NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Solar power switch-on at Riverside Leisure Centre marks major green milestone

    Source: City of Norwich

    Published on Thursday, 5th June 2025

    A major new solar installation at Riverside Leisure Centre is now live, delivering renewable energy to one of the city’s busiest public facilities and marking a huge step towards a greener Norwich.

    More than 700 solar panels have been fitted across the centre’s roof and car park, cutting carbon emissions and expected to reduce electricity bills by around a third. The project also included a new roof and a modernised building management system to boost overall energy efficiency.

    Crucially, the initiative secures the future of the city’s public leisure centre and swimming pool, which received more than 350,000 visits last year. Its estimated social value is at least £2.5million per year, providing a range of swimming lessons, supporting the Go4Less scheme and offering exercise referrals including cancer rehabiliation, Age UK and Special Educational Needs.

    Funded by Norwich City Council,  the UK Government’s Swimming Pool Support Fund and lottery funding made available by Sport England, the work reflects a shared commitment to the sustainability of public swimming pools and long-term energy savings.

    Local firms RenEnergy and ECS Power & Control carried out the installations, supporting jobs and delivering added social value for the community.

    Councillor Emma Hampton, portfolio holder for climate change and environment, said:
    “This project is a shining example of how we’re investing in a Net Zero Norwich. By harnessing solar power, we’re not only cutting emissions—we’re making vital public facilities more resilient and cost-effective.”

    The Riverside upgrade builds on similar improvements at other council-owned sites and supports the city’s ambition to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2045.

    Background information

    Funding of £520,000 has been secured from the government and Sport England’s £60m Swimming Pool Support Fund, while the remaining £300,000 is being paid for by the city council.

    Riverside Leisure Centre is owned by Norwich City Council and managed by Places Leisure.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Slams Republicans’ Legislation Kicking Millions off Health Care: “We Should Kill this Bill”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) last night took to the Senate floor to slam Republicans’ tax bill, which will rip away health care coverage for more than 16 million Americans, including 29,000 Vermonters. The Republican bill will hike health care costs, close rural hospitals, and force millions of middle-class families to lose their coverage altogether, all to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. In addition to draconian Medicaid cuts, Republicans are raising premiums and out-of-pocket costs for tens of millions of people who buy coverage on their own. 
    “We should kill this bill. And I would urge all of my colleagues to take into consideration how this is going to affect the people who each of us represents. You know, there’s a bipartisan element to this bill…everybody is going to share the pain of what this bill does. It’s folks in a red state, it’s folks in a blue state—whether they voted for Harris or they voted for Trump—they lose their Medicaid, that hurts. They lose their community hospital, that hurts. They pay higher interest rates, that hurts,” said Senator Welch. “Let’s come to our senses and vote against this bill.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Earlier this week, Senator Welch joined Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE) for a virtual roundtable highlighting the harmful consequences of Republicans’ reconciliation bill for patients in Vermont. In May, Senator Welch denounced Republicans disastrous proposed budget plan that would limit Affordable Care Act (ACA) Premium Tax Credits which help low- and moderate-income Vermonters access health coverage.   
    Last month, Senator Welch joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Protect Our Care for a press conference condemning the Republican budget. Senator Welch also recently spoke on the Senate floor about how health care is at risk for millions, and challenged President Trump to join him and Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) in working to lower prescription drug prices through his recently introduced Fair Prescription Drug Prices for Americans Act. 
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bassetlaw representatives explore West Burton’s fusion future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Bassetlaw representatives explore West Burton’s fusion future

    STEP hosted delegates on a visit to UKAEA’s Culham Campus, to learn about the scale of opportunity presented by the UK’s prototype fusion energy plant programme

    Councillors and staff from Bassetlaw District Council – Image credit: UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd.

    A delegation of councillors and staff from Bassetlaw District Council recently visited the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) at Culham Campus, gaining first-hand insight into the cutting-edge fusion energy research that underpins the future of clean energy in the UK.

    The visit included tours of the world-renowned Joint European Torus (JET) and MAST (Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak) Upgrade facilities – two of the UK’s most advanced fusion research programmes. These pioneering projects form the scientific and technological foundation for the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) programme, which is set to be developed at the site of the former West Burton Power Station, between Retford and Gainsborough.

    The STEP programme is the UK’s flagship initiative to design and build the world’s first prototype fusion power plant by the early 2040s. The West Burton site was selected in 2022 as the future home of this ambitious project, positioning the Retford and Gainsborough area at the heart of a global energy revolution. The West Burton development is expected to bring thousands of high-skilled jobs, new infrastructure, and global scientific collaboration to the region. A recent report by Amion, commissioned by Local Councils in the area, suggested that the project could create between 5,500 and 8,500 jobs in and around the site (as well as additionally bringing further new industry, jobs and investment to the wider area), adding an average of over £500m a year to the UK economy over the coming decades.

    Fusion energy, often described as the “holy grail” of clean power, replicates the process that powers the sun – fusing hydrogen atoms to release vast amounts of energy. Fusion could provide a virtually limitless, safe, and carbon-free energy source for generations to come. The STEP programme aims to demonstrate the commercial viability of this technology and to develop a UK fusion industry capable of delivering commercial fusion power plants around the world in the second half of the century. 

    The UKAEA, headquartered at Culham Campus in Oxfordshire, is a world leader in fusion research and development. Its work supports the UK government’s commitment to reducing emissions and securing long-term energy independence. During the visit, Bassetlaw representatives were able to see the scale of investment and innovation already underway at Culham, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of the STEP programme for the local economy. The intention of STEP is to create a similar science and engineering focused campus on the Nottinghamshire/Lincolnshire border. 

    Bassetlaw District Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Jonathan Slater said:

    It was good to see first-hand the scale of investment and innovation underway at the UKAEA headquarters in Culham in Oxfordshire, where it provided a real glimpse into the opportunities and potential of the STEP programme in West Burton.

    As well as creating over 16,000 related employment opportunities it will also improve transport links, help bring major investment to the area and significantly boost our local economy.

    STEP’s Head of Communications and Engagement, Ben Bradley, said:

    The STEP team is working really hard to engage with local communities and stakeholders around West Burton, and we’re hugely grateful for the support that we’ve received for the programme. The ambition is to build on this area’s legacy of power generation and bring huge investment to this part of the world, in a way that is truly transformational for local people. I hope that, by visiting the existing campus in Oxfordshire, Bassetlaw Council colleagues were able to get a sense of the scale of its opportunity, as our investment shifts towards West Burton in the years ahead.

    Notes to Editors

    UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) Group, responsible for the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) programme to deliver the UK’s prototype fusion energy plant.  

    Targeting first operations in 2040, UKIFS will lead STEP’s integrated delivery team to design and build the prototype fusion energy plant at West Burton, a former coal-fired power station site in Nottinghamshire.

    To sign-up for updates about STEP, visit: step.ukaea.uk or follow our social channels @STEPtoFusion.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: EPIC FIVE-YEAR BRIAN FRIEL CENTENARY CELEBRATION BEGINS THIS AUGUST WITH 35 PERFORMANCES OF FIVE

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    EPIC FIVE-YEAR BRIAN FRIEL CENTENARY CELEBRATION BEGINS THIS AUGUST WITH 35 PERFORMANCES OF FIVE

    5 June 2025

    Audiences to experience Brian Friel’s award winning plays – Dancing at Lughnasa, Transla1ons Faith Healer – in the places that inspired them and two rarities, Volunteers (a co-production with The Playhouse Derry) on its 50th anniversary and The Home Place on its 20th anniversary .

    Special Closing 50th anniversary performances of Friel’s Volunteers and the poetry collection North by close friend and colleague Seamus Heaney across Derry~Londonderry

    Festival spreads into a 19th century ghost village in Donegal’s Gaeltacht (Friel’s Transla1ons), Derry’s Bogside (Heaney’s North) and Ebrington Keep (Friel’s Volunteers) and the school by the house in Glenties which became the setting for Dancing at Lughnasa.

    Dancing at Lughnasa to open on the festival day of Lughnasa, 1 August, complemented by a four-day community led-festival for the beginning of the harvest season in Glenties.

    FrielDays features 365 performances in 100 productions of 29 Brian Friel plays from 2025 until 2029, the centenary of Brian Friel’s birth in Omagh Northern Ireland.

    Friel is the ultimate ‘shared island’ dramatist, the 86 years of his life shared almost equally between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

    LAST DAYS OF EARLY BIRD TICKETS: ON SALE AT WWW.ARTSOVERBORDERS.COM . For tickets and full information please visit www.artsoverborders.com

    An unprecedented five-year theatrical celebra5on building to the centenary of one of Ireland’s great literary figures, Brian Friel (1929-2015), will begin this summer.

    FrielDays – A Homecoming will begin with a 35th anniversary production of his most celebrated play, Dancing at Lughnasa, staged just metres from the house in which it is set, and close with a combined 50th anniversary celebration of the work of Ireland’s greatest poet – and Friel’s close friend – Seamus Heaney.

    Curated by Ireland’s Arts Over Borders, FrielDays will bring 29 plays to loca5ons of resonance across Brian Friel’s homeland of the three north-west border coun5es of Donegal, Tyrone and Derry, a part of Ireland he rarely left.

    FrielDays will build each year adding new plays and places, so that by 2029, the centenary of Friel’s birth, all 29 plays will be performed across the full calendar year Five anniversary plays will be rolled out this August, with each opening at the time of year in which it was set by Friel and taking place in resonant settings which will become a newly chosen ‘Ballybeg’ and ‘Ballymore’, the fictional towns at the heart of 14 of Friel’s 29 plays.

    On its 35th anniversary, Dancing at Lughnasa will be presented at St Columba’s School in Glenties, Co. Donegal, close to The Laurels, the home of Friel’s grandparents and the five daughters who inspired the play’s central characters, the Mundy sisters. In 1990, Dancing at Lughnasa opened to widespread acclaim and, soon after garnered multiple theatrical awards, and received further plaudits when it was adapted for a film starring Meryl Streep in 1998.

