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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, at the UN Security Council debate on peace and security.

    Mr President, the United Kingdom thanks Pakistan for convening this timely debate at a time when multilateralism faces unprecedented strain.

    As the Secretary-General has said, the world is witnessing more conflict than at any time since the founding of the United Nations.

    From Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine to the protracted crisis in Gaza, the international community is being tested.

    Our response must strive for peace and be guided by the principles of the UN Charter.
    Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century.

    And this Council, as the UN organ with the primary responsibility for international peace and security, should play a central role.

    That includes through a collective commitment to the rule of law, including international humanitarian law, and to the peaceful settlement of disputes.

    These are not abstract ideals.

    They are principles by which we could collectively prevent and resolve conflict.

    That is why the United Kingdom has kept these principles at the heart of its foreign policy.
    But as we mark the UN’s 80th anniversary, we must seize this moment to revitalise the peace and security architecture, champion human rights, and strengthen the UN development system and humanitarian architecture to ensure all three pillars are collectively fit for purpose.

    We should make full use of the UN’s mediation and conflict prevention capabilities.
    In Sudan, we continue to urge the warring parties to engage meaningfully with existing diplomatic initiatives, including the United Nations’ mediation efforts to achieve a lasting national ceasefire and political solution.

    Here and elsewhere, we need the UN to help address the root causes of conflict.
    Peace operations should be more adaptable, politically attuned and better coordinated with other UN and regional actors, leveraging new technologies and local expertise.
    We must focus not only on brokering peace but on sustaining it.

    The UN’s efforts to verify the implementation of the Peace Agreement in Colombia is a good example of this work in the field.

    And here in New York, we can make better use of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture to support national efforts to sustain peace.

    Underscoring this, we must recall that crucially, sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive peace processes, with the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women.

    Mr President, the UN Charter is our shared foundation.

    In this moment of global uncertainty, we must recommit to multilateralism, not as a slogan, but as a strategy.

    The United Kingdom stands ready to work with all Member States to this end, including to uphold peace, security, and the rule of law.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Schools in Westminster to receive up to £8K to boost pupils’ health and wellbeing | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Twenty-five schools in Westminster have received up to £8,000 in grant funding to improve pupils’ health and wellbeing.

    The school health and wellbeing survey, a Westminster City Council initiative administered by the Schools Health Education Unit (SHEU), was implemented in 25 schools across the city in 2024. The survey, covering topics such as emotional health and wellbeing, safety, food and diet and physical activity, collected responses from 1,357 pupils.

    The survey results have helped the council understand what children need to improve their health and wellbeing and it has given schools a valuable insight into their pupils’ lives. 

    Following the survey, each school has received their confidential report and a grant to act on the findings relevant to their pupils – £5,000 for primaries and £8,000 for secondaries and special schools.

    Gabby Woolf, Vice Principal of King Solomon Academy, said:

    “King Solomon Academy is very grateful to have received a grant from Westminster after participating in the school health and wellbeing survey, which is especially crucial in these times of scarcity. Our findings have shown supporting pupils’ emotional health and wellbeing is important for their health and education. The grant has allowed us to better fund our therapeutic counselling provision, which is run by Place 2 Be and has been a huge support for pupils’ emotional wellbeing and mental health.”

    Cllr Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector, said:

    “The voices of children and young people are crucial for designing comprehensive health and wellbeing programmes that answer to their needs. This survey and funding will give schools the knowledge and resources needed to act on the issues that matter most to their pupils, whether that is online safety, mental wellbeing or physical health. It reflects our continued commitment to building a healthier and fairer community for our children in Westminster.”

    The council currently leads on a range of health and wellbeing services and initiatives for children and young people:

    • The School Health Service has been enhanced with a wider emotional and mental health offer. It has been delivering asthma training (as part of the Asthma Friendly School initiative) and developing school partnership agreements.
    • The funding for the Mental Health Youth Worker service has been extended for two years to support the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people attending Youth Hubs in Westminster.
    • The Edward Wilson Primary School Superzone has been created to help school children play safely, breathe clean air, be active, enjoy a healthy diet and thrive.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A new chapter for young adults with learning disabilities in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council secured funding to purchase a vacant building and transform it into a home for seven young people with complex support needs, some of whom have been living out of area for their education.

    The project was born from a shared ambition: to bring these young people back to Portsmouth for their move into adulthood, closer to their families and communities, and to provide them with a safe, supportive environment where they can live independently.

    The home features six ensuite rooms with communal living spaces and one self-contained flat. The new tenants will benefit from 24-hour support provided by a registered care provider, with the council acting as landlord.

    The young adults will also have access to a wide range of local health and social care services, including day opportunities and sporting activities tailored to adults with learning disabilities.

    Their new home was opened with a celebration to mark the occasion, thanking the many teams and individuals who have made this vision a reality and, importantly, to give the new tenants and their families the chance to look around their new home ahead of their move.

    Michelle (pictured with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress), is the Mum of one of the new tenants, and is delighted with her son’s new home. She said:

    “For me, this is going to have a positive impact in terms of feeling there is a future for my son – and we haven’t had to make a choice under pressure or take something we weren’t 100% comfortable with. I love the setting – it doesn’t feel like a residential care facility; it feels like a student house. I love the fact that he’s going to be with people of similar age and needs. He has a lot of energy, so he’ll adore the garden, looking out onto trees – it’ll be amazing for him.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development said:

    “This project shows the dedication and commitment of multiple teams across the council – showcasing “one council” working.

    From identifying the building and overseeing its refurbishment, to coordinating care and support services, every step has been guided by a shared vision and provides a place for these young adults to live independently.”

    From left to right: Leila Ferguson (Portsmouth Lady Mayoress), Michelle (Mum of new tenant) and Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson (Portsmouth Lord Mayor) at an open morning for the new accommodation.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Modernised aid budget will focus on impact, value for money and transparency

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Modernised aid budget will focus on impact, value for money and transparency

    New aid funding figures published today show how the international aid budget will deliver value for money for the British taxpayer – and maximum impact for the most vulnerable overseas.

    • New figures released today (Tuesday, 22 July) set out how the government will spend the aid budget in 2025/2026, prioritising areas where Britain can make the biggest difference. 

    • The new approach means the UK will prioritise spending through the most impactful multilateral organisations like the World Bank and Gavi, the vaccine alliance, while working to drive reform of these institutions. 

    • Development Minister Baroness Chapman today confirms UK support for the World Bank’s International Development Association – with the fund expected to benefit 1.9 billion people in next three years.

    New aid funding figures published today (Tuesday, 22 July 2025) show how the international aid budget will deliver value for money for the British taxpayer – and maximum impact for the most vulnerable overseas. The cut in the aid budget to 0.3% of Gross National Income from 2027 means every penny must count if the UK is to make progress on its biggest development priorities: to tackle humanitarian, health and climate crises.

    Today’s aid figures, published in the FCDO’s annual report and the first to be released since the cut was announced in February, give an indication of the new approach the Development Minister Baroness Chapman will take. They follow a comprehensive line-by-line strategic review of aid conducted by the Minister, which focused on prioritisation, efficiency, protecting planned humanitarian support and live contracts while ensuring responsible exit from programming where necessary. 

    The pivot will see global organisations with a proven track record of impact, like the World Bank and Gavi, prioritised to deliver better results for the UK taxpayer and the world’s poorest people.  

    The UK will also continue to play a key humanitarian role supporting those in crisis, including in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan, and will hold a reserve fund to respond to future crises at pace.

    However, underperforming multilateral organisations will face funding cuts in future, and as the UK moves to spend less on aid, bilateral support to some countries is also dropping.  

    While bilateral support for some countries will drop, the UK will instead increasingly share expertise, like that of our world leading scientists and financial sector. It will focus on tackling the climate crisis, health threats and humanitarian emergencies, creating stability and growth to help deliver the Plan for Change at home. The National Security Strategy published earlier this year said British interests are best served through effective multilateral cooperation.

    As part of its growing support for impactful multilateral organisations, the UK today confirmed it will honour a pledge to the International Development Association (IDA) – the World Bank’s fund for the poorest countries – having agreed a new way to make payments that reduces costs to UK taxpayers and provides the same value to the Bank. IDA is expected to benefit 1.9 billion people in the next three years.

    Minister for Development Baroness Chapman said: 

    We are modernising our approach to international development. Every pound must work harder for UK taxpayers and the people we help around the world and these figures show how we are starting to do just that through having a clear focus and priorities. 

    The UK is moving towards a new relationship with developing countries, becoming partners and investors, rather than acting as a traditional aid donor. We want to work with countries and share our expertise – from world leading science to the City of London – to help them become no longer dependent on aid, and organisations like the World Bank and Gavi are central to how we can work with others to solve some of the biggest challenges of our time: humanitarian disasters, pandemics and the climate crisis.

    The UK’s support for the multilateral system will come with a renewed push for its reform to maximise efficiency and impact for people on the ground.  It follows UK funding announced for another multilateral organisation Gavi, the vaccine alliance, last month, which will help save up to 8 million lives. 

    The World Bank support was originally announced last November, but all UK aid funding was subsequently reviewed following the 0.3% announcement in February this year. Every £1 the UK invests in the World Bank’s IDA fund, enables £4 of finance for developing countries. The IDA fund is expected to benefit 1.9 billion people in next three years.

