make informed consumption decisions.

     In particular, the Council publishes product tests, service surveys, consumption tips and complaint case sharing, etc, in its CHOICE magazine, providing practical consumer information to different groups of consumers (including the elderly and other vulnerable groups).

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – BRITVIC PLC – Ordinary Shares

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FORM 8.3

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

KEY INFORMATION

(a)

Full name of discloser:

Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.

(b)

Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.

(c)

Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree

Britvic 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

29 October 2024

(f)

In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”

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:

20p ordinary (GB00B0N8QD54)

Interests

Short Positions

Number

(1)

Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:

5,597,788

2.25 %

(2)

Cash-settled derivatives:

(3)

Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:

Total

5,597,788 *

2.25 %

* Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 21,866 shares that are included in the total above.

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

(b)

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

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:

Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

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

20p ordinary (GB00B0N8QD54)

Sale

2,894

12.8084 GBP

There was a Transfer In of 23,704 shares of 20p ordinary

(b)

Cash-settled derivative transactions

Class of relevant security

Product description e.g. CFD

Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position

Number of reference securities

Price per unit

(c)

Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

(i)

Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security

Product description e.g. call option

Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc.

Number of securities to which option relates

Exercise price per unit

Type e.g. American, European etc.

Expiry date

Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii)

Exercise

Class of relevant security

Product description e.g. call option

Exercising/ exercised against

Number of securities

Exercise price per unit

(d)

Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security

Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion

Details

Price per unit (if applicable)

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?

Date of disclosure

30 October 2024

Contact name

Thomas Hone

Telephone number

+44 20 3033 3419

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

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

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

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two social landlords fail to meet RSH’s consumer standards

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The Regulator of Social Housing has today published regulatory judgements for seven social housing landlords.

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and Willow Tree Housing Partnership were both given a C3 grading by RSH, meaning they failed to meet the new consumer standards, introduced on 1 April 2024, and will need to make significant improvements.

Meanwhile Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council became the first local authority to receive a C1 grading.

Following responsive engagement with Sandwell MBC about the Safety and Quality Standard due to its Tenant Satisfaction Measure (TSM) return, RSH found:

The council was only able to evidence that required asbestos management surveys or re-inspections had been carried out on around 2% of relevant buildings.
Although electrical safety inspections had been completed for 96% of its 27,900 homes, the council was unable to monitor or report on the completion of remedial actions.
A backlog of more than 14,000 overdue repairs, with over 90% of these yet to be assigned for completion.
Accurate, up-to-date information was available for only 5% of the council’s homes.

Following an inspection completed in October 2024 and earlier responsive engagement carried out following a self-referral from Willow Tree relating to the Rent Standard, RSH found:

Around 185 tenancies had been overcharged as a result of errors made in setting rents over a prolonged period.
Limited information on the quality of its homes to assure us that they were meeting the Decent Homes Standard.
Improvement is needed to more proactively identify and manage of damp and mould.
Evidence of weaknesses in the provision of an effective, efficient and timely repairs service.

Willow Tree has now corrected its formula rents and has issued refunds worth £133k over the last six years.

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

Improving data management can help address the root cause of many of the issues we see. Without accurate, up-to-date information on homes, it is nearly impossible to deliver the outcomes of our standards and provide safe, decent places to live for tenants.

Today’s judgements reflect the range of grades we are seeing across the spectrum in the early days of our new consumer remit. We are working intensively with each of the landlords where there are failings, as they put things right for their tenants.

Even when a landlord has been awarded a C1 grading, there is always room for improvement.

Our governance and financial viability standards remain as important as ever. Landlords need to keep a tight grip on identifying and mitigating risks to avoid problems now and later down the line.

The other five judgements were part of RSH’s planned inspections of all large social landlords (those with over 1,000 homes) over a four-year cycle.

Provider	Reason for publication	Grades
Broadacres Housing Association Limited	Inspection	C2 G2 V2
Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust	Inspection	C2 G1 V2 – Issues relating to rent setting have not yet been addressed
Lincolnshire Housing Partnership Limited	Inspection	C2 G1 V2
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council	Responsive engagement	C3
The Industrial Dwellings Society (1885) Limited	Inspection	C2 G2 V2
Willow Tree Housing Partnership Limited	Inspection and responsive engagement	C3 G2 V2
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council	Inspection	C1

Notes to editors

On 1 April 2024 RSH introduced new consumer standards for social housing landlords, designed to drive long-term improvements in the sector. It also began a programme of landlord inspections. The changes are a result of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023 and include stronger powers to hold landlords to account. More information about RSH’s approach is available in its document Reshaping Consumer Regulation.
More information about RSH’s responsive engagement, programmed inspections and consumer gradings is also available on its website.
RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.