    This August’s production, with a commissioned score by electro-acoustic composer John D’Arcy, will be the first multi-racial reading of the play in Ireland and the UK, as a series of stage and screen actors reads the role of The Narrator, Michael. During the run of Dancing at Lughnasa, Faith Healer will also take place in Glenties and west Donegal, with audiences boarding the FrielDays bus for unique site-specific readings in three west Donegal community halls and the Highlands Hotel, an area that was the boyhood summer idyll for Friel.

    Over four acts, Faith Healer weaves an unreliable narrative about the life and death of the charismaticc Frank Hardy, apparently gifted in his ability to perform healing miracles. A play about language, colonialism and identity, Translations will be performed on its 45th anniversary at the Dunlewey Centre in north-west Donegal, a Gaeltacht, Irish-speaking area. The play is set in Donegal in the 1830s, a time when place names were being translated into English for Ordnance Survey maps. While the FrielDays presentation will be in English, the Irish roles will be taken by actors who can also speak Gaelic, while the two English soldier roles will be filled by English actors coming to Donegal for the first time. As part of their ticket, audiences will take a short trip across Lake Dunlewey to visit Glentornan, an early 19th century ghost village, where they will experience a Seanchaí, traditional Gaelic storyteller and music.

    2025 marks the 50th golden anniversary of Volunteers, which premiered in 1975 at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin. Friel’s tale of excavation by political prisoners is reflected by its FrielDays stage setting of an archaeological site overlooking the River Foyle in the Keep area at Ebrington Square, a former British army barracks in Derry~Londonderry.

    The first professional production this century of Friel’s most contentious play, is a co-production with The Playhouse Derry~Londonderry, staged by Kabosh Theatre in a specially constructed outdoor ‘dig’ set. The opening night on August 29th will be the whole performance in one sitting, while the performances on August 30 and 31 will follow Friel’s scenography with Act 1 at 8.30am and Act 2 at 4.30pm. Between Acts 1 & 2, FrielDays will celebrate the power of Seamus Heaney’s poetry collection, North, in its 50th anniversary year with a series of community-led readings across four city venues in Derry, weaving together diverse voices from across the city and emphasising the links between the works of Friel and his great friend. Tickets for North will be on sale from 9 June at www.artsoverborders.com.

    Rounding off this year’s programme is The Home Place; Friel’s final full-length play will be staged at Sion Stables Heritage Education Centre in Co. Tyrone, close to his own childhood home in Killyclogher, in a building constructed at the time when the play takes place. The 42 cast members spanning all five plays will be announced through June and July.

    Please visit www.artsoverborders.com for latest news.

    FRIELDAYS – A HOMECOMING 2025 SCHEDULE AND INFORMATION

    Dancing at Lughnasa (35th anniversary production): 1-23 August at St. Columba’s Comprehensive School, Glenties, Co. Donegal.

    Faith Healer: 8-10 & 15-17 August at Edeninfagh, Portnoo, Ardara and Glenties, west Donegal.

    Translations (45th anniversary production): 22-25 August at Gweedore, Co. Donegal

    The Home Place (20th anniversary production): 23-25 August at Sion Stables Heritage Education Centre, Co. Tyrone.

    Volunteers (50th anniversary co-production with The Playhouse): 29-31 August at The Keep, Ebrington Square, Derry~Londonderry.

    North (50th anniversary production) 30-31 August in Derry~Londonderry. Brian Friel had a transnational outlook, having been born, in Omagh, Co. Tyrone, NI, soon after the partition of Ireland and spending the first half of his life in Northern Ireland. For the last 43 years of his life, when most of his work was written, he lived in the Inishowen Peninsula, the most northerly part of Ireland, in the Republic. FrielDays is conceived and produced by Arts Over Borders, Ireland’s leading producer of cross-border arts festvals. It follows the recent comple5on of Arts Over Borders’s largest project to date, the pan-European ULYSSES European Odyssey 2022-2024 project (hkps://ulysseseurope.eu/) which celebrated James Joyce’s masterpiece in 18 European cities.

    Seán Doran and Liam Browne (DoranBrowne) of Arts Over Borders said: “We are on the eve of arguably the largest and most ambitious cross border cultural initiative celebrating the work of a single Irish artist and his relationship with the landscape and communities he grew up in and worked within. Brian Friel was very particular about the seasons, months, days and times of day in which his plays took place, so we will present each play in a setting relevant to its theme and at the time, of year and day, in which it was set. Friel is Ireland’s preeminent dramatist of the late 20th century. He is the ultimate ‘shared island’ dramatist, the 86 years of his life shared almost equally between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Therefore, FrielDays is a truly transnational cross-border project, bringing the stories and characters of Friel’s life’s work to the very locations that inspired their creation.”

    Friel Days – A Homecoming 2025 is funded by Donegal County Council Arts Office, Donegal County Council Tourism Office, the NI Executive, The Playhouse Derry and Fáilte Ireland. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Historic images of Aberdeen Harbour to go on display at the Art Gallery

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    With the arrival in Aberdeen of the Tall Ships Races just weeks away, a new exhibition of historic photographs from the archive of Aberdeen Harbour Board is going on display at the Art Gallery from Sunday (8 June). 
     
    The photographs were taken in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by Harbour Engineer Robert Gordon Nicol (1858-1934). As well as showing views of the Harbour, the images serve as a record of many other aspects of life around the port, including vessels and people at work. 
     
    The Port of Aberdeen, previously known as Aberdeen Harbour Board, is the UK’s oldest existing business. Established by King David I of Scotland in 1136, it has played a vital role in the city’s development and prosperity. 
     
    The records of Aberdeen Harbour Board, spanning 1800 to 1960, were transferred to Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives in 2019. The collection is diverse, containing ledgers, correspondence, building plans, salmon sale registers and detailed logbooks of vessels leaving and entering the harbour.  
     
    There are thousands of photographs in the archive, including many glass negatives taken by Nicol. He also took his camera on family holidays and on visits he undertook in his capacity as advising engineer to the Scottish Fishery Board. His images convey the importance of these bustling havens to their local communities including Peterhead, Stonehaven, Cullen and Lerwick. 
     
    Many of the photographs in the collection include people, which show details of how people dressed and the types of occupations that were frequently seen around the harbour at the beginning of the 20th century. In one image from around 1910, two divers are pictured, probably at Mearns Quay, with Pocra Quay behind. They are with support crew of five men on a diving punt, one holding an air line to the diver.  
     
    The range of ships and boats shown illustrates the diversity of trade and goods that came and went from the harbour in the early 20th century. Dredgers, tugs and small fishing boats were a common sight, alongside much larger cargo vessels importing goods such as coal and timber. Exports included woollen goods, granite, beef and salt herring 
     
    Bob Sanguinetti, CEO of Port of Aberdeen, said, “Robert Nicol’s photographs of the port provide a fascinating insight into Aberdeen’s rich maritime heritage. Fishing, shipbuilding, textiles and global transportation of stone from the city’s famous quarries all relied on our essential gateway to the North Sea. In years to come we’ll look back on the now expanded Port of Aberdeen and its role supporting today’s industries of energy, trade, and tourism.” 
     
    Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson, said, “As we prepare to welcome the Tall Ships Races back to Aberdeen, this exhibition is a timely reminder of how central the Harbour has been to the city’s fortunes over the past 800 years. The lives of generations of Aberdonians have been affected and shaped by the Port of Aberdeen and Robert Nicol’s atmospheric photographs are a fascinating record of an earlier era.” 
     
    From the Archive: Aberdeen Harbour
    Sunday 8 June until 11 January 2026
    Aberdeen Art Gallery
    Admission free 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wolverhampton Council first to use contactless technology for taxi and private hire driver licence checks

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Contactless technology has been introduced into driver’s ID cards, meaning passengers can view a digital version of their driver’s private hire or taxi driver licence simply by tapping the card with a Near Field Communication (NFC) enabled smartphone.

    This will provide reassurance about the driver’s identity and confirm to passengers whether their private hire or taxi licence is current and valid.

    Details of all taxi and private hire driver licences are held on the council’s driver database. The database is checked and revised every day, meaning information sent to the passenger will be accurate and up to date.

    Existing identity cards, used by taxi and private hire drivers across the country, are susceptible to being copied and used fraudulently which can pose a risk to passengers.

    But the new contactless ID cards, which will be used by the council’s licensed private hire and black cab drivers, contain a range of security features which make them extremely difficult to fake.

    These features include a hologram, optically variable inks and guilloche patterns, similar to those seen on banknotes and passports, as well as a number of other forensic features.  

    Most importantly, the technology they contain will enable passengers, police and other councils to verify the identity of the driver as well as their licence status.

    Many modern smartphones support NFC technology. It is most commonly used in contactless payments, to make secure transactions, exchange digital content, and to connect electronic devices. But this is believed to be the first time the contactless technology is being used to digitally verify a driver’s licence status.

    The new contactless ID cards have already been issued to around 15,000 drivers licensed by the council and have been tapped more than 40,000 times. Those renewing their licences over the next 3 years will receive their new ID cards in the post.

    Passengers are encouraged to tap their driver’s ID card, positioned in the front windscreen on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. The card can be tapped through the glass, before customers get in.

    Instant results will be available on the passenger’s smartphone. If the licence status shows as invalid, they are advised not to get in the vehicle and report the driver to the council.

    If passengers are unable to use the NFC function, they can check the driver against the council’s online registers at Online Licence Registers. 

    The cards have been developed in partnership with UK based firm Euclid, which specialises in contactless cards and ID cards. The company works with governments around the world on national identity and passport schemes.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Once again, Wolverhampton is leading the way by using cutting edge technology in taxi and private hire licensing.

