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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New energy upgrades for public buildings to save taxpayers money

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New energy upgrades for public buildings to save taxpayers money

    Schools, community centres and care homes receive new awards to upgrade their buildings and save money off bills in the long term.

    • Local community buildings will benefit from cheaper energy bills in the years to come, thanks to funding allocated by the government
    • schools, community centres and care homes will benefit from upgrades, contributing to an estimated £650 million in savings for taxpayers per year on average to 2037

    Pupils at schools, residents at care homes, and users of community centres will all be given a boost today, as the government allocates funding to help cut energy bills for public buildings in the years to come. 

    The social institutions that allow local communities to thrive, such as schools, hospitals, and care homes, will be given extra help to make energy saving upgrades and tackle costs, allowing more money to be spent on the services that people care about. 

    More than £630 million has been awarded for measures including heat pumps, solar panels, insulation and double glazing, helping to make Britain energy secure as part of the Plan for Change while contributing to an estimated £650 million in savings for taxpayers per year on average over the next 12 years.

    The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has been awarded over £30 million to install heat pumps at Queens Park Leisure Centre, Birkenhead Central Library and Chase Heys Home for the Elderly, while the Northumbria NHS Foundation Trust will receive more than £14 million to replace fossil fuel heating at two sites, helping power these pillars of the local community with cleaner, homegrown energy. 

    The Royal Air Force Museum Midlands will benefit from £1 million to install heat pumps and solar panels at one of its aircraft hangars, and Worcester City Council will receive £90,000 to upgrade the King George V Community Centre, which is used for employability training and youth activities, with new heat pumps, solar panels and double glazing. 

    The University of York has been awarded £35 million to capture energy from beneath the Earth’s surface to help deliver low-carbon heat to buildings on campus, while the National Portrait Gallery has been awarded over £5 million to switch to heat pumps in its main public gallery and Orange Street building, which houses the historic archives of the library.

    Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said:  

    Today we are providing even more support for Britain’s buildings – from schools to museums and galleries – helping to rebuild vital public services as part of the Plan for Change. 

    This investment will see local communities benefit from our sprint to clean power, with warm public buildings, run more affordably.

    An extra £102 million from the Green Heat Network Fund will help to develop new and existing heat networks in England, including the Hemiko South Westminster Area Network (SWAN), which could help to decarbonise iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament using waste heat from the River Thames.  

    This follows Great British Energy’s first major project to put solar panels on around 200 schools and 200 NHS sites, helping them to reinvest savings on their energy bills in teaching and healthcare.  

    Vice-Chancellor Professor at the University of York Charlie Jeffery said: 

    Our geothermal project will be a powerful catalyst in our journey towards net zero, offering a significant reduction in carbon emissions and a greener future. 

    Beyond its crucial environmental impact, the site will serve as a living laboratory that will drive research, educate our students and bring benefits beyond our campus. 

    The support from the government is a vital catalyst for this transformative endeavour, which we believe will empower the next generation of sustainability leaders and deepen community understanding of renewable energy technologies.

    Policy Manager at Energy UK Louise Shooter said: 

    High energy bills have been a big headache for schools, hospitals, leisure centres and other community facilities in recent years – so it’s great to see them being helped to install energy saving measures and other green technology that will cut energy costs permanently while also enabling them to do their bit to reduce emissions. Energy UK’s members have been helping schools and hospitals across the country do the same and save money which means more funding for the essential services they provide. It’s a very tangible example of the benefits that come from investing in the switch to cleaner energy.

    Head of External Affairs at ADE: Heat Networks Pablo John said: 

    Today’s investment in heat networks like the University of York’s geothermal project is a blueprint for Britain’s clean heat revolution. These networks capture every kilowatt of renewable energy and waste heat we produce, turning it into affordable warmth for consumers. York’s 78% cut in fossil fuels proves that when we back heat networks now – even outside of zones – we secure energy independence for good. Let’s build on this momentum by supporting heat network innovation everywhere and stop wasting the heat under our feet.

    Director of Content and Programmes at the RAF Museum Karen Whitting said:  

    Warm thanks to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for their investment through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. This will enable us to introduce new, low/no-carbon technologies to a historic 1938 Type-C aircraft hangar as part of our Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme. The re-developed hangar will be used as a Learning Centre and exhibition gallery which will welcome and inspire around 500,000 visitors a year, sharing the nationally important Royal Air Force story. The project will make a major contribution to the RAF Museum’s Strategy including our commitment to achieving Carbon Net Zero.

    Notes to editors

    Decarbonising the public sector with low carbon heating and energy efficiency measures will save the public sector an estimated £650 million per year on average to 2037. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is contributing towards delivering these savings for public sector organisations. 

    Applications for Phase 4 of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme opened in October 2024. Funding for this phase is worth approximately £940 million and will run until financial year 2027/2028. Some remaining funding awards will be issued in the coming weeks. 

    As of May 2025, the regional breakdown for Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme Phase 4 funding is as follows:  

    • North East: £65,191,456 
    • Yorkshire and the Humber: £81,262,778 
    • North West: £116,815,617 
    • East Midlands: £73,405,602 
    • West Midlands: £84,306,700 
    • East of England: £29,149,553 
    • South East: £35,720,404 
    • South West: £30,002,246 
    • Greater London: £113,914,685 
    • Wales: £2,500,000 
    • Across Regions: £1,325,000 

    The Green Heat Network Fund supports new and existing heat networks in England to adopt low carbon technologies such as heat pumps, recovered heat, geothermal and energy from waste. A total of over £484 million in awards to 40 projects has been made public since the launch of the scheme in 2022.  

    The projects included in this announcement, which have been awarded a total of over £102 million in grant funding are:  

    • Derby Energy Network (Derby Energy Ltd): £23,240,000  
    • Bristol City Centre (Bristol Heat Networks/Vattenfall): £21,300,000 
    • SWAN (Hemiko): £21,000,000  
    • Lincoln (Hemiko): £15,508,000  
    • East London Energy (Bring Energy): £8,813,120 
    • Trafford Civic Quarter Heat Networks (Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council): £5,750,000   
    • West Bromwich Heat Network (Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council): £4,939,421  
    • Mersey Biochar Heat Network (Severn Wye Energy Agency Ltd): £1,728,890

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TRA recommendation for new duties on Chinese excavators accepted

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    TRA recommendation for new duties on Chinese excavators accepted

    The Government has accepted the TRA’s recommendation to impose new anti-dumping and countervailing measures on imports of excavators from China to the UK.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade has accepted the TRA’s recommendation to impose new anti-dumping and countervailing measures on imports of excavators from China to the UK.

    The anti-dumping duties range from 18.81% for a sampled exporter to 40.08% for the residual rate; while the countervailing duties range from 0% to 2.98%. The TRA has estimated that the measures could benefit UK excavator producers by up to £26 million per year.

    The measures will be imposed on imports of excavators from China weighing 11 tonnes or more, but less than 80 tonnes as the TRA found that there is no UK industry for the production of excavators weighing 80 tonnes or above. The TRA has therefore determined that the UK industry would not be injured by these products.

    The TRA opened its investigation in November 2023 in response to an application from JCB, a Staffordshire-based multinational business. It found that Chinese exporters were able to use reduced production costs to price their exports below UK competitors who did not benefit from an artificially low-cost base.

    In February, Caterpillar (Xuzhou) Ltd. (CXL) launched a judicial review against the TRA and the Department of Business and Trade’s decision to impose provisional anti-dumping measures on imports of Chinese excavators.

    The judgment in the judicial review was handed down on 9 May, with the claims against both the TRA and Secretary of State for Business and Trade ruled as unarguable. The judge in the case concluded that the TRA, in its decisions surrounding the provisional anti-dumping measures, had acted lawfully, rationally and in a procedurally fair manner. The judgement did not affect the decision to apply definitive anti-dumping or countervailing measures.

    Background information:

    • The periods of investigation for both the anti-dumping and countervailing cases were 1 July 2022 – 30 June 2023.
    • The TRA is the UK body that investigates whether trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair trading practices and unforeseen surges of imports.
    • Anti-dumping duties allow a country or union to act against goods which are being sold at less than their normal value – this is defined as the price for ‘like goods’ sold in the exporter’s home market.
    • Countervailing duties are designed to counteract government subsidies that cause material injury to domestic industries.
    • The judgement in the judicial review can be read in full here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight Council set to build new homes for veterans 15 May 2025 Isle of Wight Council set to build new homes for veterans

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight Council is set to build its own housing for the first time in many years, thanks to a £500,000 grant from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.

    The funding, awarded under the trust’s Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund, will increase the availability of affordable or social rented housing for veterans in the Island’s county town.

    The grant will be used to construct four one-bedroom flats on New Street, a site already under council ownership.

    This location is strategically located on a residential street with convenient access to local amenities, bus routes, and the bus station.

    The land has been prepared for development under the Brownfield Land Release Fund, and positive discussions have been held with planners regarding consent for homes, in advance of a planning application being submitted.

    The initiative represents a pivotal effort to alleviate the housing challenges faced by veterans on the Isle of Wight.

    With a notable increase in housing applications from veterans between 2022 and 2024, the necessity for dedicated housing solutions has become increasingly apparent.

    This project will offer long-term secure tenancies at affordable rents, providing veterans with a stable and dignified living environment.

    Monthly Veterans’ Outreach Support meetings and regular social drop-ins, which already take place on the Island, will further enhance community integration, fostering a sense of camaraderie among residents.

    Councillor Ian Stephens, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for housing, said: “This project transcends mere construction; it is about forging futures.

    “By providing secure, affordable housing, veterans will gain the stability necessary to thrive, reconnect, and feel valued within their community.

    “The project underscores the council’s dedication to supporting those who have served, offering them the dignity and respect they rightfully deserve.”

    Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, the local ward member, added: “This site is being put to great use by helping house our veterans.

    “Tucked away in the centre of the county town, they will be welcomed into our central Newport community and have easy access to all the fabulous local amenities we have. Definitely a project to celebrate, this is a brilliant example of partnership working.”

    The council is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, which pledges to support all those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Were you at the Brighter Beginnings fun day event at Eden Court?

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Image of Child Protection Committee logo

    We need your feedback.

