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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joy as ambitious and caring school maintains high standards

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    They visited Green Park at the end of April and, in their report published recently, found that staff have ‘high expectations and a deep understanding of all pupils’.

    The school, which supports learners aged three to 19 with complex physical and medical needs, provides a ‘safe and calm’ environment, with pupils feeling ‘motivated and happy to learn’.

    The ‘progressive and personalised’ curriculum is ‘exciting, broad and ambitious’, with a breadth of subjects and topics that supports pupils’ engagement and attention and which are delivered ‘consistently well’.

    Through creative approaches to teaching, such as songs, pictures and textured materials, ‘pupils engage in their learning’ and ‘achieve well’.

    Work on improving pupils’ communication ‘is a strength’, enabling them to learn well, become more independent and to play an active part in the school community.

    The school prepares pupils for adulthood effectively, offering a range of opportunities beyond the classroom including residential visits, horse riding and swimming, all of which help pupils ‘develop new skills and confidence as they venture into the wider world’. In sixth form, students benefit from increased opportunities to improve their independence, enjoying work experience and travel training.

    Pupils behave well, with the school using a ‘range of strategies to promote and reward positive behaviour’. Staff are committed to promoting good attendance, and pupils enjoy ‘being in school and attend regularly’.

    Leaders are ambitious for all pupils and have created ‘a positive culture for learning’ which is ‘supported effectively’ by governors who know what is working well and where to focus for improvement.

    Inspectors concluded that the school has a ‘committed and passionate staff team that makes Green Park an exciting place where pupils will continue to flourish’. And they confirmed that the school has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection, when it was judged to be Good.

    Headteacher Lorraine Dawney said: “I am so proud of the achievements of our learners; they rise to every new challenge and astound us every day by their progress.

    “Our vision is to prepare them for ‘Learning for Life’ and the inspection recognised that we aspire for all children to reach their full potential each and every day.  

    “I would like to personally thank all staff; I have such a fabulous team of caring and committed professionals who always give 100% to our learners. I also want to celebrate the partnership with parents, carers and governors as it is their support and dedication that creates a school where children flourish.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is a brilliant outcome for Green Park School and reflects the commitment of everyone involved. The school’s focus on pupil independence, communication and wellbeing is inspiring.

    “We’re incredibly proud of the work being done at Green Park to ensure children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the best start in life, and I’d like to thank the staff, families and pupils for their continued passion and hard work.”

    Latest data shows that 97% of schools in Wolverhampton are currently rated either Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, the highest ever.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £5.6million project launched to explore how man-made structures affect our seas University researchers will work alongside a range of institutions from across the UK and in Norway on the £5.6 million initiative, which will be led by Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML). The ValMAS (Value of Marine Artificial Structures) project is a major new research effort to understand the full impact of man-made…

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    University researchers will work alongside a range of institutions from across the UK and in Norway on the £5.6 million initiative, which will be led by Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML).
    The ValMAS (Value of Marine Artificial Structures) project is a major new research effort to understand the full impact of man-made structures in the ocean, ranging from offshore oil, gas and wind energy infrastructure to shipwrecks. These are collectively known as marine artificial structures (MAS).
    The project, which will focus on the North Sea with wider applicability across the UK and beyond, aims to create tools and evidence that will help decision-makers manage these structures in ways that support clean energy, protect nature, and benefit society.
    MAS have potentially significant footprints at all stages of their lifecycle through demonstration, construction, operation, and finally decommissioning. As marine space is increasingly squeezed, this large-scale development will inevitably lead to environmental, social and economic trade-offs.
    While these structures can provide habitat, support blue carbon capture, or enhance biodiversity, they can also pose risks that are not yet fully understood.
    Professor Nicola Beaumont, project lead from PML, said: “Thousands of artificial structures have been installed in the marine environment, and many more are on the horizon as part of the UK’s transition to a clean energy future.
    “ValMAS will give policymakers and industry the tools they need to make informed decisions that align with both net zero targets and nature recovery goals.”
    The research is co-funded by Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the industry-sponsored INSITE Programme.
    Professor Astley Hastings CEng, from the School of Biological Sciences, will lead work in Aberdeen alongside marine eco-toxicologist Dr Rebecca von Hellfeld, and Dr Kate Gormley, an interdisciplinary researcher specialising in coastal and marine environmental management, working to fill the experimental knowledge gaps on marine contaminants mobilisation and marine growth on structures. Professor Anne-Michelle Slater, from the University’s School of Law, will work on the policy and legislation relating to the environment surrounding marine structures.
    Professor Hastings said: “ValMAS will map marine artificial structures to develop a natural capital framework that reflects their ecological, economic, and social value, identify research gaps and foster collaboration, and model future climate scenarios to assess impacts on biodiversity, fisheries, and carbon storage. The project will also examine public perceptions and economic trade-offs to support a fair energy transition and create advanced decision support tools for use by policymakers, regulators, and industry.
    “While evidence, tools and models around natural capital and MAS exist, access to and uptake of these resources remains limited. There is a pressing need to translate this knowledge into strategic, value-based decision-making that is practical, user-driven, and ready for real-world application.”
    Other project partners include the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Cardiff University, Natural England – the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England, SUERC – Centre For The Isotope Sciences, University of Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde, EFTEC, Ecologos, NIRAS, Marine Energy Wales, the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, The Shellfish Association of Great Britain, and the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations. It also brings together another 20+ partners from academia, government, NGOs and industry, including major energy operators.
    Tracy Shimmield, Director of Research and Skill at the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) said: “NERC is delighted to announce the launch of ‘The Value of Marine Artificial Structures (ValMAS)’ programme, which seeks to inform nature positive policy solutions for the management of all life stages of Marine Artificial Structures (MAS). The ValMAS project, which is cofounded with industry, builds on the work achieved by the INSITE programme. It will deliver evidence of the interplay between the ecological, economic and social values of MAS, to build a better understanding of their environmental value across sectors in the North Sea. Evidence generated will inform decision making on the best outcomes for the environment when it comes to decommissioning.”
    Professor Beaumont added: “This is not just about infrastructure, it’s about people, nature, and building a future where sustainable energy systems work in harmony with marine life.”
    The project will begin in August 2025 and run for four years.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Renewable resources in pharmaceuticals: A Mexican scientist making green medicines

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    Meet Martha C. Mayorquín-Torres, a Mexican scientist conducting research on renewable resources in pharmaceuticals.

    Martha completed her studies in the pharmaceutical field in Mexico City. While seeking new opportunities to advance her research and develop her career, she discovered the TransPharm Project, which is financially supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme at Ghent University.

    This marked the beginning of her move to Ghent, Belgium, where she found an abundance of resources at her disposal—both in terms of equipment and the knowledge her colleagues could offer. Her research focuses on creating antiviral components from greener and more renewable resources, while also making pharmaceutical manufacturing processes more sustainable.

    During her time working on her research, Martha realised that Europe can be more than just a place to advance her career; it can become home.

    00:13 The resources of the research group
    00:40 Greener and more sustainable pharmaceuticals
    01:21 The courage to move to Europe and Europe becoming home

    Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-274736

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Oxs4gvQBC8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: May retail sales up 2.4%

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of total retail sales in May, provisionally estimated at $31.3 billion, was up 2.4% compared with the same month in 2024, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

    After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate for the month was 1.9% higher year-on-year.

    Of the total retail sales figure for the month, online sales accounted for 8.3%. Provisionally estimated at $2.6 billion, the value of online retail sales increased 0.3% compared with a year earlier.

    Meanwhile, the value of sales of “other consumer goods not elsewhere classified” increased by 8.9%.

    There were also increases in the value of sales in the following categories: commodities in supermarkets (+1.3%); apparel (+0.4%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (+2.8%); commodities in department stores (+6.3%); medicines and cosmetics (+8.7%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (+0.9%); motor vehicles and parts (+2.7%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (+1.6%); and optical items (+1.4%).

    By contrast, the value of sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts decreased by 3.2% for the period. Also down were sales of fuels (-6.9%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-0.1%); furniture and fixtures (-12%); and Chinese drugs and herbs (-2.2%).

    The Government said that retail sales performance saw improvement in May. While the retail sector continues to adapt to the changes in consumption patterns, the Government’s proactive efforts in promoting tourism and mega events, in tandem with the increase in employment earnings and sustained steady growth of the Mainland economy, will help bolster consumption sentiment and support the consumption market.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reappointment of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Reappointment of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman

    His Majesty The King has approved the reappointment of Douglas Marshall as the Judcial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman.

    His Majesty The King, on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor, has approved the reappointment – for 5 years from 1 March 2026 – of Douglas Marshall as Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman.

    The reappointment of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments and has been made under Paragraph 1 of Schedule 13 of the Constitutional Reform Act 2005.

    Biography

    Douglas Marshall is Pathways to Impact Manager at Childlight; Global Child Safety Institute based in Edinburgh, working to combat the global pandemic of child abuse. His previous career included 30 years’ service with Cumbria Constabulary retiring as a senior detective. At the latter end of his service, he was the Deputy National Co-ordinator on Operation Hydrant (the national policing response, oversight, and co-ordination of non-recent child sexual abuse). He returned to Cumbria Constabulary completing five years as a Police Staff Senior Investigating Officer. During his police service he was Senior Investigating Officer on several high-profile cases in Cumbria. He is formerly a director of a private investigation company in Scotland and has a consultancy for investigations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Provisional statistics of retail sales for May 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest figures on retail sales today (July 2).

         The value of total retail sales in May 2025, provisionally estimated at $31.3 billion, increased by 2.4% compared with the same month in 2024. The revised estimate of the value of total retail sales in April 2025 decreased by 2.3% compared with a year earlier. For the first 5 months of 2025 taken together, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total retail sales decreased by 4.0% compared with the same period in 2024.

         Of the total retail sales value in May 2025, online sales accounted for 8.3%. The value of online retail sales in that month, provisionally estimated at $2.6 billion, increased by 0.3% compared with the same month in 2024. The revised estimate of online retail sales in April 2025 decreased by 3.7% compared with a year earlier. For the first 5 months of 2025 taken together, it was provisionally estimated that the value of online retail sales decreased by 1.7% compared with the same period in 2024.

         After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales in May 2025 increased by 1.9% compared with a year earlier. The revised estimate of the volume of total retail sales in April 2025 decreased by 3.3% compared with a year earlier. For the first 5 months of 2025 taken together, the provisional estimate of the total retail sales decreased by 5.5% in volume compared with the same period in 2024.

         Analysed by broad type of retail outlet in descending order of the provisional estimate of the value of sales and comparing May 2025 with May 2024, the value of sales of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified increased by 8.9%. This was followed by sales of commodities in supermarkets (+1.3% in value); wearing apparel (+0.4%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (+2.8%); commodities in department stores (+6.3%); medicines and cosmetics (+8.7%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (+0.9%); motor vehicles and parts (+2.7%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (+1.6%); and optical shops (+1.4%).

         On the other hand, the value of sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts decreased by 3.2% in May 2025 over a year earlier. This was followed by sales of fuels (-6.9% in value); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-0.1%); furniture and fixtures (-12.0%); and Chinese drugs and herbs (-2.2%).

         Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of the value of total retail sales increased by 4.1% in the three months ending May 2025 compared with the preceding three-month period, while the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales increased by 7.0%.

    Commentary

         A government spokesman said that retail sales performance saw improvement in May 2025. The value of total retail sales turned to a year-on-year increase of 2.4%. On a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of total retail sales increased by 7.0% over the preceding month. 

         Looking ahead, the spokesman said that while the retail sector continues to adapt to the changes in consumption patterns, the Government’s proactive efforts in promoting tourism and mega events, in tandem with the increase in employment earnings and sustained steady growth of the Mainland economy, will help bolster consumption sentiment and support the consumption market.

    Further information

         Table 1 presents the revised figures on value index and value of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet for April 2025 as well as the provisional figures for May 2025. The provisional figures on the value of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet as well as the corresponding year-on-year changes for the first 5 months of 2025 taken together are also shown.

         Table 2 presents the revised figures on value of online retail sales for April 2025 as well as the provisional figures for May 2025. The provisional figures on year-on-year changes for the first 5 months of 2025 taken together are also shown.

         Table 3 presents the revised figures on volume index of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet for April 2025 as well as the provisional figures for May 2025. The provisional figures on year-on-year changes for the first 5 months of 2025 taken together are also shown.

         Table 4 shows the movements of the value and volume of total retail sales in terms of the year-on-year rate of change for a month compared with the same month in the preceding year based on the original series, and in terms of the rate of change for a three-month period compared with the preceding three-month period based on the seasonally adjusted series.

         The classification of retail establishments follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.

         These retail sales statistics measure the sales receipts in respect of goods sold by local retail establishments and are primarily intended for gauging the short-term business performance of the local retail sector. Data on retail sales are collected from local retail establishments through the Monthly Survey of Retail Sales (MRS). Local retail establishments with and without physical shops are covered in MRS and their sales, both through conventional shops and online channels, are included in the retail sales statistics.

         The retail sales statistics cover consumer spending on goods but not on services (such as those on housing, catering, medical care and health services, transport and communication, financial services, education and entertainment) which account for over 50% of the overall consumer spending. Moreover, they include spending on goods in Hong Kong by visitors but exclude spending outside Hong Kong by Hong Kong residents. Hence they should not be regarded as indicators for measuring overall consumer spending.

         Users interested in the trend of overall consumer spending should refer to the data series of private consumption expenditure (PCE), which is a major component of the Gross Domestic Product published at quarterly intervals. Compiled from a wide range of data sources, PCE covers consumer spending on both goods (including goods purchased from all channels) and services by Hong Kong residents whether locally or abroad. Please refer to the C&SD publication “Gross Domestic Product by Expenditure Component” for more details.

         More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Monthly Survey of Retail Sales”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080003&scode=530).

         Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7400; E-mail: mrs@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Increasing number of taxi drivers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Judy Chan and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):

    Question:

    It has been reported that the taxi industry has faced difficulties in attracting new blood to join the industry in recent years, and, as the first batch of taxi fleets will officially commence service in July this year, there will be keen demand for taxi drivers. There are views that the situation can be rectified by optimising the procedure and content of the Taxi Written Test of the Transport Department. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number of candidates sitting for the Taxi Written Test as well as the number of candidates who passed the test and the passing rate in each of the past five years;

    (2) how the Location and Route Questions of Part B of the Taxi Written Test will be optimised to suit, in the context of driving, the new normal arising from the advancement of technology nowadays; and

    (3) whether it has any plans to assist the industry in attracting newcomers to join the industry; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    The Government has been striving to enhance the service quality of taxis, and has introduced a series of measures in the past years. Such measures include introducing a taxi fleet regime, enhancing the Taxi Written Test, increasing the maximum passenger seating capacity of taxis, introducing a Taxi-Driver-Offence Points (TDOP) system, and relaxing no-stopping restrictions for taxis at designated restricted zones. These measures are launched with a view to providing passengers with a better riding experience, enhancing the overall image of the taxi trade and promoting the healthy development of the taxi industry in the long run, thereby creating a virtuous cycle to attract more new blood to join the taxi industry.

    Regarding the Hon Judy Chan’s questions, my reply is as follows: 

    (1) The Taxi Written Test focuses on assessing candidates’ practical knowledge on the guidelines and regulations related to taxi operation, key locations and routes, as well as the Road Users’ Code. The Transport Department (TD) enhanced the Taxi Written Test in February 2020 by updating the test content and adjusting the number of questions, with a view to focusing more on the assessment of core knowledge regarding taxi services. Such measures successfully attract more people to apply for the Taxi Written Test. The number of candidates sitting the Test has increased significantly by 40 per cent in the past few years, from less than 10 000 candidates sitting the Test in 2019 to around 14 000 candidates in 2024. In addition, the passing rate of the Taxi Written Test rose from 37 per cent in 2019 to 60 per cent in 2024. The above figures show that the enhancement of the Taxi Written Test has a notably positive effect in attracting newcomers to join the taxi driver profession. The numbers of candidates who sat and passed the Taxi Written Test from 2019 to 2024 and the corresponding passing rates are set out at the Annex. 

    (2) To keep up with the times and better align the Taxi Written Test with the practical needs of the trade, the TD is currently conducting a comprehensive review of the arrangements of the Test.

    In particular, having considered that modern navigation technology can now assist taxi drivers in quickly locating destinations and planning the most efficient driving routes, the TD will substantially reduce and simplify the questions on locations and routes under Part B of the Taxi Written Test and update the question bank, with a view to better aligning the Test with practical needs, and at the same time ensure that the candidates who pass the test possess the professional knowledge and qualities of taxi drivers, and have a basic understanding and grasp of the major road networks and frequently visited locations.

    Besides simplifying the questions under Part B of the Test in the light of technological applications, the TD will also add new questions to assess candidates’ knowledge of the series of new measures introduced to enhance taxi service quality (e.g. taxi fleet regime, the TDOP system).

    The TD is now pressing ahead with the relevant work and aims to implement the further enhanced Taxi Written Test in the fourth quarter of this year.

    (3) Apart from enhancing the Taxi Written Test, the Government has relaxed the eligibility requirements for commercial vehicle (including taxi) driving licences from October 1, 2020. The period required for an applicant to hold a valid private car or light goods vehicle full driving licence has been shortened from a minimum of three years to at least one year, with a view to attracting more new blood to join the industry.

    Separately, the Government introduced the taxi fleet regime last year to encourage the trade to adopt a more professional and systematic approach to manage their fleets and drivers, in order to enhance the quality of taxi services and improve the overall image of the taxi industry. Last week, the TD announced that they would issue the official Taxi Fleet Licences to the five taxi fleets within July 2025.

    Over the past period of time, the five fleet operators have been proactively implementing different measures to recruit new blood and existing drivers to join the fleet. Various taxi fleet operators have successively participated in the district and thematic job fairs organised by the Labour Department, enabling job seekers to gain a deeper understanding of the fleets and their recruitment model. The fleets have also implemented different measures to recruit taxi drivers, including offering new driver referral bonus and safe driving bonus, as well as providing flexible working hour arrangements. In addition, the operators will offer pre-service training to enhance drivers’ customer service skills, and implement systematic management to support drivers in handling customer enquiries, creating a better working environment for fleet drivers. We understand from the fleet operators that the job fairs and various measures have attracted enquiries from job seekers outside the industry, and they have recruited more than 40 newcomers to join the fleet. These efforts will continue, demonstrating that the taxi fleet regime has a positive effect in attracting new blood to join the industry.

    In addition, the Employees Retraining Board also offers taxi driver-related training courses to provide prospective drivers with information on the development of the industry, driving safety and matters to pay attention to when providing taxi services, thereby assisting them in joining the taxi driver profession. Eligible persons may even receive tuition subsidies or full course fee waivers. At the same time, certain taxi dealers are also offering online courses for those seeking to apply for taxi driver’s licence, as well as training courses for individuals that are new to the industry, so that the newcomers can better understand the daily operation of the taxi industry. All these measures help attract new blood to the industry.

    The Government will continue to closely monitor the operation and management of the taxi industry, and implement different measures to assist the trade to enhance their services, thereby promoting the healthy development of the taxi industry in the long run.

    Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ10: Combating abuse of public welfare and public housing

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Steven Ho and a written reply by the Acting Secretary for Housing, Mr Victor Tai, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):

    Question:

         Under the existing system, applicants of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme (excluding the Guangdong Scheme and the Fujian Scheme) and the Social Security Allowance (SSA) Scheme must satisfy the residence requirements and the permissible limits of absence from Hong Kong (absence limits). In addition, tenants of public rental housing (PRH) must continuously reside in the units. However, it is learnt that some people are still enjoying benefits such as old age allowances and PRH despite residing abroad. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as it is learnt that while the Social Welfare Department only uses identity card numbers to verify CSSA and SSA recipients’ travel records with the Immigration Department (ImmD), some people enter and exit Hong Kong with their passports in order to circumvent checks against the absence limits, taking advantage of the loophole in the absence of connection between travel records based on identity cards and those based on passports, whether the Government has investigated the veracity of the aforesaid situation; whether the Government has assessed the annual loss of public money arising from this loophole, and whether it has enhanced the verification mechanism to plug the loophole; if it has enhanced the verification mechanism, of the details (including the effectiveness of the enhanced mechanism); if not, the reasons for that;

    (2) whether the Government has considered using biometric features (e.g. fingerprint and face) as the only proof of identification for travel records, so as to prevent individuals from taking advantage of the loophole in travel records mentioned in (1) to conceal the fact that they reside abroad; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (3) given that the Office of The Ombudsman mentioned a number of cases of “not retaining regular and continuous residence in the flats” in its report dated January this year on the direct investigation operation into the Government’s work in combating abuse of public housing resources, what specific mechanisms it has currently put in place to monitor and prevent abuse of PRH by individuals residing abroad, and how the effectiveness of such mechanisms is assessed; as regards tenants who deliberately conceal their residence abroad in order to keep their PRH flats, what other legal measures the Government has put in place, apart from demanding surrender of the flats, to bring them to account, and whether it has assessed if such measures have sufficient deterrent effect; and

    (4) given that all the principal tenants and household members in the multiple cases of “not retaining regular and continuous residence in the flats” mentioned in (3) reside outside Hong Kong, whether the Government has examined the reasons for not being able to uncover their abuse of PRH in time through their travel records back then; in order to combat abuse of PRH by tenants residing abroad, whether the Government has explored setting up an cross-departmental cooperation mechanism for the Housing Department, the Hong Kong Housing Society and ImmD to carry out data sharing, so as to enhance the procedure for accessing the records of PRH residents’ stay in Hong Kong?

    Reply:

    President,

         In response to the question raised by Hon Steven Ho, in consultation with the Security Bureau and the Labour and Welfare Bureau, our reply is as follows:

    (1) Applicants and recipients of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) or the Social Security Allowance must meet the relevant residence requirements and other eligibility criteria, and are required to declare all travel documents and provide other relevant information to the Social Welfare Department (SWD). If applicants and recipients fail to provide all relevant documents or information truthfully, once such cases are found, the SWD will take follow-up actions and may refer the cases to the law enforcement department for handling if necessary. It is a criminal offence for an applicant and a recipient to deliberately provide false information or omit information in order to obtain cash assistance by deception. In addition to becoming ineligible for cash assistance, the applicant and the recipient may be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a maximum of 14 years under the Theft Ordinance (Cap. 210 of the Laws of Hong Kong).

         Besides, in accordance with the existing established mechanism, the Immigration Department (ImmD) provides, on a regular basis or upon request by the SWD, the travel records of applicants and recipients, including the travel records of these persons using their Hong Kong identity card, travel document issued by ImmD (including Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passports) and travel document issued by other countries/territories, to the SWD for verification of the compliance with the relevant residence requirements of the persons concerned.

    (2) Section 5 of the Immigration Ordinance (Cap. 115) stipulates that individuals entering or leaving Hong Kong at immigration control points must present a valid travel document. When entering into or exiting from Hong Kong, Hong Kong residents may use their Hong Kong identity card or a valid travel document to complete immigration clearance at traditional counters at control points. Eligible holders of smart identity card may also use their smart identity cards or encrypted QR codes, together with fingerprint or facial recognition technology, for self-service immigration clearance at e-Channels.

         To implement effective immigration control, the ImmD adopts biometric recognition technologies (such as fingerprints and facial images) in its immigration control operations to verify the identity of individuals using Hong Kong identity card or travel document for entry into or exit from Hong Kong.

        Under the existing established mechanism, the immigration records of relevant individuals provided by the ImmD to the SWD and the Housing Department (HD) have already encompassed information related to Hong Kong identity cards, travel documents issued by the ImmD (including Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passports), and travel documents issued by other countries or regions. The information provided would facilitate verification by the relevant departments of whether the recipients continue to meet the eligibility criteria for receiving relevant social welfare benefits.

    (3) and (4) The Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) has adopted multi-pronged approach to combat tenancy abuse of public rental housing (PRH). HD has all along addressed the issue of tenancy abuse through various means including daily estate management, routine home visits, random checks and in-depth investigations of suspected cases, as well as publicity and education. These efforts aim to reduce the chance of tenancy abuse of PRH, thereby expediting turnover of PRH flats and allowing those in genuine need of housing to move into PRH as soon as possible.

         To ensure the optimal use of PRH resources, the HD has established a regular mechanism with Immd, under which Immd regularly reports the death records of PRH tenants to the HD so that the HD can proactively monitor tenants’ occupancy status and take appropriate actions. The Immd also provides travel records of relevant individuals (such as PRH principal tenants and household members) upon request by the HD, with a view to enabling the HD to verify whether the individuals concerned continue to meet the eligibility criteria for residing in PRH.
     
         To strengthen the monitoring, the HD has set up a new computer system to store case information about tenancy abuse, including the processes and investigation results. Estate management staff also conducts unannounced home visits outside office hours. Investigations will be initiated, if there are suspected cases of PRH abuse or upon receipt of reports from the public on suspected cases of PRH abuse. The HD also selects cases on a random basis for in-depth investigation.

         In addition, to expedite the verification of occupancy status of tenancy abuse cases and enforcement actions, the HD liaises with other government departments to obtain key information in accordance with relevant ordinances and regulations (such as enquiry with the ImmD about the immigration records of tenants who are suspected of not retaining regular and continuous residence, enquiry with the Water Supplies Department about households with unusual water consumption, etc) so as to verify cases of tenancy abuse and accelerate the handling of such cases.

         In fact, since 2023, the HA has rolled out a series of new measures to strengthen efforts to combat tenancy abuse of PRH. Starting from October 2023, the HA requires all PRH households to declare their occupancy status and ownership of domestic property in Hong Kong every two years since admission to PRH. They are required to declare whether they have retained continuous residence in their units, and whether the units have been left vacant or used for unauthorised purposes. If households have made false statement, the HA will consider terminating the tenancy agreement. The family member(s) who has made false statement will be subject to the restrictions of a five-year debarment from applying for PRH, no offer of a PRH flat with better quality, and even prosecution. Since the introduction of the measures, some PRH tenants were sentenced to imprisonment of 30 days by the court, and some tenants have voluntarily returned their units. The HA is confident that these measures will continue to strengthen its efforts against tenancy abuse of PRH.

         To collect intelligence for better targeting in combating PRH abuse, the HA launched the “Report Public Housing Abuse Award” (the Award) in January 2025. Since the launch of the Award, as at end March 2025, out of the total reported cases of around 3 900, about 1 700 cases have opted for participating in the Award. After initial screening, about 1 200 reported cases were eligible for joining the Award, and about 700 of them can be further followed up. There are cases where Notice-To-Quit were successfully issued. The first round of the Award presentation will be held in July 2025. The above demonstrated that the public has established a strong consensus to combat PRH tenancy abuse and to collectively safeguard the precious housing resources.

         In order to cope with the extra workload brought by the enhanced efforts in combating PRH abuse, in recent years, the HA has strengthened its collaboration with various government departments and has adopted different strategies and manpower deployment as appropriate in light of changing circumstances. This includes recruiting retired disciplined services officers to join the HD. From July 2022 to May 2025, over 8 700 PRH flats were recovered by the HA in view of tenancy abuse or breach of tenancy agreement. Compared to the recovery of about 1 400 flats in 2021/22, the average annual number of PRH flats recovered due to tenancy abuse and breach of tenancy agreement from 2022/23 to 2024/25 has more than doubled. This demonstrated the effectiveness of the strengthened measures implemented by the HA.

         To strengthen the intensity of combating PRH abuse and enhance the deterrent effect, the Housing Bureau has submitted the Housing (Amendment) Bill 2025 (the Bill) to the Legislative Council, and the Bill was passed on June 11, 2025. The Bill mainly includes three aspects: (i) introducing new offenses of serious tenancy abuse of PRH flats; (ii) empowering authorised officers to demand personal details from suspects; and (iii) extending the limitation of time for prosecution of offences of false statements, refusal to furnish information and unlawful alienations, thereby making measures against PRH abuse more deterrent. The relevant offenses will take effect from March 31, 2026. The HA will step up publicity efforts to ensure that the public fully understands and is aware of the consequences of violating the law.