Published 30 October 2024

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: About two thousand engineering structures were washed in Moscow ahead of winter

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

In anticipation of winter, specialists from the city services complex washed the engineering structures. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

“Before the onset of stable negative air temperatures, large-scale work was carried out to flush engineering structures. In total, about two thousand objects were put in order – bridges, tunnels, underground and overground pedestrian crossings, embankments, piers, fountains and monuments,” said Pyotr Biryukov.

The work included cleaning and washing of structural elements, concrete, metal and glass surfaces, railings and stairways.

Each structure is washed using a special technology with neutral solutions that do not damage the surface. Special attention is paid to small parts of monuments and fountains, which are cleaned manually. Alkaline solutions are chosen for washing tunnels and bridges.

About two thousand workers and over 250 units of equipment, including aerial platforms, watering machines and tunnel washing machines, were involved in washing the engineering structures.

The city’s outdoor lighting system has been switched to winter mode Heating systems in Moscow have been switched to winter mode

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

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

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145959073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ13: Promoting students’ physical and mental health

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

LCQ13: Promoting students’ physical and mental health
LCQ13: Promoting students’ physical and mental health
*****************************************************

Following is a question by Dr the Hon Hoey Simon Lee and a written reply by the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, in the Legislative Council today (October 30): Question: Last year, the Ministry of Education issued the Special Action Plan for Comprehensively Strengthening and Improving the Mental Health Education for Students in the New Era (2023-2025), pointing out that promoting the physical and mental health and all-round development of students is an important issue. However, there are views pointing out that a number of student suicide cases were reported in Hong Kong at the beginning of the school year in September this year, highlighting the critical situation of students’ mental health and the need for the Government to strengthen the co-operation among schools, families and the community in order to establish a more comprehensive support system. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) whether it will review afresh the Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism implemented in December last year in order to strengthen the assistance to schools in early identifying students with higher suicidal risk and providing them with appropriate support expeditiously; (2) whether it will formulate quantifiable guidelines (e.g. setting maximum daily homework load) based on the four elements (i.e. Rest, Relaxation, Relationship and Resilience) and the objectives for promoting mental health covered in the Education Bureau’s 4Rs Mental Health Charter to enable schools to take practical actions to reduce student stress; (3) whether it will further implement small class teaching and improve the teacher-student ratios so as to increase the level of student participation and the opportunities for teacher-student interaction, so that teachers can better understand the individual needs and challenges of each student, thereby enhancing the care and counselling for individual students; (4) whether it will improve the resources for life-wide learning so that schools can be more flexible in applying them to help students achieve the aims of whole-person development; (5) whether it will strengthen the comprehensive implementation of positive education and the establishment of a caring school culture, so as to enhance the sense of well-being in schools; and (6) as some studies have pointed out that the emotional stress of teachers and parents positively correlates with the depression level of students, whether the authorities will introduce various activities and measures (e.g. streamlining the administrative work of schools) at the level of teachers and parents to relieve their emotional stress, so as to prevent their negative emotions from affecting students? Reply: President, The Education Bureau (EDB) attaches great importance to physical and psychological well-being and whole-person development of students, and has been assisting schools in adopting the Whole School Approach at three levels, namely Universal, Selective and Indicated, to promote students’ mental health. Our reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Hoey Simon Lee is as follows: (1) The Government has implemented the Three-tier School-based Emergency Mechanism in all secondary schools in Hong Kong since December 2023 through cross-departmental collaboration among the EDB, the Social Welfare Department and the Health Bureau, working with the schools’ multidisciplinary teams, the off-campus support network and medical services for early identification and support of students with high risk. The 2024 Policy Address has announced to extend the Mechanism to the end of 2025 and that enhancement would be made to strengthen collaboration. The Government will continue to review the operation of the Mechanism. (2) The EDB implements the 4Rs Mental Health Charter in 2024 to foster the mental health of students, staff and parents in a more holistic manner. It is pleased to see that over 500 schools have joined the Charter. In the relevant circular memorandum, the EDB has set out the action pledges that participating schools have to achieve in relation to the four elements for promoting mental health (i.e. rest, relaxation, relationship and resilience). Schools are also required to implement various measures and organise activities for the promotion of students’ mental health starting from this school year to help students develop healthy living habits and positive interpersonal relationships, provide them with more opportunities to relax and reduce stress, and enhance their sense of well-being and resilience. In particular, schools should formulate an appropriate school-based assignment policy and co-ordinate the workload across different subjects to strike a balance between the quality and quantity of assignments. (3) It is an established government policy to implement small class teaching (SCT) in public sector primary schools. SCT is a teaching strategy that provides teachers with an environment conducive to greater flexibility in adopting different teaching strategies for diversified educational activities and promoting teacher-student and student-student interactions. Currently, over 90 per cent of public sector primary