    Highland Council is seeking feedback from the hundreds of families who attended a highly successful fun day at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness on Monday 3 March 2025.

    Parents and carers who attended the Brighter Beginnings Family Fun Day are invited to answer 6 short and simple questions in an online form at: https://forms.office.com/e/wx9APAHaFR.

    Cllr David Fraser, Chair of Highland Council’s Health Social Care and Wellbeing Committee explains: “Following a very high turnout of families at the Early Year Fun Day event, the Integrated Children’s Service Planning Board would like to build on this success by welcoming children under 12 to Eden Court on the of 11th August this year as part of Vision 26.

    “To help shape the format of this year’s Vision 26, we need to hear what families thought of the Brighter Beginnings Event and what they would like to see in future events.”

    If you attended the Brighter Beginnings Family Fun Day at Eden Court on 3rd March 2025 and you were one of the many families who turned out to take part in the free activities including messy play, scavenger hunt, outdoor play and puppet shows; or you enjoyed the police car and play bus, we want to hear from you what that experience was like.

    The Council would like to hear your viewpoint by completing the online form at: https://forms.office.com/e/wx9APAHaFR. All Feedback will be anonymous and will help planning for future events based on the responses.

    15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Covid fraud investigations to be led by Insolvency Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Covid fraud investigations to be led by Insolvency Service

    Insolvency Service to take over NATIS’s ongoing covid fraud investigations

    DBT – COVID FRAUD INVESTIGATIONS TO BE LED BY INSOLVENCY SERVICE

    • Insolvency Service to take over NATIS’s ongoing covid fraud investigations
    • Decision comes after review of previous government contracts proved taxpayers’ money was not being spent efficiently
    • Government focussed on reducing waste in the public sector and recovering public money lost through pandemic-related fraud

    The Insolvency Service will take over NATIS’s viable investigation cases of Covid-19 financial support fraud in a bid to recoup taxpayers’ money lost to fraudsters.

    Following a review of National Investigation Service (NATIS) performance to ensure the state works for people – it showed that public money was not being spent effectively – which is why all ongoing viable cases will be transferred from the organisation to the Insolvency Service over the coming months.

    This is the latest move as part of the government’s Plan for Change to reduce waste in the public sector and reform institutions so they protect taxpayers money, and make the public sector more efficient and effective.

    The decision to appoint NATIS – an agency based in Thurrock Council – was taken under the previous government and has cost the taxpayer approximately £38.5 million. Despite this, NATIS has only secured 14 convictions with the overall amount recovered by NATIS remaining unclear.

    Within months of coming to power, this Government kicked off a review into their performance, to ensure public money is spent properly and not wasted. This investigation has revealed problems with NATIS governance and how recoveries are reported. As a result the government has asked The Government Internal Audit Agency (GIAA) to conduct an additional audit of NATIS to determine and report accurate recovery figures.

    Following this review, the department has taken decisive action to transfer cases to the Insolvency Service – who have a proven track record of effectively tackling fraud – giving taxpayers’ money the best possible value.

    Whilst over £46bn has been issued by lenders to support businesses, there have been over 100,000 cases of loss to fraud and error. This measure will ensure the continuation of ongoing investigations and expedite the recovery of millions estimated to be lost due to covid-era fraud.

    Business and Trade Minister Gareth Thomas said:

    Since coming to office, we have been clear that this government will protect taxpayers’ cash and remove unnecessary waste and inefficiency within the public sector.

    Today’s decision to transfer cases to the Insolvency Service will ensure lost funds from covid-era fraud are recovered more quickly and effectively, so they can be reinvested back into the economy and our public services, as part of our Plan for Change.

    The Insolvency Service will be taking responsibility for NATIS casework, helping to conclude investigations to continue the important work to claw back money for the public. 

    The Insolvency Service has a proven track record tackling fraud and misconduct connected to covid support schemes since 2020 using its powers to investigate trading companies, prosecute criminal offences, disqualify directors and impose bankruptcy restrictions. 

    By the end of March 2025, they had secured more than 2,000 director disqualifications as well as 62 criminal convictions, helping to secure more than £6 million in compensation related to COVID-19 financial support scheme abuse.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency starts sampling Devon and Cornwall’s beaches

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Environment Agency starts sampling Devon and Cornwall’s beaches

    Environment Agency sampling of Devon and Cornwall’s 155 monitored beaches has started and will run through until the end of September. 

    An Environment Agency officer with a fresh sample taken, ready to be sent to the lab for testing

    A beach or river on England’s list of designated bathing waters means water quality is routinely tested. Water samples will be taken at consistent points at these locations and sent to the lab for testing. Scientists will look for elevated levels of E. Coli and intestinal enterococci – bad bacteria found in sewage and other waste.  

    The results of these samples will inform a dedicated group of scientists and officers who are on standby 24/7 to respond to any reports of problems found at beaches and other bathing waters. The results will also be catalogued on the Swimfo website which also contains a lot more information about each bathing water – its history, a description of the surrounding area as well as several years of results.  

    The results, taken over four years, give the Environment Agency great confidence when deciding upon what classification a beach will be given later in the year. Any classification from ‘Sufficient’ and above means the water quality is safe to swim in. Out of 155 monitored bathing waters, there are only 2 beaches in Devon and Cornwall – Coastguards Beach on the Erme Estuary and Porthluney – with results tipping them into the ‘Poor’ classification. This doesn’t mean they are dirty. A ‘Poor’ classification means that very high standards are not consistently met, and the Environment Agency is actively investigating why.  

    Bruce Newport of the Environment Agency said:

    Over a third of England’s bathing waters can be found in Devon and Cornwall and over 98 per cent of them meet the very high levels of water quality expected for safe swimming. 

    We also publish a daily water quality forecast on many of our beaches which can be found on our Swimfo website. This service is a great asset, especially after heavy rainfall which can temporarily cause a dip in water quality.

    Throughout the season, which runs from 15 May until the end of September, the Environment Agency will be taking more than 7000 samples at 451 designated bathing waters across England.    

    Today also marks the re-opening of applications for new bathing waters which have been closed since October 2023. Since then, the government has announced significant reforms to the Bathing Water Regulations to better reflect public use of iconic swimming spots. Successful sites will be announced next year.  

    Background

    • Bathing waters are officially designated outdoor swimming sites. England has 451 designated bathing waters, which are monitored and classified by the Environment Agency.   

    • Applicants are encouraged to use the bathing water season to gather evidence for their applications. Prospective sites will be assessed for their suitability as a designated bathing water. Applications for the 2026 season will close on 31 October 2025.   

    • The Environment Agency has driven £2.5 billion of investment and facilitated partnerships to dramatically improve our bathing waters.   

    • Last year, nearly 92% of bathing waters in England met the minimum water quality standards. More information on 2024 bathing water classifications is available here.  

    • The UK Health Security Agency and Environment Agency also offer advice in their ‘swim healthy’ guidance, which is available to read before making any decision on swimming.  

    • Bathing waters are stretches of water throughout England which we monitor for two types of bacteria: E.coli and intestinal enterococci. We monitor for these two bacteria because they indicate that there are germs in the water which can make you ill.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Certainty for businesses and choice for consumers as UK maintains IP rights regime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Certainty for businesses and choice for consumers as UK maintains IP rights regime

    Government confirms UK+ exhaustion of rights regime.

    The main developments are that:

    • no legislative changes means businesses can continue operating under the existing exhaustion of intellectual property rights regime without any new requirements

    • the UK+ regime protects creators and innovators, while ensuring fair competition in the marketplace and greater choice for British consumers – growing the economy and supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    UK businesses will avoid additional red tape and consumers will continue to benefit from a choice of goods from across Europe, as the government confirms it will maintain the UK’s current exhaustion of intellectual property (IP) rights regime, known as “UK+”.

    Today’s news – a result of extensive consultation with stakeholders – means the UK can keep buying genuine goods from across the European Economic Area (EEA) and resell them in the UK without any extra permissions.

    A balanced, innovation-friendly IP framework will support the government’s delivery of its Plan for Change. It will encourage stable and competitive markets, and ensure consumers can continue to benefit from a wide range of products and goods.

    Our exhaustion regime governs our parallel importation laws, which regulates the importing of genuine goods that are lawfully sold in other countries before coming into the UK for resale. Parallel importation occurs in many sectors, from medicines to automotive parts to fast-moving consumer goods – all vital areas of growth for the UK economy.

    In general terms, today’s decision means that once a product protected by an IP right (for example, biscuits, books or toiletries) has been legitimately sold in either the UK or European Economic Area (EEA), the IP owner may not subsequently prevent it from being re-sold in the UK.  This means that businesses can buy genuine goods from EEA suppliers and sell them in the UK without needing permission from the IP owner, giving consumers continued, ready access to these products.

    The decision clarifies the law in this area, providing certainty and stability for UK businesses that undertake parallel trade in these markets, while ensuring competition in the marketplace and fair access to IP-protected goods. By providing long-term certainty to everyone who interacts with our world-leading IP framework, the UK+ regime incentivises innovation, creativity, and helps unlock economic growth.

    Minister for AI and Digital Government, Feryal Clark, said:

    This is an important step in maintaining the strength of our world-leading intellectual property framework.​ The decision we’ve taken not only gives businesses the certainty they’ve been calling for, but ensures consumers have choice and fair access to a wide range of goods.​

    This is our Plan for Change in action – driving long-term growth through a fairer, more innovative economy for all.

    Dan Guthrie, Director General of the Alliance for Intellectual Property, said:

    We wholeheartedly welcome today’s announcement from the government in relation to the UK’s exhaustion regime. The decision provides the stability needed to ensure IP-rich businesses can continue to invest, grow their exports, provide the public with the products and content they love and contribute to UK economic growth. The decision will be welcomed by creators, designers, and businesses in every region of the UK.

    The government has published its full response to the consultation today, detailing the extensive analysis and stakeholder engagement that informed this decision. A majority of consultation respondents reported the UK+ regime is working well, whereas there was not robust quantitative evidence to support changing to any of the alternative options.

    The decision to maintain the current UK+ regime is effective immediately. It confirms the current law, and no further legislation is required for it to come into force.