    “We have worked with our supplier, Euclid, to create cards that use ingenious technology to improve the public’s trust in their drivers. This technology makes checking your driver’s licence and identity far simpler than calling the council and the security features in the card also make it much harder for potential fraudsters.

    “Not only do the new cards offer extra reassurance, they are also more environmentally friendly and prevent the need for tens of thousands of plastic licences to be printed every year.”

    Geoff Neal, managing director of Euclid Ltd, said: “Euclid has been delighted to offer their expertise in support of City of Wolverhampton Council on this exciting opportunity, bringing innovative enhancements to their Taxi Licensing service, especially in regard to improving safety for passengers, by giving them confidence that their driver is both genuine and licensed.” 

    If passengers have any concerns about their driver, they are encouraged to contact the council by calling 01902 55 TAXI (8294) or completing our webform at Taxi Complaints – Report a taxi driver.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Lord Provost McManus Citizenship Award 2025

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Dundee S6 pupils who have proved to be truly community-spirited though their efforts at home and school have been recognised at a special ceremony.   

    The annual presentation of the Lord Provost McManus Citizenship Award was made in the City Chambers.   

    The scheme is designed to encourage and celebrate young people’s hard work and contribution to their school and the wider community. It was named after Maurice McManus who served as Lord Provost of Dundee between 1960 and 1968.  

    Current Lord Provost Bill Campbell hosted the ceremony attended by nominated pupils, along with their families and school staff.  

    The winner of the Lord Provost McManus Citizenship award is Alyssa Tait from Cragie High School. 

    Alyssa is a dedicated volunteer, supporting various initiatives including the school of sport first year classes throughout the academic year. She has earned her Sport Leader Award and has also contributed to primary and breakfast sports clubs. 

    Beyond school, Alyssa volunteers at Douglas Community Centre as part of the East Youth Team, supporting range of groups including Positive Minds, P7 Drop In, Healthy Transitions and an S1 Health and Wellbeing girls’ group. 

    Second place was awarded to Mia McKell from Morgan Academy. Mia has been instrumental in organising events to raise money from charity. This year she organised a Macmillan coffee morning which raised over £1,500. Through the Career Ready Programme, Mia has been giving her time to volunteer as a sports coach four days a week.  

    Third place went to Eva Day from Harris Academy. Through her work on the Children, Families and Communities Committee Eva advocates for all young people in the city. Within school Eva is a Prefect, House Captain, leads the pupil voice initiative and has taken lead in pupil voice and launched the school’s journey towards achieving their Silver Rights Respecting School Award. 

    Lord Provost Bill Campbell said: “It was a pleasure to gather to celebrate the outstanding individuals who have shown their impressive commitment to the spirit of citizenship and have made a significant contribution to their school and their community.  

    “All of the nominees would, no doubt, be first to say that the support they get from their parents/carers and staff within their schools has given them the opportunity to participate in the activities which have led them here today.  

    “Our city is well known for having a strong sense of community and we are lucky to have many people who look out for one another. All of today’s nominees have followed in these proud footsteps.”  

    “Dundee thrives because of the efforts of its citizens—those who volunteer, support their neighbours and those in their community, and work tirelessly to create a more inclusive society.” 

    Full list of finalists: Cole Anderson-McGuiness, Baldragon Academy, Eva Dey, Harris Academy, Mia McKell, Morgan Academy, Elsie Mills, Harris Academy, Nabeeha Saber, St John’s RC High School, Casey Stewart, Braeview Academy, Alyssa Tait, Craigie High School. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Reform leads in voting intentions – but where does their vote come from?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Paul Whiteley, Professor, Department of Government, University of Essex

    Recent voting intention polling from YouGov (May 27) shows Reform UK in first place, 8% ahead of Labour and 10% ahead of the Conservatives, who are now in third place.

    The rising popularity of Nigel Farage’s party is an unprecedented threat to the major parties. This was driven home in recent local elections in England, where Reform won 677 seats and took control of 10 local authorities. But where does this support come from?

    The survey compares respondent voting intention to their votes in the 2024 general election.

    If we look at Conservative voters, 27% of them have switched to Reform in their voting intentions while 66% remain loyal. Alarmingly for Labour, only 60% of their 2024 voters have remained loyal and 15% intend to vote for Reform, while 12% switched to the Liberal Democrats and 9% to the Greens.

    Labour has been squeezed from both sides of the political spectrum, but the loss to the left is significantly larger than the loss to the right.

    In contrast, 73% of Liberal Democrat voters have remained loyal to the party with only 7% switching to Reform and 8% going to Labour. Not surprisingly, 91% of Reform voters have remained loyal, with 5% going to the Conservatives and 3% going to the Greens. None of the Reform voters have switched to Labour or the Liberal Democrats.

    Reform’s rise has led the Labour government to take more hardline stances on key issues, particularly immigration and asylum – which around half of YouGov respondents say is the most important issue facing the country.

    And with small boat crossings on the rise again, it remains to be seen whether the government’s recent proposals to reduce net migration will be enough to hold onto wavering supporters.



    Read more:
    What do MPs really think about immigration? We surveyed them to find out

    Social backgrounds and party support

    If we probe a bit further into the social characteristics of voters, only 8% of 18 to 24-year-olds support Reform, compared with 35% of 50 to 64-year-olds and 33% of the over-65s. Some 34% of the younger group support Labour, 12% the Conservatives, 15% the Liberal Democrats and 25% the Greens.

    As far as the 50 to 64-year-olds are concerned, 19% support Labour, 16% the Conservatives, 16% the Liberal Democrats and 9% the Greens. There is currently a significant age divide when it comes to party support.

    With respect to class (or “social grade” as it is described in contemporary surveys), 23% of the middle-class support Reform compared with 38% of the working class. The latter were the bedrock of Labour support a couple of generations ago, but now only 19% support Labour, with 17% supporting the Conservatives and 12% the Liberal Democrats.

    Current support for the parties among middle-class voters apart from Reform is 22% for Labour, 21% for the Conservatives and 17% for the Liberal Democrats. Again, the middle class used to be the key supporters of the Conservative party, but at the moment the party is running third behind its rivals in this group.

    Finally, the relationship between gender and support for the parties is also interesting. Some 35% of male respondents support Reform compared with only 24% of female respondents.

    In contrast, 21% of both men and women support Labour. The figures for the Conservatives are 16% of men and 22% of women, and Liberal Democrat support is 14% support from men and 16% from women.

    There is also notable support for Reform among those who voted Leave in the 2016 Brexit referendum in the YouGov survey. Altogether 53% of Leave voters in the EU Referendum opted for Reform and 24% supported the Conservatives, with 8% supporting Labour, 8% the Liberal Democrats and 4% the Greens. In the case of Remain voters, 10% chose Reform, 17% went for the Conservatives, 30% for Labour, 23% for the Liberal Democrats and 14% for the Greens.

    Not surprisingly, Reform takes the largest share of Brexit voters, but just over half of them – indicating that a lot of change has occurred in support since the 2016 referendum and Farage’s role in the Leave campaign. The fact that 10% of Remain voters switched to Reform and 20% of Leave voters have switched to Labour, the Liberal Democrats or the Greens shows that it is not just a simple case of support for Brexit leading to support for Reform.

    Voting and volatility

    Before Nigel Farage starts picking out curtains for Number 10, it is worth looking at another volatile moment in British political history. The chart below shows the effects of the split in the Labour party in 1981, when the Social Democratic Party was formed by the “gang of four” breakaway Labour politicians, Shirley Williams, Roy Jenkins, David Owen and Bill Rodgers.

    The newly formed party agreed an electoral pact with the Liberals, which continued until the 1983 election. A Gallup poll published in December 1981 shows a massive lead for the SDP-Liberal Alliance.

    And yet, Margaret Thatcher’s Conservatives won that election. Labour came second by a small margin ahead of the SDP-Liberal Alliance and remained the main opposition party.

    The point of this example is that a massive lead in the polls for the SDP-Liberal Alliance shortly after it was established did not provide a breakthrough in the general election two years later. Reform may be in the lead now, but this does not mean that it will win the general election of 2028-29.

    That said, there is a real risk for Labour continuing to lose support to both the left and the right – something which it needs to rapidly repair. Rachel Reeves’s “iron chancellor” strategy, in which the government announces fiscal rules which it claims to stand by at all costs, is no longer credible.

    As the Institute of Government points out, every single fiscal rule adopted since 2008 has subsequently been abandoned. A strategy of continuing austerity by making significant cuts in the welfare budget to calm financial markets is likely to fail, both in the economy and with voters.

    Paul Whiteley has received funding from the British Academy and the ESRC.

    – ref. Reform leads in voting intentions – but where does their vote come from? – https://theconversation.com/reform-leads-in-voting-intentions-but-where-does-their-vote-come-from-257754

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How to design landscapes that enhance natural sounds and minimise noise pollution

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Carlos Abrahams, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Assessment – Director of Ecoacoustics, Nottingham Trent University

    Superblocks in Barcalona, Spain, keep traffic noise to the periphery of residential areas. David Alf/Shutterstock

    Sounds are integral parts of any landscape. Think of the calls of grouse and curlew on the Pennine Moors. Wind sieving through reed beds in the Norfolk Broads. Church bells chiming out over the hustle and bustle of central London. Every locale across the Earth, beneath our oceans, lakes and rivers, and even underground, has its own distinctive “soundscape”.

    Soundscapes are created by a combination of biological sounds – the voices of birds, bats and insects – alongside environmental sounds from rainfall, waves crashing on the shore and low-frequency seismic rumbles. Layered over these natural sound sources are human-made noises from planes, trains, traffic and other elements of 21st-century life.

    This human-made noise can be so loud and so pervasive in some areas that it blocks the natural sounds that would otherwise be audible. This affects the behaviour and life cycles of wildlife, because many species rely on sound for breeding activity, social communication and predator detection. Masking these important signals can reduce breeding success and drive populations away from the disturbed habitats.