schools in Hong Kong have implemented SCT, achieving the target set in the 2022 Policy Address one year ahead of schedule. The EDB has also arranged nine schools to start implementing SCT in the 2025/26 school year. By then, the percentage of public sector primary schools implementing SCT will increase to nearly 95 per cent. The EDB will continue to prudently assess the circumstances of individual districts/school nets and maintain communication with schools to pragmatically and flexibly advance SCT in public sector primary schools as soon as possible. The current standard class size of 25 for primary schools implementing SCT is smaller when compared to the average class size in some advanced places. For secondary schools, the current allocation class size of public sector secondary schools ranges from 31 to 34, while the actual average class size is just 27.1, which is comparable to those in other developed countries. With the implementation of various measures, the overall teacher-to-student ratios in public sector primary and secondary schools have been improving from 1:14.4 and 1:14.5 respectively in the 2012/13 school year to 1:11.9 and 1:11.1 respectively in the 2023/24 school year, which are better than those in most other regions, providing teachers with greater flexibility to nurture students’ whole-person development. (4) The EDB has been proactively encouraging schools to promote students’ life-wide learning in and outside the classroom. Starting from the 2019/20 school year, the EDB has been providing a recurrent Life-wide Learning Grant (the Grant) to all public sector schools and schools under the Direct Subsidy Scheme each year, with the aim of supporting schools in organising more out-of-classroom experiential learning activities and procuring the necessary equipment, so as to enrich the learning experiences of students. In view of the latest education development and students’ needs, the EDB issued a circular in September this year to update the ambit and guidelines on the use of the Grant, related examples, etc, which includes encouraging schools to make good use of the Grant to organise activities relating to the promotion of students’ mental health, or procure related services, materials and learning and teaching resources. (5) The EDB has all along been encouraging schools to promote positive education and help students face challenges positively. In terms of curriculum, the EDB strives to nurture students with a positive and optimistic attitude towards life through values education. The Values Education Curriculum Framework (Pilot Version) released in 2021 has included “strengthening life education” as one of its emphases, with continuous support given to schools to foster students’ positivity and a positive and optimistic attitude towards life through learning as well as life-wide learning activities within and beyond the classroom. In addition, diversified student activities have been organised to help create a caring and harmonious campus atmosphere. Examples of such include the launch of the “Active Students, Active People” Campaign” to support schools in promoting physical activities; the organisation of Understanding Adolescent Project in primary schools, the Enhanced Smart Teen Project in secondary schools in collaboration with disciplinary forces and uniform groups, and the Pupil Ambassador Scheme on Positive Living to enhance students’ resilience through adventure-based, team-building and problem-solving training; and the “WE” Positive Dynamic Scheme and the “Gratitude, Forgiveness & Happiness Project” to help students build a positive self-image. Besides, the EDB has been organising the “Caring School Award Scheme” annually to recognise schools that are dedicated to implementing caring school measures, and encourage them to establish a caring school culture. (6) In parallel, the EDB also concern about the mental health of teachers and parents. In this regard, the EDB has set up the Teachers’ Helpline to provide telephone counselling and follow-up services to help teachers cope with stress at work or emotional problems. There are also courses on stress management and promotion of physical and psychological well-being for teachers organised under the Teachers’ Helpline initiative. Over the past few years, the Quality Education Fund has subsidised various projects relating to teachers’ physical and psychological well-being, such as the Mindshift Educational Networking Programme launched by the University of Hong Kong to help teachers learn how to relieve stress. In the 2023/24 school year, the EDB organised a total of 48 workshops and courses for teachers, covering topics such as mental health, expressive arts, mindfulness and physical health. The EDB will continue to organise such workshops and courses for teachers. The EDB has implemented various new initiatives in recent years to allocate additional manpower and resources to support teachers’ work continuously. Examples of the related measures include increasing the teacher-to-class ratio for public sector schools by 0.1 across-the-board starting from the 2017/18 school year to enhance their teaching manpower; providing additional regular teaching posts for schools; providing cash grants for schools to hire additional teaching and non-teaching staff; and implementing the “One Executive Officer for Each School” policy starting from the 2019/20 school year so as to reduce the administrative work of teachers, thereby creating more room for them. For parents, the EDB has been implementing the territory-wide Positive Parent Campaign since 2020 to foster parents’ positive thinking and attitudes. The focus of the Positive Parent Campaign this year is to encourage parents and children to develop a healthy lifestyle together, and help parents take good care of the physical and psychological well-being of themselves and their children. In addition, the EDB has introduced the Curriculum Frameworks on Parent Education for kindergartens, primary schools and secondary schools respectively, providing reference for schools and other organisations in designing parent education programmes or activities, and one of the four core strands of the Curriculum Frameworks is “Promotion of Parents’ Physical and Psychological Well-being”. Starting from the 2022/23 school year, the EDB has been organising parent education courses and talks for parents of kindergarten and primary school students based on the Curriculum Frameworks. The themes include how to help children cope with stress, and exercising empathy to help children understand, express and regulate their emotions. Meanwhile, the EDB has all along been making use of the one-stop parent education website “Smart Parent Net” to provide information on positive parenting, emotional management of parents, etc. In the 2024/25 school year, the EDB will organise more thematic parent education programmes, and promote positive parent education and enhance parents’ awareness of children’s mental health through diversified modes such as district-based film gala presentations.

Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 17:35

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Detectives investigating the deaths of two men in Herne Hill are appealing for witnesses

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives investigating the deaths of two men in Herne Hill are appealing for witnesses to come forward. 

Two years ago, on Sunday, 30 October 2022, 23-year-old Guilherme Messias Da Silva and 27-year-old Lemar Urqhart died on Railton Road, Brixton. 

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who leads the investigation, said: “It has been two years since this shocking incident and our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Guilherme and Lemar.

“My team is working tirelessly to identify those responsible for their deaths and to get justice for the families. I am extremely grateful to those individuals who have already come forward to share information, but would urge anyone else who has information and has not yet spoken to us to come forward. No piece of information is too small.”

Police were called at about 19:50hrs on Sunday, 30 October 2022 to reports of gunshots heard in the Railton Road area. 

Officers, including firearms officers, immediately attended the scene along London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance. 

Despite the efforts of emergency services, both Guilherme and Lemar were found injured at the location and pronounced dead at the scene. 

Detectives believe two cars were driving in the Railton Road area when one of the cars was in collision with Guilherme’s moped before further colliding with parked vehicles. 

Lemar then got out of one of the cars involved in the collision and was pursued by a man, armed with a firearm. The man shot Lemar and returned to his car before leaving the scene. 

Lemar Urqhart’s family statement said: “Two years since our son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend was tragically taken from us. Whoever said time is a healer, lied. The pain is unbearable & life will never be the same. Lemar was an integral part of the family and his death has rocked our family to the core. Every day we hope that new information is given to aid the arrest of the person/s who did this. We plead with anyone who has information to please come forward. Any information could be vital. Our family would be forever grateful to anyone who could help.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information should call police via 101 quoting CAD 6166/30Oct. Alternatively, speak to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. They will not trace your call or your IP address. 

Information can also be submitted via the Public Portal.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025

Category: Transport

In the same language with the IT sphere

Creativity and self-realization

Documents

Order dated October 23, 2024 No. 2971-r

Order dated October 29, 2024 No. 3054-r

Comment

Source: NZ Veterinary Association

Source: PSA

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