    Additional information

    1. The UK’s exhaustion regime affects various intellectual property rights including patents, trade marks, designs and copyright.

    2. The UK+ (plus) regime is a well-understood exhaustion regime that offers stability for Britain’s IP-rich businesses to continue operating their business practices. This is demonstrated by submissions to the consultation, which showed significant support for the UK+ regime.

    3. There has been little change to the UK+ regime since the consultation was launched. A statutory instrument in 2023 (‘The Intellectual Property (Exhaustion of Rights) (Amendment) Regulations 2023’) ensured the continued operation of the UK+ exhaustion regime without making substantive policy changes. This meant that businesses, investors, and IP rights holders could continue to operate on the basis of the UK’s current parallel importation rules.

    4. the full Government response to the consultation on the UK’s future exhaustion of intellectual property rights regime.

    5. The Intellectual Property Office has produced a video explaining exhaustion of rights and parallel trade, aimed at businesses who trade in parallel goods across borders:

    Exhaustion of IP rights and parallel trade – explained – YouTube

    (This video was first published at the consultation’s launch in 2021).

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insolvency Service to take on the work of the National Investigation Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Insolvency Service to take on the work of the National Investigation Service

    Move will see transfer of casework relating to COVID-19 loan fraud

    Today the Department for Business and Trade has announced its intention to conclude its contract with the National Investigation Service (NATIS) and transfer existing casework, relating to COVID-19 Bounce Back Loan fraud, to the Insolvency Service.

    In response, Alec Pybus, Interim Chief Executive of the Insolvency Service said:  

    We welcome this decision by the Department of Business and Trade.  

    The Insolvency Service is well placed to take on these investigations as part of our ongoing and successful work tackling fraudulent use of COVID-19 loans. 

    We are working with our colleagues at the Department of Business and Trade and at Thurrock Council to deliver a smooth and swift transition of ongoing cases, and any potential transfer of staff.

    To date, the Insolvency Service has obtained disqualifications against 2,167 directors, bankruptcy restrictions against 343 individuals and successfully prosecuted 54 individuals in respect of COVID-19 financial support scheme misconduct.  

    The Agency has also helped to secure more than £6 million in compensation related to COVID-19 financial support scheme abuse. 

    The Agency already has plans to deliver further enforcement outcomes and financial recoveries in 2025/26, and will now work at pace to take on viable casework from NATIS in support of the UK Government’s drive to hold to account those who fraudulently claimed support during the pandemic.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New 2,000 km “deep precision strike” weapon to be developed by UK and Germany as Trinity House Agreement delivers first major milestones

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New 2,000 km “deep precision strike” weapon to be developed by UK and Germany as Trinity House Agreement delivers first major milestones

    The UK and Germany will confirm for the first time that they will work together to develop a new long-range strike capability with a range of over 2,000 km

    The United Kingdom and Germany will today (Thursday 15th May) confirm for the first time that they will work together to develop a new long-range strike capability with a range of over 2,000 km, as both countries step up on European security and drive economic growth at home.

    This comes following the signing of the landmark Trinity House Agreement on Defence Co-operation in October in London – the first-of-its-kind bilateral defence agreement between the UK and Germany.

    German Federal Minister of Defence, Boris Pistorius, will host his counterpart Defence Secretary John Healey MP in the first Trinity House Defence Ministerial Council today in Berlin, where they will discuss how the agreement is already delivering real benefits, from deterring threats on NATO’s eastern flank, to creating skilled jobs and driving investment at home.

    The new 2,000 km precision deep strike capability will be among the most advanced systems ever designed by the UK, to safeguard the British public and reinforce NATO deterrence, while boosting the UK and European defence sectors.

    Discussions will focus on a joint procurement programme for Sting Ray torpedoes for P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, enhancing the UK and Germany’s ability to counter the latest underwater threats, boosting national security for both nations.

    A new commitment will also see Germany procure advanced British military bridges, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change by supporting jobs in the North-west.

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:

    The UK and Germany have never been closer, and the Trinity House Agreement is already making a positive impact on our security and economy. This partnership is helping us make defence an engine for growth – creating jobs, boosting skills, and driving investment across the UK and Germany.

    In a more dangerous world, NATO and European allies stand united. Together with Germany, we’re leading the way in supporting Ukraine, defending NATO’s eastern flank, and jointly investing in next-generation capabilities.

    It follows the Prime Minister’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, recognising the critical importance of military readiness in an era of heightened global uncertainty.  

    Since the Trinity House Agreement was signed in October, German crews have joined RAF personnel in two flights on UK P-8 Poseidon aircraft. The UK’s Poseidon fleet play a crucial role tracking Russian vessels near UK waters.

    The Defence Ministers will meet again tomorrow (Friday 16th May) alongside their Polish, Italian and French counterparts in a meeting of the European Group of Five (E5) Defence ministers in Rome.

    The UK and Germany will meet again in June alongside more than 50 nations and partners, when they jointly host the next meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Since the UK took the chair, nearly £23bn has been pledged in military support for Ukraine. 

    The Trinity House Agreement is delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change by stepping up national security whilst strengthening our industrial base and boosting skilled jobs at home.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK welcomes talks in Istanbul and calls on Kremlin to end the bloodshed: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UK welcomes talks in Istanbul and calls on Kremlin to end the bloodshed: UK statement to the OSCE

    Ambassador Holland welcomes talks in Istanbul and urges Russia to end the bloodshed in Ukraine and show it is serious about peace or face further sanctions.

    Thank you, Mr Chair. 

    Ukraine has agreed, in-principle, to a full and unconditional ceasefire. Because only when missiles and drones stop, and the deaths of innocent civilians end, can discussions towards a just and lasting peace begin.

    Last weekend the UK, the US and our European partners reiterated our call on Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire now, as Ukraine has done, and create the space for talks.

    Rather than seize this opportunity, Russia continues to stall. Instead of an unconditional ceasefire, they have again moved the goal posts, calling for talks to resolve the conflict’s so-called ‘root causes’. This is code for maximalist demands which would deny Ukraine its sovereignty and territorial integrity and do not meaningfully shift the dial.

    We welcome today’s talks and thank Türkiye for agreeing to host them. We call on Russia to engage in good faith in the US-led peace efforts. In keeping with his commitment to ending this war, President Zelenskyy has agreed to direct talks with President Putin, an offer which we now know has been rebuffed. We commend President Zelenskyy for this decision.

    Mr Chair, last week we saw another supposed three-day ‘ceasefire’ from Russia. Just like the truce at Easter, this was a smokescreen intended to portray Russia as the party of peace.

    In reality, Russia’s death and destruction continued. According to the Ukrainian authorities, there were over 700 Russian violations between midnight and midday last Thursday alone. Aerial bombings killed at least three civilians in Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Sumy.

    And Russia ramped up its attacks in the days after this ‘ceasefire’ just as it did at Easter. At least six civilians have been killed and dozens more injured. Civilian infrastructure has been destroyed in Odesa and elsewhere in Ukraine.

    The gulf between the Russian state’s words and its actions could not be wider. But the urgency is real. April was the deadliest month in Ukraine for child casualties since June 2022. Normal lives, homes and families destroyed.

    We will not stand by while the Kremlin delays and denies. The UK and our allies are prepared to impose further sanctions if Russia fails to demonstrate that it is serious about peace. And we will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.

    Now, more than ever, Russia must heed the world’s call and agree to end the bloodshed.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of a Canon of Windsor: 15 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment of a Canon of Windsor: 15 May 2025

    The King has approved that The Reverend Canon Dr Nicholas Brown be appointed to a Canonry of Saint George’s Chapel, Windsor.

    The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Canon Dr Nicholas Brown, Precentor and Sub-Dean of Lincoln Cathedral, to the College of St George, Windsor, in succession to The Reverend Dr Mark Powell following his retirement.

    Background

    Nick Brown was educated at Royal Holloway University of London, and the University of Durham, obtaining a BMus, an MA and a PhD, and trained for Ministry at Ripon College, Cuddesdon.  Ordained in 2009, he served his title as Assistant Curate in the Parish of Warminster St. Denys and St. Mary Upton Scudamore in the Diocese of Salisbury.  From 2013 he served as Rector of the Parish of Louth.  From 2019 he served additionally as Acting Archdeacon of Lincoln.  In 2020, he took up his current role as Precentor of Lincoln and as Sub-Dean of Lincoln Cathedral in 2021.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NESO Strategic Spatial Energy Plan methodology

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    NESO Strategic Spatial Energy Plan methodology

    A letter from Secretary of State to the National Energy System Operator (NESO) on their approach for developing a strategic spatial plan for Great Britain’s energy infrastructure.

    Documents

    NESO Strategic Spatial Energy Plan methodology: letter from Secretary of State to NESO

    PDF, 127 KB, 1 page

    Details

    The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has published their methodology for developing the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP).

    This letter has been issued by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to Director of NESO, Fintan Slye, in support of the published methodology.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New bathing water season for Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Sussex

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New bathing water season for Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Sussex

    Environment Agency monitoring of the 56 designated bathing waters between Highcliffe and Hastings Pelham have started ahead of summer.

    Lee-on-Solent is one of the 56 bathing waters being regularly monitored by the Environment Agency this summer

    A beach, river or estuary location on England’s list of designated bathing waters means water quality is thoroughly tested. Water samples will be taken weekly or fortnightly at consistent points at these locations and sent to the lab for testing. Scientists will look for elevated levels of E. Coli and intestinal enterococci – bacteria found in sewage and bird and wildlife poo – and the results made available online at Swimfo to inform public choice of where to paddle.  

    These sample results will ultimately help dictate what classification a beach or river location will be given later in the year. Any classification from ‘Sufficient’ and above means the water quality is good enough to swim in. If it’s ‘Poor’ then swimming is not advisable. 

    Kate Donlon of the Environment Agency said:

    Public confidence in the water quality at beaches and new river swimming spots has taken some knocks over the last few years. This is a shame as it’s a fact that 95% of the sites within Hampshire, Sussex and Isle of Wight hit acceptable standards for having a dip or a swim. 

    Don’t be put off going into the water during this lovely weather at one of the sites on the designated bathing water list. Go to our Swimfo website, choose a location and inform your own mind if you fancy going into the water.