    Noise pollution also reduces our own health and wellbeing. Chronic noise exposure is linked to elevated stress levels, impaired cognitive function and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The damaging soundscapes of European urban areas contribute to 12,000 premature deaths and cost €40 billion (£34 billion) every year.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    As soundscape researchers, we are trying to both understand and learn how to minimise the effects of noise on both wild nature and humans. Part of the solution involves adapting landscape design to build towns and cities that don’t just limit adverse noise pollution, but produce beneficial soundscapes. These can help people and wildlife engage with their surroundings and navigate more easily through them.

    For example, people might be drawn to vibrant chatter from a nearby street or use the sound of a river to place ourselves within the mental map of our neighbourhood. Paying attention to soundscapes within the landscape design process can create a stronger sense of place, linking us more closely to our surroundings.

    Many cities tackle noise at its source through urban design. In Barcelona, 57% of people are regularly exposed to excessive noise levels. The “superblocks” initiative – where motorised traffic is limited to peripheral roads around groups of buildings in the city – has allowed the pedestrianised inner streets to be opened up for people, planting and wildlife. This has created tranquil and rich local soundscapes and improved the population’s health in these areas.

    Landscape interventions, such as tree buffers, earth banks and noise walls, can limit noise propagation through the environment. At Buitenschot Park in the Netherlands, landscape architects have designed ridges or earth banks that absorb and disperse ground-level noise from the nearby Schiphol airport. These sculptural landforms were inspired by local observations that noise reduced with the ploughing of fields near the airport. The similar use of noise reduction surfaces, such as the low-noise asphalt currently being tested in Paris, also help to limit the spread of unwanted sound.

    Changes to the landscape also alter the perception of noise by the listener. Adding favourable sounds, such as flowing water, can draw attention away from traffic noise. Soundscape projects that include green spaces help increase biodiversity and engage citizens at the heart of the city. Some UK initiatives such as Bristol soundwalks and London’s Sounder City strategy involve the mapping of such quiet spaces to explain their purpose and encourage their use.

    Noise beyond cities

    Noise is not just an urban issue. Rural landscapes are adversely affected by agriculture, quarrying and tourism. Historically, rural landscapes have been afforded greater protection from noise than their urban counterparts. The UK national parks were originally designated to allow for the “quiet enjoyment”
    of countryside areas, while the tranquillity maps published two decades ago by the countryside charity Campaign to Protect Rural England sought to protect peaceful areas across the country.

    Today, rewilding and habitat restoration can play an important role in returning more natural soundscapes with a better balance of non-human and human soundmakers. Restoring wetlands, woodlands and grasslands increases vocalising species, like birds. This benefits both wildlife and people, enabling nature connection and improving environmental quality. By considering sound as a key element of sustainability and resilience, spaces can support biodiversity while enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life of the people in these communities.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Carlos Abrahams works for the ecological consultancy Baker Consultants Ltd and owns shares in Soil Acoustics Ltd. He has received research funding from Innovate UK in leration to soil ecoacoustics.

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

    – ref. How to design landscapes that enhance natural sounds and minimise noise pollution – https://theconversation.com/how-to-design-landscapes-that-enhance-natural-sounds-and-minimise-noise-pollution-252859

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NATO Scramble RAF Typhoons Four Times In Seven Days To Intercept Russian Aircraft05 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    Two Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4 aircraft were scrambled for the fourth time in seven days, from the 22nd Tactical Air Base, Malbork, Poland, to intercept unknown aircraft leaving Kaliningrad and close to NATO air space.

    RAF Typhoons were scrambled on three separate occasions to intercept and identify a Russian Ilyushin Il-20M, as it left Kaliningrad air space. The Ilyushin Il-20M known by its NATO code name COOT-A, is a Communication and Electronic signals intelligence surveillance-reconnaissance aircraft.

    On the fourth occasion NATO scrambled RAF Typhoons to intercept and identify a pair of Russian FLANKER H, transiting closer to NATO air space.

    Aircrew from No. II (Army Co-operation) Squadron, part of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW), are currently conducting Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) as part of NATO enhanced Air Policing (eAP) when they were scrambled.

    “Today was the fourth time in seven days that NATO have scrambled RAF assets stationed at Malbork, Poland. Today’s mission was to intercept and identify the unknown aircraft departing Kaliningrad air space. It was not communicating, nor did it file a flight plan which is required under international law. Once intercepted we escorted the aircraft to protect civilian air traffic in the immediate area, before handing it over to another pair of NATO aircraft.” 

    An EAW spokesperson.

    Op Chessman is the UK contingent delivering the NATO eAP mission. RAF personnel are currently deployed at Malbork Airbase and are under the command of 140 EAW. The operation sees personnel from across the RAF deployed to Malbork alongside NATOs newest member Sweden.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Operation Highmast – Why it matters07 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    As the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) continues its journey to the Indo-Pacific region on Operation Highmast, the significance of this mission and its implications for global security are paramount. This operation is critical for ensuring a secure future for all NATO members and like-minded global allies. Through collaboration and innovation, the UK and its partners are poised to address future challenges with confidence and resilience.

    Operation Highmast and CSG25 represent a comprehensive military operation involving multinational exercises throughout 2025. It aims to improve the interoperability and preparedness of NATO forces and global allies. Led by HMS The Prince Of Wales , the Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, its primary objective is to illustrate and reinforce the strategic capabilities of the United Kingdom and its allies, ensuring preparedness to address a diverse range of global threats.

    UK involvement

    As the lead nation in this operation, the United Kingdom plays a pivotal role in the planning, coordination, and execution of all activities, movements, and exercises. The UK’s Carrier Strike Group, with HMS Prince of Wales at its centre, serves as a significant maritime force capable of projecting power and influence on a global scale. This deployment underscores the United Kingdom’s advanced military technology, particularly the F-35B Lightning, which are essential components of the carrier’s air wing.

    The UK’s leadership in CSG25 consolidates its military capabilities and reflects its steadfast commitment to the principles of collective defence within NATO. By undertaking such a prominent role, the United Kingdom reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding the security of the NATO alliance and our allies across the world.

    Enhancing Global Alliances

    This operation strengthens NATO bonds and global alliances through interoperability and collaboration. Multiple countries contribute their unique skills, enhancing overall effectiveness and unity. The UK defence gains crucial experience and insights into allied tactics and operations, ensuring seamless coordination in real-world scenarios requiring swift responses.

    Furthermore, Op Highmast includes partner nations outside NATO with shared security interests, enhancing global stability and security. These nations’ diverse perspectives and capabilities enrich the exercise, highlighting the importance of strong international relationships. As global security challenges grow, a united response is essential.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF Typhoon and Swedish Air Force Gripen train togetherRAF Typhoons and Swedish Air Force Gripens conducted training together for the first time since the start of their joint deployment to Poland.12 Apr 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    This week, RAF Eurofighter Typhoons and Swedish Air Force JAS-39 Gripens conducted training together for the first time since the start of their joint deployment to Malbork, Poland.

    The British Typhoons departed Malbork Air Base first to simulate an adversary formation, with the Swedish Gripens being scrambled to intercept the Typhoons, supported by a German Air Force A400M air-to-air refuelling aircraft.

    This is a first for the detachment, however it is not the first time the RAF Typhoon and Swedish Air Force Gripen aircraft have trained together. Previously, the aircraft from the RAF and Swedish Air Force carried out joint training in October 2022 as part of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) at Ravlunda Range in southern Sweden.

    This week’s training sortie allowed pilots from No. II (Army Cooperation) Squadron and Swedish Air Force 211 and 212 Fighter Squadrons, to gain first-hand experience of working together. This will lead to a better understanding of capabilities and increased interoperability both in the air and amongst the ground crews.

    “We work to the same rules and tactics, so it is important to train with other NATO members. As a pilot you are always learning, sharing experiences, exchanging tactics and ideas. Ultimately pilots are all growing and maturing with every mission we fly, whether it is a training sortie or live mission.

    “Training with other nations and aircraft results in all involved learning new ideas and improving all nations interoperability, today was a great experience for all involved.”

    Officer Commanding No. II (AC) Squadron

    Conducting air-to-air refuelling from a German A400M was another first for pilots from No. II (AC) Squadron, further enhancing the squadrons capability whilst operating in the enhanced Air Policing mission.

    “We are greatly experienced in refuelling from RAF Voyager aircraft and similar aircraft from other nations. However, refuelling from an A400M presents unique challenges due to subtle differences, such as refuelling airspeed, hose response and basket size and shape. The German crews were extremely professional, and it was a great experience working with them.”

    RAF Typhoon pilot

    Operation Chessman is the UK contingent delivering the NATO enhanced Air Policing mission. RAF personnel currently deployed at Malbork Airbase, are under the command of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing. Personnel from across the RAF are currently deployed to Malbork alongside NATO’s newest member, Sweden, until July 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: InsideAIR podcast 114: The Next Battle of BritainListen to the latest episode of InsideAIR.15 Apr 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    How might an Integrated Air & Missile Defence system help the RAF prepare for future conflicts?

    InsideAIR spoke with Dr Sophy Antrobus, Research Fellow and Co-Director of Freeman Air & Space Institute, to hear an academic’s point of view.

    InsideAIR is produced for the Royal Air Force by RAF Media Reserves. Theme music by RAF Music Services.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF 60 Second Update Ep 4904 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    In the latest 60 Second Update from the Royal Air Force, hear from 502 (Ulster) Squadron. In this episode:

    Global Enablement force personnel tested their skills on Exercise Auxilium Fort, adapting to conditions while working alongside our French allies.

    The Duke of Gloucester joined 502 (Ulster) Squadron’s centenary celebrations at Hillsborough Castle.

    The latest graduates from RAF Initial Officer Training welcomed the Chief of the Air Staff as their graduation Reviewing Officer.