         The HA/HD will continue to review the existing measures, including enhancing the investigation workflows and strengthening staff training, publicity and public education. We will also keep reviewing our strategies in combating PRH abuse and strengthening collaboration with other departments to safeguard the rational use of PRH resources.

         The Hong Kong Housing Society (HKHS) has also been adopting a multi-pronged approach in combating abuse of PRH resources holistically, including conducting home visits on a regular basis and prioritising investigation of suspected cases of non-occupation (such as those with relatively low water and electricity consumption, backlog of uncollected notices and letters in mailboxes for a prolonged period, etc). In addition, the HKHS has regularised conducting home visits during non-office hours and strengthened training for frontline staff to further enhance their awareness of and sensitivity to breaches of tenancy agreements. In addition, HKHS leverages smart technology to step up its efforts in combating PRH tenancy abuse, such as the in-house development of “eHome Visit”. This digital platform digitises tenant information and home visit records to facilitate comparison, thereby allowing frontline staff to have a full picture during home visits and enabling prompt identification of suspicious cases. The HKHS will continue to keep pace with the times and regularly review the effectiveness of these measures, with additional initiatives introduced as and when necessary with a view to further enhancing the efficiency of home visits and the effectiveness of investigation of PRH tenancy abuse cases.

         The HKHS and the HA have maintained close communication and exchange on the efforts in combating abuse of PRH resources, and review and assess the effectiveness of the relevant measures from time to time. When tenants are suspected of not retaining regular and continuous residence in their units, the HKHS will request resident information such as travel records from ImmD depending on individual circumstances and investigation needs. Separately, the HKHS has since October 2005 established a notification mechanism with the ImmD on death records. Under this mechanism, the ImmD provides on a monthly basis records of persons who reside in rental estates of the HKHS yet with death registered in Hong Kong for the HKHS’s suitable follow-up actions. The HKHS will continue to strengthen its communication with the ImmD to help enhance the effectiveness of investigations on PRH tenancy abuse.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Handling of yard waste

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Following is a question by the Hon Dennis Leung and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):
     
    Question:
     
         It is learnt that the yard waste recycling centre Y·PARK mainly receives yard waste such as tree trunks that are six metres long or below, as well as branches, twigs and leaves. Regarding the handling of yard waste, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) as some members of the public have relayed that uncollected yard waste is often seen on streets and in parks, whether the Government has formulated guidelines requiring the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and their outsourced contractors to first sort the collected yard waste and send the yard waste that can be processed by Y·PARK to the collection point of the Environmental Protection Department; if not, of the reasons for that;
     
    (2) according to the existing procedures, how the LCSD, FEHD and their outsourced contractors handle yard waste that cannot be processed by Y·PARK; of the approximate tonnage of such yard waste in each year since 2019; and
     
    (3) given that Y·PARK has imposed a number of restrictions on the recovery of yard waste, and it is learnt that some companies in the Mainland and the United States adopt anaerobic digestion technology to convert yard waste into biogas for electricity generation, whether the Government will consider adopting such technology to process yard waste, so as to enhance recycling and conversion of waste into energy; if not, of the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,

         The super typhoon Mangkhut that hit Hong Kong in 2018 caused severe damage, uprooting numerous trees, many of which were large trees that could be suitable for timber production. In 2021, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) set up the temporary yard waste recycling centre, Y·PARK, in accordance with the Waste Blueprint for Hong Kong 2035, to collect and process yard waste generated from regular vegetation maintenance and public works projects, and to assist in treating large quantities of yard waste generated shortly after typhoons when needed.
     
         Yard waste includes grass, leaves, shrubs, twigs and woody tree trunks. Some of them may be affected by pests or diseases. Y·PARK mainly collects and sorts out the high quality and suitable portion of yard waste for recycling into recyclable products of relatively higher values so as to achieve both converting waste to resources and enhancing cost-effectiveness.
     
         The current Y·PARK is temporary in nature. In future, the Government reserves land in the New Territories North New Town to develop a larger-scale yard waste recycling facility to enhance yard waste handling capacity. 
     
         Having consulted the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), our consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Dennis Leung is as follows:
     
    (1) The Government has established guidelines to drive various government departments, including the FEHD and the LCSD, adhering to the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle, to shred and reuse yard waste as much for gardening on-site as far as possible, while yard waste that cannot be treated or reused on-site could be delivered to suitable recycling facilities for treatment. The EPD has also continuously liaised with government departments, providing relevant guidelines to promote the proper sorting of recyclable yard waste at source and its delivery to Y·PARK for processing. In 2024, the quantity of yard waste disposed of at landfills was about 230 tonnes per day, accounting for about 2 per cent of the municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal of at landfills.
     
    (2) Not all yard waste is suitable for delivering to Y·PARK for processing. According to prevailing handling procedures, when the FEHD, the LCSD and their contractors encounter yard waste unsuitable for recycling, such as yard waste infected by bacteria, infested with pests, or containing large amount of impurities, while providing street cleansing or park management services, such yard waste will be sent directly or via refuse transfer stations to landfills for disposal. From 2019 to April 2025, the LCSD transported an average of about seven tonnes of yard waste unsuitable for recycling to landfills per day, whilst the FEHD does not maintain relevant data.
     
    (3) The Government is developing two main types of waste-to-energy facilities currently. The first type of facilities is the Organic Resources Recovery Centre (O·PARK), adopting anaerobic digestion technology to process food waste. The second type of facilities adopts modern incineration technology to treat waste, such as T·PARK which incinerates sludge to generate electricity, and the Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase I (I·PARK1) under construction which will incinerate MSW to generate electricity.
     
         The O·PARKs are designed to treat food waste which contains proteins, sugars, fats and high water content. These substances decompose more easily during anaerobic digestion process, and produce more biogas, resulting in a higher energy conversion efficiency for electricity generation. Under feasible technical conditions, we also make the best use of the existing waste management facilities to test out the treatment of other waste. For instance, while O·PARK2 is mainly for treating food waste, we conducted trials for treating pig waste by anaerobic digestion since its commissioning in March 2024. Following the successful trials, we have fully replaced the previous practice of disposing pig waste at landfills with anaerobic digestion technology since July 2024, which significantly reduced the potential odour issues associated with disposal of pig waste at landfills.
     
         However, there are significant differences between yard waste and food waste. It requires different treatment methods for yard waste. Yard waste comprises woody waste, such as tree trunks and branches, as well as non-woody waste, such as leaves and grass.  Tree trunks and branches are high in wood fiber content and low in moisture content, so they are not easily decomposed by anaerobic digestion. If treating the yard waste by co-digestion by anaerobic digestion technology in O.PARKs, it would not only occupy substantial space in the digestion tanks but would also significantly reduce food waste processing capacity and efficiency. In addition, as woody waste is hard and bulky, it is more difficult to be crushed into pieces as compared with food waste, such that additional energy and water will be required to turn the woody waste into slurry for further treatment. The installation of necessary pre-treatment facilities in O·PARKs and modifications to the existing operation mode will incur a substantial amount of cost but result in low energy efficiency. According to the understanding of the EPD, there are few examples of utilising anaerobic digestion technology to process woody waste in the Mainland or overseas. Even for such cases, they mainly involve processing small amount of non-woody yard waste such as grass and leaves.
     
         Non-woody garden waste such as grass and leaves can be processed through anaerobic digestion technically, but the process would be less efficient than treating food waste. Considering that such waste contains a certain calorific value and is often mixed with other MSW during collection, treating yard waste by incineration can reduce the need for additional space, processing, and costs associated with sorting yard waste from mixed waste while achieving the same outcome of turning waste into energy. The Government is working full steam on developing two modern large-scale incineration facilities, namely I·PARK1 and I·PARK2. These facilities will handle up to 9 000 tonnes of MSW per day in total in the future, converting waste into electricity. I·PARK1 is expected to commence operation by the end of this year and can assist in handling yard waste.

         Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ16: Improving English information channels

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Starry Lee and a written reply by the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):
     
    Question:
     
         The Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC Central Committee) has adopted the Resolution of the CPC Central Committee on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization, in which it is pointed out that Hong Kong needs to further capitalise on its strengths and become an international hub for high-calibre talents. There are views that attracting international talents requires efforts on various fronts, among which, the creation of an international living environment and the setting up of well-established English information channels for demonstration of Hong Kong’s cultural diversity, openness and inclusiveness are particularly important. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it has compiled statistics on the percentage of broadcast time in foreign languages out of the total broadcast time in respect of the public broadcasting services in Hong Kong at present, and how the relevant time and percentage compare with those in other international metropolises;
     
    (2) of the specific policies and whether resources have been allocated to encourage local television and sound broadcasters to produce more quality English-language programmes, especially those with contents showcasing the business environment, cultural characteristics, lifestyle, etc, in Hong Kong;
     
    (3) whether it has evaluated the effectiveness of the existing English media contents in attracting and retaining international talents; whether it has conducted relevant surveys to understand the information needs of international talents;
     
    (4) whether it will consider setting up an additional 24-hour English channel on Radio Television Hong Kong and producing more English programmes to present a soft and down-to-earth introduction of the policies and development opportunities in Hong Kong, so as to enable international talents and inbound tourists to obtain local information more conveniently; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (5) of the Government’s plans to enhance Hong Kong’s international image and visibility by arranging additional media coverage in English, given that the 15th National Games and other international events are about to take place; and
     
    (6) apart from traditional television broadcasters, whether it has plans to make use of emerging publicity channels, such as digital platforms and social media, to produce more information contents about Hong Kong in English, so as to strengthen Hong Kong’s international communication capability, thereby creating a more attractive international living environment; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The HKSAR Government has been striving to showcase the unique characteristics of Hong Kong, being an international metropolis, from various perspectives to attract international talents and tourists by telling the good stories of Hong Kong through diverse television and radio programmes, as well as different promotion measures. Having consulted the Labour and Welfare Bureau (LWB), the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) and the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, our consolidated response is as follows:
     
         Hong Kong’s broadcasting market is under steady development. The three domestic free television programme service (free TV) licensees, two sound broadcasting licensees and Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) are providing a total of 15 television channels and 14 radio channels respectively, which include five TV channels and three radio channels in English. The general public (including non-Chinese-speaking persons in Hong Kong) can choose and enjoy diverse television and radio programmes (including English-language programmes) with a wide variety according to their needs. The HKSAR Government does not maintain related information in other regions.
     
         Under the current broadcasting regulatory framework, licensed broadcasters shall provide English programmes through their designated English channels in accordance with their licence conditions. Considering the sustainable development of licensed broadcasters and the needs of different audience, the three domestic free TV English channels are currently required to broadcast English programmes for at least 55 per cent of the broadcasting hours. Although licensed broadcasters can exercise suitable flexibility to broadcast non-English programmes for not more than 45 per cent of the broadcasting hours on their English channels, free TV licensees must broadcast English programmes during prime time on their English channels as required to cater for the needs of the general public and non-Chinese-speaking persons in Hong Kong. We also note that the current English programmes offered by licensed broadcasters cover a wide range of genres, including news, current affairs, sports, cultural features, lifestyle and arts, etc.
     
         On the other hand, RTHK also proactively offers English programmes through its radio and TV channels, including launching English programme time slots on RTHK TV 31 and 32; providing 24-hour relay of the China Global Television Network Documentary and English Channels under the China Media Group on RTHK TV 34 and 35; providing 24-hour broadcasting with diverse English programmes on RTHK Radio 3; and broadcasting bilingual programmes featuring fine music and arts information on RTHK Radio 4, etc. These help exhibit Hong Kong’s diversity and global vision, proactively telling good stories of the country and Hong Kong and enabling non-Chinese speaking persons in Hong Kong to have a better understanding of various information about Hong Kong and Mainland China.
     
         Since the three free TV licences will expire in 2027 and 2028, the Communications Authority (CA) has commenced the renewal exercise of the free TV licences and will conduct a public consultation exercise in the third quarter of 2025. In processing the renewal applications, subject to actual circumstances, the CA will consider revisions to licence conditions and regulatory requirements on free TV services (including requirements on English channels and programmes) taking into account views from the industry and the public as well as the latest market development and submit recommendations on licence renewal to the Chief Executive in Council.
     
         Regarding the attraction of talents, talents are generally concerned about employment and business start-up opportunities, children’s education and social integration when considering pursuance of development in Hong Kong. Media in English, being an international language, helps disseminate relevant information to international talents, alleviating their concern about integration into local society. To facilitate social integration of international talents in a more proactive manner, the Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) of the LWB has been providing comprehensive support services to help them stay in the city for development. With a view to ensuring that the comprehensive information about living and working in Hong Kong are accessible to international talents, the HKTE’s promotional and publicity materials, including its online platform, TV Announcements in the Public Interest, social media posts, etc, are already fully available in English, and its themed seminars on living in Hong Kong also offer online livestreaming and simultaneous interpretation services. On the other hand, the HKTE launched the Talent+ Volunteer Programme in September 2024, and has been collaborating with various non-governmental organisations, working partners and corporations to provide incoming talents with diverse volunteer service opportunities, strengthening their connections with the local community and fostering their sense of belonging to the city.
     
         As for promotion of mega events, the CSTB, in collaboration with relevant government departments and organisations, has been devising extensive publicity campaigns through diverse means for the 15th National Games (NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), including various overseas promotional initiatives with the support of the Information Services Department (ISD), such as running advertisements in overseas media and at a number of major overseas international airports, engaging overseas key opinion leaders to publish promotional posts, and inviting overseas journalists and guests to visit Hong Kong through thematic media visit programmes and the Sponsored Visitors Programme so that they can spread their positive visiting experiences in their hometown afterwards, with a view to raising the international profile and popularity of Hong Kong and attracting more overseas spectators to the events. RTHK will also fully engage in the promotion, production and live broadcast of the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG. Besides, for organisation of major events, depending on the nature of the events, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will invite media in English and other foreign languages to participate in press conferences or carry out promotional campaigns, and will also collaborate with local and international media organisations and event partners (such as relevant Consulates-General in Hong Kong, cultural organisations stationed in Hong Kong as well as the overseas Economic and Trade Offices) to promote the events. The LCSD will make good use of its social media platforms for promotion and support bilingual content so as to promote featured events to local and overseas audiences.
     