    The chief cause for any drop in water quality between Highcliffe to Hastings Pelham is pollution entering beaches from surface water drains connecting to the sea, not sewage discharges. Rain water washes bacteria from sources like bird, dog and wildlife poo into the drains along with any other pollutants from the urban environment.  

    Improving sites at Bognor Regis Aldwick, Worthing Beach House and Southsea will be a marathon effort and only possible with dedicated partnership groups. Public support is also key. Eliminating routine nuisances like litter and dog poo from investigations and promoting awareness that only rain should go down the drain will free up investigative time. Meaning we are able to focus on other serious causes.   

    Throughout the season, 15 May until the end of September, the Environment Agency will be taking more than 7000 samples at 451 designated bathing waters across England.    

    Today also marks the re-opening of applications for new bathing waters which have been closed since October 2023. Since then, the government has announced significant reforms to the Bathing Water Regulations to better reflect public use of iconic swimming spots. Successful sites will be announced next year.  

    Background

    • Bathing waters are officially designated outdoor swimming sites. England has 451 designated bathing waters, which are monitored and classified by the Environment Agency.   

    • Applicants are encouraged to use the bathing water season to gather evidence for their applications. Prospective sites will be assessed for their suitability as a designated bathing water. Applications for the 2026 season will close on 31 October 2025.   

    • The Environment Agency has driven £2.5 billion of investment and facilitated partnerships to dramatically improve our bathing waters.   

    • Last year, nearly 92% of bathing waters in England met the minimum water quality standards. More information on 2024 bathing water classifications is available here.  

    • The UK Health Security Agency and Environment Agency also offer advice in their ‘swim healthy’ guidance, which is available to read before making any decision on swimming.  

    • Bathing waters are stretches of water throughout England which we monitor for two types of bacteria: E.coli and intestinal enterococci. We monitor for these two bacteria because they indicate that there are germs in the water which can make you ill.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work begins to give residents greater transport choices

    Source: City of Derby

    Work to create the city’s newest sustainable transport hub is underway on Osmaston Road, following the success of similar hubs elsewhere in the city.

    Mobility hubs give residents greater choice when deciding how to travel, as well as making it easier to choose sustainable methods such as electric vehicles (EV), car share clubs, and cycling. The hubs are also continually monitored, helping the Council to learn more about the area’s transport needs.

    Following the installation of mobility hubs in the Chaddesden and Six Streets areas, work will begin on Monday 19 May to create the latest hub, which will include:

    • Electric vehicle (EV) charging and dedicated parking for up to three EVs
    • Additional Enterprise Car Club vehicles
    • An accessible seating area with bike storage, designed in consultation with local businesses, ward councillors and the Police
    • Interactive information totem with live travel updates

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

    Mobility hubs are a fantastic addition to Derby’s ever-growing transport offer, giving residents greater choice and helping them to travel more sustainably.

    “We’ve already seen the benefits to residents in Chaddesden and the Six Streets area, so I’m pleased that residents in Osmaston will soon be able to reap the benefits.

    “Our teams have taken the time to learn from previous hubs and feedback from residents and we’re confident that this latest hub will become a welcome addition to the community.

    To allow essential infrastructure to be installed, a small section of Whittington Street near the junction of Osmaston Road will be closed between Monday 19 and Friday 23 May. Diversion routes will be clearly signposted.

    The mobility hub will be funded by the Department for Transport (DFT)’s Future Transport Zones Fund, which was awarded to Derby City Council to trial new and exciting developments in transport.

    Residents who would like to know more about the mobility hubs can get in touch with the Future Transport Zones team by emailing traffic.management@derby.gov.uk.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New action to expand Scottish exports

    Source: Scottish Government

    US Export Plan among steps to boost business.

     

    A bespoke plan to help Scottish companies export to the United States will be drawn up as part of new measures aimed at boosting trade.

    It is one of six actions announced in the First Minister’s Programme for Government to assist exporters and address global trade challenges.

    Other steps include increased funding for product development, market research and attendance at international trade shows.

    Within the current financial year, the Six Point Export Plan will:

    • produce a US Export Plan to identify states offering the best markets for Scottish products, as part of wider support for trade with North America
    • use the International Growth Support Programme to unlock opportunities through trade shows, distributor visits, market research and product development
    • bring more global buyers to Scotland to showcase what companies have to offer
    • expand funding for overseas trade missions through the International Trade Partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce
    • increase funding for exporters in the technology, life sciences, renewables and hydrogen sectors
    • widen support for businesses through Scottish Enterprise’s international team, Scottish Development International, including more overseas trade missions and exporter showcase events

    During a visit to Summerhall Distillery in Edinburgh, which exports to more than a dozen countries including the US, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

    “In the face of global uncertainty, I am determined to protect and grow Scotland’s business interests around the world.

    “As the USA remains the single largest destination for Scottish exports outside the European Union, action to maintain and grow the market share while recognising the changing dynamics of US export opportunities is an important focus of our Programme for Government.

    “These steps will build on the significant support we already provide through Scottish Development International and its network of 34 offices across the world, including four in the US.

    “We must grasp all opportunities to strengthen Scotland’s reputation in world markets. Demand for Scottish products and services around the world is high and global customers recognise the innovation, quality and ambition of our businesses.”

    Commercial Director of Summerhall Distillery Dave Quinnell said:

    “We export around the world, including the US where we recently signed a new contract to sell more than 100,000 bottles a year.

    “Without Scottish Development International, we would not have been able to access the majority of our international markets.

    “We received help to draw up our initial export plan, to access specialist advice and to fund trade visits overseas. All of this has been vital to our business as we grow and continue to explore markets across the world.”

    Background

    Programme for Government 2025 to 2026 – gov.scot

    Summerhall Distillery was opened as the first exclusive gin distillery established in Edinburgh for over 150 years, producing Pickering’s Gin. It has since become home to The Broody Hen Scotch Whisky and Coldsnap Vodka. The business has diversified into private and own label products, culminating in the formation of Edinburgh Bottlers & Co-Pack, specialising in premium private label spirits services.

    In the last financial year Scottish Enterprise, whose overseas brand is Scottish Development International, reported £2.15 billion in planned international sales from the Scottish companies it has helped – among the highest results ever achieved.

    The International Trade Partnership Programme is run with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and will expand access to business membership organisations to provide support for trade missions to established and emerging markets.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New £1.8m sports pitch and pavilion completed at Banbridge High School

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    John Donnelly from the Education Authority, Katy Feeney, Principal of Banbridge High School and Gavin Boyd, Chair of Sport NI join the Lord Mayor of ABC Borough Cllr Sarah Duffy, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons and ABC Council Chief Executive Roger Wilson at the official opening of the new 3G sports pitch and pavilion.

    A new £1.8m 3G sports pitch and pavilion which will benefit pupils and the local community has opened at Banbridge High School.

    Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons joined Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy in officially opening the impressive facility which includes a full size 3G synthetic pitch complete with floodlighting, fencing and a changing pavilion.

    The sports pitch will be operated on a dual-use basis; Banbridge High School using the pitch during the day and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council managing the facility for community use in the evenings and weekends.

    The project is funded through £1.6m investment from ABC Council and Department for Communities through the Your School Your Club initiative, with funding of £225,000 distributed through Sport NI.

    Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy said: “This is a very positive day for everyone at Banbridge High School and also the local community who can avail of this excellent facility. Sport and exercise are so important and as a council we are delighted to be a part of this innovative partnership which is helping people stay active and healthy.”

    Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: “This new pitch and changing pavilion are welcome additions to Banbridge High School, benefitting not only the pupils but sports teams in the wider community. I am keen to see young people participating in a range of sports and I am determined that school and grassroots venues are modernised and available to more teams and groups for training and matches.  Your School Your Club has the potential to transform school sports facilities and I hope more schools will take inspiration from Banbridge High School.”

    A spokesperson for the Education Authority (EA) said: “We would like to thank ABC Council, Sport Northern Ireland and Banbridge High School for their vision, support and significant investment.  We look forward to seeing this partnership thrive and have no doubt that this facility will become a hub of sporting excellence and physical well-being.”

    Richard Archibald, Interim CEO, Sport NI said: “Sport has the power to change lives and access to good sports facilities is vital to create more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in sport and physical activity. We are delighted to have supported this new facility at Banbridge High School through our Your School Your Club programme which will benefit both the school and the wider community.”

    Principal of Banbridge High School, Mrs Katy Feeney said: “I am thrilled at the opening of our new 3G pitch, a state-of-the-art facility that will significantly enhance our sports programmes and provide our students with unparalleled opportunities for physical development, activity and teamwork.

    “In addition to benefiting our students, the 3G pitch will also serve the local community. As a school, this will allow us to strengthen our ties with the community and create a vibrant, active hub for everyone to enjoy. I would like to thank all those who have made this a reality.”

    The 3G pitch and pavilion was designed by AECOM and the work was successfully completed by Haffey Sports Grounds Ltd.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: By-election to take place in the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart ward in June

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    A by-election will be held in the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart ward following the sad passing of Councillor Val Walker last month.

    Residents will go to the polls on Thursday 26 June 2025 to elect one new councillor to represent the ward. The current electorate is 18,563. 

    Tomorrow, on Friday 16 May, the formal Notice of Election will be published, and the Election Timetable, Election Notices and Nomination Papers will all be accessible on the Council website.

    Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence said:

    I want to reiterate my condolences to Councillor Walker’s family, friends, and colleagues. The tributes we saw last week at the Council meeting shows the esteem in which she was held across all sides of the Chamber, and she will be sorely missed.

    Her passing has resulted in the vacancy for the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart ward. I’d urge all residents in the ward to make sure they are registered and have their details or preference of how they would like to vote up to date in plenty of time.

    Details on how to register, where to vote or how to vote by post can be found on the Council website.

    Nomination papers can be submitted from 10am on Monday 19 May until 4pm on Friday 23 May to the Returning Officer in the City Chambers. 

    Candidates will be confirmed when nominations close at 4pm on Friday 23 May.

    Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 26 June.