    How did you find this week’s episode? Thanks for watching and see you next time!

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two parachute teams to wow crowds at Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day 5 June 2025 Two parachute teams to wow crowds at Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Hold onto your hats! Not one, but two elite parachute display teams will be dropping in  — literally — to dazzle the crowds at this year’s Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day on Sunday, 29 June.

    Back by popular demand — and making it a hat trick — are the Royal Navy Parachute Display Team, proudly sponsored by Wightlink.

    These airborne aces will kick off the day at 10am, soaring above Ryde sands and landing with the kind of precision that makes jaws drop and cameras click.

    “They’ve become a real crowd favourite,” said event organiser, Ian Dore. “It wouldn’t be Armed Forces Day without them.”

    But the excitement doesn’t stop there.

    In a major coup for the Island, the Royal Air Force Falcons will be making their first-ever appearance over Isle of Wight skies.

    Led by Flight Lieutenant Alice Adam-Cairns, this 14-strong team of skydiving superstars is only performing at four Armed Forces Day events across the UK this year — and Ryde made the cut!

    The Falcons are famous for their heart-stopping stunts and gravity-defying formations. Keep your eyes peeled for their signature moves like the Heart, Criss Cross-Carousel, Snakes & Ducks, and the thrilling Sabre Chase — all performed while plummeting from the sky with pinpoint accuracy.

    They’re scheduled to jump at 4.30pm, with a pre-jump build-up on the beach to get the adrenaline flowing. And once they’ve landed, the fabulous Vintage Trio will take over with a nostalgic soundtrack to close the day on a high note.

    Ian added: “This is another first for the Island and for Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day.

    “The RAF Falcons have been on our wish list for a long time. Their display is not just a jump — it’s a high-adrenaline spectacle of advanced canopy handling and aerial choreography.”

    With world-class displays, beachside entertainment, and a whole day dedicated to honouring our Armed Forces community, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FMQs: Scottish Government urged to reinstate direct ferry service to Europe

    Source: Scottish Greens

    05 Jun 2025 Transport

    A direct connection to mainland Europe would be a positive boost to Scotland.

    More in Transport

    The First Minister has been urged to take action on “Brexit bureaucracy” and work to reinstate a direct ferry service between Scotland and mainland Europe. 

    Scottish Greens MSP Mark Ruskell has been in discussions with Transport Cabinet Secretary Fiona Hyslop to see a ferry service in operation between Rosyth and Dunkirk, creating a direct route for freight and passengers from Scotland. 

    There is a willingness from the Westminster Government to support actions needed to get the ferry service running, but so-called “Brexit bureaucracy” over border control ports need to be agreed upon. 

    Speaking at First Minister’s Questions today, Mr Ruskell asked: 

    “To ask the First Minister what actions the Scottish Government is taking to secure a direct ferry route between Scotland and France?”

    First Minister John Swinney said his government is determined to support action to make this ferry route possible, and that he believes Scotland’s future is in the European Union. 

    In his second question, Mr Ruskell asked: 

    “Well, can I thank the First Minister for that response. I absolutely welcome the engagement with the cabinet secretary earlier in the week. 

    “It’s absolutely clear that a direct ferry service between Rosyth and Dunkirk would be a great win for the economy and the environment. It would be wonderful news for all of us who cherish our connections with the rest of Europe.

    “I understand the ferry operators, DFDS, want to move forward to start sailing in spring next year. Forth Ports around Rosyth want progress. The Port of Dunkirk have bought in. And the Westminster government is also supportive. 

    “The only thing that is getting in the way, First Minister, is Brexit bureaucracy around the location of a border control post. Time is ticking. 

    “A resolution needs to be found by the end of June to secure the service, First Minister. 

    “Are you able to take the lead, to convene stakeholders and to resolve these remaining issues and get this over the line?”

    Speaking after FMQ’s, Mr Ruskell said: 

    “We are within touching distance of connecting Fife to France through a direct ferry service, but Brexit Bureaucracy is getting in the way. 

    “I’m pleased that both the First Minister and the Cabinet Secretary have agreed to lead talks to resolve the issue of a Border Control Post but time is ticking and operators need certainty by the end of this month.

    “For years people have been waiting for the Rosyth ferry to come back, it needs to happen by Spring 2026, stakeholders need the certainty that any fix in the regulations can be delivered in time.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Join us on 6/26 for a Foreign and Comparative Law Webinar: “Two Sides of the Same Coin: The Evolution of Surrogacy Law in France and Colombia”

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    The following is a guest post by Louis Gilbert and Stephania Alvarez, foreign law specialists at the Law Library of Congress. Louis has previously published the following post: “Wait, It Is Not About Wigs?” – The Story of Faso Dan Fani Court Robes in Burkina Faso, and “Join Us on 11/21 for a Foreign and Comparative Law Webinar titled “Review of Law Library of Congress Research Reports Published in 2024.” Stephania has previously published the following blog posts: FALQs: Guyana-Venezuela Territorial Dispute, and Law Library Publishes New Report, “Peru: Civic Space Legal Framework.”

    Please join us on June 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EDT, for another entry into our Foreign and Comparative Law Webinar series with our “Two Sides of the Same Coin: The Evolution of Surrogacy Law in France and Colombia” webinar. Surrogacy and the adoption of children born through this practice have been the focus of significant legislative and jurisprudential developments around the world. The evolution of surrogacy in France and Colombia has different legal implications in each country.

    Register here. 

    In Colombia, surrogacy is neither explicitly regulated nor prohibited. Nevertheless, the Constitutional Court has addressed this topic in various rulings, in which it has established rules and requirements for surrogacy agreements and emphasized the need to protect the child’s fundamental rights.

    On the other hand, surrogacy is forbidden in France, and the recognition of children born abroad is currently at the center of legal discussions. Recent developments in French jurisprudence have enabled numerous French citizens to resort to surrogacy agreements abroad. The questions of filiation and adoption are no longer framed solely around the legality or prohibition of certain practices but are increasingly approached from the perspective of the child’s fundamental rights.

    Although France and Colombia adopt opposing approaches to surrogacy, their legal systems complement each other in safeguarding the best interests of the child. In Colombia, the severance of the legal bond between the surrogate and the baby allows for clear filiation between the intended parents and the child, which France now fully recognizes when it has been validly established abroad. Therefore, the absence of a specific legal framework prohibiting surrogacy in Colombia, in addition to the lower costs and greater accessibility compared to other countries, has made this country an increasingly common destination for surrogacy procedures.

    Stephania Alvarez is a foreign law specialist at the Law Library of Congress. She conducts research and writes reports on a wide range of topics relating primarily to the laws of Central and South American jurisdictions. Stephania has a Bachelor of Laws from Icesi University in Colombia. She completed a dual degree program at Sciences Po in Paris, France, and Georgetown University Law Center, earning a master’s in environmental policy and a Master of Laws in environmental and energy law, respectively.

    Louis Gilbert is a foreign law specialist at the Law Library of Congress. He conducts research and writes reports on topics relating to the laws of French-speaking jurisdictions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Essex, England, a master’s in comparative law from the Université Paris X, France, and a J.D. from American University.

    To learn about other upcoming classes on domestic and foreign law topics, visit the Legal Research Institute. Please request ADA accommodations at least five business days in advance by contacting (202) 707-6362 or [email protected].

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emergency utility repairs hold up Darlington Street improvement works

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The works form part of City of Wolverhampton Council’s £19 million programme to transform the city centre experience for visitors to Darlington Street, Lichfield Street and Queen Square.

    All externally funded, the investment will help boost the local economy by delivering better public spaces, improved lighting and safety, more trees, greenery and seating and easier access for buses, cycles and taxis. It follows extensive consultation with businesses, the public and key stakeholders.

    Contractor Taylor Woodrow started the first stage of the transformation works on Darlington Street on 20 January and have been making good progress.

    Unfortunately, recent excavation works have uncovered a water main in very poor condition that needs to be dealt with by Severn Trent Water, who are not expected to start on site until the end of June, halting the improvement works on the southside carriageway.

    In addition, 2 BT chambers have been discovered that require emergency works. Cellars, belonging to buildings that once stood adjacent to the Fold Street car park, have also been exposed that require backfilling correctly to avoid future subsidence.

    Despite readjusting the works schedule to pick up works in other parts of the site, the combined effect of these factors – all out of the council’s and Taylor Woodrow’s control – mean the Darlington Street works and associated road closure between Chapel Ash Island and Red Lion Street will be in place longer than anticipated. Pedestrian access to businesses will continue to be maintained during business hours.

    The overall city centre improvements 2 and a half year programme is still on course to be completed by summer 2027.

    City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Chris Burden, said: “We appreciate this is frustrating and we will continue to do everything in our power to minimise disruption caused by these unforeseen issues with utility providers.

    “These works will ultimately enable people to better enjoy our city centre from the moment they arrive and are the next step in our transformation plans that have already seen improvements in North Street and Victoria Street deliver positive outcomes for businesses, residents and visitors.

    “In the meantime, I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while these critical works are carried out.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, June 2025: UK and Canada joint statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, June 2025: UK and Canada joint statement to the OSCE

    UK and Canada thank the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities for his active start in the role and urge continued prioritisation of support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada and the UK. 

    High Commissioner, dear Christophe, welcome back to the Permanent Council.  Since this is your first report in this capacity, allow us officially to congratulate you on your appointment and for hitting the ground running.  You have had a very active start to your tenure, as demonstrated by your comprehensive report today.

    The UK and Canada are strong supporters of your mandate and the work of your office in promoting the rights of persons belonging to national minorities. 

    We commend your extensive engagement with – and visits to – a number of our participating States, including Moldova and Central Asia.  We welcome the transparency around your activities, which you have achieved without undermining the “quiet diplomacy” that is an important characteristic of your mandate.