    The World Bank President Ajay Banga today welcomed the UK’s funding commitment. He said:

    We are grateful to the United Kingdom for honouring its pledge to IDA. In a time of tight budgets and growing global risks, this is not just generosity – it’s strategy. Every taxpayer pound is multiplied many times over through the Bank’s ability to mobilise capital and partner with the private sector.

    These resources help create jobs in developing countries – jobs that build self-reliant economies, reduce the drivers of instability, crime, and migration, and grow the middle class. In turn, they create future consumers of UK products and investment opportunities that strengthen the UK economy over the long term.

    The UK’s new approach aligns with recent calls from Global South leaders for a move away from traditional aid to a focus on investment and partnerships, including from the African Development Bank, and the former Kenyan President. 

    Alongside the figures released today, the government has also published an Equality Impact Assessment which found plans to reduce the aid budget will “protect against disproportionate impacts on equalities” overall.

    The government will publish indicative multi-year allocations for 2026-2029 in the autumn, providing an even clearer picture of the UK’s future direction in international development. 

    Background:

    1. The full ODA spending allocations were published in the FCDO’s Annual Report and Accounts on GOV.UK on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. See here for further details: FCDO Annual Report and Accounts 2024 to 2025- GOV.UK
    2. The Equality Impact Assessment was published alongside the Annual Report and Accounts: FCDO Official Development Assistance programme allocations 2025 to 2026: equality impact assessment – GOV.UK
    3. The UK announced last November it would pledge £1.98 billion to the World Bank’s IDA21 – from July 2025 to June 2028. All UK aid funding was subsequently reviewed following the decision to reduce the aid budget in February. We have now agreed to accelerate our payments to the Bank, reducing their need to borrow from markets. This means that while the UK will provide the Bank with around 10% less cash in total, the Bank will regard our contribution as equivalent to our original pledge. A number of other donors accelerate their payments to provide early support to the Bank and to increase the value of their funding in the same way. 
    4. The Foreign Secretary announced new humanitarian support for Gaza on Monday, July 21, 20225. See here for further details: UK pledges lifesaving aid for Gaza – GOV.UK

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Carrier Strike Group contributes to Exercise Talisman Sabre

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    UK Carrier Strike Group contributes to Exercise Talisman Sabre

    The UK Carrier Strike Group has led a major British contribution to the large multinational exercise in Australia.

    Crown copyright

    More than 3,000 British forces are taking part in the largest military exercise Australia has ever hosted, as the UK’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) demonstrates Britain’s unwavering commitment to Indo-Pacific security. 

    The Carrier Strike Group is in Australia as part of Operation Highmast, the major global deployment that demonstrates Britain’s strategic commitment to the Indo-Pacific. 

    From British Gurkhas to US Marines to Australian Defence Force amphibious specialists, Exercise Talisman Sabre 25 serves as one of the deployment’s key moments, bringing together multinational forces to strengthen and test how nations can work together to safeguard global trade routes and maintain regional stability. 

    Spanning across a vast area in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Queensland, and New South Wales, the Australian-US led biennial exercise is bigger than ever, involving over 35,000 military personnel from 19 nations – making Talisman Sabre the largest exercise of the CSG’s deployment and one of the largest military exercises in the world this year. For the first time, offshore activities will also be conducted in Papua New Guinea.    

    Defence Secretary John Healey said:  

    The historic bonds between Britain and Australia run deep, and through AUKUS and exercises like Talisman Sabre we are strengthening these ties for the challenges of tomorrow.  

    Our commitment to the Indo-Pacific is unwavering, as this huge military exercise demonstrates. The unprecedented scale showcases the growing importance of cooperation in addressing shared challenges. We will continue to work alongside our closest allies to maintain the security and stability that underpins global prosperity. 

    Commodore James Blackmore said:  

    This is a real demonstration of the UK and our partners’ warfighting capabilities.   

    As the first UK-led multinational Carrier Strike Group to Talisman Sabre this is a powerful demonstration of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.  

    Exercise Talisman Sabre is also an opportunity for the UK to develop new levels of integration between systems and capabilities with the US, Australia, and other partners, enhancing our interoperability even further and to unprecedented levels.

     All three branches of the UK Armed Forces are engaged, with the Royal Marines playing a central role throughout the exercise alongside a Ranger Battalion from the Army and RAF Voyager aircraft. 

    The exercise strengthens operational cooperation with international partners, ensuring our collective ability to maintain the rules-based international order that underpins global trade and security.  

    The Royal Navy, alongside its AUKUS partners, is testing cutting-edge sub-sea and seabed warfare capabilities, showcasing interoperability across our navies. Additionally, for the first time, AUKUS nations will demonstrate the ability to remotely control Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XL-UUVs) from a remote operating centre. 

    Through DSTL via the Resilience Autonomy and AI Technology collaboration, nations tested autonomy-enabled systems able to find and strike an advancing adversary. This experimentation provided a realistic combat environment for AUKUS to operate as an AI-enabled, integrated force, exploiting cutting-edge technology to ensure strategic advantage against a range of simulated adversaries. 
     
    The CSG25 deployment reinforces the government’s Plan for Change by strengthening international partnerships that underpin economic growth and national security, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad. Operation Highmast occurs against the backdrop of the government’s landmark commitment to increasing defence spending to 2.6% of GDP. 

    This historic investment underpins the government’s mission-led approach to securing Britain’s future, providing the economic stability necessary for growth whilst ensuring the UK maintains cutting-edge capabilities such as the Carrier Strike Group to meet emerging global threats.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Forensic Science Regulator appointed for England and Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    New Forensic Science Regulator appointed for England and Wales

    The regulator ensures that the highest standards in forensic science are met across the criminal justice system.

    Dr Marc Bailey has been appointed as the Forensic Science Regulator for England and Wales.

    Dr Bailey is a scientist who has significant regulatory experience. He has held multiple roles within the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and led international research in quality systems and standardisation, including whilst working at the National Physical Laboratory.

    The Forensic Science Regulator is responsible for ensuring that the provision of forensic science services across England and Wales meet the highest standards of quality and integrity. This includes assessing compliance, providing advice to ministers, setting quality standards and ensuring that all forensic science providers adhere to these standards.

    Dr Bailey will work closely with the police, forensic science providers and the legal profession to ensure that forensic science in England and Wales remains at the forefront of innovation and reliability.

    Dr Bailey will officially assume his duties after Gary Pugh’s term concludes on 25 July 2025.

    Crime and Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:

    Dr Bailey is going to bring a wealth of experience and expertise as the new Forensic Science Regulator.

    This pivotal role is essential in ensuring the highest standards of forensic science are upheld.

    By setting rigorous standards and providing robust oversight, the Forensic Science Regulator will continue to ensure that forensic science supports the work of the police, allowing them to investigate crimes and bring justice for victims.

    I’d like to thank Gary Pugh for his previous work in this role.

    Dr Bailey said:

    I am delighted to be appointed to the post of Forensic Science Regulator.

    I look forward to enacting and developing the regulation of Forensic Science and working with the team that support my role to ensure that the criminal justice system has full confidence in forensic science evidence.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategic Escort Group officers complete fire safety refresher

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Strategic Escort Group officers complete fire safety refresher

    Strategic Escort Group completed fire safety refresher training, reinforcing vital emergency skills for secure nuclear transport in high-risk environments.

    Officers from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary’s (CNC) Strategic Escort Group (SEG) have successfully completed a rigorous fire safety refresher course as part of their ongoing professional standards and safety preparedness programme.

    SEG is a specialist unit responsible for the armed escort and secure transport of nuclear assets by road, rail, and sea. Operating in complex environments, SEG officers are trained to the highest standards in tactical firearms, maritime operations, and emergency response.

    As part of their ongoing certification, SEG officers undertook refresher training in accordance with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) framework – a globally recognised benchmark for maritime safety and emergency response.

    The training covered proficiency in fire prevention and firefighting, and updated proficiency in personal survival techniques.

    While these courses are refresher versions of their initial qualifications, they are designed to rigorously assess and reinforce critical safety skills in high-pressure scenarios.

    The final assessment featured a real-fire simulation, in which officers tackled an intense blaze aboard a mock vessel while wearing full breathing apparatus. Though the ship environment was a controlled training setup, the fire, heat, and physical demands were entirely real, replicating the kind of challenges SEG officers may face during maritime deployments.

    This training underscores the SEG’s commitment to operational readiness and ensures that officers remain equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in life-threatening environments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Dog thefts: what really happened during the COVID pandemic

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Daniel Allen, Animal Geographer, Keele University

    smrm1977/Shutterstock

    Dog theft can be a devastating crime. During the COVID pandemic, newspapers suggested there was an epidemic of “dognapping” in the UK. If you have a dog, the reports may have alarmed you at a time when there were already many reasons to feel afraid.

    There are mixed views on whether or not lockdown triggered an increase in dog ownership. Animal welfare charity Battersea attributed a 53% increase in dog adoption to lockdown, and online pet adoption service Pets4Homes said in their 2022 report that demand for puppies rose 104% at the peak of lockdown in May 2020.

    But animal charity PDSA said its survey data pointed to a gradual increase in dog ownership since 2011 rather than a dramatic surge during lockdown. However, we do know lockdown saw inflated prices for dogs, with some fashionable breeds going for £9,000.