    The election will use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system where voters can rank candidates in order of preference rather than using a single cross. Voters can give a rank to as many or as few candidates as they like.

    The deadline to register to vote in this by-election is midnight on Tuesday June 10. For new postal vote applications, it’s 5pm on Wednesday June 11 and for new proxy votes its 5pm on Wednesday June 18.

    Find out more about elections in Edinburgh and how to register to vote on the Council website.

    Published: May 15th 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National Trust announces opening date of Coventry Charterhouse

    Source: City of Coventry

    The National Trust announces Coventry Charterhouse, a former 14th century monastery, will re-open to visitors on Wednesday 21 May.

    Visitors are invited to join the Festival of Blossom during May half-term at the Charterhouse, to celebrate the beauty of nature’s confetti and have a go at family-friendly blossom crafts. Visitors can also enjoy immersive guided tours of Charterhouse interiors*.

    Earlier this year, Historic Coventry Trust, which owns the Charterhouse and oversaw its multi-million-pound renovation, entered into a partnership with the National Trust where the day-to-day operations of the site, and visitors’ experience will now be managed by the National Trust. The venue has also received funding and support from Coventry City Council to assist with its restoration and reopening.

    The Grade I listed former Carthusian monastery – one of only nine ever built in England – is the National Trust’s first property in Coventry, where it will work closely with organisations in the city as part of its ambition to bring history and heritage to more people in urban areas.

    The 14th-century former monastery is home to remarkable 15th and 16th century wall paintings, widely regarded as some of the finest surviving examples of medieval and Renaissance art in England.

    Visitors can explore a beautifully landscaped walled garden as well as expansive green space that includes a wildlife pond, community orchard, children’s play area, and grassland park.

    A 60-seat café will also open at the historic house from Wednesdays to Sundays, 8am until 5pm.

    In preparation for reopening Coventry Charterhouse, the National Trust has appointed a dedicated team of experienced heritage professionals to manage the site.

    The charity also put the call-out for volunteers and more than 160 people have come forward to support Coventry Charterhouse and help to share its fascinating history as the former 14th century monastery enters an exciting new chapter with the National Trust.

    Cllr Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at Coventry City Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome the National Trust to Coventry and see the remarkable Charterhouse flourish as a hub of culture and heritage. This partnership enhances our cultural offer for both residents and visitors – it really does give them the opportunity to experience some Coventry’s rich history.

    “The Charterhouse is already a key part of Coventry’s cultural landscape and I am excited to see how it will inspire and engage our community through its future as a National Trust property.”

    Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said: “Charterhouse opening as a National Trust attraction – the first in Coventry – is fantastic news. It’s a great chance to attract more visitors from across the region and beyond, boost the local economy and highlight one of the city’s most important historic sites.

    “With the backing of the National Trust, the Charterhouse will benefit from national profile and a strong visitor experience – helping to attract more people to the city, support local businesses and highlight one of Coventry’s most important historic sites as part of our wider tourism offer.”

    The new team, together with the support of local volunteers, will shape the next phase of the Charterhouse as both a heritage destination and key venue for local communities – a space where visitors can explore medieval architecture and rare wall paintings, enjoy the walled gardens and orchard, and take part in a growing calendar of events and activities.

    Gurminder Kenth, General Manager at National Trust, said: “As one of Coventry’s oldest surviving medieval buildings, the Charterhouse is an extraordinary place with a rich story to tell, and we’re excited to open our doors for visitors to explore its layered history.

    “Together with the highly experienced individuals we’ve welcomed into the fold as we prepare to reopen, we’ve been overwhelmed by the huge level of support and enthusiasm from locals coming forward to volunteer as we enter this next chapter together with the Charterhouse. Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at the National Trust and as we’ve already seen from our constantly growing team at the Charterhouse, the passion to support this new chapter for the Charterhouse has been remarkable.

    “Working closely with Historic Coventry Trust and the local community, we hope to make this already special place somewhere people from all walks of life can explore, learn, and feel a real sense of community and history.”

    Coventry Charterhouse will be operated in partnership between Historic Coventry Trust, which owns the property and led its £11.9 million restoration with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the National Trust, which will help bring the site to wider audiences locally, nationally and internationally.

    In addition to managing the Charterhouse, the National Trust will also work with partners including the John Muir Trust to support the development of the wider heritage park and the green corridor connecting it to the city centre.

    For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/warwickshire/coventry-charterhouse

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: End unfair council tax debt for domestic abuse survivors

    Source: Scottish Greens

    15 May 2025 Finance

    Greens call for scrapping of domestic abuse survivors council tax debt

    More in Finance

    Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer has urged MSPs to support his call that no domestic abuse survivors be forced to pay off their abuser’s council tax debts.

    Greer has lodged an amendment to the Housing Bill which would require Ministers to review the impact of the current system on domestic abuse survivors.

    Because of how the current legal liability arrangements work, where a survivor of domestic abuse has lived with their abuser, they are often responsible for the abuser’s debt. Researchers and organisations supporting abuse survivors have found examples where this debt is used as a means of ongoing control and financial abuse.

    Groups who have called for the removal of coerced debt include Scottish Women’s Aid, Aberlour and Financially Included, who recently published a joint report on the issue.

    Mr Greer said: 

    “Coerced debt is a form of abuse and financial violence that is being used against people in often very desperate situations. It is used to punish and control victims and survivors and to make them responsible for their abusers.

    “Council Tax debt causes a huge amount of stress and anxiety for thousands of people across Scotland. Some of those worst affected are survivors of domestic abuse who are being forced to pay off their abuser’s debts.

    “This is a problem overwhelmingly affecting women with children, with every penny they are forced to pay effectively being a tax for surviving their abuse. Cancelling it and changing the rules around joint liability is clearly the right thing to do.

    “I hope that MSPs from all parties will support my proposal and that we can move quickly to provide some relief and support for people who are trying to rebuild their lives.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish homes are not for hoarding

    Source: Scottish Greens

    15 May 2025 Housing

    Greens challenge property hoarding landlords in parliament

    More in Housing

    The Scottish Government must close loopholes which allow the wealthy to hoard extra homes at the expense of local communities, say Scottish Greens.

    Speaking ahead of his Members’ Business Debate today in Holyrood, Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer said it is a national disgrace that thousands of children are in temporary accommodation at the same time as the rich continue to pay little tax whilst holding vast property portfolios.

    Greer’s motion highlights that in areas such as Coigach in Wester Ross a majority of homes are now second homes or holiday lets, causing acute local housing crises and forcing young people to leave their own communities just to secure their own home.

    Other communities where second homes and holiday lets are now a major problem include the Isle of Arran and both Cairngorms and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Parks.

    Mr Greer said:

    “Across Scotland there are thousands of homes which no-one actually lives in, because they are either second homes or Airbnb-style holiday lets. At the same time, thousands of children are stuck in temporary accommodation and young people are forced out of the communities they’ve grown up in due to lack of housing. These problems are directly connected.

    “Wealthy people collecting second homes are driving up house prices and creating acute local shortages. This hollows out communities, especially in rural areas and on our islands. Four in ten properties in Lochranza on Arran are either holiday homes or lets, which just isn’t sustainable.

    “Unbelievably, despite the damage they are doing to so many communities, these Airbnb-style short-term lets often don’t have to pay business rates. I’ve proposed an end to that tax break, but the Scottish Government is resisting this much needed reform.

    “The Scottish Greens have already doubled Council Tax on holiday homes, with our plan being that owners would sell up and make the properties available for those who need somewhere to live. That is already working, with 2455 fewer second homes in Scotland last year compared to 2023. With a housing crisis this bad though, we need to go further.

    “More new homes need to be built, but that won’t tackle the problem if many of them just become second homes or holiday lets as well. Our tax system needs to change, to end the advantages enjoyed by the wealthy and to make things easier for first time buyers.”

    Today’s debate also coincides with the first anniversary of the Scottish Parliament’s decision to declare a housing emergency in Scotland. Mr Greer said this should focus minds in the Scottish Government on taking urgent, concrete action.

    He added: 

    “Today marks a year since MSPs voted to declare a housing emergency in Scotland. Despite the widespread acceptance that our housing system is broken, very little has changed over the last 12 months.

    “I hope today’s debate underlines the vast inequality between those who own multiple homes and those who cannot afford their rent, let alone to own their own home.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE RM has been appointed as First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE RM has been appointed as First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty

    Defence Secretary John Healey has confirmed that His Majesty The King has approved the new appointment of First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff. General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE RM is to be appointed as First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty.

    General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE RM has been appointed as First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty. MOD Crown Copyright

    Defence Secretary John Healey, said: 

    I warmly congratulate General Sir Gwyn Jenkins on his selection as the next First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff. As the first Royal Marine appointed to the role, this is a hugely significant moment for the Royal Navy. 

    General Jenkins is a proven leader with a distinguished career in both the military and at the core of government. I know he will deliver in this pivotal role, making Britain secure at home and strong abroad.

    Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said: 

    I am very pleased to welcome General Jenkins as the next First Sea Lord. 

    As one of the outstanding Royal Marines of his generation, he brings with him a wealth of operational and organisational expertise. His appointment reflects a Corps which is bound even more tightly to the way the Royal Navy thinks, operates and fights.

    In a more dangerous and demanding world, General Jenkins has the instincts and ambition needed to continue the modernisation of the Royal Navy, ensuring it can meet future threats and continue to safeguard our nation’s security and prosperity.

    General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said: 

    It is an honour to be selected as the next First Sea Lord.

    I feel extremely privileged to lead the exceptional sailors and marines of the Royal Navy at this pivotal time for UK Defence.

    Throughout my career, I have always been motivated by the vital role the Royal Navy has in keeping our nation safe. To do that now, we need to accelerate our return to a war fighting force that is ready for conflict, expand our modernisation efforts and deliver the Royal Navy our nation needs.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Great British Energy legislation passes through Parliament

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Great British Energy legislation passes through Parliament

    Landmark bill passes in Parliament as Great British Energy takes another major step forward.