    The UK and Canada greatly value your Office’s continued attention to the intersectionality of gender and national minorities.  It is in all our interests that we fully support women’s and girls’ full, equal and meaningful participation in all aspects of public life, including in peace and security.  We agree with you, High Commissioner, that greater gender equality in societies contributes to greater comprehensive security for us all.

    We also welcome that you have prioritised support to Ukraine, including an early visit.  We commend the strides that the Ukrainian authorities have made in strengthening the legal and policy frameworks for protecting national minorities and preparing the ground for inclusive education reforms.  This progress provides a promising foundation for Ukraine’s post-conflict recovery.

    High Commissioner, your office plays a crucial role which is as important today as it was when created more than 30 years ago. But like most of the OSCE’s tools, it can only play this role when the political will exists to permit it. 

    The situation in Ukraine is a case in point.  Your predecessor noted prior to the full-scale invasion that Ukraine was “working to maintain the delicate balance between the interests and rights of all groups in society”.  Rather than engage in good faith dialogue, Russia has weaponised the issue of minorities. And the irony is that those Ukrainians who Russia claimed to be protecting, have suffered greatly from its invasion. 

    The UK and Canada support your office’s continued focus on the situation in the areas of Ukraine’s sovereign territory temporarily under Russian control.  We condemn Russia’s systematic attempt to erase Ukrainian identity in these areas, including forced passportisation and the deportation of children.  The deeply concerning situation in Crimea, including widescale repression of Crimean Tatars, has been well documented by numerous independent organisations.

    High Commissioner, dear Christophe, we thank you and your team for your considerable efforts in the period covered by your report.  You can rely on the UK and Canada’s continued support for your institution in the years ahead.  Thank you.

    And thank you, Mister Chair.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment for an Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Recruitment for an Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator

    Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator, working on the UK’s programmes of AMR surveillance in animals.

    We have a vacancy for an Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator.

    Job Title

    Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator

    Grade

    HSO

    Salary & Pension

    £37,480 per annum with Pension Scheme

    Annual Leave entitlement

    Commencing at 25 days

    Role

    This is a fantastic opportunity to join the team to cover a period of maternity leave.

    You will work with another HSO AMR co-ordinator to support the AMR surveillance manager in delivery of the surveillance programmes, including the interpretation and reporting of results. You will also co-ordinate important AMR activities across government and provide scientific input into, and generate outputs from, a diverse range of AMR surveillance initiatives.

    How to apply

    You must make your application via Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Co-ordinator – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK where you will find a full job description.

    Closing Date

    2 July 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Russia continues to frustrate peace efforts while trying to convince the world it is taking them seriously: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Russia continues to frustrate peace efforts while trying to convince the world it is taking them seriously: UK statement to the OSCE

    Ambassador Holland calls out Russia’s latest tactics to frustrate efforts to end its war in Ukraine while trying to convince the world it is serious about peace. He confirms that the Kremlin’s delay tactics will only redouble the UK’s resolve to support Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace

    Thank you, Mister Chair.  The UK welcomes the second round of bilateral negotiations that took place earlier this week in Istanbul.  We thank Türkiye for again hosting the discussions and the United States for creating the momentum that got everybody to this point.  The agreement to a further large-scale prisoner exchange and the return of fallen soldiers is a further step towards building confidence.

    We regret, however, that Russia limited the progress that could be made at Monday’s talks by refusing to send, in advance, the memorandum setting out its position on ending this illegal war.  The memorandum, when it arrived, revealed no movement away from the maximalist terms that we have all heard before.  We also regret that the Kremlin continues to reject a complete, unconditional and immediate 30-day ceasefire.

    This is consistent with the tactics that Russia has employed for weeks over peace talks: to draw out the process and refuse to engage in a meaningful way; all while trying to convince the world that it is serious about peace.  We see it in this Council and at the United Nations where Russia makes nonsensical claims.  Among these is the allegation that those who materially support Ukraine’s sovereign right to defend itself from unprovoked aggression, are undermining peace efforts.

    Nobody in this room is fooled; we know who started this war, and we know who is resisting efforts to end it.  The UK is committed to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.  Delay tactics from the Kremlin will only redouble our resolve to help Ukraine defend itself and to use our sanctions to restrict Russia’s war machine.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Arrangements confirmed for City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Arrangements confirmed for City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    5 June 2025

    Members of the public wishing to attend the Annual Blessing of the Graves at the City Cemetery scheduled to take place at 3pm on Sunday June 22nd, are asked to check traffic and parking arrangements to help plan their visit.

    130 car parking spaces will be made available for Blue Badge holders within the Cemetery.  The places will be allocated on a first come first served basis to current Blue Badge holders and can be booked at www.derrystrabane.com/cemeterysunday

    When booking online for the City Cemetery spaces users are advised that they must provide a Name, Mobile number, Vehicle Registration Number, Blue Badge Number and email address – any submissions without this information will be considered invalid. The people using these spaces can access them via the Lonemoor Road entrance and they are to arrive before 2pm as the gates will close promptly at this time.

    The City Cemetery will be closed to the general public on Sunday, June 22nd, except for burials and for those who have a parking space booked. Those who secure a space must be in place by 2pm, as there will be no access for vehicles after this time. Parking spaces will be allocated on a first come first served basis and it will not be possible to reserve a space in a particular area. Please keep in mind that you may still have to walk some distance to reach family graves and make provision for this. Once on site, vehicles will remain there until the crowds have dispersed which, it’s estimated, will be approximately 30 minutes after the service finishes. Access to the cemetery for vehicles will be from the lower gate of the Cemetery at the Lone Moor Road.

    Other car parking is being made available and again are for blue badge holders at St Mary’s Church, Creggan, St Cecilia’s College and Celtic Park. There is no prior booking to these sites, access will only be given to vehicles that display a current Disability Blue Badge Permit on arrival and these too will be filled on a first come basis first served basis. 

    Please note that for those unable to attend or anyone with accessibility issues, the Service will also be live streamed and can be viewed from home.

    In a joint statement from the Council, as owners of the Cemetery, and the Church, as event organisers, people were asked to follow the guidance and plan their visit in advance. “The Blessing of the Graves is always well attended with thousands of people expected at the City Cemetery on June 22nd. In order to ensure the smooth running of the event and in the interests of health and safety a number of measures will be put in place. These are necessary to reduce the volume of traffic and keep pedestrian safe. We would appeal to everyone to follow this guidance and cooperate with the stewards there to manage the event on the day.

    “Visitors parking outside the cemetery are asked to please park in appropriate areas and be considerate of people living in the area. Be mindful of residents living in the area and do not block roadways, footpaths, or gateways when parking. This is an important time of prayer for families who are remembering loved ones, and we ask that everyone is respectful of other visitors during the service. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation in delivering this event.”

    There will be no vehicle access to the cemetery from 12pm to facilitate preparations for the service. Access will only be given to those who have registered with gates remaining open until 2pm.

    You can view the livestream of the Blessing of the Graves as follows: https://youtube.com/live/9ZS-utqxlfQ?feature=share

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Amnesty Media Awards 2025: Winners announced

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Winners across the 12 award categories include BBC Radio 4, Channel 4, The Guardian, Financial Times, ITV News and BBC Eye Investigations 

    Owen Jones took home The People’s Choice Award 

    Al-Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief Wael Al-Dahdouh was presented with an Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights Journalism accolade  

    ‘Journalists around the globe are facing increased attacks and being silenced – it is more important than ever that we champion their work and make a stand for press freedom’ – Sacha Deshmukh 

    Images from the ceremony can be downloaded here  

    Amnesty International UK has announced the winners of its prestigious Amnesty Media Awards 2025 in a ceremony at the BFI Southbank London this evening (4 June), hosted by actor, writer and director Jolyon Rubinstein. 

    The 12 categories commended the most outstanding human rights journalism of the last year, with winners including Channel 4 and BBC Eye Investigations. Financial Times won both the Written Feature and Written News awards, while ITV News took home the Broadcast News trophy.  

    The Guardian won the Written Investigations category for reporting on the violent truth behind Italy’s ‘migrant reduction’, whilst BBC Radio 4 won the Radio & Podcasts award for a programme spotlighting the diary of a woman from Afghanistan.  

    Most categories were judged by a panel of prestigious journalists and media workers, including Ayshah Tull, Lindsey Hilsum, and Alex Crawford, but a new award for 2025 – The People’s Choice Award – saw tens of thousands of people across the UK voting for the journalist who they felt has made the biggest contribution to human rights reporting over the past year. This award was handed to Owen Jones, for his tireless efforts highlighting injustices, especially around the ongoing devastating crisis in Gaza.  

    This year, the Amnesty Media Awards shone a spotlight on the dangers that journalists often face to expose the most pressing human rights issues. 2024 was the deadliest year on record for journalists and media workers – at least 124 journalists and media workers were killed. A staggering 70% of those were a result of Israeli military action in Gaza and Lebanon.  

    A special award for Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights Journalism was presented to Al-Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief, Wael Al-Dahdouh , who gave a speech during the ceremony about the decades he has spent reporting from the Occupied Palestinian Territory.  

    The ceremony, which also featured a performance by singer Emeli Sandé, was live-streamed and attended by hundreds of journalists, broadcasters, producers and presenters.  

    Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UK, said: 

    “We’ve seen and commended some truly breathtaking journalism this evening – proof that good human rights reporting is absolutely essential for exposing injustices and holding power to account. Journalism is far more than just reporting on the facts – it can instigate very real, concrete change that impacts peoples’ lives across the planet.  

    “At a time when journalists around the globe are under increased attack and at risk of being silenced, it is more important than ever to champion their work and make a stand for press freedom.   

    “While the footage, words and reports we’ve awarded this evening remind us of the horrors we are living through, they are also proof of the many people committed to highlighting, exposing and ending violence and abuse. That is what the Amnesty Media Awards are all about – recognising, celebrating and inspiring the human rights journalism that makes the world a fairer, more equitable and peaceful place.” 