         Apart from the above promotion measures, the ISD has been setting up accounts on various social media platforms and producing more English social media posts for promotion. The ISD has also co-operated with the national media to make use of their multi-language new media platforms to promote Hong Kong to more countries through different foreign languages. Besides, the ISD will continue to work with suitable overseas media organisations to produce content on Hong Kong’s latest development in key areas, such as innovation and technology, sports, shipping, and culture and arts, etc, with the aim of expanding the reach of overseas promotional efforts through their readers’ network and social media platforms. Through monitoring of the latest market development and global trend, the ISD will continue to make use of appropriate platforms to raise the international profile of Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ7: Improving Mandatory Provident Fund system

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Wendy Hong and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):
     
    Question:
     
         This year marks the 25th anniversary of the implementation of the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) system. According to statistics from the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority, the total MPF assets amounted to around $1,340 billion as at the end of March this year. On improving the MPF system, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of MPF scheme members and their average MPF asset levels in each of the past five years, and set out in the table below with a breakdown by age group (i.e. (i) below 25, (ii) between 25 and below 30, (iii) between 35 and below 45, (iv) between 45 and below 55, (v) between 55 and below 65, and (vi) 65 or above), and MPF asset levels (i.e. (a) $200,000 or below, (b) between $200,001 and $400,000, (c) between $400,001 and $600,000, (d) between $600,001 and $800,000, (e) between $800,001 and $1,000,000, (f) between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000, (g) between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000, and (h) above $2,000,000);
     
    Year:

    Members’ age group MPF asset level
    (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) Average asset
    (i)                  
    (ii)                  
    (iii)                  
    (iv)                  
    (v)                  
    (vi)                  
    Total                  

    (2) as the Government indicated in its reply to a question from a Member of this Council on May 7 this year that allowing members of the public to make early withdrawals of their accrued benefits to meet home ownership needs would result in such accrued benefits leaking from the system and failing to accumulate for growth in value, thereby undermining the integrity of the MPF system, but there are views that the Government may consider allowing members of the public to borrow the accrued benefits from their MPF accounts to fund a down payment on their first home, with repayment made in instalments over the mortgage term of the purchased property and all outstanding amounts in the MPF account to be repaid immediately upon the sale of the property, which will create a closed-loop funding mechanism to prevent funds from flowing out of the owner-occupied property market or MPF accounts, thereby maximising the value of MPF in supporting people’s retirement, whether the government will consider the aforesaid proposal; and
     
    (3) given that Hong Kong is about to become a super-aged society, whether the Government will consider emulating the provident fund systems of the Mainland and Singapore by setting up designated contribution accounts targeting areas such as healthcare and housing under the MPF system in the long term, and increasing the income ratio for MPF contributions to help members of the public to cope with various expenses after retirement?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In consultation with the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA), the reply to the three parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) As at end-2024, about 4.8 million Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) scheme members held a total of around 11.2 million MPF accounts of various types (including contribution accounts, personal accounts and tax-deductible voluntary contribution accounts), hence each scheme member held more than 2.3 MPF accounts on average. The number of MPF scheme members and accounts over the past five years, the average amount of accrued benefits per MPF account by the age group of scheme members, and the number of accounts by the amount of accrued benefits are tabulated below:
     
    Table 1: Number of MPF scheme members and accounts

    Year
    (as at year-end)    		 Number of MPF scheme members Number of MPF accounts
    2020 4 459 000 10 324 000
    2021 4 586 000 10 477 000
    2022 4 694 000 10 843 000
    2023 4 754 000 11 058 000
    2024 4 794 000 11 228 000

     
    Table 2: Average amount of accrued benefits per MPF account by age group (As at end-2024)

    Age group Average amount of accrued benefits per MPF account ($)
    Under 25 8,600
    25 to under 35 52,600
    35 to under 45 126,700
    45 to under 55 163,200
    55 to under 65 149,000
    65 or above 73,800

    Note: Excluding accounts with nil accrued benefits.
     
    Table 3: Number of accounts by amount of accrued benefits (As at end-2024)

    Amount of accrued benefits Number of accounts
    $200,000 or below 9 373 000
    Between $200,001 and $400,000 1 072 000
    Between $400,001 and $600,000 408 000
    Between $600,001 and $800,000 181 000
    Between $800,001 and $1,000,000 88 000
    Between $1,000,001 and $2,000,000 98 000
    Over $2,000,000 27 000

     
         As each scheme member may hold more than one account, and the accounts may be held under different MPF schemes, figures on the number of scheme members by their total accrued benefits are not available at present. MPF schemes are gradually onboarding to the eMPF Platform, which commenced operation in June 2024. Upon completion of onboarding of all MPF schemes, data relating to total MPF accrued benefits by individual scheme members could be compiled via the eMPF Platform.
     
    (2) The MPF system is set up to assist the public to save up for their retirement. The idea of allowing scheme members to borrow their MPF benefits for the purpose of home ownership must take into consideration the impact on scheme members’ retirement savings. MPF is a long-term investment with compounding effect, designed to allow MPF benefits to accumulate steadily and be kept in the accounts for value growth during the working life of scheme members. Therefore, accrued benefits should be preserved as far as possible and only be withdrawn and used upon retirement of the employed persons. If we were to relax the preservation requirement on MPF benefits and allow scheme members to borrow their MPF benefits to meet home ownership needs, the accrued benefits would fail to accumulate for value growth, thereby reducing scheme members’ MPF benefits meant for their retirement and undermining the basic retirement protection for the working population. Furthermore, as the MPF system has the advantage of diversifying investment risks, investments in real estate bear higher risks than those in MPF funds in general. The arrangements requiring members of the public to repay in instalments after borrowing MPF benefits for home ownership purpose and make repayment with the proceeds from the sale of the property of which the down payment was met by MPF benefits also entail considerable complexity.
     
    (3) Under the MPF system, employers and employees are currently required to respectively make mandatory contributions equivalent to 5 per cent of the employee’s relevant income (with the current monthly contribution cap at $1,500). If the MPF system were to save up for medical and home ownership expenses at the same time without affecting the retirement protection for employed persons, we must consider increasing the overall MPF contribution rate. Drawing on practices in regions outside Hong Kong (such as the Mainland and Singapore), should dedicated savings accounts be set up to cover medical and home ownership expenses, the contribution rate to the relevant accounts could be as high as over 30 per cent of the employee’s income. Given that the current total mandatory contribution rate stands at only 10 per cent, the proposal of introducing dedicated savings accounts for medical and home ownership purposes under the MPF system and raising the total MPF contribution rate must first reach a broad societal consensus.
     
         The Government and the MPFA welcome views regarding the MPF system from various sectors, and will carefully assess the necessity and feasibility of each proposal to continuously improve the operation of the MPF system without compromising the basic retirement protection for scheme members.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Cross-boundary marine tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Tang Ka-piu and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):

    Question:

    It is learnt that the Mainland is actively developing the Nan’ao checkpoint pier project in the Dapeng New District of Shenzhen (the Nan’ao checkpoint), with plans to set up a number of routes to and from Hong Kong. On the other hand, the SAR Government has been promoting multi-destination cross-boundary tourism in recent years, while the Urban Renewal Authority has proposed to develop the waterfronts of Kwun Tong, Kowloon Bay, Kai Tak and To Kwa Wan along the Victoria Harbour into a world-class bay region known as “Victoria Cove Area”. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether the Working Group for Sha Tau Kok Co-operation Zone set up under the Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy under the Guangdong-Hong Kong and Hong Kong-Shenzhen cooperation mechanism has discussed the development of the Nan’ao checkpoint and the routes to and from Hong Kong; if so, of the relevant progress; whether, in view of the opening of the Nan’ao checkpoint, it will consider setting up more sea control points in the eastern part of Hong Kong and introducing more streamlined immigration measures and policies, so as to create favourable conditions for multi-destination cross-boundary marine tourism across Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (2) as it has been reported that the Nan’ao checkpoint will set up a route connecting to Ma Liu Shui via Tung Ping Chau, which is only four kilometres away, while Tung Ping Chau, a tourist hotspot in Hong Kong, is yet to be supplied with tap water and electricity, whether the SAR Government will take advantage of the opportunity arising from the development of the Nan’ao checkpoint to work with the Shenzhen Municipality in providing Tung Ping Chau with infrastructure such as tap water and electricity to promote the development of the island; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (3) given that the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy proposes the establishment of the Mirs Bay/Yan Chau Tong Eco-‍recreation/tourism Circle, and there are views pointing out that the infrastructural facilities on the islands in such waters, particularly piers or landing facilities, are relatively outdated, whether the Government will allocate resources to upgrade the infrastructure on such islands so as to serve tourists’ needs; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (4) given that the Action Plan for High-Quality Development of the Yacht Industry (2024-2027) announced by the Guangdong Provincial Government proposes to strive for the implementation of a pilot prorgamme for the free flow of yachts among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, of the progress of the SAR Government’s discussion with the Mainland authorities on the implementation of the plan, and whether additional measures conducive to cross-‍boundary high-end marine tourism will be pursued at the same time for Hong Kong’s tourism industry;

    (5) whether, in the light of the establishment of the Nan’ao checkpoint, adjustments will be made to the planning for the Northern Metropolis to dovetail with the relevant development; and

    (6) whether it will consider creating a “cross-boundary marine eco-‍tourism belt along the eastern waters of Hong Kong” through a multi-destination tourism approach, including but not limited to the development of tourism routes connecting the Nan’ao checkpoint with various scenic spots, such as Sai Kung, Lei Yue Mun (the Sam Ka Tsuen Ferry Pier), Kwun Tong (the Kwun Tong Public Pier and the Kwun Tong Ferry Pier), Kai Tak (the Runway Park Pier and the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal), the Kwun Tong Waterfront Water Sports Centre, the Kai Tak Water Sports Centre and the proposed yacht club in Yau Tong Bay, with a view to utilising existing or planned facilities in combination with eco-tourism and water sports activities in Hong Kong’s eastern waters to attract high-value added visitors to come and spend money in Hong Kong; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    As set out in the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) promotes in-depth integration of Hong Kong’s unique world-class resources with tourism, leveraging Hong Kong’s position as an international metropolis and tourism hub to promote the development of multi-destination travel itineraries and tourism products with other cities inside and outside the Greater Bay Area (GBA). According to the Northern Metropolis (NM) Action Agenda published in 2023, the Blue and Green Recreation, Tourism and Conservation Circle situated in the easternmost part of the NM comprises Robin’s Nest, Lin Ma Hang, Sha Tau Kok, Yan Chau Tong as well as coastal villages and the outlying islands. With abundant blue and green resources including country parks, marine parks and a geopark as well as a number of traditional rural townships, this zone has the potential for recreation and tourism development.

    Having consulted the CSTB, the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the Security Bureau, and the Transport and Logistics Bureau, a consolidated reply in response to the questions raised by the Hon Tang Ka-piu is as follows:

    (1) and (5) The Working Group for Sha Tau Kok Co-operation Zone (the Working Group) under the Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy aims to promote cultural and tourism collaboration between Shenzhen and Hong Kong in Sha Tau Kok. The development of the proposed Nan’ao checkpoint, as mentioned in the question, includes routes to and from Hong Kong and is outside the scope of work of the Working Group. As regards setting up sea travel control points in the eastern part of Hong Kong and developing cross-boundary ferry routes between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, these will involve quite a number of considerations, including the long-term market demand for the ferry routes concerned and the carrying capacity of the region, the required infrastructure and supporting facilities and the cost-effectiveness, and the potential impacts on the ecological environment, etc, which warrant careful consideration.

    (2) Regarding the power supply to Tung Ping Chau, the Scheme of Control Agreements signed between the Government and the two power companies stipulate that the power companies are obliged to contribute to the development of Hong Kong by providing, operating and maintaining sufficient electricity related-facilities and supplying electricity to meet the demand. This includes the conducting of feasibility studies and putting forward of proposals for supplying electricity to remote areas. The Government will conduct comprehensive assessments on the two power companies’ proposals, taking into account such factors as the supply method, cost-effectiveness and the impact on the environment, etc, with a view to achieving the balance of the four objectives of our energy policy, namely, safety, stability, reasonable prices and environmentally friendliness.  Regarding the electricity supply to Tung Ping Chau, the Government has approved the proposals in the 2018-2023 Development Plan of the CLP Power Hong Kong Limited (CLP) to supply electricity generated from solar power systems for Tung Ping Chau. The Government has also urged the CLP to maintain close liaison with the local residents.

    Regarding the water supply to Tung Ping Chau, as the permanent residence of the island is sparse, if a treated water supply system is to be constructed irrespective of whether the submarine pipeline is constructed from Shenzhen or Hong Kong to Tung Ping Chau, it is expected that the low water consumption will likely lead to stagnant water in water mains,  resulting in deterioration of water quality. Preliminary study shows that the capital cost per capita for the construction of treated water supply system for Tung Ping Chau is very high. Factors such as cross-boundary project and management should also be considered for laying the cross-boundary submarine pipeline. In view of technical and financial feasibility of the water supply system, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) is actively exploring using technology to provide water supply to Tung Ping Chau. To this end, the WSD is providing assistance to a non-governmental organisation to carry out pilot use of domestic seawater filter devices to provide an alternative water source for the villagers of Tung Ping Chau.

    (3) The Government launched the policy of Pier Improvement Programme (PIP) in 2017, aiming to upgrade the structural safety and facilities of a number of existing public piers at remote areas in the New Territories and outlying islands, with a view to enhancing accessibility of some scenic spots and natural heritage as well as meeting the basic needs of local villagers relying on boats as their main transportation mode and fishermen’s operation. Under the PIP, eight public piers are located within the Mirs Bay/Yan Chau Tong in the NM, of which the construction of Lai Chi Chong Pier, Sam Mun Tsai Village Pier and Sham Chung Pier are expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025. The remaining five piers are at the investigation and design stage. Upon completion of the detailed design, the Government will apply to the Legislative Council for funding for individual pier projects at appropriate time, based on the resource priority and related engineering deployment of the public works projects.

    (4) The CSTB supports the development and co-operation of yacht tourism in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao GBA, with a view to expanding and promoting high value-added tourism activities in Hong Kong and demonstrating the role of Hong Kong as a core demonstration zone for multi-destination tourism. The Development Bureau (DEVB) and the departments under its purview would make appropriate preparation in relation to land use planning and hardware for disembarkation and shores facilities so as to support the future development of yacht tourism in Hong Kong. With regard to the hardware facilities, the DEVB invited the market to submit expressions of interest (EOIs) for the proposed yacht berthing facilities at the ex-Lamma Quarry site and the expansion area of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter in the first half of this year, and are currently consolidating and analysing the feedback collected. The target is to firm up the development parameters and requirements, conduct the relevant statutory procedures as needed, and invite tender by the end of 2026 and 2027, or even earlier, for the two projects mentioned above respectively. At the same time, the DEVB released in April this year the preliminary land use proposals for the sites around Hung Hom Station and its waterfront areas, proposing to make use of the water body to the west of the former Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard site to provide yacht berthing facilities. The DEVB is currently consulting the public on the whole land use proposal which includes, amongst others, the yacht berthing facilities. The target is to commence town planning and other statutory procedures in the second half of 2026.

    To promote yacht tourism, apart from providing more yacht berthing facilities to address the shortage of berths, the Government will also need to consider whether there is any need to improve the immigration clearance procedures for yachts, the visa requirements for crew members, as well as arrangements and ancillary facilities such as ship repairing and maintenance, which involve the work of various bureaux and departments. In this relation, the DEVB has already made use of the opportunity of the EOI exercises mentioned above to collect the industry’s views and improvement recommendations on the development of yacht tourism and the related ancillary facilities. We are currently consolidating and analysing the feedback collected, and will provide them to the relevant bureaux and departments for reference, with a view to facilitating the formulation of more facilitating measures in the future to promote yacht tourism.

    (6) At present, Mainland visitors can conveniently enter Hong Kong through various boundary control points to join local tours, including eco-tourism itineraries in Hong Kong. The Government will, under the premise of striking a balance between ecological conservation and tourism development, unveil Hong Kong’s precious ecological resources to visitors and develop island tourism. We will also make good use of the coastline and waterfront resources and encourage the trade to develop diversified tourism products.

    Under the Tourism Commission’s Lei Yue Mun Waterfront Enhancement Project, the public landing facility was opened for public use in June. It has provided better supporting facility for developing tourism products in the eastern waters of Victoria Harbour, and promoting the development of marine tourism. In particular, for the licensed ferry route plying between Sai Wan Ho and Sam Ka Tsuen, some of the existing departures from Sai Wan Ho to Sam Ka Tsuen has been operated via the new public landing facility at Lei Yue Mun on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The service has commenced since June 28 on a trial basis for six months.

    In addition, the Legislation Council approved the amended Protection of the Harbour Ordinance (Cap. 531) recently. The introduction of a streamlined mechanism under the amended Ordinance has facilitated small-scale reclamations to promote harbourfront enhancement and to strengthen harbour functions. We will explore suitable locations for taking forward harbour enhancement works that can upgrade ancillary tourist facilities on both sides of the Victoria Harbour, by capitalising on the streamlined mechanism, with a view to better leveraging harbourfront resources and promoting tourism.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from July 17 to 21

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Transport Department (TD) today (July 2) said that the next online auction of vehicle registration marks (VRMs) will be held from noon on July 17 (Thursday) to noon on July 21 (Monday) through the auction platform E-Auction (e-auction.td.gov.hk). Interested bidders can participate in the online auction only after they have successfully registered as E-Auction users.

         A spokesman for the TD said, “A total of 200 Ordinary VRMs will be available at this online public auction. The list of VRMs (see Annex) has been uploaded to the E-Auction website. Applicants who have paid a $1,000 deposit to reserve the Ordinary VRM for auction should also register as an E-Auction user in advance in order to participate in the online bidding, including placing the first bid at the opening price of $1,000. Otherwise, the VRMs reserved by them may be bid on by other interested bidders at or above the opening price. Auctions for VRMs with ‘HK’ or ‘XX’ as a prefix, special VRMs and personalised VRMs will continue to be carried out through physical auctions by bidding paddles and their announcement arrangements remain unchanged.”

         Members of the public participating in the online bidding should take note of the following important points:

    (1) Bidders should register in advance as an E-Auction user by “iAM Smart+” equipped with the digital signing function; or by using a valid digital certificate and an email address upon completion of identity verification. Registered “iAM Smart” users should provide their Hong Kong identity card number, while non-Hong Kong residents who are not “iAM Smart” users should provide the number of their passport or other identification documents when registering as E-Auction users.

    (2) Bidders are required to provide a digital signature to confirm the submission and amount of the bid by using “iAM Smart+” or a valid digital certificate at the time of the first bid of each online bidding session (including setting automatic bids before the auction begins) to comply with the requirements of the Electronic Transactions Ordinance.

    (3) If a bid is made in respect of a VRM within the last 10 minutes before the end of the auction, the auction end time for that particular VRM will be automatically extended by another 10 minutes, up to a maximum of 24 hours.

    (4) Successful bidders must follow the instructions in the notification email issued by the TD to log in to the E-Auction within 48 hours from the issuance of email and complete the follow-up procedures, including:
     

    • completing the Purchaser Information for the issuance of the Memorandum of Sale of Registration Mark (Memorandum of Sale); and
    • making the auction payment online by credit card, Faster Payment System (FPS) or Payment by Phone Service (PPS). Cheque or cash payment is not accepted in the E-Auction.

    (5) A VRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. Relevant information on the Certificate of Incorporation must be provided by the successful bidder in the Purchaser Information of the Memorandum of Sale if the VRM purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate.

    (6) Successful bidders will receive a notification email around seven working days after payment has been confirmed and can download the Memorandum of Sale from the E-Auction. The purchaser must apply for the VRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser within 12 months from the date of issue of the Memorandum of Sale. If the purchaser fails to do so within the 12-month period, in accordance with the statutory provision, the allocation of the VRM will be cancelled and a new allocation will be arranged by the TD without prior notice to the purchaser.

         The TD has informed all applicants who have reserved the Ordinary VRMs for this round of auction of the E-Auction arrangements in detail by post. Members of the public may refer to the E-Auction website or watch the tutorial videos for more information. Please call the E-Auction hotline (3583 3980) or email (e-auction-enquiry@td.gov.hk) for enquiries. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins 
    Question:
     
         The Stablecoins Bill, passed in May this year, aims to establish a licensing and regulatory regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong. There are views that this marks a milestone in the global development of Web3 and represents an important step in Hong Kong’s journey to becoming an international Web3 hub. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of ways to promote the expansion of stablecoin use cases, including fostering connections between stablecoin issuers and application scenarios on the Mainland, so as to facilitate the transition of stablecoins from regulatory compliance to establishment of business ecosystems;
     
    (2) how the Government will leverage the implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance to promote the openness and flexibility of Hong Kong’s stablecoin laws and regulations internationally, while also synergising with Hong Kong’s advantages under “one country, two systems” as well as its status as an international financial centre which is conducive to stablecoin development, to attract global compliant stablecoin issuers and large-scale international financial institutions to issue stablecoins and establish a presence in Hong Kong; and
     
    (3) whether it will make preparations for the development of offshore Renminbi (RMB) stablecoins, including seeking support from the Central Authorities so as to establish the creditworthiness of Hong Kong’s offshore RMB stablecoins?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In May this year, the Legislative Council passed the Stablecoins Bill, establishing a licensing regime for issuers of fiat-referenced stablecoins (FRS) in Hong Kong. The ordinance further strengthens the regulatory framework for digital asset activities in Hong Kong to safeguard monetary and financial stability, as well as consolidates and enhances Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. The Stablecoins Ordinance will come into effect on August 1 this year, at which the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) will begin accepting licence applications. Currently, the HKMA is conducting a public consultation on the detailed guidelines for implementing the Ordinance with a view to finalising these guidelines as soon as practicable.
     
         Having consulted the HKMA, my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) To harness the potential of stablecoins, the Government and regulators will provide a conducive environment and necessary regulatory guidance to enable licensed stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong to explore and implement different stablecoin use cases, with a view to addressing real-world pain points in economic activities, putting forward regulatory priorities for potential risks, and promoting the sustainable development of the market.
     
         To this end, the HKMA launched the stablecoin issuer sandbox early last year to allow the HKMA to understand the business models of institutions planning to issue FRS in Hong Kong, and to communicate regulatory expectations and provide guidance, while also fostering the development of practical use cases for stablecoins. With both local and global backgrounds, the participating institutions come from a wide spectrum of industries, including cross-border e-commerce and logistics, innovation and technology, banking and telecommunications services. The sandbox enables participants to conduct testing on their proposed use cases and operations within a limited scope and in a risk-controlled environment. Participation in the sandbox is not a prerequisite for licence application in the future.
     
         Furthermore, the Government recently issued the Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong. It covers the policy direction for advancing digital asset use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration, and articulates the exploration of stablecoins as a payment tool. To demonstrate the Government’s support and to take the lead, in the Policy Statement 2.0 the Government invites proposals from market participants on how the Government may test the usage of licensed stablecoins, for example in enhancing efficiency of Government payments.
     
         Alongside market and use case development, it is also important to ensure compliance in business operation. Stablecoin issuers must demonstrate adequate setup, capabilities and experience across a range of areas, including management and security of reserve assets, effective price stabilisation mechanisms, comprehensive and feasible redemption policies, as well as capabilities in technological security, risk management, and anti-money laundering. Where the use cases of stablecoins involve cross-border activities, applicants are also expected to develop a comprehensive compliance plan, demonstrate their financial strength, and ensure that they and their business partners have the necessary regulatory approvals and will comply with applicable regulations in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions, when they carry out activities related to their stablecoins.
     
    (2) The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and the HKMA have been proactively communicating with stakeholders in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions on the regulation and development of stablecoins, including potential stablecoin issuers, market participants, and professional service providers.
     
         Along with the upcoming implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance, we will further enhance our engagement with various stakeholders across the globe to elaborate on Hong Kong’s regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, and highlight the balanced approach of our framework in managing risks while promoting industry development, such as adopting a more open model that allows licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance.
     
         We will also continue to promote Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international financial centre, including our close connection with the international markets, mature financial market and infrastructure, comprehensive legal system, and a wealth of professional talents, through overseas visits and on-going work exchanges. The Government’s recent promulgation of the Policy Statement 2.0 also demonstrates to the digital asset and related sectors around the world our steadfast commitment and policy direction to establish Hong Kong as a global digital asset hub.
     
    (3) The licensing regime for stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong is flexible and open, allowing licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance. We welcome institutions from around the world to apply for licence based on their actual business needs. We will review licence applications with a set of common standards, such as the issuer’s compliance with regulatory requirements in the areas of reserve asset management, stabilisation mechanisms, redemption arrangements and internal control measures. The Government and financial regulators will closely monitor regulatory developments and maintain communications with regulatory authorities in different jurisdictions.
     
         The digital asset market is developing and evolving rapidly. Guided by the principle of “same activity, same risks, same regulation” and adopting a risk-based approach, the Government will continue to enhance and establish a regulatory regime that reflects local circumstances and aligns with international standards and practices, with a view to promoting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of the digital asset market in Hong Kong, thereby further strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.
     
         Thank you, President.
    Issued at HKT 14:54

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins 
    Question:
     
         The Stablecoins Bill, passed in May this year, aims to establish a licensing and regulatory regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong. There are views that this marks a milestone in the global development of Web3 and represents an important step in Hong Kong’s journey to becoming an international Web3 hub. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of ways to promote the expansion of stablecoin use cases, including fostering connections between stablecoin issuers and application scenarios on the Mainland, so as to facilitate the transition of stablecoins from regulatory compliance to establishment of business ecosystems;
     
    (2) how the Government will leverage the implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance to promote the openness and flexibility of Hong Kong’s stablecoin laws and regulations internationally, while also synergising with Hong Kong’s advantages under “one country, two systems” as well as its status as an international financial centre which is conducive to stablecoin development, to attract global compliant stablecoin issuers and large-scale international financial institutions to issue stablecoins and establish a presence in Hong Kong; and
     
    (3) whether it will make preparations for the development of offshore Renminbi (RMB) stablecoins, including seeking support from the Central Authorities so as to establish the creditworthiness of Hong Kong’s offshore RMB stablecoins?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In May this year, the Legislative Council passed the Stablecoins Bill, establishing a licensing regime for issuers of fiat-referenced stablecoins (FRS) in Hong Kong. The ordinance further strengthens the regulatory framework for digital asset activities in Hong Kong to safeguard monetary and financial stability, as well as consolidates and enhances Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. The Stablecoins Ordinance will come into effect on August 1 this year, at which the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) will begin accepting licence applications. Currently, the HKMA is conducting a public consultation on the detailed guidelines for implementing the Ordinance with a view to finalising these guidelines as soon as practicable.
     
         Having consulted the HKMA, my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) To harness the potential of stablecoins, the Government and regulators will provide a conducive environment and necessary regulatory guidance to enable licensed stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong to explore and implement different stablecoin use cases, with a view to addressing real-world pain points in economic activities, putting forward regulatory priorities for potential risks, and promoting the sustainable development of the market.
     
         To this end, the HKMA launched the stablecoin issuer sandbox early last year to allow the HKMA to understand the business models of institutions planning to issue FRS in Hong Kong, and to communicate regulatory expectations and provide guidance, while also fostering the development of practical use cases for stablecoins. With both local and global backgrounds, the participating institutions come from a wide spectrum of industries, including cross-border e-commerce and logistics, innovation and technology, banking and telecommunications services. The sandbox enables participants to conduct testing on their proposed use cases and operations within a limited scope and in a risk-controlled environment. Participation in the sandbox is not a prerequisite for licence application in the future.
     
         Furthermore, the Government recently issued the Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong. It covers the policy direction for advancing digital asset use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration, and articulates the exploration of stablecoins as a payment tool. To demonstrate the Government’s support and to take the lead, in the Policy Statement 2.0 the Government invites proposals from market participants on how the Government may test the usage of licensed stablecoins, for example in enhancing efficiency of Government payments.
     
         Alongside market and use case development, it is also important to ensure compliance in business operation. Stablecoin issuers must demonstrate adequate setup, capabilities and experience across a range of areas, including management and security of reserve assets, effective price stabilisation mechanisms, comprehensive and feasible redemption policies, as well as capabilities in technological security, risk management, and anti-money laundering. Where the use cases of stablecoins involve cross-border activities, applicants are also expected to develop a comprehensive compliance plan, demonstrate their financial strength, and ensure that they and their business partners have the necessary regulatory approvals and will comply with applicable regulations in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions, when they carry out activities related to their stablecoins.
     
    (2) The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and the HKMA have been proactively communicating with stakeholders in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions on the regulation and development of stablecoins, including potential stablecoin issuers, market participants, and professional service providers.
     
         Along with the upcoming implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance, we will further enhance our engagement with various stakeholders across the globe to elaborate on Hong Kong’s regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, and highlight the balanced approach of our framework in managing risks while promoting industry development, such as adopting a more open model that allows licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance.
     
         We will also continue to promote Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international financial centre, including our close connection with the international markets, mature financial market and infrastructure, comprehensive legal system, and a wealth of professional talents, through overseas visits and on-going work exchanges. The Government’s recent promulgation of the Policy Statement 2.0 also demonstrates to the digital asset and related sectors around the world our steadfast commitment and policy direction to establish Hong Kong as a global digital asset hub.
     
    (3) The licensing regime for stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong is flexible and open, allowing licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance. We welcome institutions from around the world to apply for licence based on their actual business needs. We will review licence applications with a set of common standards, such as the issuer’s compliance with regulatory requirements in the areas of reserve asset management, stabilisation mechanisms, redemption arrangements and internal control measures. The Government and financial regulators will closely monitor regulatory developments and maintain communications with regulatory authorities in different jurisdictions.
     
         The digital asset market is developing and evolving rapidly. Guided by the principle of “same activity, same risks, same regulation” and adopting a risk-based approach, the Government will continue to enhance and establish a regulatory regime that reflects local circumstances and aligns with international standards and practices, with a view to promoting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of the digital asset market in Hong Kong, thereby further strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.
     
         Thank you, President.
    Issued at HKT 14:54

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Judiciary set for full institutional independence

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Judiciary set for full institutional independence

    The process of placing the country’s judiciary under “full institutional independence” is expected to be rolled out in the 2025/26 financial year.

    This was announced by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, when she was presenting the budget vote of the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) in Parliament, on Tuesday afternoon.

    “[This] will enable the judiciary to be a fully-fledged Arm of the State. In line with the constitution, judicial governance and court administration will be placed under the authority of the Judiciary itself,” Kubayi said. 

    The proposed model will entail structural independence, which includes both financial and operational independence. With the vision to establish a single Judiciary, the administration of the Lower Courts, including the Magistrates Commission, will also be transferred the OCJ.

    Explaining the structure of the proposed model of the Judiciary, Kubayi highlighted that the Chief Justice will become the Executive Authority of the Office of the Chief Justice, while the Secretary-General will serve as the the accounting authority of the Judiciary. 

    “The OCJ will then be re-established outside the public service and be capacitated to appoint its staff in line with its own prescripts, human resource framework tailored to judicial operations and principles of independence,” the Minister explained.

    To carry out this process, the Minister announced that a task team comprising senior officials of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Presidency, Office of the Chief Justice, National Treasury, Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), has been established to chart a way for the institutional independence of the Judiciary.

    The team has been given until August to present a progress report to Cabinet on the judiciary’s institutional independence.

    “In the end, as envisaged by the founders of our democracy, we want to create a single judiciary that is an equal Arm of the State,” Kubayi affirmed.

    Budget allocation

    The Minister told Parliament that the OCJ has been allocated a budget increase of some 5.5%, which will “go a long way in ensuring efficiency and effectiveness of the courts and the judiciary as a whole”.

    “The OCJ provides direct support to the Judiciary and Superior Courts to ensure that the Judicial Arm of the State functions optimally. As such, the OCJ has been allocated a budget of R2.7 billion for the 2025/2026 Financial Year, which it operationalises through its three Programmes, namely: Administration, Superior Court Services as well as Judicial Education and Support. This allocation also includes the direct allocation for the remuneration of Judges.

    “This represents a budget increase of just over 5.5% compared to the previous financial year, which will go a long way in ensuring efficiency and effectiveness of the courts and the judiciary as a whole. In his Budget Speech, Minister of Finance has also made an undertaking to, later this year, make funds available for strengthening capabilities in the Office of the Chief Justice,” the Minister said.

    She added that the modernisation of the court system remains a key priority to “improve access to justice”, highlighting the continued rollout of the Court Online system following its successful pilot in the Gauteng Division of the High Court.

    “Court Online provides a platform for Law Firms/Litigants to file documents to the Courts electronically (E-Filing) over the Internet from anywhere, and is now operational in the Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo divisions. Eastern Cape is currently being rolled out and will be completed by end of July 2025. 

    “It [the system] is also being progressively implemented at the Land Court, Labour Court, and Labour Appeal Court. The envisaged full implementation of Court Online will enhance access to quality justice for all and the effectiveness of the courts,” Kubayi said.

    Another priority is the implementation of the department’s Fraud Prevention and Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy during 2025/2026 financial year.

    This in line with the OCJ’s zero tolerance stance on corruption and fraud.

    “This policy creates a mechanism for reporting anonymously within the department and through the National Anti-Corruption Hotline, amongst other things.

    “We can inform members that following the reports of corruption in the Mthatha High Court, the OCJ has commenced with Lifestyle Audits of all employees over and above the work that is done by law enforcement agencies. Furthermore 4 officials have been suspended in Pretoria High court following allegations fraud and corruption,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za

    NeoB

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: England’s mayors gather to pledge national walking, wheeling and cycling network, backed by government

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    England’s mayors gather to pledge national walking, wheeling and cycling network, backed by government

    National active travel network will provide 3,500 miles of safer routes for better connectivity, targeting areas where health and air quality are poorest.

    • national active travel network to give healthier and greener travel options to millions across the nation
    • pledge to deliver an initial 3,500 miles of safer routes to schools, shops and high streets, workplaces and transport hubs
    • projects will help tackle the country’s inactivity crisis, easing pressure on the NHS and boosting productivity, as part of government’s Plan for Change

    Ministers are backing a coalition of 11 of England’s combined authority mayors, who have signed an ambitious joint statement pledging to create a national active travel network, enabling millions of happier, healthier and greener journeys from Berwick to Bristol.

    West Yorkshire’s Tracy Brabin, South Yorkshire’s Oliver Coppard, York and North Yorkshire’s David Skaith, Hull and East Yorkshire’s Luke Campbell, the North East’s Kim McGuinness, the West of England’s Helen Godwin and the East Midlands’ Claire Ward met with National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, and the UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, in York yesterday (1 July 2025) to kickstart the plans.

    Greater Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham, Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotherham, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Mayor Paul Bristow have also signed the pledge published today. In addition, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has added his signature in support of the agreement.

    Launching in autumn 2025, the programme will begin with Mayoral combined authorities agreeing an initial network of 3,500 miles of safer routes connecting housing to schools and high streets, targeting areas where health and air quality are poorest, helping to reduce stark health inequalities.

    This will help more of their regions’ 20 million residents meet recommended activity levels, reducing risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and depression while supporting the government’s Plan for Change by easing pressure on the NHS and boosting growth. The new routes and projects will focus on prevention rather than cure, by building health and wellbeing into everyday activities.

    The multi-region project will begin work in around 1,000 schools, creating 300 safer routes for people walking, wheeling and cycling.

    National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, said:

    Our regional leaders have today marked the start of an exciting chapter by pledging to give people across the country more transport choice.

    We know that more walking, wheeling and cycling will improve our country’s mental and physical health, but it will do much more, it’s the foundation for thriving integrated public transport networks, it increases access to work, boosting local economic growth and it will give millions of children more independence.

    People will only consider travelling actively if it is easy and safe. That’s what the mayors have today pledged to do and that’s why government is backing them. It’s going to have a hugely positive impact on millions of people’s daily lives.

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

    I know I am one of many who enjoy the physical and mental health benefits that come with walking or cycling to work or school.

    That’s why this government is investing £616 million over the next 4 years, on top of £300 million announced in February, to give more people around the country high-quality and healthy ways to get around, and supporting mayors’ plans to create a joined-up network.

    It is a key part of our Plan for Change, boosting local businesses, growing local economies and easing pressure on the NHS.

    As part of the agreement, the Mayors have committed to:

    1. Work with the Department for Transport, Active Travel England and local authorities to create a country-wide national walking, wheeling and cycling network, comprising local networks that are safe and easy to use. This will give their regions’ 20 million residents access to high-quality, safe routes in their communities.
    2. Transform the school run by delivering high-quality, safer routes in neighbourhoods nationwide.
    3. Boost regional integrated transport networks by giving people easy walking, wheeling and cycling access to buses, trams and trains, which will link to new housing and support local economic growth.

    The initiative comes as recent research shows 1 in 6 early deaths could be prevented with regular moderate exercise. Meanwhile, a study from 2023 to 2024 found that, in England, 35.8% of year 6 children were overweight or living with obesity, with 22.1% living with obesity.

    Chief Medical Officer Professor, Chris Whitty, said:

    Increasing physical activity has health benefits across the life course. As part of this, we need to make walking and cycling more accessible and safer, as well as access to green space easier and more equitable.

    This will help remove barriers to improving physical activity levels and could significantly improve the health of England’s increasingly urban population.

    The first wave of improving active travel routes to schools will include the delivery of proven and popular schemes, including school streets, traffic calming measures, new crossings and better pavements, clear of obstructions.

    Regional mayors will lead local implementation with interventions tailored to their communities’ needs and develop programmes to enable more active travel, such as walking and cycling buses for children.

    The programme will be delivered using regional resources with additional targeted investment from Active Travel England, improving efficiency by combining separate funding streams in a mission-led approach.

    General enquiries

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Warm welcome for first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Locals in Kashmir welcomed the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims with warmth and goodwill on Wednesday as they arrived in the Valley through the Navyug Tunnel.

    People from various sections of society, including members of civil society, traders, and residents of Anantnag and Kulgam districts, gathered with garlands and placards to greet the Yatris.

    The spontaneous gesture highlighted the enduring spirit of communal harmony in Kashmir and the region’s longstanding support for the annual pilgrimage.

    Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. Chanting slogans of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, ‘Bum Bum Bhole’ and ‘Har Har Mahadev’, enthusiastic devotees set out in two escorted convoys towards the Pahalgam and Baltal base camps.

    The Lt Governor, who also chairs the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), was accompanied by senior civil and police officials during the flag-off ceremony.

    According to officials, a total of 5,892 pilgrims left Jammu for the Valley on Wednesday. Of these, 3,403 are bound for the Nunwan base camp at Pahalgam, while 2,489 are heading to Baltal.

    This year’s Yatra is being held under tight security arrangements, with an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces deployed following the April Pahalgam terror attack.

    The 36-day pilgrimage will formally commence on Thursday and conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    Pilgrims undertake the journey to the holy cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,888 metres either through the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. The Pahalgam route involves a 46-kilometre trek over four days, while those opting for the Baltal route complete a 14-kilometre trek and return the same day.

    This year, no helicopter services are available for security reasons.

    The cave shrine houses the naturally formed ice Shivling, believed by devotees to symbolise the mystical powers of Lord Shiva.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Every 10th farmer at Moscow fairs helps SVO participants – Sergei Sobyanin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of the special military operation (SVO), participants in Moscow fairs have sent more than 250 tons of products to soldiers and residents of the new territories of Russia. Every 10th farmer makes his contribution. This was reported by Sergei Sobyanin in his telegram channel.

    “Sergey from the Tula region, a supplier to the Moscow fair on Semenovskaya Square, has been giving the children not only his own products since the very beginning of the military operation. Together with his children, he makes trench candles from natural materials and a dry shower. He also organizes fundraising, purchases food and personal hygiene items,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin 

    Maya, a participant in the weekend fair, sends a car with food to the SVO zone every month. Her husband and son are now defending their homeland. Farmer Miron from the Bryansk region sends vegetables and fruits that he grew himself, and on holidays he cooks pilaf for military border territories.

    Artists make a great contribution to supporting the fighters. The capital’s cultural organizations have collected over 165 tons of humanitarian aid.

    The Mosconcert cultural brigade has held more than a thousand speeches in the new territories of Russia for military personnel and local residents.

    The Russian Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra regularly performs in hospitals, and the Great Moscow State Circus goes on humanitarian missions. During the tour, the circus team donated funds to support the children’s social center in Gorlovka and the Pif animal shelter. The money from ticket sales was sent to the Donetsk Circus Cosmos and to purchase several vehicles for SVO fighters. The artists also regularly visit military units and hospital patients.

    In addition, over 61 thousand books were sent from Moscow to field libraries of military units, hospitals, training centers and to libraries in new territories.

    “Every deed, every package, every speech is priceless. I am grateful to everyone who does not stand aside. This is the strength of spirit and unity of our people,” Sergei Sobyanin emphasized.

    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 access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/13020050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority welcomes Government’s reappointment of Chairman and appointment of Chief Executive

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         The Hospital Authority (HA) today (July 2) welcomes the Government’s reappointment of Mr Henry Fan as the Chairman of the HA and the appointment of Dr Libby Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA.

         Mr Fan said, “I am very honoured to be reappointed and to continue serving the public together with the 90 000 staff members of the HA. I am also very much looking forward to working with Dr Lee again at the HA to jointly lead the ongoing reforms of the HA. Our future work focus will be on fully implementing the HA’s various reform initiatives, particularly the public healthcare fees and charges reform to be launched in January next year. The HA will continue to enhance its services regarding the wellbeing of patients and uphold the patient-centric value, and will continue to promote the sustainable development of public healthcare services.”

         The appointment of Dr Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA has been endorsed by the HA Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, after a global search and thorough deliberation by the Selection Board appointed by the HA Board.

         “The HA Board has full confidence in Dr Lee’s wealth of experience in both clinical and management fields, and believes that her leadership capabilities and governance talents will continue to lead the HA to attain a higher level of achievement. Dr Lee demonstrates clear vision and aspirations for the HA’s future development, and will lead the HA to face future challenges, continue reforms, enhance public hospital services, and move towards sustainable development, with the staunch support of all HA staff members,” Mr Fan said.

         “With the support of the Health Bureau and the HA Board, all staff members of the HA, Dr Lee, and I will continue to work together to enhance public hospital services and provide quality and sustainable public healthcare services for Hong Kong citizens. We will continue to strengthen our manpower and enhance exchanges with healthcare professionals worldwide, particularly from the Mainland. At the same time, we will continue to upgrade the facilities and service capacity of public hospitals to address the challenges of an ageing society and surging service demand,” Mr Fan added.

         Dr Lee expressed that she is deeply honoured to be appointed as the Chief Executive of the HA. “I am very grateful for the trust of the Government and the HA Board in appointing me to lead the HA. With the staunch support of all HA staff members, the Health Bureau, and the HA Board, as well as close collaboration with healthcare sector and community partners, I firmly believe that the HA will certainly reach new heights and benefit patients.”

         The current Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, welcomed the reappointment of Mr Fan and congratulated Dr Lee on her appointment to the new position. He believes that with Dr Lee’s extensive management experience at the Health Bureau and the HA, as well as her visionary perspective on public health policy and public healthcare services, she will certainly continue to drive the HA reforms and benefit patients.

         Dr Ko will complete his contract and step down on July 31, with Dr Lee taking up her new role immediately on August 1. Mr Fan extends his appreciation to Dr Ko for his years of service to patients in public hospitals, particularly his contributions and outstanding performance to the HA and public healthcare services during his tenure as Chief Executive. He led the HA in navigating various challenges, especially in leading HA staff members in fighting the epidemic, and in fully promoting the HA’s sustainable development, talent exchange and reforms after the epidemic, marking important milestones for the HA at different stages. On behalf of all HA staff members, Mr Fan wishes Dr Ko every happiness after his departure.

         Mr Fan also congratulated Dr Cecilia Fan on her appointment as the Under Secretary for Health, believing that Dr Fan’s extensive experience in public health over the years will certainly elevate Hong Kong’s public health policies to new heights and promote more public health services that meet the needs of Hong Kong citizens.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APEC Opens Scientist Exchange Program in Korea Sejong, Republic of Korea | 02 July 2025 APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation APEC has kicked off a new exchange program to boost cross-border research, with Korea hosting the first cohort of scientists in Seoul this year.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    APEC has kicked off a new exchange program to boost cross-border research, with Korea hosting the first cohort of scientists in Seoul this year. The Scientist Invitation Program to Korea 2025 marks the first program under the APEC Scientist Exchange Initiative, a new regional effort to enhance scientific mobility and long-term collaboration.

    This is the first time APEC has launched a dedicated mobility track for scientists, signaling a significant step toward institutionalizing scientific exchange as part of the region’s broader agenda for inclusive innovation and sustainable growth.

    Funded and implemented this year by the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea, the program supports researchers from APEC member economies through structured training and joint research opportunities. It also offers streamlined visa application processes and fast-track entry and exit at Korean ports of entry.

    The launch comes at a time when economies are navigating post-pandemic recovery, an accelerating digital transformation and rising demand for interdisciplinary scientific talent. By investing in mobility and peer exchange, the program responds to calls for deeper regional cooperation in science and technology.

    “Capacity building and exchange programmes empower scientists to share knowledge, foster innovation and create solutions that transcend borders, driving global progress through shared mission collaborations via human-to-human exchanges,” said Hazami Habib, Vice Chair of the APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation (PPSTI).

    “This could lead to not only enhanced connectivity but also significant impacts across the APEC region. The Scientist Invitation Program to Korea 2025 is a commendable initiative which stimulates further interest in collaborative research within the region,” Habib added.

    “Korea has emphasized the importance of innovation driven by cultivating science and technology talent,” said Sunghoon Hwang, Director General for International Cooperation at Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT. “We hope that the Scientist Invitation Program will enable scientists from Korea and participating APEC members to build research networks and create scientific collaboration opportunities across the region, particularly with Korea.”

    The program offers two distinct pathways for participation. The first is a 10-day capacity-building track that includes mentoring, expert lectures and policy discussions to support future collaboration. The second is a 90-day research placement, where participants conduct joint research at leading Korean institutions. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD or a master’s degree with at least three years of relevant professional experience.

    The first session, focused on physics, ran from 26 May to 6 June in Seoul. It brought together 21 researchers and professors from Malaysia, Peru and Thailand, who engaged in lab visits, including the Center for Quantum Nanoscience at Ewha Womans University, and took part in cultural experiences that strengthened professional and personal ties.

    “This program will help me to have an international collaboration. I feel good, and this is a good opportunity for me,” said Dr Nuttawadee Intachai, a lecturer at Chiang Mai University in Thailand who participated in the session.

    The second session, focused on chemistry and involving scientists from Indonesia and the Philippines, concluded on 27 June. Upcoming sessions in earth sciences and life sciences, along with the first round of 90-day research placements, are set to begin in July.

    With up to 100 scientists expected to participate this year, the Scientist Invitation Program is laying the groundwork for a more connected, collaborative, and innovation-driven APEC region.

    The broader initiative also includes plans for an APEC Scientist Travel Card, modeled after the APEC Business Travel Card. Once developed, the card would streamline mobility for scientists attending conferences, seminars, or joint projects by facilitating visa-free or expedited entry. More information is available on the official program website.

    For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: GAZA: Starvation or gunfire — not a humanitarian response

    Source: Oxfam –

    JOINT STATEMENT

    Oxfam and over 170 other NGOs operating in Gaza call for immediate action to end the deadly Israeli distribution scheme (including the so-called Gaza Humanitarian Foundation) in Gaza, revert to the existing UN-led coordination mechanisms, and lift the Israeli government’s blockade on aid and commercial supplies. The 400 aid distribution points operating during the temporary ceasefire across Gaza have now been replaced by just four military-controlled distribution sites, forcing two million people into overcrowded, militarized zones where they face daily gunfire and mass casualties while trying to access food and are denied other life-saving supplies.

    Today, Palestinians in Gaza face an impossible choice: starve or risk being shot while trying desperately to reach food to feed their families. The weeks following the launch of the Israeli distribution scheme have been some of the deadliest and most violent since October 2023. 

    In less than four weeks, more than 500 Palestinians have been killed and almost 4,000 injured just trying to access or distribute food. Israeli forces and armed groups – some reportedly operating with backing from Israeli authorities – now routinely open fire on desperate civilians risking everything just to survive.

    The humanitarian system is being deliberately and systematically dismantled by the Government of Israel’s blockade and restrictions, a blockade now being used to justify shutting down nearly all other aid operations in favour of a deadly, military-controlled alternative that neither protects civilians nor meets basic needs. These measures are designed to sustain a cycle of desperation, danger, and death. Experienced humanitarian actors remain ready to deliver life-saving assistance at scale. Yet more than 100 days since Israeli authorities reimposed a near-total blockade on aid and commercial goods, Gaza’s humanitarian conditions are collapsing faster than at any point in the past 20 months.

    Under the Israeli government’s new scheme, starved and weakened civilians are being forced to trek for hours through dangerous terrain and active conflict zones, only to face a violent, chaotic race to reach fenced, militarized distribution sites with a single entry point. There, thousands are released into chaotic enclosures to fight for limited food supplies. These areas have become sites of repeated massacres in blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. Orphaned children and caregivers are among the dead, with children harmed in over half of the attacks on civilians at these sites. With Gaza’s healthcare system in ruins, many of those shot are left to bleed out alone, beyond the reach of ambulances and denied lifesaving medical care. 

    Amidst severe hunger and famine-like conditions, many families tell us they are now too weak to compete for food rations. Those who do manage to obtain food often return with only a few basic items – nearly impossible to prepare without clean water or fuel to cook with. Fuel is nearly depleted, bringing critical lifesaving services – including bakeries, water systems, ambulances, and hospitals – to a standstill. Families are sheltering under plastic sheets, operating makeshift kitchens amid the rubble, without fuel, clean water, sanitation, or electricity. 

    This is not a humanitarian response.

    Concentrating more than two million people into further confined areas for a chance to feed their families is not a plan to save lives. For 20 months, more than two million people have been subjected to relentless bombardment, the weaponization of food, water and other aid, repeated forced displacement, and systematic dehumanization – all under the watch of the international community. The Sphere Association, which sets minimum standards for quality humanitarian aid, has warned that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s approach does not adhere to core humanitarian standards and principles.

    This normalization of suffering must not be allowed to stand. States must reject the false choice between deadly, military-controlled food distributions and total denial of aid. States must uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, including prohibitions on forced displacement, indiscriminate attacks, and obstruction of humanitarian aid. States must ensure accountability for grave violations of international law. 

    We, the undersigned organizations, once again call on all third states to:

    • Take concrete measures to end the suffocating siege and uphold the right of civilians in Gaza to safely access aid and receive protection. 

    • Urge donors not to fund militarized aid schemes that violate international law, do not adhere to humanitarian principles, deepen harm, and risk complicity in atrocities. 

    • Support the restoration of a unified, UN-led coordination mechanism—grounded in international humanitarian law and inclusive of UNRWA, Palestinian civil society, and the wider humanitarian community—to meet people’s needs.

    We reiterate our urgent calls for an immediate and sustained ceasefire, the release of all hostages and arbitrarily detained prisoners, full humanitarian access at scale, and an end to the pervasive impunity that enables these atrocities and denies Palestinians their basic dignity. 

    The signatories include:

    1.     American Friends Service Committee

    2.     Amnesty International

    3.     Anera 

    4.     Bisan Center for Research and Development 

    5.     Fund for Global Human Rights

    6.     Islamic Relief Worldwide

    7.     Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation

    8.     Médecins du Monde

    9.     Médecins Sans Frontières

    10. MedGlobal 

    11. Medical Aid for Palestinians 

    12. Mennonite Central Committee 

    13. Middle East Children’s Alliance

    14. Norwegian People’s Aid

    15. Norwegian Refugee Council 

    16. Oxfam International 

    17. Pax Christi International 

    18. Saferworld  

    19. Save the Children

    20. Terres des Hommes Italia

    21. War Child 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to Spain, Brazil and South Africa launching a new coalition to tax the super-rich

    Source: Oxfam –

    In response to Spain, Brazil and South Africa’s new global coalition to tax the super-rich, launched today at the Fourth Financing for Development Conference in Seville, Oxfam Tax Justice Policy Lead Susana Ruiz said: 

    “We welcome the leadership of Brazil, Spain and South Africa in calling for taxes on the super-rich. People around the world are pushing for more countries to reject the corrupting political influence of oligarchies. Taxation of the super-rich is a vital tool to secure sustainable development and fight inequalities. The wealth of the richest 1% has surged $33.9 trillion since 2015, enough to end annual poverty 22 times, yet billionaires only pay around 0.3% in real taxes.  

    “This extreme inequality is being driven by a financial system that puts the interests of a wealthy few above everyone else. This concentration of wealth is blocking progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and keeping over three billion people living in poverty: over half of poor countries are spending more on debt repayments than on healthcare or education. 

    “In a tense geopolitical environment, Spain, Brazil and South Africa have taken an important step in forging an alliance here at the UN conference in Seville to show political will for taxation of the super-rich. Now other countries must follow their lead and join forces. This year, the FFD in Seville, COP30 in Brazil and G20 in South Africa are key opportunities for international cooperation to tax the super-rich and invest in a sustainable future that puts human rights and equality at its core.”

    Download the Oxfam report “From Private Profit to Public Power: Financing Development, Not Oligarchy“ which was launched ahead of the Fourth Financing for Development Conference with new analysis on economic inequality.

    Greenpeace and Oxfam International commissioned a study this month on public opinion on taxing the super-rich. The research was conducted by first party data company Dynata in May-June 2025, in Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Kenya, Italy, India, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US. The survey had approximately 1200 respondents per country, with a margin of error of +-2.83%. Together, these countries represent close to half the world’s population. See the results here.

    Oxfam will be hosting a major high-level event together with Club de Madrid, at 7pm on July 1, 2025, in Seville, joined by high-level government representatives on the media briefing note. Journalists are invited to attend and will be prioritized for questions. Please register here.

    Moreover, an official side event on inequality and tax reform will take place at 2.30pm on July 1, 2025, at the FIBES Exhibition Centre room 20 joined by high-level government representatives from Brazil, Spain and South Africa, international organizations and global experts. See note here.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The European Union (EU) Accelerates Mining Investments Across Africa in H1 2025


    Download logo

    The EU has increased financial and technical support for Africa’s mining sector in the first half of 2025, aligning its foreign investment strategy with the continent’s agenda to shape the global energy transition. In June this year, the EU named four Africa-bsed projects as part of its 13 globally strategic initiatives under the Critical Raw Materials Act. The projects include Mkango Resources’ 8,425-ton-per-annum Songwe Hill Rare Earths Project in Malawi and Frontier Rare Earths’ 4,000-ton-per-annum Zandkopsdrift magnet-grade rare earths project in South Africa. The Maniry Graphite Project in Madagascar led by Evion Group and a 6,000-ton-per-annum cobalt refinery in Zambia are also among the projects set to receive EU financial support and technical assistance.

    Amid increased EU support for African mining projects, the upcoming African Mining Week – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders, taking place from October 1–3, 2025 in Cape Town – will showcase lucrative investment and cooperation opportunities for EU companies in Africa’s burgeoning mining sector. The event will feature an EU-Africa Roundtable, showcasing the EU’s contribution to Africa’s mining sector sustainability.

    EU-DRC Mining Partnership Strengthened

    Two new programs announced by the EU this June have deepened the bloc’s mining partnership with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – the world’s top cobalt producer and Africa’s largest copper producer. The programs include the Cobalt for Development project which aims to formalize and uplift small-scale mining operations in the DRC. Meanwhile, the upcoming Panafgeo+ geological mapping program – led by France’s Bureau of Geological and Mining Research in collaboration with DRC’s Ministry of Mines – will enhance the country’s geological knowledge base. At AMW, a panel titled The Cobalt Opportunity: DRC’s Strategic Position in the EV Revolution will unpack trends and opportunities within the DRC’s cobalt sector value chain.

    EU Backs African Mineral Logistics Expansion

    The EU is also backing strategic infrastructure development to facilitate connectivity between mineral-rich African markets and EU buyers. The Africa Finance Corporation recently secured a €250 million, 10-year loan from Italy’s development bank Cassa Depositi e Prestiti to advance the Lobito Corridor, bolstering connectivity between EU markets and Angola, Zambia and the DRC. Meanwhile, the European Investment Bank has also approved a €113 million loan to co-finance the expansion of Mauritania’s iron ore rail line linking Zouérat to Nouadhibou – part of a broader €461 million investment aimed at boosting the country’s iron ore export capacity.

    EU-South Africa Partnership

    The EU recently announced a €4.7 billion financing package announced to support mineral processing, green hydrogen and transport infrastructure in South Africa, the world’s largest producer of platinum group metals. This financing package reflects a growing focus on securing diversified and sustainable mineral supply chains. At AMW, a dedicated panel exploring South Africa’s PGMs market will showcase emerging prospects for EU firms within the country’s value chain.

    Growing Support for Formalized Artisanal Mining

    The EU has also committed to the ACP-EU Technical Assistance Facility for Commodity Resource Management, which was launched in February to support artisanal and small-scale miners across Africa through formalization and training program. As part of growing efforts by African nations and international partners to uplift small-scale miners, AMW will host a panel discussion titled ASM Regulation: Balancing Formalization and Livelihood Protection. The panel will explore policies and initiatives aimed at integrating artisanal and small-scale mining into the formal mining sector.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    About African Mining Week:
    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next phase of Melton Road street scene improvements to begin

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE next phase of a rolling programme to repair and improve pavements, street furniture and bollards along Melton Road is now underway.

    Leicester City Council is carrying out the scheme to spruce up public areas for local businesses and residents.

    Old, uneven and broken slabs will be replaced with high-quality block paving. Existing tree pits will be covered with a porous resin-bound material to help improve drainage, and new drainage channels will also be installed where required. Damage footpaths caused by tree roots will be repaired. New bollards, as well as new cycle racks where possible, will also be installed to prevent vehicles parking on the pavement.

    The improvement work is being carried out between Ascot Road and Herbert Road, on the outbound side of Melton Road, and between Acorn Street and Marfitt Street, on the inbound side.

    Work will be carried out in sections to help minimise disruption to pedestrians and nearby businesses and is expected to take around 50 weeks to complete.

    To ensure a safe working environment, some short-term lane restrictions on part of Melton Road may be required. These will be managed with temporary traffic signals.

    The work, which will cost around £685,000, is being funded through the city council’s annual highways maintenance programme.

    It will be the second phase of a planned programme of investment to improve several sections of footway along Melton Road in coming years, subject to funding. Work to replace the existing uneven pavement on the outbound stretch of the busy shopping street, between Ascot Road and Checketts Road, was carried out last year.

    City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “This ongoing investment in repairing and replacing broken and uneven pavements on  Melton Road will help improve the look and feel of area and make it more attractive for residents and shoppers.

    “Projects like this are an important part of ensuring that our neighbourhood shopping streets and busy routes into the city stay looking their best.”

    The Melton Road scheme is taking a similar approach to improvements recently completed on Narborough Road, following a three-year rolling programme of investment to repair and spruce up sections of footway.

    Letters have been sent to local residents and businesses informing them of the work.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The EBA consults on draft amended Guidelines on the application of the definition of default under the Capital Requirements Regulation

    Source: European Banking Authority

    The European Banking Authority (EBA) today launched a public consultation on its draft amended  Guidelines on the application of the definition of default under the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR). As part of its commitment to financial stability, transparency, and consistency, the EBA is proposing to maintain the existing 1% threshold for net present value (NPV) loss in debt restructuring. This approach reflects a careful balance between flexibility for institutions and the need to uphold robust risk management standards. The consultation runs until 15 October 2025.

    The proposal to retain the 1% threshold is based on three key considerations:

    • The current framework is already flexible and risk-sensitive, allows effective restructuring without misclassifying defaults, and is aligned with established accounting principles.
    • Maintaining consistency with existing prudential standards helps safeguard the progress made in reducing non-performing loans and prevents regulatory arbitrage.
    • A stable threshold supports reliable credit risk modelling, ensuring accurate capital and provisioning assessments across portfolios under both IRB and IFRS 9.

    To allow for more proactive debt restructuring and reduce the potential burden on debtors, the EBA is considering a shortened probation period from 1 year to e.g. 3 months for certain forborne exposures. The draft amended Guidelines, however, do not incorporate this change, also because it would widen the gap between the definition of non-performing exposures and the definition of default.

    Besides the changes brought forward by the revised CRR, the EBA is also proposing to increase the exceptional treatment of days past due at invoice level from 30 to 90 for non-recourse factoring arrangements to better reflect the economic reality of purchased receivables.

    Consultation process

    Responses to this consultation can be sent to the EBA by clicking on the “send your comments” button on the consultation page. Please note that the deadline for the submission of comments is 15 October 2025.

    A public hearing will take place via conference call on 3 September 2025 from 11:00 to 12:00 CET. The deadline for registration is the 29 August 2025, 16:00 CET.

    All contributions received will be published after the consultation closes, unless requested otherwise.

    Legal basis and background

    The definition of default is laid down in Article 178 of Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 (Capital Requirements Regulation – CRR) and further detailed in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2018/171 and the EBA Guidelines on the definition of default.

    Under Article 178(7) of CRR, as amended by Regulation (EU) 2024/1623, the European Banking Authority is mandated to review the Definition of Default guidelines which were drafted by the EBA based on the mandate in Article 178(7) of Regulation (EU) No 575/2013. While the mandate explicitly mentions that the EBA shall duly consider the need for granting a sufficient flexibility to institutions when specifying what constitutes a diminished financial obligation, the mandate also allows for the review of other parts of the framework.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO and Ukraine agree to exchange Military Police training expertise

    Source: NATO

    On 20 June 2025, NATO agreed to recognise the 25th Military Police Training Centre (MPTC) in Lviv, Ukraine as a NATO Partnership Training and Education Centre (PTEC).

    PTECs form a global network of institutions offering courses and academic seminars to civilian and military staff from NATO Allied and partner countries. Their goal is to improve the professionalism of national personnel, increase the ability of military personnel to operate well together, and conduct education and training activities carried out within the framework of NATO partnership programmes and policies. Since the PTEC community was launched in 1999, Ukraine has been an active member, thanks to the participation of its International Peacekeeping and Security Centre (IPSC).

    Despite the many challenges posed by Russia’s war against Ukraine, the 25th MPTC draws lessons learned from combat experience to refine courses and explore new training opportunities. It actively collaborates with the NATO Military Police community of interest and the NATO Military Police Centre of Excellence, based in Bydgoszcz, Poland, to develop high-quality courses. This helps to strengthen training initiatives in the discipline of Military Policing.

    Cooperation with NATO will also be enhanced through the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC), also based in Bydgoszcz. The 25th MPTC will create synergies with the JATEC and add value by identifying and applying lessons learned from Russia’s war of aggression. Cooperation between NATO and Ukraine is characterised by the common objective of increasing interoperability. Ukrainian officials have highlighted that they see NATO as the right platform for their defence institutions to share their unique and state-of-the-art capabilities with Allies and like-minded partners.

    Centres wishing to join the PTEC network must undergo thorough evaluation.  Evaluation of the 25th MPTC in March by experts from NATO Headquarters, Allied Command Operations and other NATO and Allied entities was, exceptionally, conducted in Bydgoszcz due to Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine. Representatives of the centre and NATO experts used the facilities of the NATO Military Police Centre of Excellence. NATO experts concluded that the centre demonstrated high expertise, professionalism and familiarity with NATO standards. The MPTC in Lviv, Ukraine is now the 36th member of the network of Partnership Training and Education Centres.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further consultation on future of council-run care centres

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Wednesday, 2nd July 2025

    The city council is running a phase 3 consultation on the future of its three council-run care centres: Kenrick, Perry Tree and Ann Marie Howes.

    Perry Tree care centre

    This follows feedback from the previous two consultations and takes into account the government commitment to integrated health and social care and an analysis of the current and future demand for social care support in Birmingham.

    The revised proposed option would mean Birmingham City Council keeping the three Care Centres open, providing residential and respite care at Kenrick centre and integrated and intermediate care across Ann Marie Howes and Perry Tree centres.

    The latter would support improved hospital discharge and enable people to regain their independence before going home.

    The proposal would deliver a minimum of £2.8m of savings with the remainder of the original savings delivered through several schemes which support more efficient hospital discharge through the better care fund.

    Cllr Khan said: “This revised option demonstrates that we have listened to local people on the future of the care centres and that the commitment we have with health partners on the integration of health and social care will improve outcomes for local people.

    “I would urge people to take part in this latest consultation to provide us with feedback on the revised option.”

    The consultation can be found here on the Birmingham Be Heard website.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council partnership secures long-term base for Coundon Court FC

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council has partnered with Coundon Court Football Club to secure its future at Coundon Hall Park, establishing the site as the long-term home of the local club.

    After being accepted onto the Football Foundation’s Home Advantage Programme, the club is set to take on a 25-year lease of the pitches at Coundon Hall Park.

    The Football Foundation’s Home Advantage Programme is supported by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation. It aims to support grassroots clubs and organisations across the country to take on long-term leases or licences of the sites they play at.

    The club will also have the opportunity to apply for up to £250,000 in grant funding from the Foundation to improve the facilities at Coundon Hall Park. This could include security fencing, storage units, grounds maintenance machinery and catering cabins.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with Coundon Court Football Club to secure their future at Coundon Hall Park.

    “Supporting local sports clubs which give members of our community the opportunity to get out, get active and take part in something they enjoy is really important.

    “This support from the Football Foundation and the Home Advantage Programme will make a real impact and firmly cement the club’s future. In addition, it will show how this could be a model across the city of best practice.”

    Coundon Court FC is a 3-star England Football-accredited club with over 30 teams, and disability and community programmes. Named ‘Club of the Year’ by Birmingham County FA, it’s proudly rooted in the local community.

    Barry Morris, Club Secretary at Coundon Court Football Club, added: “We see this as a huge opportunity for our club to have a home of its own, enabling us to offer more football provision within the local community.

    “After collecting the ‘Club of the Year’ accolade from Birmingham FA for the second time in 4 years, we already have a fantastic foundation to work from and will continue to progress.

    “Thanks to Coventry City Council and the Football Foundation for their support and confidence in working with our club on this exciting and innovative project.”

    The planned Coundon Cycleway has also been designed to accommodate the improvements at the park.

    Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “We have planned the route of the Cycleway to allow for a full range of activities in the park – this includes allowing room for the exciting new multi-use games area and future football pitches – spaces where local young people can come together, be active, and have fun.

    “The Coundon Cycleway scheme, funded by Active Travel England, will create a new cycleway through the park by utilising existing paths and well-trodden pedestrian routes. The project will also enhance the area with new lighting, benches, and tree planting. Additional improvements include the installation of extra bins and CCTV in both car parks, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable environment for all visitors.”

    Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to unlock the power of pitches for more grassroots clubs and enable them to take pride in the place they call home.

    “We know that local authorities often lack the resources to maintain their grass pitches to a high standard, and yet the process of transferring management is often seen as complicated, expensive and therefore unattractive.

    “Through our Home Advantage Programme, the Foundation plans to provide the support and funding needed to transfer over 1,750 grass football pitches like the ones at Coundon Hall Park from local authorities to grassroots clubs and organisations across the country.

    “As well as a higher chance of success on the pitch, home grounds provide a space for people to come together through sport and help strengthen communities based on a shared sense of belonging.”

    To find out more about the programme visit the Football Foundation’s website.

    Image caption: Ant Hasker – Facilities and Investment Lead, Birmingham County FA, Eddie Gormley – Coundon Court FC Club Chairman, Peter Howarth – Coundon Court FC Volunteer, Barry Morris – Coundon Court FC Secretary, Lee Garratt – Coundon Court FC Club Manager Coordinator, Councillor Patricia Hetherton – Cabinet Member for City Services and Tim Wetherhill – Coventry City Council Parks Manager

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry Music and Go CV strike a chord with new partnership

    Source: City of Coventry

    Following the success of the city’s first-ever Coventry Schools’ Arts Week, Coventry City Council is proud to announce an exciting new partnership between Coventry Music and Go CV.

    This initiative, launching in September 2025, will open up more opportunities for young people and families across Coventry to engage with music, helping to break down financial barriers to participation.

    As part of this new collaboration:

    • Go CV+ members will receive a 25% discount on direct billed music lessons with Coventry Music.
    • All Go CV card holders – regardless of card type – will enjoy free access to nearly all Coventry Music Groups.

    This partnership represents a significant step towards making music education and community engagement more accessible and inclusive for all.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills at Coventry City Council said: “Music has the power to inspire, unite, and transform lives. This new partnership between Coventry Music and Go CV will ensure that more children and young people can access high-quality music opportunities, regardless of their background. It’s another step towards a fairer, more creative Coventry.”

    The announcement follows a hugely successful Coventry Schools’ Arts Week, which saw schools across the city come together in a vibrant celebration of creativity. The new partnership builds on this momentum, strengthening the Council’s commitment to cultural growth and lifelong learning.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing said: “It’s fantastic to see another exciting expansion of the Go CV scheme. Go CV continues to make a real difference for people across our city — helping families save money, access fantastic opportunities, and enjoy all that Coventry has to offer. It’s a great example of how we can support local communities and promote health, wellbeing and inclusion.”

    Go CV, which is used by over 125,000 residents in the city, gives access to discounts and offers when visiting local attractions. Through the Go CV mobile app, savings can be made when shopping at local businesses too.

    Residents living in Coventry can join Go CV for free via the Go CV website. Businesses interested in partnering with Go CV and creating an offer for Coventry residents can register for free via the business portal.

    More about Coventry Music

    To keep up to date with the latest news, sign up for the Your Coventry email newsletter or follow the Council on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    Wednesday, 2nd July 2025

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