    • Landmark Great British Energy Bill passes in Parliament
    • Publicly-owned energy company to benefit working people by accelerating clean power, bringing energy security and jobs as part of the Plan for Change
    • £4 million renewable scheme opens to give Scottish communities a stake in energy

    Working people will benefit from cleaner, homegrown power, as Great British Energy takes another major step forward today. Legislation for Britain’s new publicly-owned energy company has passed through Parliament and Great British Energy is set to deliver for working people.

    Great British Energy will invest in clean power projects across the UK as part of the government’s Plan for Change to become a clean energy superpower – helping to get off the rollercoaster of fossil fuel prices and protect families’ finances.

    Backed by £8.3 billion over the course of this parliament, the company will speed up the delivery of strategic energy projects and invest alongside the private sector to get new technologies like floating offshore wind up and running as part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

    The Energy Secretary is today visiting a hospital in Hull where solar power is saving the hospital hundreds of thousands of pounds each month, allowing money to be reinvested in frontline services. 

    That’s why Great British Energy is investing £200 million in funding for new rooftop solar power and renewable energy schemes for schools, hospitals and communities – saving hundreds of millions on their energy bills. In April NHS Humber Health Partnership was awarded nearly £8.5 million from this fund, which will deliver up to £14.2 million in lifetime bills savings.

    As part of this, yesterday Scotland’s community energy fund opened for applications, backed by £4 million from Great British Energy for local clean energy projects – from community-led onshore wind, to solar on rooftops and hydropower in rivers – generating profits which could be reinvested into community projects or take money off people’s bills.

    Meanwhile people in Wales will benefit from nearly £3 million of Great British Energy funding for local renewable projects.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    “Great British Energy comes from a simple idea: British people should own and benefit from our own natural resources.

    “We are giving people a stake in clean energy and delivering profits for the British people.

    “As part of our Plan for Change, this will make us a clean energy superpower and help bring down energy bills for good.”

    Great British Energy Chair Juergen Maier said:

    “Great British Energy was created to ensure British people reap the benefits of clean, secure, homegrown energy.

    “We now have full backing to scale up the company, crowd in investment, and back clean energy projects across the country.”

    Today Great British Energy will host a roundtable in Edinburgh alongside the Scottish Secretary, Ian Murray, focussed on the supply chain opportunities in Scotland. It follows Great British Energy’s initial £300 million funding for offshore wind supply chains. This will support Britain’s engineers, technicians, and welders and invest in offshore wind manufacturing components such as floating offshore platforms and cables in the UK’s industrial heartlands.

    As part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will turbocharge growth in the UK’s key sectors including clean energy, this investment is part of the Prime Minister’s drive to ensure that the clean energy future is ‘built in Britain’.

    The Energy Secretary will soon outline Great British Energy’s strategic priorities – including which technologies the government expects the company to focus on and how it should consider the public benefits from investment decisions.

    The Great British Energy Bill received legislative consent from all three devolved governments, the first Bill to under this parliament. This will allow Great British Energy to operate more effectively in every devolved nation and benefit people across the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Recreational fishers fined after being caught with excess fish

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Recreational fishers fined after being caught with excess fish

    Thursday, 15 May 2025 – 4:35 pm.

    Western Police are reminding recreational fishers to ensure they are abiding by catch limits after a number of people were caught taking excess fish and undersized/oversized fish in recent weeks.
    Two men have been fined after they were caught at Ulverstone on Sunday 11 May with 43 Sand Flathead which had been cut into 85 fillets.
    The possession limit for Sand Flathead on state waters in the Northern and Western Fishing Zones of Tasmania is 10 per person. 
    The men were also found to have a gummy shark onboard which had the dorsal fin and tail removed – in Tasmania, the dorsal and pectoral fins of gummy sharks must remain attached until the shark is landed. 
    For further information regarding size, bag and possession limits, you can download the Fishing Tas App which also has the reporting of Rock Lobster fishing activities on it. Remember, check your catch in all respects.
    Anyone with information regarding illegal fishing is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Fishwatch on 0427 655 557. Information can be provided anonymously

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Craig Collingswood becomes city’s 166th Mayor

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Councillor Craig Collingswood has been officially appointed Wolverhampton’s 166th Mayor.

    He took over the chains of office from outgoing Mayor Councillor Linda Leach at the inauguration, which took place during last night’s Annual Council Meeting. His daughter Abby, a cardiothoracic nurse at New Cross Hospital’s Heart and Lung Centre, is Mayoress.

    Councillor Paul Singh was appointed Deputy Mayor for 2025 to 2026, with his wife Ranjit Dhillon becoming the new Deputy Mayoress.

    Councillor Collingswood, who has served the Park Ward since 2012 and was Deputy Mayor for the 2024 to 2025 municipal year, said: “I am immensely proud and deeply grateful to become the First Citizen of our great city.

    “As a born and bred Wulfrunian, it is an incredible honour and I pledge to dedicate my time, energy and commitment to serving this amazing place to the best of my ability.

    “Wolverhampton has a rich and proud history. It has witnessed remarkable changes and transformations and has long been a place where innovation and industry have thrived – and today it continues to be a city which embraces diversity, progress and opportunity.

    “Our city’s motto, out of darkness cometh light, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It reminds us that, even in the face of adversity, we have the power to advance, innovate and shine brightly, and this resonates today more than ever as we continue to work together to bring light to every corner of our city.

    “My theme for the year is ‘City and Wulfrunians ascend together’. This symbolises the collective ambition towards growth and progress. It represents the city’s regeneration, whether through urban development or cultural revival, and highlights the resilience and aspiration of our residents.

    “This ascension points towards collaboration, a shared sense of pride, community and empowerment as Wulfrunians rise together to shape the city’s destiny on a local, national and even global stage.”

    He added: “Abby will be a wonderful Mayoress and, together, we promise to act with integrity and put the interests of our city and Wulfrunians first and foremost. Let us work together to make Wolverhampton an even better place for future generations, guided by the light that our motto so brilliantly embodies.”

    Councillor Collingswood has chosen 4 charities to support during his Mayoral year. These include:

    • SAFFA, Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, a military charity which provides lifelong support to veterans, serving personnel and their families
    • The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust Charity, which is committed to supporting the Trust’s work by raising essential funds to improve patient care and healthcare services across the city
    • Compton Care, which provides specialist palliative care to adults with life limiting illnesses
    • Acorns Children’s Hospice, which provides specialist care for children and young people with life threatening conditions, along with support for their families

    This year’s inauguration was sponsored by 2 local firms, Burke Brothers and Gills Mix Concrete, and Councillor Collingswood added: “I would like to thank Burke Brothers and Gills Mix Concrete for their generosity.”

    Councillor Collingswood, who attended Manor Primary and Parkfields Secondary schools, worked in occupational health in local government for many years before becoming a lecturer. His father was a Bilston councillor for 17 years and, following in his footsteps, Councillor Collingswood has served as the council’s Cabinet Member for Resident Services and the Environment and as chair of the Audit & Risk Committee.

    Councillor Collingswood is also Chair of the Wolverhampton Armed Forces Covenant Board – his son, Jack, is a Trooper serving with the British Army in The Queen’s Royal Hussars regiment and is currently in Germany.

    For more information please visit The Mayor of Wolverhampton. The website includes details of how to invite the Mayor to events.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Find out about courses for adult learners with additional needs

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Its SEND Open Event takes place next Thursday 22 May from 1.30pm to 6pm at The Maltings, Herbert Street, Wolverhampton.

    Visitors will be able to view the facilities and meet the tutors, support workers and current students, take part in activities and find out more about courses for people with disabilities.

    These include:

    • Life Skills English, Maths and Digital Skills; students learn essential everyday key skills for their personal lives and potential voluntary and paid employment.
    • Life Skills Cookery; students learn the basics of simple food preparation, food safety, the safe use of tools, and important skills helping students to move closer to living independently.
    • Everyday Life Skills; students focus on exploring the community, citizenship, independent travelling and much more about what it is to live in the UK today.
    • Keep Learning and Move On courses; students focus on taking the next steps towards independence and work ready skills.
    • Supported Internships and Supported Employment; a personalised model for supporting people with significant disabilities to secure and retain paid employment.

    Refreshments will be available from a student run ‘pop up’ café, while a craft fair will showcase the talents of students on the Supported Internship and Supported Employment programmes.

    Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “Our students speak very highly of the various programmes that Adult Education Wolverhampton offer to learners with additional needs, such as the very popular Life Skills programmes, which are helping them develop the skills they need to live as independent a life as possible.

    “The open event next week is a great opportunity to find out more about these courses, and about studying with Adult Education Wolverhampton, so please come along and find out more.”

    For more details, please email katherine.jones@aes.wolverhampton.gov.uk or call 01902 553870, 01902 558163 or 07436 904526.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The new leader of the Greens sits in the Senate. Why is that so unusual in Australian politics?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Twomey, Professor Emerita in Constitutional Law, University of Sydney

    The 2025 federal election resulted in some unexpected outcomes, including the loss by the Greens Leader, Adam Bandt, of his seat in the House of Representatives. The new Greens leader is Senator Larissa Waters.

    Does it matter that a party leader sits in the Senate, and why do the leaders of major parties almost always come from the lower House?

    The answer is that by convention, rather than an express constitutional requirement, the prime minister sits in the lower house of parliament. Parties with aspirations to form government therefore choose leaders from among their members in the lower house.

    Prime ministers in the House of Lords

    Historically, in the United Kingdom, prime ministers could sit in either house. In the 19th century, most prime ministers sat in the House of Lords, and two started in the House of Commons and ended their prime ministership in the Lords.

    But in the 20th century, the convention developed of the prime minister holding a seat in the House of Commons.

    This was for three reasons. First, as a matter of practicality, the House of Commons is where the main work of government occurs, and the prime minister’s involvement is needed.

    Second, according to convention, the monarch appoints as prime minister the person who commands the confidence of the lower house, which is hard to do from outside it.

    Third, the House of Lords is not elected, and therefore does not have a democratic mandate. It ceased to be acceptable in the United Kingdom for an unelected person to govern as prime minister.

    When the Conservative prime minister, Harold Macmillan, resigned suddenly for health reasons in 1963, Lord Home was appointed as Conservative Party leader and prime minister. He renounced his earldom and then ran successfully in a byelection for a seat in the House of Commons.

    A prime minister in the Senate?