    FULL LIST OF WINNERS  

    Broadcast Feature 

    Basement Films for Channel 4 

    Kill Zone: Inside Gaza 

    Broadcast Investigation 

    BBC Eye Investigations 

    Settlements Above the Law 

    Broadcast News 

    ITV News  

    The White Flag  

    The Gaby Rado Award for New Journalist 

    Sophie Neiman 

    New Internationalist  

    Nations and Regions supported by the Players of the People’s Postcode Lottery  

    BBC Northern Ireland 

    Spotlight: Katie – Coerced and Killed 

    Photojournalism 

    Kiana Hayeri 

    The Guardian 

    Radio & Podcasts 

    BBC Radio 4 

    Our Whole Life is a Secret 

    Written Feature 

    Financial Times 

    How extremist settlers in the West Bank became the law 

    Written Investigation 

    The Guardian 

    The brutal truth behind Italy’s migrant reduction: beatings and rape by EU-funded forces in Tunisia 

    Written News 

    Financial Times 

    FT investigation finds Ukrainian children on Russian adoption sites 

    People’s Choice  

    Owen Jones 

    Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights Journalism 

    Wael Al-Dahdouh 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National Drought Group meets after driest spring in 132 years

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National Drought Group meets after driest spring in 132 years

    Expert group told England has now experienced driest March, April and May since 1893.

    The Environment Agency convened a National Drought Group meeting today (5 June 2025) to discuss the latest outlook and hear from water companies about steps they are taking to prepare for the summer.  

    England has only seen 57% of the long-term average May rainfall and spring is the driest since the reign of Queen Victoria. However, the recent rain at the end of May and the start of June is helping to stabilise the position.

    The expert group will now meet monthly following a drought declaration in the north-west. Four other areas – the north-east, Yorkshire, east and west midlands – are also experiencing prolonged dry weather.  

    The EA told the group it has stepped up its operational response. This includes more compliance checks on businesses who abstract water, such as manufacturers, and increased monitoring of river and groundwater levels.

    The regulator is also working with all members of the National Drought Group, including the National Farmers Union, to help farmers plan their water needs over the summer.

    Meanwhile, water companies updated the group on how they are implementing their drought plans, including increased communication with customers, and speeding up the fixing of leaks.

    United Utilities in the north-west has increased the rate of finding and fixing leaks by 70% in recent weeks after a strong response from the community in spotting leaks during the dry weather.

    Youlgrave Waterworks, a private firm which supplies 500 homes in Derbyshire, became the first company to introduce a hosepipe ban at the start of June. The major water companies report they have no current plans for hosepipe bans but are keeping this under review.

    Helen Wakeham, EA Director of Water and National Drought Group chair, said: 

    It’s been the driest spring since 1893, and we need to be prepared for more summer droughts as our climate changes.

    The recent rainfall is having a positive effect, but it hasn’t been enough to stop a drought in the north-west and we must ensure we have enough water to last the entire summer.

    We are working with water companies, farmers and other abstractors to help them plan their water usage over the summer and urge people to be mindful about their daily use.

    The National Drought Group heard that without further substantial rain, some water companies may need to implement further drought measures this summer to conserve supplies.

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

    We face a water shortage in the next decade. That’s why the government is taking urgent steps to secure supplies into the future, as part of our Plan for Change.

    As an immediate step, we have convened the National Drought Group to make sure water companies are acting to conserve this precious resource and act in line with their drought plans.

    The Government has secured over £104 billion of private sector investment to fund essential infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs, and to cut leakage by 17% over the next five years.

    Dr Will Lang, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said: 

    After the driest Spring for more than a century across England, the start of June has brought some much-needed rainfall with a mix of Atlantic weather systems interspersed with drier and sunnier periods expected to continue over the coming days.

    Most areas will experience showers at times with some seeing longer spells of rain.  From mid-June onwards, the forecast becomes less clear with signs of drier conditions becoming more dominant across southern England.

    Looking further ahead, the chance of a hot summer is higher than normal with an associated increased risk of heatwaves and related impacts. After the more unsettled and wetter start to June, the likelihoods of a wetter or drier than average summer remain evenly balanced.

    Periods of dry weather and low rivers can have several consequences for the environment and wildlife. Low oxygen levels in water can lead to fish kills, as well as more algal blooms and lower river flows prevent wildlife from moving up or downstream.  

    The National Drought Group – which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, farmers, and conservation experts – heard:  

    • Reservoir levels are now at 77%.

    • Fish rescues have been carried out on the Rivers Redlake and Tern in Shropshire.  

    • Navigation issues have been noted with the Canals and Rivers Trust having to implement restrictions on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and Lancaster Canal because of low water levels.   

    • The quality of spring crops is becoming a concern because of the dry soil and poor grass growth for feed.  

    • Applications for Local Resource Options (LRO) screening studies are now open for groups of farmers to explore ways to improve water availability and reliability.

    The Environment Agency is encouraging the public to report environmental incidents to their 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Meanwhile angling groups are also asking members to report signs of environmental impacts.

    Notes to editors: 

    A decision to declare drought is taken based on reservoir levels, river flows and moisture in the soil along with consideration of the long-term weather forecasts.  

    More information on how drought is defined can be found here: Drought explained – Creating a better place

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vigilance urged as warm and dry spring increases tree pest risk

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    Press release

    Vigilance urged as warm and dry spring increases tree pest risk

    Forestry Commission calls for caution from forestry sector as Ips typographus beetle flight season gets underway

    Woodland managers, landowners and the forestry sector are today (Thursday 5 June) being encouraged to increase their vigilance against the tree pest Ips typographus.

    The warning comes following a record dry spring, and the heavy rain and waterlogging of last year, which has left lowland spruce, particularly those on clay soils, at heightened risk of stress, potentially increasing their susceptibility to beetle infestation.

    Ips typographus, also known as the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle, is a serious pest of spruce trees in Europe which was first identified in the UK in 2018. It prefers stressed or dying trees but under the right conditions it can attack healthy trees and has the potential to cause significant damage to Great Britain’s forestry and timber industries.

    We are now entering a heightened risk period as it is the beginning of the annual season of blow over of beetles from mainland Europe.

    The Forestry Commission, including Forest Research, lead a robust and comprehensive management programme to manage the pest which, if left unmanaged, could leave an estimated 725,000 hectares of spruce at risk of infestation with an estimated total value of £2.9 billion.

    Defra Chief Plant Health Officer Professor Nicola Spence said: 

    “I am urging foresters and landowners to really be on their guard as we enter the heightened risk period for Ips typographus.

    “We need maximum vigilance from all landowners and land managers as temperatures rise – the dry spring following last year’s wet summer has created ideal conditions for the beetle. The cooperation of the forestry sector has been vital in our efforts to keep the pest at bay and we need that to continue.”

    Dr Anna Brown, Director of Forest Services at the Forestry Commission, said: 

    “Continued vigilance to the threat posed by Ips typographus is needed following the recent rise in temperatures, and we’re urging landowners and land managers to report any sightings immediately via Tree Alert to help reduce the risk of the pest spreading. The beetle prefers stressed or dying trees but it can attack healthy trees if the conditions are right.

    “The help of the sector is vital in the successful management of this pest – landowners, agents and timber processors should continue to comply with ongoing restrictions for movement of spruce material and methods of forest operations in the Demarcated Area.” 

    A grant is available within the Proactive Spruce Removal Area as part of the Tree Health Pilot and the Forestry Commission plans to provide a new offer to further support removal of spruce later this year.  

    Defra will host a workshop later this year, in collaboration with UK Agri-Tech Centre, to continue to exchange knowledge with the international plant health community on innovative and technological solutions for managing bark beetle pests.

    Additional information:

    • The risk is highest within the ‘Demarcated Area’ currently in place in parts of the South East and East of England. This area is designated by the Forestry Commission to manage outbreaks of the beetle, with restrictions in place.

    • All outbreak sites are subject to robust eradication action in line with our Ips typographus contingency plan and a Demarcated Area is in place restricting the planting, movement and felling of susceptible material. Action includes destroying infested material as soon as possible to disrupt the lifecycle of the pest, preventing it from developing, emerging and dispersing. This is alongside ongoing wider environment surveillance to identify new outbreak sites. 

    • Material susceptible to infestation by the pest – that is, with weakened defences, like windthrow and harvesting residues – is prioritised for removal, to prevent further infestation by any beetles remaining on the site. 

    • Lastly, healthy spruce is also felled and removed from the area immediately surrounding the original infestation as a precautionary measure (on varying timescales, depending on the initial density of beetles in the infested area).

    • Following the removal of spruce, pheromone traps are placed on the site for three years during the insect flight period, to capture any beetles concealed in the leaf litter.

    • A map indicating the ‘Proactive Spruce Removal area’ is available via this link. 

    • Click here to read a blog outlining research taking place into the susceptibility of different spruce trees. 

    • An updated Outbreak Sites Summary Map is available via this link

    • Updated guidance is available via this link on movement restrictions for spruce within the Ips typographus Demarcated Area and guidance is also available on the process of being issued with a Statutory Plant Health Notice if you have an Ips infestation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council’s Amenities Team celebrates excellence award

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Amenities Team at Highland Council has won the Gold Award in the ‘Parks, Grounds and Street Scene’ category at this year’s APSE Scotland Striving for Excellence Awards.

    The awards recognise the achievements of local authorities in Scotland and celebrate those exceeding expectations within waste and recycling, parks, fleet and grounds management services.

    Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham MacKenzie said: “This is a fantastic achievement for everyone in the team and a well-deserved award. The team have prioritised the voices of young people in everything they do which has resulted in a nationally recognised strategy that has played a part in influencing best practice. Play is fundamental to the wellbeing of children in our communities, and I would like to congratulate the Amenities Team for their commitment to ensuring our approach to play is child-led and beneficial for young people of all ages and abilities.”