    In terms of criminal activity, social distancing restrictions seemed to lead to a decline in some forms of crime, including shoplifting and burglary. But many media outlets reported the number of dog thefts had increased up to 250% during the pandemic.

    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.

    We wanted to explore if the data supported claims of a dognapping epidemic and whether patterns in dog theft could suggest ways to help reduce it. Our recent study found new insights into dog theft patterns and showed the situation was more complicated than it seemed at first glance.

    Under the Theft Act 1968, dog theft is not a specific offence. It comes under other theft offences, such as burglary or theft from a person.

    This means police records on dog theft were not included in crime statistics. The only way to access such information is through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to individual police forces. There are 45 territorial and three special police forces in the UK, and each has its own reporting and recording practices.

    Although police FOI data for dog theft must be approached with caution, it is useful. Previous studies exploring police FOI data found an upward trend in recorded dog thefts in England and Wales: rising nearly 20% from 2015 (1,545) to 2018 (1,849) for 41 police forces combined; and up 3.5% year on year from 2019 (1,452) to 2020 (1,504) for 33 police forces.

    DogLost, a UK online community for reuniting lost and stolen dogs with their owners, reported a 170% increase in stolen dogs (with Crime Reference Numbers) registered on their website in 2020 (465), compared to 2019 (172). This figure was widely quoted as a national increase “since lockdown started” by the media.

    The 250% increase figure first quoted in December 2020 was actually a comparison of two seven-month periods (January-July 2019 and 2020) for only one police force.

    Patterns and trends

    Our study found the data for the period covering the COVID pandemic is also incomplete. Data was provided by 32 forces (71%) for 2020, by 27 forces (60%) for 2021, and 23 forces (51%) for 2022.

    Patterns and trends do, however, emerge. Between 2020 and 2022, the available data shows a 3.7% rise in dog thefts in the UK, from 1,573 to 1,631. When making adjustments for the number of police forces providing data (which decreased over the period), the estimated national figures suggest there may have been more significant rise of up to 44.2%.

    While we cannot assume that the forces who supplied data are representative of all 45 regional forces, if this were the case, it would equate to 2,212 recorded dog thefts in 2020, 2,645 in 2021, and 3,191 in 2022.

    There was a lot of variation between different areas. For example, Cambridgeshire, Gwent and Northumbria police forces experienced increases of 36%, 49% and 80% respectively in the number of recorded dog thefts between 2020 and 2021.

    Monthly analysis of data from regional police forces and DogLost, show that the number of reports of stolen dogs started to go up when the UK entered its first national lockdown and again during part of the third lockdown. But the average number of police-recorded dog thefts was actually slightly higher outside of lockdown periods than during them between 2020 and 2022.

    However, in contrast with police trends, DogLost data shows a 65.2% drop in dogs reported stolen on DogLost’s website in 2022 compared to 2020. Lower DogLost numbers may reflect limited visibility or presence of their networks, the use of alternative lost and stolen dog services, or reluctance to share personal details online due to scams targeting dog theft victims.

    Dogs are often stolen from inside their own homes.
    GoodFocused/Shutterstock

    Our study found that, overall, there probably was an increase in dog theft from
    2020 to 2022, following already identified increases in the preceding years. This rise was probably driven by a combination of opportunity (more dogs, higher value) and situational factors (accessibility, dogs unattended in gardens while owners were inside).

    Our evidence does not support the notion of a widespread epidemic as portrayed by the media. However, increased media interest probably amplified awareness of the issue, and influenced the creation of the Pet Theft Taskforce, a UK government initiative set up in May 2021 to investigate and tackle dog thefts.

    New research appears to confirm the idea that dog abduction has significant welfare effects on both dogs and their owners. We also know that few dog thefts are successfully resolved, with under a quarter of stolen dogs likely to be returned and around 1%-5% of reported dog thefts result in someone being charged.

    However, there is potential good news. Our ongoing research suggests the number of police-recorded dog thefts decreased slightly in 2023, and again in 2024. This is supported by research from pet insurer Direct Line, which has estimated a 21% decrease in the number of stolen dogs from 2,290 in 2023 to 1,808 in 2024 in the UK.

    Daniel Allen is founder of Pet Theft Reform and patron of the Stolen and Missing Pets Alliance (Sampa).

    Melanie Flynn is a member of the Research Advisory Committee of the Vegan Society (UK).

    John Walliss 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. Dog thefts: what really happened during the COVID pandemic – https://theconversation.com/dog-thefts-what-really-happened-during-the-covid-pandemic-252061

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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: What are education and health care plans and why are parents worried about them being scrapped?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Glazzard, Rosalind Hollis Professor of Education for Social Justice, University of Hull

    Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    For children in England with special educational needs and disabilities, an education and health care plan (EHCP) is a central pillar of support. The government is due to set out its educational strategy for children with special educational needs and disabilities in the autumn, though, and has not ruled out scrapping ECHPs. Their removal would signal radical change in how the system works in England.

    ECHPs are individualised plans that set out the needs of a particular child and the support they should receive – from education, health services and social care – in order have the best opportunity to thrive. But demand for ECHPs is soaring and providing support is proving financially catastrophic for local authorities.

    One of the criticisms of EHCPs is that they prioritise providing children with individual models of support, rather than developing inclusive cultures within schools and within the broader education system. Education secretary Bridget Phillipson has outlined a vision of building a system where more children with special educational needs and disabilities can attend mainstream schools.

    But removing ECHPs leads to the possibility of children who need more specialist support missing out.

    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.

    To secure an ECHP, local authorities carry out a statutory assessment to determine whether a child’s needs warrant additional support. An assessment does not always lead to an EHCP, but if one is issued, it must outline how the child’s needs will be met and the additional resources needed to do so.

    These resources might include funding to provide a child with a teaching assistant, funding for equipment and transport to school, or funding to go to a specialist school. This system of support helps school leaders ensure that children and young people have the right support, at the right time.

    According to a report published earlier this year, the demand for EHCPs has risen by 140% since 2015. Recent data shows that there are 482,640 children and young people in England with an EHCP.

    Many more children have special educational needs, but do not have an ECHP. These pupils are classed as receiving special educational needs support. The percentage of pupils with an EHCP has increased to 5.3%, from 4.8% in 2024. The percentage of pupils with special educational needs support has increased to 14.2%, from 13.6% in 2024.

    Despite government investment of £10.7 billion to local authorities in 2024-25, a House of Commons committee report outlines that long waiting times for assessments, as well as to access support such as speech and language therapy, has led to parents losing confidence in the system.

    Support may include equipment or additional sessions.
    ABO PHOTOGRAPHY/Shutterstock

    Funding is allocated to each local authority from central government to fund provision in their areas. It is for local authorities, in consultation with their schools, to determine the individual allocation to schools. However, local authorities are struggling to meet the increased demand for EHCPs. Even when funding is allocated through EHCPs, it is not always sufficient to address the needs of those with complex needs.

    And funding is not sufficient to meet demand. Local authorities have accumulated huge deficits due to spending exceeding funding, placing some at risk of going bankrupt.

    Future plans

    Bridget Phillipson has refused to be drawn on whether EHCPs will be axed. “What I can say very clearly,” she has said, “is that we will strengthen and put in place better support for children.”

    Building more inclusive schools is obviously one way of achieving this vision. If scrapping EHCPs means less funding for children for special educational needs and disabilities, though, this cannot be the answer. Children need more support, not less, to enable them to thrive.

    The solution is for the government to work out what models of inclusion work well in mainstream schools and to decide how these can be resourced and evaluated. Clarity is also needed on inclusion in mainstream schools can be measured in order to assess whether it is working.

    Making more support in mainstream schools work also requires an adequate supply of knowledgeable, well-trained teachers. The government is prioritising this through revision to initial teacher education courses, with an emphasis on all teachers being teachers of special educational needs.

    If the government doesn’t get this right, the result may be poorer educational and long-term outcomes for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. It may also lead to issues with teacher recruitment and retention in mainstream schools, particularly if teachers feel that they do not have the level of support in place that they need to meet the needs of their pupils.

    Jonathan Glazzard 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. What are education and health care plans and why are parents worried about them being scrapped? – https://theconversation.com/what-are-education-and-health-care-plans-and-why-are-parents-worried-about-them-being-scrapped-260622

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  • MIL-OSI: LanzaTech Awarded Significant Grant by UK Government to Propel Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LanzaTech Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: LNZA) (“LanzaTech” or the “Company”) a leader in carbon management solutions, announced it has received a grant of £6.4 million from the UK government’s Advanced Fuels Fund (AFF), operated by the Department for Transport (DfT).

    The grant will accelerate the development of LanzaTech’s innovative DRAGON 1 & 2 projects, each playing a crucial role in the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the UK. Project DRAGON stands for Decarbonizing and Reimagining Aviation for the Goal Of Netzero.

    The DRAGON 1 project is LanzaTech’s existing UK SAF project that will convert recycled carbon fuel ethanol (including ethanol from LanzaTech’s gas fermentation process) into Advanced SAF in Port Talbot, South Wales, using the LanzaJet® Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ) process.

    The DRAGON 2 project is a Power-to-Liquid (PtL) facility that will convert waste carbon dioxide and green hydrogen into ethanol for subsequent conversion into PtL SAF at an adjacent facility using the LanzaJet® Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ) process. The location for DRAGON 2 in the UK will be determined during this grant-funded project.

    Integrating LanzaTech’s gas fermentation process with LanzaJet’s AtJ technology gives this approach a distinctive edge. By turning regional waste resources into valuable SAF, LanzaTech facilitates the production of low Carbon Intensity (CI) fuels, contributing positively to the UK’s SAF Mandate and supporting economic growth and job creation in industrial zones in the UK.

    “The future of aviation fuel is ethanol-to-SAF and LanzaTech is at the forefront,” said Dr. Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech. “Our commitment to enabling cleaner jet fuel is bolstered by the UK government’s continued support and confidence in LanzaTech as a leader in the sector. This funding not only affirms the value of our unique technology and feedstock approach but also propels our mission to integrate air travel into a circular carbon economy. DRAGON 1 & 2 are set to drive the global SAF market forward and exemplify the UK’s commitment to leading SAF innovation on the global stage.”

    The UK government’s significant investment in these projects underscores their confidence in LanzaTech’s proven, commercial-scale technology and its potential to substantially boost the UK’s SAF production. This endorsement not only solidifies LanzaTech’s reputation as a leader in advancing global clean energy initiatives but also emphasizes the crucial role of feedstock providers. By leveraging low-cost, sustainable inputs for SAF production, LanzaTech is poised to play a key role in aiding the aviation sector’s pursuit of its net-zero commitments.

    Separately, Project Speedbird by LanzaJet, in which LanzaTech holds a 36% ownership stake, also received recognition and £10 million in funding from the Advanced Fuels Fund, further testament to the government’s trust in the Lanza technology portfolio. In 2024, LanzaTech and LanzaJet partnered to create CirculAir™, that transforms nearly any form of waste carbon (including CO2, MSW, agri residues) into SAF, combining the groundbreaking technologies of both companies to provide the aviation industry with a solution to produce waste-based SAF on a global scale.

    Today’s allocation boosts total government contributions through the Advanced Fuels Fund (AFF) to £198 million, aimed at expanding cleaner aviation technologies. This strategic investment is a testament to the UK government’s comprehensive approach to environmental strategies, aligning with initiatives like the recently enacted SAF Mandate. This funding round notably supports a broad spectrum of pathways and feedstocks for SAF production—an inclusive move by the UK government that recognizes the need for varied solutions in the pursuit of net-zero aviation.

    LanzaTech is committed to continuing its collaborative efforts with the UK government, industry partners, and the global community to scale solutions that can transform waste carbon into an opportunity for sustainable growth. We are proud to be recognized as part of the diverse array of solutions required to achieve a sustainable future for aviation.

    About LanzaTech

    LanzaTech Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: LNZA) is a carbon management solutions company that transforms industrial emissions, gasified solid waste and carbon dioxide into recycled carbon ethanol via proprietary bio-fermentation technology. Ethanol is a crucial building block in the world – a key feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and other downstream chemical derivatives. Operating commercially at six assets today, the expanding project pipeline is set to meet growing SAF demand on a global scale in the coming years. LanzaTech’s technology unlocks value across the supply chain, reducing the carbon footprint of hard-to-abate sectors while shepherding recycled carbon fuels and products to the world, building a circular carbon economy.

    Investor Relations
    John Ragozzino
    Lanzatech@icrinc.com

    Public Relations
    Matt Dallas
    Lanzatech@icrinc.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reaction to Sizewell C deal: too expensive, too slow 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    by Green Party

    Commenting on news that the Government has struck a deal with private investors to progress the Sizewell C nuclear power plant in Suffolk – a deal in which the government will have a 45% stake – co-leader of the Green Party and Waveney Valley MP, Adrian Ramsay, said:   

    “The tax-payer will pick up nearly half of the estimated £38bn bill for Sizewell C but see not a single watt of electricity from it for at least a decade. Bill-payers will also have to stump up the cash for this plant through an increase in their energy bills by around £12 a year.  

    “New nuclear is a vastly more expensive way to produce electricity than renewables, with electricity from Sizewell C estimated to cost around £170 per megawatt hour compared to offshore wind at around £89/MWh. Hinkley C has also shown how the costs of developing nuclear power plants mushroom and are beset by endless delays.  

    “The billions of our money being squandered on this nuclear gamble would be far better spent on insulating and retrofitting millions of homes, which would bringing down energy bills and keep people warm in winter and cool in summer. We should also be investing in genuinely green power such as fitting millions of solar panels to roofs, and in innovative technologies like tidal power. All this would create many more jobs than nuclear ever will and deliver clean electricity much more quickly.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government publishes plan to address presence of chemicals from pet flea and tick treatments in UK waterways

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government publishes plan to address presence of chemicals from pet flea and tick treatments in UK waterways

    New plans to address the presence of chemicals from flea and tick treatments in rivers and streams across the UK have been unveiled today

    New plans to address the presence of chemicals from flea and tick treatments in rivers and streams across the UK have been unveiled today (Tuesday 22 July).

    The initiative by the Cross-Government Pharmaceuticals in the Environment (PiE) Group focuses primarily on two chemicals – fipronil and imidacloprid – commonly used in topical parasite treatments for pets. These medicines play an essential role in protecting both animal and human health against fleas and ticks, however there are growing concerns around the amount of fipronil and imidacloprid finding its way into UK rivers and lakes .  

    The new roadmap outlines key actions to reduce levels of flea and tick treatments in the environment while protecting animal welfare – which includes commissioning research to better understand this issue and using this evidence to support an international review of environmental risk assessment guidelines . The three key stages of the roadmap are:

    • Communication and Education (Short Term):
      The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) will collaborate with veterinary professionals and industry stakeholders to improve pet owner awareness about the appropriate use and disposal of flea and tick treatments.

    • Evidence Gathering (Medium Term):
      The group will build a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts of these chemicals, alongside evaluating potential consequences of changing use patterns on animal and human health. The VMD has commissioned scientific research investigating how these substances enter rivers and streams and is working closely with the Environment Agency to assess the environmental risks they pose.

    • Regulatory Actions (Long Term):
      Based on the evidence collected, the PiE Group will support a review of international environmental risk assessment guidelines and consider future regulatory approaches to mitigate environmental risks.

    Defra Biosecurity Minister, Baroness Hayman said:

    This Government is absolutely committed to restoring nature and reducing harms posed by chemicals in the environment.

    Our new Roadmap will develop a better understanding of the impact of flea and tick treatments on the environment, while recognising these treatments play a vital role in pet and human health.

    Abigail Seager, Chief Executive Officer of the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), said:

    This roadmap represents an important step forward in ensuring that the benefits of effective parasite control are maintained while taking necessary actions to reduce environmental risks.

    It reflects our commitment to an evidence-based approach, working closely with partners across government to protect both animal health and the environment.

    Kelly Short, Environment Agency Chemicals Manager said:

    The launch of this roadmap is an important step in tackling the presence of harmful chemicals like fipronil and imidacloprid in our rivers and streams.

    By improving public awareness, building the evidence base, and working together to assess environmental risks, we can take meaningful action to protect our water environment and the wildlife that depends on it.

     The PiE Group brings together key government bodies, including the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), Environment Agency (EA), Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and representatives from devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

    This collaborative initiative aims to develop a coordinated strategy to reduce the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals from human, veterinary, agricultural, and non-agricultural sources.

    ENDS

    Notes to Editors:

    • The full roadmap is available at: Cross-government Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group Roadmap – GOV.UK

    • All flea and tick treatments authorised in the UK have undergone an environmental risk assessment (ERA). This is a requirement for all veterinary pharmaceuticals authorised by the VMD. Currently, for pharmaceuticals for companion animals, the ERA is limited to an exposure assessment, known as a Phase I assessment. This is based on VICH (International Cooperation on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Veterinary Medicinal Products) guidelines. Due to environmental concerns, the VMD are supporting a call for a review of the process for assessing environmental risk from parasiticides for companion animals at an international level and are gathering evidence to inform future policy decisions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Online finance portal launched to make it easier for people to assess paid-for care costs

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 22nd July 2025

    A 24/7 online financial assessment service has been launched for residents looking to access paid-for adult social care in Stoke-on-Trent.

    The Online Financial Assessment tool – which can be found at www.stoke.gov.uk/ascfinance – will help people estimate the contributions they need to make towards a variety of care needs – such as residential, nursing and home care.

    It will also help them work out their eligibility to have their paid-for support part or fully funded.

    The portal can be used by existing clients – or a family member, friend or other person representing them – to assess ongoing costs, as well as those looking to make an initial financial assessment.

    The seven-day-a-week service also allows people to submit relevant documents, such as bank statements, to help calculate their assessment and work out support eligibility. 

    It is the fourth portal launched by the council’s Adult Social Care team in the last few months – the Carers Portal, Bettercare Support Portal and Professional Portal are also available 24/7 to make accessing services, support and signposting better than ever before.

    The aim of all four is to help people lead the most independent lives they possibly can by tapping into the right amount of support, whatever their circumstances.

    Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for adult social care and all-age commissioning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This is an extremely useful online tool that will provide much-needed financial assessment support to those looking to access paid-for care.

    “We know that going into a residential care home or arranging care at home can be a stressful time in a person’s life, as well affecting their family and close friends, so we want to make this process as quick and easy as possible.

    “This also offers a convenient option for people who’s prefer to do it online and at a time of their choosing.”  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two more Plymouth schools to make Safer School Streets permanent

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Two more Plymouth schools will be making their ‘Safer School Streets’ schemes permanent after the summer holiday, following successful 18-month trials.

    The schemes see roads closed to school-run and through traffic during morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up times, improving safety for everyone, making it easier for families to walk, cycle or scoot to school and creating a healthier street environment with cleaner air.

    Stuart Road Primary Academy was the first to run an extended trial of the restrictions before making them permanent last year. It will now be joined by Compton CofE Primary and St Paul’s RC Primary, where the measures have made a significant change to the way families travel to school.

    At Compton, surveys and counts carried out by Sustrans and the Council’s road safety team showed the number of children being driven to school fell by 34 per cent after the scheme was put in place and there was a 60 per cent increase in children using the Pearn Road crossing. St Paul’s reported a “huge drop in parked vehicles in Barne Lane”.

    Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “It’s great to see another two schools making their Safer School Streets schemes permanent. This shows how effective the measures can be in tackling inconsiderate and dangerous parking and making school journeys safer. They also help to reduce congestion and improve air quality around the school gates, as well as encourage active travel.

    “We work hard to encourage families to leave the car at home where possible and promote active travel (including schemes such as walk and stride and walking buses). Making sure local roads and footways are safe and accessible is a huge part of this.

    Every weekday during term time, roads outside each school are closed with temporary barriers during their morning and afternoon school run times.

    • St Paul’s (Barne Lane): 8.15am to 9am and 2.30pm to 3.30pm
    • Compton (Pearn Road and Pearn Gardens): 8.15am to 9.15am and 2.45pm to 3.45pm

    There will be no changes to these timings.

    Families are encouraged to walk, cycle or scoot to school or, if they need to drive to work, to ‘park and stride’ – where they park a five or 10 minute walk from the school and go the rest of the way by foot.

    Access is maintained for local residents and businesses, parents and children with disabilities, the emergency services, deliveries and other service vehicles.

    The measures have been trialled for 18 months under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order. The permanent Traffic Regulation Order has been advertised in the local press and on street and the school community and local residents are being made aware.

    The decision to make the scheme permanent was signed on 25 June and can be viewed on our decisions page.

    For more information visit our Safer School Streets page or the School Streets website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Summertime fun is child’s play with Breeze In The Park

    Source: City of Leeds

    Organised by Leeds City Council, the roadshow-style programme will see a total of 26 low-cost play days taking place in local communities over the next month.

    Each event will be held in a different park or green space and will feature interactive activities such as arts, crafts, sports and games together with Breeze’s much-loved giant inflatables.

    The programme gets under way tomorrow (Wednesday, July 23) at Belle Isle’s Coopers Field and will finish at Wortley Recreation Ground on August 21.

    In between times, events will take place in Armley, Beeston, Bramhope, Bramley, Burmantofts, Cross Gates, Drighlington, East Ardsley, East End Park, Farsley, Garforth, Harehills, Horsforth, Kirkstall, Middleton, Morley, Otley, Potternewton, Pudsey, Rothwell, Seacroft, Tinshill, Woodhouse and Yeadon.

    The visits to Armley, Beeston, Bramhope, Cross Gates, East Ardsley, East End Park, Harehills, Kirkstall, Middleton, Morley, Potternewton and Wortley will include quieter and more relaxed sessions for those with additional needs. Extra staff will be on hand to offer assistance at these sessions, with queuing kept to a minimum and designated parking provided where possible.

    A summertime staple in local parks since 2004, Breeze-themed events have become renowned over the years for their focus on fun, inclusivity and value for money.

    The wider city’s commitment to those same principles means there are no shortage of other free, low-cost or pay-as-you-can entertainment options for children and young people in Leeds during the school holidays.

    And to help families plan their to-do lists, the council’s Child Friendly Leeds team has now produced – with support from partners and stakeholders – a handy guide giving full details of what’s on and when.

    The guide covers everything from magic shows at Leeds City Museum and workshops at Leeds Discovery Centre to film screenings at Hyde Park Picture House and children’s activities at Leeds Kirkgate Market – as well, of course, as Breeze In The Park.

    Also featured is Wonderland Awaits, an immersive city centre trail of Lewis Carroll-themed installations that runs from July 26 to August 31 and will take in landmark locations such as the Corn Exchange, the Royal Armouries and the Victoria Quarter.

    The release of the guide aligns with one of the key goals of the Child Friendly Leeds ’12 Wishes’ action plan, which was developed using views gathered from 80,000 children and young people.

    Wish number seven of the 12 wishes in the plan is focused on the need to ensure that information about events, activities, groups, cultural experiences and days out is communicated and promoted as effectively as possible.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:

    “Breeze In The Park is a much-loved part of summer for children and young people across the city and I’m sure they, like me, will be delighted that it’s back once again.

    “By making the events low-cost, taking them out into so many different communities and running sessions for those with additional needs, we aim to ensure they are as accessible and inclusive as possible.

    “My thanks go to all the organising team for their hard work in making Breeze In The Park a success year in, year out.”

    Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said:

    “Our summer events guide is an excellent illustration of how Child Friendly Leeds is endeavouring to make this the best city in the country to grow up in.

    “The range of activities detailed in the guide is truly impressive and it’s our hope that it contains something for everyone.

    “This has been a really positive and collaborative project, with the support the Child Friendly Leeds team has received from partners and stakeholders being great to see.”

    All of the Breeze In The Park events will have one main session, running from midday to 4pm.

    Additional needs sessions will run from 11am to midday, with those attending them being welcome to stay on for the afternoon activities at no extra charge.

    Tickets for all sessions cost £1 each and must be bought in advance. Purchases can be made here or, for additional needs sessions, here. A full list of event dates and locations can be found on the same web pages.

    Breeze In The Park is funded with the generous support of the council’s network of local community committees.

    Breeze Pass holders get fast-track access to some of the most popular inflatable attractions. Please note, pass holders must still purchase tickets in advance.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Relaunch of Introductory Veterinary Wholesale Qualified Person Training Course 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Relaunch of Introductory Veterinary Wholesale Qualified Person Training Course 

    Online training course 11 – 12 November 2025 introducing the role and responsibilities of the Wholesale Qualified Person (WQP) and the legislative requirements for wholesale distribution. 

    Course content

    Delivered by the VMD’s highly experienced inspectors, the event will feature a blend of lectures, discussion, and practical activities.

    Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain practical support and guidance, engage with practical exercises featuring real-life challenges and scenarios, and network with other delegates and share best practice.

    Who is this course for?

    The event is suited to persons who are seeking to become a WQP, existing WQPs wishing to refresh their understanding, and for businesses looking to become wholesale dealers of veterinary medicines.

    The November event is an incredibly popular training course, and part of a series of training courses specially designed with industry needs in mind. Ali Pitfield, Head of the VMD Training Centre Team, said;

    “Our training events offer a unique opportunity for industry professionals and those in the veterinary sector to engage directly with our experts, and receive immediate answers to their questions. It’s fantastic to hear the training is valued by attendees.”

    Feedback from attendees

    Attendees from our previous WQP course said:

    “Every single session was incredibly useful, as each topic covered was directly relevant to the WQP role. There were no fillers, just clear, in-depth, and practical guidance that will help any WQP navigate their responsibilities with confidence”.

    “The inspectors seemed genuinely committed to supporting the industry in achieving compliance. Many thanks for that!”

    “The VMD is committed to providing accessible and supportive training to industry.”

    Dates of the course

    This a two-part online introductory course:

    Part 1: Tuesday 11 November 2025 from 9:00-13:00

    Part 2: Wednesday 12 November 2025 from 9:00-13:00

    Registration

    If you are interested in attending the event, please visit Eventbrite for further information and to book your place.

    Course cost

    £495 per person with certificate of attendance.

    Enquiries

    If you have any questions, training enquiries or would like to contact the VMD Training Team, please email training@vmd.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Grasping Solana’s bull market target of $6,000, GoldenMining launches cloud staking contracts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, England, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the volatility of the crypto market intensifies, many investors are hesitant about their positions: should they clear their positions or reduce their positions? Or look for a more stable investment method. GoldenMining launches Solana cloud staking contracts to help investors easily realize asset appreciation.

    Solana’s technology and ecology are constantly improving, and the market is generally optimistic about its future growth potential, with a target price of around $6,000. The network activity and total locked value have grown steadily, showing strong momentum.

    Solana uses a staking mechanism to support network security, and coin holders receive rewards through staking. After users purchase GoldenMining contracts, the platform manages the staking on their behalf, and the income is settled daily, without user operation, safe and stable.

    Mining Solana: Popular Contract Recommendations

    contract Investment Amount Contract Rewards Total income
    VOLCMINER D1 Lite $15 $0.6 $15.6
    Elphapex DG1+ $100 $3 $106
    Bitmain S23 Hyd $500 $32.5 $532.5
    AntminerL916GH $1000   $135 $1135
    L917GH $3000  $621 $3621
    ElphaPex DG Hydro1 $5000 $1400 $6400
    Elphapex DG2 – 25-Day  $8000 $2900 $10900
    Elphapex DG2+ – 30-Day $15000 $6750 $21750

    A brief introduction: What is Solana staking contract

    In actual operation, Solana’s staking is different from traditional “mining”. It is to participate in network consensus and obtain rewards by entrusting the SOL held to the verification node. In order to lower the technical threshold, GoldenMining has contracted this process and launched the Solana cloud staking contract. Users do not need to build nodes or configure wallets. After purchasing the contract, the platform will complete the staking on their behalf. The income is distributed daily and the process is transparent

    How to participate in the Solana cloud staking contract

    Visit the GoldenMining official website, complete the registration and activate the account. The system will automatically issue a $15 trial fund. You can try the SOL contract directly without recharging, and experience the income and platform operation first.

    Flexible and convenient multi-currency recharge: The platform supports the recharge and withdrawal of multiple mainstream cryptocurrencies such as Solana (SOL), Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Dogecoin (DOGE), etc., with simple operation and fast arrival, meeting the usage habits and capital needs of different users.

    Choose a contract

    According to the funds and needs, choose a suitable Solana staking contract, you can start the cloud miner, and the platform will automatically convert the funds and stake Solana on your behalf. After the contract is signed, the system will automatically settle the income into the account every day, and the income can be generated within 24 hours without manual operation by the user.

    Daily income

    After the contract is activated, the user will receive stable income every day, without manual operation, and support withdrawal or reinvestment at any time.

    The user’s funds are safely stored in a first-tier bank, and all users’ personal information is protected by SSL encryption. The platform provides insurance for each investment, which is underwritten by AIG Insurance Company to ensure the safety of users’ funds

    Looking forward to the future, win-win cooperation

    With the continuous maturity of blockchain technology and Solana ecology, staking has become an important means of asset appreciation. GoldenMining keeps pace with the development of the industry and is committed to providing investors with safe and convenient staking services. Through professional management and continuous optimization, the platform helps users to obtain stable income and effectively reduce the risks brought by market fluctuations. In the future, GoldenMining will continue to pay attention to market trends, improve the service system, and help investors seize Solana’s growth opportunities and achieve steady wealth improvement.

    For more information, please visit the official website: www.Goldenmining.com
    For business cooperation, please contact the official email: info@Goldenmining.com

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nigel Topping CMG appointed Chair of the Climate Change Committee

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Nigel Topping CMG appointed Chair of the Climate Change Committee

    Nigel Topping CMG has been appointed as Chair of the Climate Change Committee.

    Nigel Topping CMG has been appointed as Chair of the Climate Change Committee (CCC) by the UK and devolved governments today (22 July). 

    This follows the Secretary of State, Ed Miliband, and the Northern Irish, Welsh and Scottish devolved government Ministers selecting Nigel Topping as the preferred candidate for the role, as well as a successful pre-appointment hearing in front of the Energy Security and Net Zero and Environmental Audit Committees on Wednesday 16 July.   

    The Energy Secretary has written to Nigel Topping to confirm his appointment, welcoming him to the role and confirming his confidence in him to lead the Climate Change Committee. He has also written to Professor Piers Forster, to thank him for his leadership as interim Chair of the CCC following Lord Deben’s departure in 2023. 

    The Chair will play a key role in the committee’s work of advising government on the delivery of its carbon budgets, with a critical few years ahead as the government accelerates to net zero as part of its clean energy superpower mission. 

    Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, said: 

    I want to congratulate Nigel Topping on his appointment as Chair of the Climate Change Committee.  

    We highly value the Climate Change Committee’s independent advice on how we can achieve net zero, so I am thrilled to have Nigel in this important role – as he brings extensive experience, including from his time serving as the UN High Level Climate Action Champion for COP26.  

    Net zero is the economic opportunity of the 21st century and Nigel’s business expertise will help us to maximise on this opportunity as we deliver our clean energy superpower mission – boosting energy security, creating good jobs, bringing down bills and tackling the climate crisis.

    Nigel Topping, Chair of the Climate Change Committee, said: 

    It is an honour to be appointed Chair of the Climate Change Committee at this pivotal moment. The UK has an opportunity to deliver on its climate commitments in a way that reduces costs for households, powers our industries forward, and makes our economy more successful. It’s also important to ensure resilience against growing climate impacts and I look forward to working with Baroness Brown who leads our adaptation work.    

    I’d like to offer my sincere thanks to Professor Piers Forster, who has been our interim Chair since Lord Deben stepped down. He has led the Committee through an incredibly busy period overseeing advice on the UK’s Seventh Carbon Budget, three devolved carbon budgets, and a number of key progress reports to government.   

    I am committed to upholding the rigour and independent nature of the Committee’s advice, while harnessing our country’s wealth of scientific, financial and business talent.

    Nigel Topping’s selection follows a competitive recruitment process in line with the Governance Code for Public Appointments. 

    Notes to Editors

    The UK government, Scottish Government, Welsh Government, and Northern Ireland Executive agreed to appoint Nigel Topping. The decision-making Ministers were: 

    • Ed Miliband MP, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero 

    • Andrew Muir MLA, Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs, Northern Ireland Executive 

    • Gillian Martin MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, Scottish Government 

    • Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Deputy First Minister of Wales and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Welsh Government 

    Nigel Topping’s term as Chair will begin on Wednesday 23 July.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1m investment to turn Portsmouth into a nature positive city

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Nearly £1m of extra investment will help reinforce Portsmouth as a nature positive city.

    Portsmouth City Council has been awarded Nature Towns and Cities funding after a successful bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    The £895,818 will be spent on transforming the city’s green infrastructure over three years for the benefit of residents and nature, paving the way for Portsmouth to become an officially recognised Nature City. It will also be used to leverage in external funding for the city.

    Cllr Kimberly Barrett, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City, said:

    “As we approach 2026, Portsmouth’s Centenary Year, this funding will help us understand how we can work with residents and communities to achieve our  bold ambition to make Portsmouth a nature positive city, where the benefits of nature can be enjoyed and support the health and wellbeing of residents.

    “We can only achieve this by working in partnership, and the council is delighted to be working with Southern Water, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Historic England and Shaping Portsmouth. We know facing the environmental challenges of the future requires strong collaboration.”

    Because Portsmouth is a densely populated city, it means its vital green spaces are fragmented by roads and buildings. The funding will help connect these spaces by identifying opportunities for new green infrastructure such as rain gardens and trees, creating corridors for wildlife to travel between.

    The funding will build on recommendations from a developing Urban Forest Master Plan and enable the council to work with residents, landowners and others across the city to develop a resilient treescape with diverse species resistant to a changing climate and pests and disease. This will help in the fight against climate change, by creating shade and cooling because trees release water vapour, and absorb rain water.

    By working with local environmental groups, charities, communities and businesses the council will develop a shared understanding of how to become a well-adapted Portsmouth, resilient to the increasing climate hazards already being faced, whether heatwaves or intense rainfall bringing surface water flooding. Working in key areas of the city will drive investment for green infrastructure into places where it is needed most, therefore addressing inequalities.

    Community groups will be supported through small grants, training and mentoring. Businesses will also be encouraged to participate in the project accessing support and advice.

    The ambitious and transformative project will start in October 2025 when further details will be available.

    Residents are also encouraged to help young trees thrive in the current heatwaves by watering those close to where they live or work.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Young musicians hit the high notes in concert series

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Over 4 nights, 400 members of Wolverhampton Music Service represented 60 city schools and performed 50 individual pieces of music as part of Wolverhampton Summer Sounds, a celebration of musical talent held at the Wulfrun Hall, University of Wolverhampton at The Halls.

    Organised by Wolverhampton Music Service, it included performances by the Youth Choir, Concert String Orchestra, Keyboard Ensemble, Fusion Fives, Big Top SEND Ensemble, Bhangra Fusion Percussion, the Primary and Secondary Rock ‘n’ Pop groups, Guitar Group, Concert Wind Band, New Wind, Early Strings, New Strings, Jazz Big Band, Youth Wind Orchestra and Youth Orchestra.

    Head of Service Ciaran O’Donnell said: “It has been an aspiration to bring all 16 musical groups to the city’s most iconic venue, and I am so proud of everyone who took part and made it happen.

    “Many parents went for coffee or something to eat beforehand; in this way, alongside our educational ambition for our children and young people, the Music Service can also really support the city’s nighttime economy. I hope we can do it again next year.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This concert series was a powerful showcase of the dedication, creativity and spirit of Wolverhampton’s young musicians.

    “Their talent deserved to be heard and celebrated on the big stage and it was great that so many family and friends were able to watch on proudly as their young people took part in these very special performances.”

    The Summer Sounds concert series was made possible thanks to a generous donation of £10,000 donation from the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service.

    Wolverhampton Music Service’s team of 34 hard working staff provide high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra.

    Recent feedback from the Arts Council cited school engagement at 94%, with curriculum support the highest in the West Midlands.

    The Music Service will be recruiting new members in September – to find out more, please visit Wolverhampton Music Service.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds aquatics team success brings home international medals

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds City Council’s aquatic training scheme has brought home six medals from the European Junior Championships that took place earlier this month.

    Five swimmers got selected from Leeds for the championship this year, more than from any other programme and the highest number Leeds has had selected since 2008.

    The team brought home three gold, one silver and two bronze medals.

    As a result of their great performances Daniel Ransom and Gabriel Shepherd have also been selected for the World Aquatics Junior Championships in August, where they will represent Great Britain amongst some of the strongest junior swimmers from across the world. 

    The aquatics scheme at John Charles Centre for Sport has cemented itself as the leading aquatics programme in Great Britain, providing more athletes to Great Britain’s world class programmes and the England national performance and talent programmes than any other aquatics programme.

    Councillor Salma Arif, executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles, and culture, said: “I want to say congratulations to the whole team who competed in the European Junior Championships, what an achievement.

    “We are very proud of our aquatics training scheme and it’s wonderful to see that the hard work of the coaches and the athletes continues to pay off year after year.”

    Jamie Fowler, group coach at Leeds City Council’s swim training scheme, said: “I would like to thank Active Leeds, Leeds City Council and the City of Leeds Swimming Club for the support that is provided for competitive swimming in the city.

    “To have five swimmers at European Junior level is a fantastic achievement and is more than any other programme in Britian. It’s a true testament to how strong our age group and youth development programme is.”

    List of medals:

    Gabriel Shepherd

    • Bronze Men’s 4×100 Freestyle Relay 
    • Silver Mixed 4×100 Freestyle Relay 
    • Gold Men’s 4×100 Medley Relay 

    Hollie Wilson

    • Bronze Women’s 4×200 Freestyle Relay 

    Daniel Ransom

    • Gold Mixed 4×100 Medley Relay 
    • Gold Men’s 4×100 Medley Relay 

    ENDS

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby praised for work to keep children safe outside the school gates

    Source: City of Derby

    Children are enjoying safer journeys to and from school thanks to a pioneering Council scheme, which has now won a nationally recognised award for helping to keep children safe by the school gates.

    School Safe Haven Zones operate outside of schools, using temporary road closures or restrictions to limit the use of cars for school drop-offs and pick-ups. Enforced by ANPR cameras, the zones restrict vehicles during peak hours to improve air quality and safety for students.

    The zones, which have been trialled in multiple locations across the city, have brought tangible benefits to both school children and local residents. Not only are there fewer hazards caused by moving and dangerously parked vehicles, but air quality has improved, and active travel – such as walking and cycling – has increased. Residents living close to the zones have also seen reductions in traffic ‘rat-runs’ and felt that their communities were safer, more pleasant places to be.

    Data collected through the scheme is used to identify high-risk locations, monitor compliance and enhance the technology, making sure that any enforcement is fair and accurate. Data collected in Derby has shown significant reductions of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) concentrations, with reductions of up to 48.8% in some locations.

    The pioneering zones been formally recognised with Derby’s parking and transport teams winning Best Service Team of the Year at this year’s MJ Awards, which recognise and celebrate the vital, but often unseen, work that happens across local government. The first local authority to implement this type of scheme outside of London and Wales, the award highlighted the Derby City Council’s innovative and strategic approach, such as the positive impact on child safety, use of active travel methods and the improvements in air quality around schools across the city.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability said:

    “We’re incredibly proud of the positive impact that our School Safe Havens have brought to Derby, and I’m so pleased that this work has been recognised on a national level.

    “This isn’t just about reducing traffic; it’s about making sure that our children are safe outside the school gates and enabling healthy habits from a young age by promoting active travel and contributing to a healthier generation.

    “By partnering with other local authorities to share our expertise, we’re not just making Derby safer, we’re also helping other councils do the same.”

    Following overwhelming success in trials, the Council has teamed up with councils in Walsall, Coventry and Hull to roll out the project and improve safety elsewhere in the UK. Income of around £500,000 has been generated through this roll-out that is being reinvested into the project and other local services, such as providing cycle training and bicycles for school children as well as supporting other highways projects and the work of the school crossing patrol team.

    More information about School Safe Haven Zones can be found on the Council’s website.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Check your business rates agent’s name

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Check your business rates agent’s name

    Make sure your business rates agent’s name in our system matches your contract.

    If you want to use an agent to manage your business rates, you need to appoint them in our Check and Challenge service. 

    But if the agent’s name in our service does not match the name on your contract, you should be cautious. You should tell us by contacting agentstandards@voa.gov.uk.  

    You can also find out how long an agent has been using their current business name. You can get information about a company for free. 

    Some rogue agents may change their name often. 

    Our  VOA agent standards set out clear expectations for agents regarding:  

    • their behaviour   

    • their professional practice   

    • the service they provide to their customers   

    We take breaches of our agent standards very seriously. We will always take action if we substantiate a breach of the standards.  

    You should be cautious of any agent who:   

    • tries to pressure you to make a decision or sign a contract   

    • says they are acting on behalf of the VOA or forwards emails they claim are from the VOA   

    • demands large sums of money up front   

    • makes claims about ‘unclaimed credits’ or similar   

    Remember – you don’t have to use an agent to manage your business rates.   

    You can challenge your rateable value through our online service. This service is free to use.   

    If you want an agent to manage your business rates, use our checklist to choose an agent. Don’t let an agent choose you.  

    Using an agent who is a member of a professional body may provide extra reassurance as they will be subject to that body’s rules and regulations. The Institute of Revenues, Rating, Valuation, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Rating Surveyors’ Association have published joint standards that their members should follow. 

    We also have guidance on staying safe from scammers.   

    We collect evidence of poor agent behaviour and practices in the course of our work. This evidence allows us to proactively address issues or concerns.   

    If you are concerned about poor behaviour by agents, send any evidence to agentstandards@voa.gov.uk. 

    We cannot advise you on contractual issues you may have with any agent. You should contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service. They have a helpline you can call on 0808 223 1133, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. 

    If you think a business has broken the law or acted unfairly, you can also report them to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice. 

    If you believe you are a victim of fraud, you can make a report to Action Fraud.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham City Council: Lead Commissioner appointment letter (22 July 2025)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Birmingham City Council: Lead Commissioner appointment letter (22 July 2025)

    Appointment letter of Tony McArdle OBE as Lead Commissioner at Birmingham City Council.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Birmingham City Council: Lead Commissioner appointment letter (22 July 2025)

    PDF, 332 KB, 2 pages

    Details

    Copy of the letter confirming Tony McArdle’s appointment as Lead Commissioner at Birmingham City Council, following the retirement of Max Caller CBE.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Increased funding for entrepreneurial education

    Source: Scottish Government

    Up to £1.2 million to engage the next generation in business creation.

    Funding to inspire young people to set up their own business has been increased by more than a third.

    The Entrepreneurial Education Fund 2025-26 will make up to £1.2 million available for courses and projects that will encourage more young people, from a wide range of backgrounds, to choose business ownership as a career path.

    Last year’s Fund supported programmes that embedded entrepreneurial education in Scotland’s classrooms right through school from P1 to S6.

    The scope of this year’s fund has been expanded further to encourage more applications for vocational programmes equivalent to SCQF Levels 7 and 8.

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

    “Fostering and supporting entrepreneurial talent is vital for ensuring a growing, thriving economy and the Scottish Government continues to invest in expanding the pipeline of support available to help this and the next generation of business founders to succeed.

    “Entrepreneurial education helps build the mindset, skills and attitudes needed to succeed. It also, critically, increases participation from an early age, breaking down barriers to people considering entrepreneurship as a career choice.

    “Last year’s Fund was run competitively for the first time, resulting in a diverse set of programmes to inspire young people across all school ages. With increased funding and further expansion to the scheme this year we are putting in place strong foundations to embed an entrepreneurial mindset at a crucial time.”

    Chief Entrepreneur Ana Stewart said:

    “Scotland’s future economy will be built by the bold ideas and creative minds we nurture today. This new round of the Entrepreneurial Education Fund will help to further embed innovation and ambition into entrepreneurial learning and teaching programmes. Importantly, this competitive fund will encourage innovation and impact by offering support to new providers in the field, as well as the more established organisations.

    “By investing in the next generation of potential founders, we are shaping a culture where entrepreneurship is accessible, inclusive, and a natural path for anyone to turn an idea into a business.”

    Daydream Believers received £146,200 from the Scottish Government’s Entrepreneurial Education Fund in 2024-25 to develop the Dreamers and Doers Playlist, a 120-hour learning programme delivered in schools across the country.

    Managing Director of Daydream Believers Helena Good MBE said:

    “Funding from the Scottish Government allowed us to take Creative Thinking to the next level, creating a resource that’s bold, joyful, and built to last. It’s laid the foundations for a lasting legacy, one we’re excited to build on as we grow, collaborate, and continue re-imagining what learning can be.”

    Background

    The Entrepreneurial Education Pathways Fund is open for applications until 20 August 2025. Grants of up to £250,000 are available to public and private sector organisations to deliver courses and projects

    Daydream Believers – Daydream Believers

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Water quality in Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    Letter to Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed.

    Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin has written to Steve Reed calling for a retraction of comments regarding the quality of water in Scotland.

    The full text of the letter: Water quality in Scotland: Letter to Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wednesfield junior parkrun to celebrate 10th anniversary

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Established in 2015 by Liz Lister and Martha Cummings, both of whom worked for the City of Wolverhampton Council and were members of Wolves and Bilston Athletics Club, it welcomes scores of children and young people to Wednesfield’s King George V Playing Fields every Sunday morning.

    The Wednesfield junior parkrun gives 4 to 14 year olds the chance to run, jog or walk around a 2km circuit, with parents invited to join in if they wish.

    It takes place thanks to the efforts of volunteers who set up, manage and marshal the route, supporting the participants around the course until everyone has finished.

    Martha said: “We cannot quite believe it has been 10 years since turning an idea and a love of sports into an activity enjoyed and supported by so many – co-director Rob Carrington, our volunteers, families and local community, councillors in Wednesfield North and South and the council have all played a key role in making this happen.

    “The event is solely managed and run entirely by our amazing volunteers who come out in all weathers to make sure the event goes ahead safely and we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helps make this wonderful event happen, week in, week out.”

    The council has played a pivotal role in enabling the event’s continued success, providing start up funding and access to facilities including the park grounds, car park and changing rooms.

    The Mayor’s Office has provided donations for water bottles, gloves and hats, and local councillors have backed the event with donations through their ward funds. Additionally, numerous staff and councillors have contributed their time as volunteers over the last decade.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “The Wednesfield junior parkrun is a fantastic way for children and young people to get exercise, enjoy some fresh air and make new friends.

    “It is well loved by children and parents alike and it’s wonderful that it will shortly be celebrating this very significant milestone.”

    The 10th birthday celebration will take place on Sunday 10 August, and all are welcome. To mark the occasion, every participant will receive a commemorative medal, goodie bag and treats. Please meet by the changing rooms by 9am.

    For more information, please visit Facebook or Wednesfield junior parkrun.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency rescue endangered crayfish from drought

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Environment Agency rescue endangered crayfish from drought

    A member of the public reported crayfish in distress as a riverbed dried out. The Environment Agency rescued 32 adults, including 21 females carrying eggs.

    Environment Agency

    The Environment Agency’s fisheries team has carried out an emergency rescue of a previously unknown population of critically endangered native white clawed crayfish at Burley in Wharfedale.

    It followed a report from a member of the public about crayfish in distress in the watercourse, which was very low due to ongoing drought conditions in Yorkshire.

    The team arrived to find some shallow pools with stretches dry riverbed in between them. Unfortunately, several crayfish had already died, but the team successfully rescued 32 adults, including 21 females carrying eggs (knows as ‘berried’ females).

    White-clawed crayfish are the UK’s only native, freshwater crayfish. They play a vital role in keeping our waterways clean and as a source of food for other native species.

    Environment Agency

    Critically Endangered

    The species used to be common across Yorkshire but are now critically endangered, largely due to being out competed by the larger, more aggressive American signal crayfish.

    The crayfish have been moved to the Environment Agency’s licensed quarantine facility hosted by York Gate Gardens near Leeds, until they pass a health check and can be returned to further support native crayfish conservation work in Yorkshire.

    Claire Barrow, the Environment Agency’s drought lead in Yorkshire, said:

    The finding of a previously unknown population of the endangered white clawed crayfish is great news, despite the challenging drought conditions.

    The Wharfe catchment unfortunately has long established and extensive populations of the invasive signal crayfish, which puts the native species at risk by out competing them and spreading disease.

    This year saw the driest spring since 1893, and Yorkshire is currently in drought. Periods of dry weather and low rivers can have serious consequences for the environment and wildlife and we’d urge people to report fish and wildlife in distress so we can take action.

    The Environment Agency’s Incident Hotline can be contacted on 0800 807060.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pharaoh’s fungus yields cancer-fighting compounds

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    The sarcophagus inside the tomb of King Tutankhamun

    By Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University

    In November 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter peered through a small hole into the sealed tomb of King Tutankhamun. When asked if he could see anything, he replied: “Yes, wonderful things.” Within months, however, Carter’s financial backer Lord Carnarvon was dead from a mysterious illness. Over the following years, several other members of the excavation team would meet similar fates, fuelling legends of the “pharaoh’s curse” that have captivated the public imagination for just over a century.

    For decades, these mysterious deaths were attributed to supernatural forces. But modern science has revealed a more likely culprit: a toxic fungus known as Aspergillus flavus. Now, in an unexpected twist, this same deadly organism is being transformed into a powerful new weapon in the fight against cancer.

    Aspergillus flavus is a common mould found in soil, decaying vegetation and stored grains. It is infamous for its ability to survive in harsh environments, including the sealed chambers of ancient tombs, where it can lie dormant for thousands of years.

    When disturbed, the fungus releases spores that can cause severe respiratory infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. This may explain the so-called “curse” of King Tutankhamun and similar incidents, such as the deaths of several scientists who entered the tomb of Casimir IV in Poland in the 1970s. In both cases, investigations later found that A flavus was present, and its toxins were probably responsible for the illnesses and deaths.

    Despite its deadly reputation, Aspergillus flavus is now at the centre of a remarkable scientific finding. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that this fungus produces a unique class of molecules with the potential to fight cancer.

    These molecules belong to a group called ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides, or RiPPs. RiPPs are made by the ribosome – the cell’s protein factory – and are later chemically altered to enhance their function.

    While thousands of RiPPs have been identified in bacteria, only a handful have been found in fungi – until now.

    The process of finding these fungal RiPPs was far from simple. The research team screened a dozen different strains or types of aspergillus, searching for chemical clues that might indicate the presence of these promising molecules. Aspergillus flavus quickly stood out as a prime candidate.

    The researchers compared the chemicals from different fungal strains to known RiPP compounds and found promising matches. To confirm their discovery, they switched off the relevant genes and, sure enough, the target chemicals vanished, proving they had found the source.

    Purifying these chemicals proved to be a significant challenge. However, this complexity is also what gives fungal RiPPs their remarkable biological activity.

    The team eventually succeeded in isolating four different RiPPs from Aspergillus flavus. These molecules shared a unique structure of interlocking rings, a feature that had never been described before. The researchers named these new compounds “asperigimycins”, after the fungus in which they were found.

    The next step was to test these asperigimycins against human cancer cells. In some cases, they stopped the growth of cancer cells, suggesting that asperigimycins could one day become a new treatment for certain types of cancer.

    The team also worked out how these chemicals get inside cancer cells. This discovery is significant because many chemicals, like asperigimycins, have medicinal properties but struggle to enter cells in large enough quantities to be useful. Knowing that particular fats (lipids) can enhance this process gives scientists a new tool for drug development.

    Further experiments revealed that asperigimycins probably disrupt the process of cell division in cancer cells. Cancer cells divide uncontrollably, and these compounds appear to block the formation of microtubules, the scaffolding inside cells that are essential for cell division.

    Tremendous untapped potential

    This disruption is specific to certain types of cells, so this may in turn reduce the risk of side-effects. But the discovery of asperigimycins is just the beginning. The researchers also identified similar clusters of genes in other fungi, suggesting that many more fungal RiPPs remain to be discovered.

    Almost all the fungal RiPPs found so far have strong biological activity, making this an area with tremendous untapped potential. The next step is to test asperigimycins in other systems and models, with the hope of eventually moving to human clinical trials. If successful, these molecules could join the ranks of other fungal-derived medicines, such as penicillin, which revolutionised modern medicine.

    The story of Aspergillus flavus is a powerful example of how nature can be both a source of danger and a wellspring of healing. For centuries, this fungus was feared as a silent killer lurking in ancient tombs, responsible for mysterious deaths and the legend of the pharaoh’s curse. Today, scientists are turning that fear into hope, harnessing the same deadly spores to create life-saving medicines.

    This transformation, from curse to cure, highlights the importance of continued exploration and innovation in the natural world. Nature has in fact provided us with an incredible pharmacy, filled with compounds that can heal as well as harm. It is up to scientists and engineers to uncover these secrets, using the latest technologies to identify, modify and test new molecules for their potential to treat disease.

    The discovery of asperigimycins is a reminder that even the most unlikely sources – such as a toxic tomb fungus – can hold the key to revolutionary new treatments. As researchers continue to explore the hidden world of fungi, who knows what other medical breakthroughs may lie just beneath the surface?

    Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scheme helping SMEs grow has just got bigger

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    A fully-funded programme for managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the East of England is expanding to help more businesses to grow.

    The 12-week Help to Grow: Management programme is designed to connect ambitious SME leaders with leading academics and experienced business professionals.

    Through interactive workshops, peer networking opportunities, and dedicated one-on-one mentoring, participants gain practical tools aimed at boosting operational efficiency and elevating business performance.

    The course focuses on crucial business areas, including leadership and strategy; marketing and international markets; financial management; and employee engagement.

    The programme also integrates participants into a network of over 140 successful alumni who continue to benefit from ongoing connections and shared experiences.

    The course is 90% Government-funded and is delivered by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Cambridge and Chelmsford. ARU is now offering a fully-funded bursary to cover the remaining 10% of costs for eligible businesses, making the course available free to participants upon successful completion.

    “The Help to Grow programme is instrumental in equipping business owners with the essential knowledge and skills needed for sustainable growth and innovation. We are delighted to expand its reach, further strengthening our commitment to supporting the regional business community and fostering a vibrant alumni network.”

    Fiona McGonigle, Programme Manager and Business Engagement and Innovation Lead at ARU

    “This unique programme helps share cutting-edge business models and novel research findings from academia directly to business executives. Our goal is to improve their enterprise innovation, profitability, and overall growth strategies.”

    Dr Frank Nyame-Asiamah, Director of the Help to Grow: Management programme at ARU

    The next course begins in Cambridge on 19 September 2025, with an additional cohort starting in Chelmsford on 9 January 2026.

    For more information, contact [email protected]

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