    In Australia, the position is different because the Senate is elected by the people. A senator can therefore be regarded as having a democratic mandate, although he or she represents a state, rather than being elected by a particular electorate.

    Section 64 of the Commonwealth Constitution requires ministers to be either a member of the House of Representatives or the Senate, with a three month leeway period to become elected. But it does not require that the prime minister sit in the House of Representatives. It is instead a matter of custom, practicality and convention.

    When the prime minister, Harold Holt, went missing while swimming in the ocean in December 1967, the Liberal Party chose Senator John Gorton as its new leader.

    Gorton was appointed prime minister on January 10 1968, despite being a Senator, but resigned from the Senate on February 1 1968 and was elected to fill the vacancy in Holt’s lower House seat on February 24.

    Gorton was therefore prime minister while being a Senator for three weeks, and prime minister without a seat in parliament at all for just over three weeks. It was generally accepted that as prime minister, he should sit in the lower house.

    Premiers in state upper houses

    At the state level, premiers have sometimes sat in the upper house, at least for a short period.

    One notable example is that of Hal Colebatch in Western Australia. In 1919, Colebatch, who was a member of the Western Australian Legislative Council, was acting premier, while the premier, Henry Lefroy, was at a conference in Melbourne. There was an outbreak of Spanish flu in the eastern states. In scenes reminiscent of the COVID pandemic, Colebatch gained immense popularity by slamming shut the state border. His own premier was even prevented from returning home.

    Lefroy eventually resigned as premier, and Colebatch replaced him, despite sitting in the Legislative Council. But Colebatch did not last long in the job. He tried, but failed, to find a lower house seat to move to. In addition, his health was failing, as was his popularity after rioting during a wharf strike led to the death of a worker. So Colebatch resigned as premier, having spent his entire premiership as a member of the Legislative Council.

    In New South Wales, when the Labor premier, Neville Wran, surprised his colleagues by resigning in May 1986, the party elected Barrie Unsworth as its leader.

    Unsworth was a member of the Legislative Council. He was nonetheless appointed as premier. A Labor backbencher in the Legislative Assembly resigned to allow Unsworth to contest his safe Labor seat. Despite a large swing against him, Unsworth narrowly won the seat by 54 votes and continued as premier until 1988.

    Leaders of major and minor parties

    The main problem with a prime minister or premier sitting in the upper house is that the government is formed from the lower house, and the prime minister or Premier must be the person who holds its confidence. This is difficult when there is no direct accountability to the lower house, as it cannot question a prime minister or premier who sits in the other house.

    For this reason, parties that could potentially win government will ordinarily choose a leader from among their members in the lower House, and politicians with leadership ambition will often seek to transfer from the upper to the lower house to enhance their chances to lead.

    Due to the Senate’s proportional voting system, minor parties are more likely to have greater numbers in the Senate than the House of Representatives. It is therefore logical that their leadership should come from the Senate, especially when they are unlikely to have the numbers in the lower House to form a government. But for major parties, their leader is ordinarily chosen from among the members of the House of Representatives, in case government beckons.

    Anne Twomey has received funding from the ARC and sometimes does consultancy work for Parliaments, governments and inter-governmental bodies.

    – ref. The new leader of the Greens sits in the Senate. Why is that so unusual in Australian politics? – https://theconversation.com/the-new-leader-of-the-greens-sits-in-the-senate-why-is-that-so-unusual-in-australian-politics-256578

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Fresh start for the Greens, with new leader Larissa Waters

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nathan Fioritti, Lecturer in Politics, School of Social Sciences, Monash University

    Queensland Senator Larissa Waters is the new leader of the Australian Greens, following a two-hour partyroom meeting held in the wake of the party’s lacklustre performance in the May 3 election.

    Waters was elected unopposed.

    New South Wales Senator Mehreen Faruqi will continue as Greens deputy, while South Australian Senator Sarah Hanson-Young will be the Greens Manager of Business.

    Besides having an apt surname for an ecological party leader, what do we know about Waters?

    And as Australia’s 48th parliament prepares to sit, what might we expect from her leadership of the country’s largest minor party?

    Who is Larissa Waters?

    Waters first entered parliament in 2011, following a career as an environmental lawyer.

    She was the first Greens senator to be elected in Queensland and is now the second-longest serving Green in parliament after Hanson-Young.

    Born in Canada, Waters’ tenure was briefly interrupted in 2017–2018 when she discovered she had breached section 44 of the Constitution by failing to renounce her dual citizenship.

    Waters is the second woman after Christine Milne to lead the party. She has leadership experience, serving as Senate leader since 2020 and co-deputy leader prior to that.

    Waters’ re-election on May 3 for another six-year term will ensure leadership stability following the unexpected departure of her predecessor, Adam Bandt.

    Beyond her clear passion for environmental protection, Waters has dedicated her time in parliament to advancing gender equity, ending gender-based violence, and addressing corporate donations and influence in politics.

    She made international news in 2017 when she became the first politician to breastfeed in federal parliament.

    New direction?

    So what does new leadership mean for the direction of the Greens and the role the party will play in the new parliament?

    Will it opt for pragmatism or hold firm on principle?

    Will it continue to campaign hard on a diverse set of policy issues, or choose to focus more on its core environmental offering?

    Waters is viewed by many in the party as a compromise candidate between Faruqi and Hanson-Young, who according to speculation, were also considering a tilt at the leadership. Faruqi represents the more radical wing of the Greens, while Hanson-Young is a prominent moderate figure who would likely have pushed the party closer to the political centre and faced resistance from elements of the membership.

    Given this, Waters is expected to play a unifying role, much like Bandt did during his tenure.

    While the Greens held all their seats up for re-election in the Senate, they were close to a wipe-out in the lower house, where they lost three of their four members from the previous parliament.

    The party will likely concentrate in future elections on expanding and then retaining their presence in the Senate.

    In the lower house, Queensland will be a major focus for the Greens as they try to win back seats they lost at the election – Griffith and Brisbane. Waters’ leadership should help with this aim.

    Senate power

    Waters will conceivably command more power than Bandt, given the Greens will hold the sole balance of power in the new Senate.

    She’s pledged to keep Labor accountable, while urging the government to “be brave” and “actually do what the country needs them to do”.

    There’s now no excuse for the Labor Party not to take the climate crisis seriously, to take real action on the housing crisis, to genuinely tackle the cost of living. People deserve more than just tinkering. They deserve real reform that will help them in their daily lives, and nature cannot be put last like it has been for so long.

    This, together with the presentation of Waters as a leader who represents continuity, suggests any changes to the party’s approach will likely focus on presentation rather than policy.

    Waters is now tasked with reframing the 2025 election result as a moment of short-term pain and setting the party on a path of long-term gain.

    Whether or not this will be achieved, and how important Waters’ leadership will be to achieving this, remains to be seen.

    How was Waters selected?

    The Greens’ leadership selection relies entirely on the federal party room. Unlike the Labor Party, where members have a say on who becomes leader, grassroots Greens are excluded from the process.

    Like Waters, all previous leaders – Adam Bandt, Richard Di Natale, Christine Milne and party founder Bob Brown – were elected unopposed, reflecting the party’s consensus style of decision making.

    In 2020, there was an unsuccessful push to include the membership base in the leadership process. A “one member, one vote” option received majority support in a party-wide plebiscite. But it failed to meet the two-thirds majority required to force a change.

    Nathan Fioritti 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. Fresh start for the Greens, with new leader Larissa Waters – https://theconversation.com/fresh-start-for-the-greens-with-new-leader-larissa-waters-256453

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New taskforce to focus on high visibility patrols in Glenorchy CBD

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    New taskforce to focus on high visibility patrols in Glenorchy CBD

    Thursday, 15 May 2025 – 4:21 pm.

    Tasmania Police is stepping up its focus on reducing anti-social behaviour and retail crime in the Glenorchy municipality, launching Taskforce Respect, a new community campaign involving high visibility patrols in the CBD and shopping areas.
    Inspector Jason Klug said the aim of Taskforce Respect was to enhance public safety and community confidence in the Glenorchy CBD, stretching also into Moonah and Claremont, with officers targeting recidivist offenders and anti-social behaviour.
    “Tasmania Police’s high-visibility foot patrols will continue in retail precincts to disrupt and reduce incidents of crime, with a particular focus on known and repeat offenders,” Inspector Klug said.
    “We’ll also be using drug detection dogs, CCTV footage and CBD exclusion orders to help achieve our goals of helping keep the community safe.”
    Recidivist offenders and youth crime will be a key focus of Taskforce Respect, with Tasmania Police data showing just 57 people made up 50 per cent of youth crime charges across the state in 2024.
    “Our message to these people is simple, if you are offending in the Glenorchy area, then we will be looking out for you,” Inspector Klug said.
    “Our aim is to ensure a safer, more welcoming environment for businesses, residents and visitors.”
    Inspector Klug said there was a deliberate use of the word ‘respect’ in naming the new taskforce, which began operation on Monday, May 12.
    “Our message is about instilling a basic respect for one another in our community,” Inspector Klug said.
    “It is a message, aimed particularly at our youth, in which we say acts of violence and abuse, and acts of retail crime and theft, like we have seen in the past, are unacceptable.
    “We want to help people understand the importance of respect, that is, respect for each other, respect for your community and respect for those businesses and retailers that are operating in our city.”
    Taskforce Respect will build upon successful policing initiatives Operation Swipe in Glenorchy (December 2024) and Operation Saturate (ongoing) across greater Hobart.
    Tasmania Police continues to work in partnership with Glenorchy City Council, businesses and stakeholders such as Metro Tasmania to prevent, resolve and investigate issues of crime and anti-social behaviour that occur in public spaces.
    Supporting police, Crime Stoppers Tasmania ambassador Mark Mewis said Crime Stoppers welcomed the initiative and sought to remind the public that community safety was the responsibility of all Tasmanians.
    “Everyone should be able to enjoy our public spaces without fear or intimidation, and we can further support the police by reporting anti-social behaviour and those engaged in such behaviour anonymously through Crime Stoppers,” Mr Mewis said.
    As part of the official launch of Taskforce Respect, Tasmania Police’s new Poli community outreach van was in attendance to help engage with the Glenorchy community.
    Launched in April, Poli has been developed to increase police visibility and improve engagement in the community.
    “Poli is staffed by members of the Community Engagement Services team, along with local officers, who can discuss local crime issues and provide crime prevention and general advice to residents and business owners. Poli staff can also provide information and resources about personal, residential and business safety, as well as child safety and safeguarding,” Inspector Klug said.
    Information on crimes in the Glenorchy community can be provided to police on 131 444 or to Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au – information can be provided anonymously. If you are in immediate need of police assistance, call Triple-Zero (000) in an emergency.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: As the Latrobe Valley moves away from coal jobs, could a green worker’s cooperative offer a solution?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Patmore, Emeritus Professor of Business and Labour History, University of Sydney

    Workers at Earthworker Energy Manufacturing Co-op

    Worker cooperatives may sound like something out of the 19th century, but they still exist in the age of global capitalism.

    In Spain, for instance, the Mondragon Corporation is a huge worker-run cooperative based around 95 collectives – the largest cooperative in the world.

    Worker cooperatives produce products or services. But they are run very differently. Workers can become members of the cooperative they work for by buying a share of the business. This gives them a vote in how the business is run and a share of net income, after costs have come out.

    Co-ops do not have external shareholders – the profits stay with workers. Rather than bosses deciding and workers carrying out the tasks, worker cooperatives are based on democratic principles. Big decisions are discussed and then voted on, and each member gets one vote. They offer a direct way for workers to control their production and shape the economy.

    In Australia, these models peaked in the 1980s. Most are gone, though a few older cooperatives are still running, such as Tasmanian recycling cooperative Resource Work Collective, founded in 1993.

    In recent years, there’s been renewed interest in the model. The Earthworker cooperative network focused on Victoria’s Latrobe Valley. The goal: find new types of employment and products in a coal area undergoing transition.

    Coal plants in the Latrobe Valley provided jobs for generations of workers. Their closure poses real challenges. Pictured: worker hardhats left on the fence at Hazelwood Power Station after it closed in 2017.
    Dorothy Chiron/Shutterstock

    How well does the model work?

    Mondragon is the most well-known example. Founded in 1956 in the Basque region of northern Spain, Mondragon grew and became self-sustaining. It has developed supporting institutions such as research and development companies and even a university. It also established a credit union, which attracted capital and provided loans to cooperatives.

    While Mondragon is a successful example, these organisations face a number of barriers to their survival.

    Critics have argued worker cooperatives tend to fail as workers do not understand the market for their products, but Mondragon undercuts this criticism.

    Worker cooperatives can have difficulties raising capital. Some banks can be reluctant to invest as they may lack familiarity or sympathy with the model.

    Instead, workers may put some or all of their savings into the organisation to get it started. Taking these kinds of risks means some workers may be focused on getting immediate rewards, rather than investing surplus funds or building up cash reserves.

    Workers can sometimes choose to transform a successful cooperative into a capitalist enterprise to achieve greater capital gains.

    Surprisingly, trade unions are generally hostile and suspicious of worker cooperatives. Union organisers may fear worker-owners could see little need for trade unions in representing their interests, or that cooperatives could undercut union wages and conditions to remain competitive.

    To date, worker cooperatives have had a limited impact in Australia, despite the relatively strong historical position of workers.

    Compared to member cooperatives and other types, worker’s cooperatives tend to be short lived in Australia. That’s because most were formed by workers after an industrial dispute or to maintain employment during economic downturns.

    In 1987, for instance, workers retrenched by a major communications company decided to form a co-op which became the Electronic Service Centre in Fairfield, New South Wales. A later example is Abrasiflex, a NSW company bought by workers facing retrenchment in 1993. Both cooperatives failed by the early 2000s.

    Their popularity peaked in the 1980s, when the model was promoted by state Labor governments. Policymakers saw them as a short term means to resolve unemployment, rather than a long term means to secure economic democracy.

    The model lost traction in the early 1990s due to an economic downturn, capital shortfalls and changing political circumstances.

    New energy

    The idea for Earthworker came from discussions between unionists and environmentalists over job creation and the environment. Earthworker founders were influenced by the Green Bans.

    As the project’s website states:

    Conflict can occur between environmentalists who want to shut down certain industries, and unionists who want to protect jobs […] we should work together for a “just transition” and create jobs that aren’t just better for the earth, but for workers too.

    In this respect, Earthworker has much in common with the Cleveland Model in the United States, which links green business, local economic development and fair labour practices.

    Earthworker only formally became a cooperative in 2011, though discussions date back to the late 1990s. In 2016, the network bought a hot water tank manufacturer in Morwell and began making their own tanks and solar hot water systems as the Earthworker Energy Manufacturing Co-operative. The cooperative is aimed at helping the Latrobe Valley’s transition away from coal power jobs.

    Morwell and other Latrobe Valley towns are losing coal jobs. But new industries and business models are emerging.
    AustralianCamera/Shutterstock

    Earthworker promotes the payment of trade union wage rates and conditions. The goal is to build a network of cooperatives supporting each other to build economies of scale.

    Their other cooperatives include Earthworker Construction (residential construction, landscaping and maintenance) and Earthworker Smart Energy (improving thermal efficiency and comfort in homes). These cooperatives are generally small, with 10 members or fewer.

    Another cooperative, Redgum Cleaning, closed down in 2023. It was not viable due to staff shortages, increased costs and work cancellations during the pandemic. Paying union rates in a competitive industry also assisted its demise.

    By contrast, the Earthworker Energy Manufacturing Co-operative has found a way to survive in a competitive market.

    Niche or mainstream?

    Australian worker cooperatives ensure manufacturing and services remain locally owned and controlled. Could they expand? It’s possible.

    Capital remains a major issue for Australian worker cooperatives such as Earthworker. Without capital, it’s hard to scale. Government efforts to expand domestic manufacturing often overlook this model.

    The Earthworker network points to one future for Australian worker cooperatives. Despite the failures of the past, Earthworker’s focus on building a network of sustainable businesses rather than a single cooperative is a promising path.

    Gregory Patmore has received funding from the Australian Research Council and the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals.

    – ref. As the Latrobe Valley moves away from coal jobs, could a green worker’s cooperative offer a solution? – https://theconversation.com/as-the-latrobe-valley-moves-away-from-coal-jobs-could-a-green-workers-cooperative-offer-a-solution-245850

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: MEDIA RELEASE: ‘Same job same pay’ could mean hundreds of millions in retrospective liabilities – Fair Work decision

    Source:

    In an extraordinary concession, the Fair Work Commission has acknowledged labour hire firms may face millions of dollars in retrospective liabilities under Labor’s “same job same pay” laws – even leading to workers losing their jobs.

    In its decision of 7 May 2025 (published Monday 12 May) relating to Glencore’s Bulga coal mine in New South Wales, the FWC considered arguments from labour hire firms Skilled and WorkPac that they would be impacted by increases in the retrospective value of annual leave and sick/personal leave entitlements of their employees, should the same job same pay order be made.

    Despite ultimately making the order, the FWC found:

    “… the fact that making a regulated labour hire arrangement order would increase the liabilities of each of Skilled and WorkPac for accrued annual leave and personal leave (which must be paid out in some circumstances), weighs in favour of a conclusion that it would not be fair and reasonable to make the orders sought.”

    Further, in the case of WorkPac:

    “… I accept that many arrangements could become wholly unviable for WorkPac’s business and it would need to consider its options to respond to those challenges, which may include terminating those arrangements which are commercially unsustainable. WorkPac’s employees may be immediately and adversely affected if those arrangements are terminated…”

    And, in the case of Skilled:

    “Skilled has no right to recover this increase in liability from Bulga or anyone else. Because Skilled only earns a small profit margin on the labour hire employees it supplies to the mine, the increased leave liability arising from the making of a regulated labour hire arrangement order would exceed the profit margin earned by (Skilled) under its supply contract with Bulga over the life of that contract.”

    AREEA Chief Executive Steve Knott AM said the decision confirmed long-held concerns that “same job same pay” could mean “hundreds of millions of dollars in retrospective leave liabilities”.

    “In late 2023, AREEA raised concerns with the Albanese Government that its proposed same job same pay laws could unleash retrospective leave liability costs on the mining industry, potentially ranging in the hundreds of millions,” he said.

    “The government paid lip service in response – implementing a partial fix that would apply only in very limited circumstances. This issue needs to be urgently revisited.

    “The FWC has finally been forced to acknowledge the unfair, unreasonable and unsustainable impacts of same job same pay orders on labour hire firms in the mining industry, going so far as to admit contracts may be terminated and employees may lose their jobs.

    “Evidence was accepted that labour hire firms have limited ability to recover unplanned increases in both prospective costs and retrospective leave liabilities, and their ability to commercially service contracts may be put at real risk.

    “Yet, remarkably, such impacts apparently do not weigh heavily enough in the favour of a same job same pay order being “not fair and reasonable” when balanced against labour hire employees and direct hired employees having a pay differential.

    “Retrospective cost increases driven by government policy is a killer for investor certainty and business confidence. How could any firm confidently invest and do business in Australia when such concerns can be cavalierly brushed aside?

    “The Albanese Government said the laws would not impact on firms retrospectively. It should act to ensure this commitment is upheld and protect the sanctity of commercial arrangements lawfully and compliantly entered into under the laws of the land at the time.

    “At stake are thousands of jobs, billions of dollars in investment capital and many billions more in government revenues to fund national programs and infrastructure.”

    Another challenging outcome of the Bulga mine same job same pay decision is that relatively inexperienced labour hire employees will soon be paid at the same rates as their vastly more experienced direct-hired counterparts.

    This outcome was accepted, but also didn’t weigh heavily enough against the making of the order.

    “As a result, labour hire trade assistants with as little as 12 months’ experience will receive pay rises of up to $40,000 per annum, bringing them into parity with experienced heavy machinery operators who have been employed at the mine for more than 10 years,” Mr Knott said.

    “Given the Albanese Government said the laws would not result in unfair pay parity between inexperienced and highly experienced employees, these types of outcomes may play out adversely in the marketplace.”

    MIL OSI News –