    As part of The Council’s Amenities Review in 2024, an in-house play team was established with three members of staff and has now developed into a team of eight. Since then, the team has worked with more than 50 community groups, refurbished 27 play areas and approved a Playpark Strategy and Action Plan for the next 10 years. Highland Council’s Playpark Strategy was recently highlighted in the evidence base and supporting research of the Scottish Government’s Play Vision Statement and Action Plan 2025-2030.

    Debbie Sutton, Strategic Lead for Community Operations and Logistics at Highland Council accepted the award on behalf of the team and said: “We’re delighted to have won this award which recognises the team’s hard work and commitment to improving play for children of all ages throughout the Highlands. I am extremely proud of the team and honoured to accept the award on their behalf.”

    Winners were announced at a charity dinner on Thursday 22 May as part of the APSE Scotland Fleet, Waste and Grounds Seminar at the Aviemore Highland Resort.

    The Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) is a not-for-profit local government body working with over 300 councils throughout the UK to promote excellence in public services.

    Highland Council’s Amenities Team

    5 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council agrees further work to tackle climate change

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Ambitious next steps towards a carbon neutral Portsmouth have been agreed by the city council.

    A programme of work to tackle climate change will build on achievements over the last 12 months, which include:

    • Delivering Warm Homes funding to help make Portsmouth homes more energy efficient, reducing fossil fuel usage
    • Launching a landmark solar power project at Lakeside North Harbour, one of the UK’s biggest solar car park and battery storage installations
    • Starting work on ‘Seachange’, the biggest project in Portsmouth International Port’s history to provide green electricity to power ships while at berth
    • Securing funding to plant 2,500 new trees as part of a wider Greening Strategy to double the city’s tree canopy coverage over 25 years, and developing an Urban Forest Masterplan
    • Partnering with Southern Water to invest in reducing surface water runoff which contributes to outfall releases, including a £220,000 grant for sustainable drainage at New Horizon’s School
    • Working in partnership with Hampshire County Council and First Bus to launch a fleet of 62 brand new, zero emission buses, replacing a diesel fleet as part of the strategy for greener travel and improved air quality

    A report for the Climate Change and Greening the City meeting outlined the council’s focus on continuing to reduce carbon usage across all departments. The council will work with partners to protect and enhance Portsmouth’s natural environment, while building resilience to the impacts of climate change – such as heatwaves and rainfall – with a focus on supporting the most vulnerable.

    A programme of climate and natural environment actions was presented and agreed. It includes:

    • Improving how the council monitors carbon emissions, including emissions from its suppliers.
    • Developing Local Area Energy Plans
    • Continuing to work with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on funded schemes to upgrade domestic properties across all tenures to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
    • Developing a resilient treescape by working with stakeholders and communities so old and new trees are resilient to climate change impacts and provide cooling across the city
    • Continued working to reduce surface water flooding
    • Exploring how we deliver a green and healthy streets programme
    • Developing a biodiversity strategy and action plan as part of the council’s Strengthened Biodiversity Duty
    • Development of an air quality strategy

    Cllr Kimberley Barrett, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City, said:

    “Climate change is here and its impact is affecting us all. That’s why we declared a climate emergency in 2019, and made a pledge for the city and the council to become carbon neutral.

    “We all want Portsmouth to be a green and healthy city, where people and businesses thrive alongside nature. But we can only achieve this if businesses and our communities work together.

    “The good news is that so much has been achieved already, but we need to keep being ambitious as this programme of work is, to protect and enhance our special city.”

    Cllr Barrett approved the transformation programme, which will form the basis of the council’s activity to tackle climate change and improve the natural environment for 2025/26.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 7 Hills set to strike a chord again in Armagh City

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    This summer, the 7 Hills Blues Fest returns to Armagh City, promising an immersive and vibrant experience for blues enthusiasts, families, and culture seekers alike. Running from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 August, the festival features over 40 free gigs across 15 venues, showcasing the best in local, national, and international blues and roots music.

    A key highlight of the festival is its growing reputation as a platform for discovering and celebrating fresh talent. This year’s line-up includes exciting artists such as 2024 Buskfest winners Banshee, who will make their 7 Hills debut, and the returning 17-year-old guitar sensation Zac Mac.

    Banshee, who won Buskfest in 2024, said, “Being part of 7 Hills is a great chance for us to share our music with more people. The festival is special because it supports new artists like us while also bringing in well-known musicians. Winning last year’s Buskfest meant a lot and this is another exciting step for our band and a way to meet others who love this kind of music. We’re really happy to be part of a festival that brings everyone together to enjoy live music and help artists grow.”

    Since its inception, 7 Hills has celebrated the rich musical heritage deeply rooted in Armagh and beyond. This year’s line-up boasts some of the biggest names in the blues scene, including vocalist Clara Rose, the legendary Rob Strong, fan favourites Crow Black Chicken, the Pat McManus Band, and acclaimed acts such as Ben Reel and the Ronnie Greer Trio.

    Led Hedley makes a welcome return to the Festival, along with Chris Taplin Band, Rubber Plants and Cork’s Two Time Polka. Other local artists performing include Villiers and the Villains, Courtnay Giffin, 4 Shuck Men and Freedom 35s.

    Often hailed as Ireland’s Godfather of Soul, Rob Strong, said, “Playing here is always a highlight of the summer for me – it’s a place where the spirit of blues music truly comes alive. The city’s intimate venues create a unique connection between artists and audiences, making every performance feel personal. 7 Hills not only honours the rich traditions of blues but also pushes the music forward, keeping it fresh and exciting.”

    The weekend is one the major annual events organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and attracts hundreds of visitors, local and from further afield. The festival will kick off with lunchtime performances on the bandstand, followed throughout the weekend by MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge, free street acts, face painting and balloon modelling.  As another new addition to the lively weekend, on Saturday, there will be an artisan market located at the Shambles in the city centre. There will be a wide range of artisan stalls in place, with a wide range of tasty treats, eats and much more which will create a full programme of activities for all ages.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World Environment Day: Greens demand stronger climate action

    Source: Scottish Greens

    05 Jun 2025 Nature

    It is time to invest in nature, not cut from it.

    More in Nature

    On World Environment Day, Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell has urged the Scottish Government to recommit to real climate and nature action, warning that recent decisions risk undoing vital progress.

    World Environment Day 2025 focuses on ending plastic pollution, one of the most pressing but solvable environmental problems the world faces. Mr Ruskell has highlighted that while tackling plastic pollution is crucial, Scotland must also focus on restoring nature and protecting its unique environment. 

    The Scottish Greens secured the Natural Environment Bill as a cornerstone of their power-sharing Bute House agreement with the SNP. The Bill, currently making its way through the Scottish Parliament, aims to strengthen Scotland’s natural habitats and help reverse the decline in biodiversity. 

    He also raised concerns around the Scottish Government’s commitment to environmental goals following their failure to see through key pledges of a new National Park in Galloway, and concerns that the upcoming Natural Environment Bill doesn’t go far enough.

    Mr Ruskell said:

    “The Natural Environment Bill is a vital step toward rebuilding Scotland’s ecosystems. We pushed for this while we were in Government, with ambitious targets for nature recovery, woodland and peatland creation, and better protection for our marine environments by 2026.

    “However, the Scottish Government’s recent record on climate action sets alarm bells ringing. I am concerned that the Bill as it stands won’t go far enough and could potentially undermine environmental protections.

    “As the Natural Environment Bill makes its way to becoming legislation, the SNP need to decide who they stand with. Is it the rural elites that prioritise private gain over public good or is it those who are fighting to make Scotland a fairer, greener place to live?

    “The recent u-turn on Galloway’s National Park designation was a short-sighted betrayal of the communities who had hoped to see their landscape protected and it won’t be quickly forgotten.

    “With World Environment Day highlighting the urgent need to act on protecting our planet, Scotland must lead by example. We need to invest in nature, not cut from it. The Greens will keep fighting for the bold environmental action our future depends on.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Working Together for a Safe and Festive Eid al-Adha in Birmingham

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Thursday, 5th June 2025

    Birmingham City Council is sending warm wishes to all residents celebrating Eid al-Adha, a time of faith, community, and reflection for Muslim families across the city.

    Eid al-Adha represents Sacrifice and is one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar. It also coincides with the end of the Annual Hajj where millions of people from across the world and from Birmingham will be completing their annual pilgrimage to Mecca.  As communities come together to pray, share meals, and support those in need, the Council is proud to stand in celebration with residents of all backgrounds who mark this special occasion and congratulates the Many Birmingham residents who will be completing their Hajj this year.

    The Council continues to work closely with local communities and partners to ensure that Eid celebrations are safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone. Following reports of anti-social behaviour, nuisance and reckless driving during previous celebrations, the Council’s Community Safety, Parking, Regulation & Enforcement, Highways, Neighbourhoods and waste management teams will be working in partnership with West Midlands Police to ensure a safe and harmonious Eid for all. There will also be increased police presence patrolling in the Ladypool Road, Coventry Road and Alum Rock Road area. Together, all preparations have been made to support those celebrating to do so safely.   

    Councillor Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “Eid al-Adha is a time to reflect on faith, sacrifice, and community. In Birmingham, we’re proud of our diversity and the strength it brings to our city.

    “We know this is a cherished moment for so many families, and we want everyone to be able to celebrate safely and joyfully. That’s why we’ve been working in partnership with West Midlands Police and our local community leaders to ensure that everyone can take part in the celebrations with peace of mind.

    “On behalf of Birmingham City Council, I wish Eid Mubarak to all those observing and send our congratulations to the many residents who would have completed their Hajj this year.”

    The Council also reminds residents to be considerate of their neighbours and to dispose of waste responsibly following celebrations, especially in parks and public spaces.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –