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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Salmon and Sea Trout Fishery Statistics updated for the 2024 Season

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Official Statistics publication

    The Chief Statistician has released figures for all Scotland showing that total salmon catch by all methods in 2024 was the sixth lowest, and total sea trout catch the second lowest, since records began in 1952.

    Salmon

    • Reported rod catch of salmon (46,978) is the eighth lowest since records began, and 114% of the previous five-year average. Catches have decreased from a high of 111,405 in 2010 and the 2024 reports are consistent with a general pattern of decline in numbers of wild salmon returning to Scotland. Reported rod days effort for salmon for 2024 (201,498) decreased by 0.7% when compared to 2023 (202,874).
    • In 2024, release rates of salmon captured by rod were the highest on record. Of spring salmon captured by rod, 99% were released; 98% of all rod-caught salmon were released.

    The net and coble fishery reported the second lowest retained catch, and the fixed engine fishery the fourth lowest since records began.

    Fish reported as being of farmed origin represented 0.03% of the total catch.

    Sea Trout

    • Total reported rod catch of sea trout (13,876) is the fourth lowest since records began. Sea trout catches have fluctuated around a general trend of decline since the 1960s.

    In 2024, release rates of sea trout were 94%. This is the highest percentage since records began.

    The net and coble fishery reported the lowest retained catch, and the fixed engine fishery the second lowest, since records began.

    Background

     The Salmon and Sea Trout Fishery Statistics publication for 2024 is based on data collected and collated by Scottish Government’s Marine Directorate. The time series began in 1952. Catch and release data were first recorded in 1994. In 2021, information on released net-caught fish was collected for the first time. Salmon rod days effort information is published from the 2023 season onwards. Data was first recorded in 2019 but sufficient returns were not received until 2023.

    The publication provides a summary of rod and net catch and effort, for the 2024 fishing season. It is based on returns from proprietors, occupiers or agents of salmon and sea trout fisheries throughout Scotland.

    The statistics for the 2024 season are a summary of the data from 1,987 forms returned from 2,152 forms issued (92% return rate). Catches for the previous 10 years have been based on return rates of forms between 93% and 95%. Salmon rod fishing effort was reported on 97% of returned rod forms.

    Collected data for the 2020 and 2021 seasons is impacted by the restrictions in place during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and this will have a bearing on the five-year averages.

    Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland’s Headteachers highlight impact of attainment funding

    Source: Scottish Government

    Over £1 billion invested to support and improve attainment

    Headteachers say the attainment of pupils experiencing poverty has improved, thanks to over £1 billion of direct investment from the Scottish Government.

    The Scottish Government’s flagship policy has provided headteachers with direct additional funding to help support children and young people. 

    Schools have used the extra funding in a variety of different ways. The latest report looking at the impact of Pupil Equity Funding (PEF) found that it has helped schools employ up to 3,000 additional staff to support children and young people’s attainment and wellbeing. This has included extra staff employed to support families, such as income maximisation officers, as well as support for pupil wellbeing from the third sector. The report also highlights how the targeted investment has supported better attendance, attainment, and relationships between schools, families and pupils. 

    Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth visited St Ignatius Primary School in Wishaw to hear directly about how the school is using Pupil Equity Funding. 

    Ms Gilruth said:

    “Pupil Equity Funding has played a crucial role in our mission to ensure that children and young people impacted by poverty are given the opportunity to succeed. Since launching in 2017, we have invested over £1 billion in the programme, with targeted support now reaching a majority of schools across Scotland. 

    “Each school has its own unique challenges when it comes to closing the poverty-related attainment gap, which is why we have put our trust in headteachers to develop solutions which meet the needs of their own pupils. I have been very impressed by the creativity shown by teachers – from supporting imagination in writing, to outdoor educational trips to improve confidence, wellbeing and relationships.

    “The latest survey report indicates the hugely positive impact that this direct investment is making – with Scotland recording its lowest poverty-related attainment gap on record for literacy in primary schools. Pupil Equity Funding is also ensuring that more children and young people impacted by poverty are entering work, training or further study after leaving school. We are also taking further steps to tackle child poverty through education, including through funding early learning and childcare, free school meals and the delivery of free breakfast clubs.”

    Background

    Pupil Equity Funding 2025 Report | Scottish Attainment Challenge | Learning in Scotland | Education Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unearth Hidden Gems with Armagh Guided Walking Tours and Archbishop’s Palace Tour

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    The Ancient Cathedral City of Armagh is undoubtedly one of the most visually stunning and historically intriguing locations on the island of Ireland. From pre-historic landscapes to an unmatched Georgian architecture, modern day Armagh is built against a rich backdrop of antiquity, clearly visible through its iconic buildings and beautiful open spaces.

    One of the best ways to discover the delights of the city, and become immersed in its culture, past and present, is through an official guided walking tour.

    Under the guidance of an experienced tour guide, you can walk through Armagh’s vibrant and varied history as you hear stories and anecdotes about the area, learn about the city’s renowned Georgian architecture and take a leisurely stroll along the distinct cobbled streets as you uncover some of the city’s hidden gems along the way.

    Guided walking tours operate Thursday – Sunday at 2 p.m. from 19 June until 7 September. The meeting point is the main entrance to Armagh County Museum on The Mall. Each tour will last approx. 2 hours, with the tour conducted entirely outdoors.

    Sensible footwear and clothing is highly recommended and please note some uneven, steep or narrow streets will be part of the tour.

    To learn more about the history of the city,  there will also be a guided tour of the Archbishop’s Palace running on two Sundays in June, July, August at 2pm. This tour will provide a glimpse into the Palace building, its history and heritage and an insight into the life of Archbishop Robinson who built it. This tour is suitable for those age 8+.

    Tickets for both the Armagh City Guided Walking Tours and Archbishop’s Palace Tour are priced at £6.00 per person. Tickets must be booked online, and this can be done easily at visitarmagh.com/walkingtours

    For further information please email

    *protected email*

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Best horse in the world’ does double at Badminton

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Writtle-bred Lordships Graffalo becomes just the fifth horse ever to win twice

    Superstar horse Lordships Graffalo, who was bred at ARU Writtle, has won the prestigious Badminton Horse Trials for the second time.
     
    Ridden by Ros Canter, the horse affectionately known as Walter followed up his 2023 victory on the challenging course by sealing victory on the final day of the weekend’s competition in Gloucestershire.
     
    Later, an emotional Canter called Lordships Graffalo “the best event horse in the world”. The 13-year-old Lordships Graffalo becomes only the fifth horse to have won twice at Badminton, and the weekend’s triumph follows up victory at the Burghley Horse Trials in September. 
     
    The bay gelding has also won a European title and an Olympic Gold medal during his glittering career.
     
    ARU Writtle, on Lordship Road, is one of the UK’s leading centres for equine education and performance, housing around 70 horses on campus.  
     
    As well as offering courses at college, undergraduate and postgraduate level, ARU Writtle has a number of indoor and outdoor riding arenas, livery facilities for students’ horses, and an Equine Academy for talented riders.

    “Lordships Graffalo is a remarkable horse and he will always enjoy a lot of support from us at ARU Writtle. Winning twice at Badminton is an incredible achievement and he and the superb Ros join an extremely elite club. Their record is simply incredible, Ros has produced him so beautifully.
     
    “We continue to follow Lordships Graffalo’s career with great pride following the small part ARU Writtle has played in his life. Credit must go to Pennie Wallace, our co-breeder and to Caroline Moore, who was Ros’ trainer who sadly died earlier this spring.”

    Caroline Flanagan, Head of the School of Agriculture, Animal and Environmental Sciences at ARU Writtle

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council awards new contract for road repairs

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    After a successful three-week trial of thermal technology in 2024, Highland Council has appointed Thermal Road Repairs for a two-year patching repair contract worth a seven-figure sum. This will provide an additional resource for repairing surface defects such as potholes, cracking and deteriorating surfacing joints.

    Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said: “After a successful trial last year, I’m delighted that we will be making use of thermal technology moving forward. It offers an efficient way to repair our roads using less material and will allow us to carry out permanent pothole fixes in all seasons.”

    The thermal repair process involves using an infrared heating system to heat existing road material which then becomes malleable and can be reworked with additional material to create a defect-free surface. The use of heat means that the repair is free of cold joints and therefore has no weak points at the edges resulting in a more effective repair that can also be carried out in colder conditions.

    Cllr Gowans continued: “Thermal Road Repairs have a wealth of experience and their technology provides a fast, permanent fix to potholes but with the added benefits of low emissions and minimal waste due to less plant and materials being required. Infrared patching is a low noise and low impact technique with only one vehicle which creates minimal disruption for road users, and it is also a very quick process with approximately one square metre repaired every 5-9 minutes.

    “Investing in our roads is a high priority not only for the Council but also for our communities and I am pleased that this contract will support our local roads teams to improve the condition of our roads faster and more effectively. The contract is part of a £2.1 billion capital investment agreed in our Highland Investment Plan which will help to maintain over 4000 miles of roads and ensure a sustainable approach to investment and contractor procurement. The Highland Investment Plan will provide 20 years of funding for roads and transport, schools, offices and community facilities throughout the Highlands.”

    Works are due to begin in summer 2025.

    14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Water scarcity and Council support for private water supplies users

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Following an unusually dry start to 2025, Scotland has been placed on an “early warning” for water scarcity by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA).

    Considering this warning, Highland Council’s Environmental Health Team is recommending that consumers on private water supplies use water responsibly, to check the water system for any indications of leaks or contamination risks and think about other options if your water supply is potentially in shortage. A property without a Scottish Water mains water connection is considered to have a private water supply. Typically, these supplies are found in rural regions.

    As a preventive public health measure, you should also boil your water before consuming, cooking, and brushing your teeth if your private water supply is untreated or you are currently unable to maintain your water treatment system.

    To help people acquire safe drinking water during this growing period of water scarcity, Highland Council, in collaboration with Scottish Water and the Scottish Government, has announced the establishment of an Emergency Bottled Water Scheme.  As part of the scheme, the Council may provide consumers of domestic properties who are eligible, a temporary supply of free bottled water. Commercial buildings, farms, equestrian facilities, and other livestock are not included in the scheme however SEPA may be able to offer support for farmers.

    For support or advice regarding your private water supply, please phone the Environmental Health team on 01349 886606 or email envhealth@highland.gov.uk.

    Patricia Sheldon, Highland Council’s Senior Environmental Health Officer said: “It’s very reassuring that with the help of the Scottish Government, the Council can provide bottled water to support our communities and individuals who are experiencing water scarcity problems with their domestic private water supplies.

    “We have recently received a number of calls from vulnerable persons and families concerned about their water supplies. We should all strive to use water responsibly, especially if you get your water from a private water source. To address short-term solutions to their water consumption demands and to consider longer-term solutions to improve the supply, I would encourage anyone who has concerns about their private water supply to contact us. The Council is helping where we can.”

    Further information:

    Scottish Government – Private Water Supplies

    Drinking Water Quality Inspector – Private Water Supply Information

    SEPA – Water Scarcity 

    Scottish Water – Water Saving Advice

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: England athletics announces new partnership with launch event at Coventry school

    Source: City of Coventry

    England Athletics, the development body for running and athletics in the England, as well as its official charity partner, the Personal Best Foundation has announced a new partnership with Citroën.

    The partnership comes on the back of research by Citroën to parents that found on average, British children spend 4.75 hours a week exercising, while the Chief Medical Officers recommend at least 60 minutes every day.

    The partnership was announced at Sowe Valley Primary school, Coventry with Team GB Paralympian and Personal Best Foundation Ambassador, Hannah Cockroft CBE, where pupils took part in a morning of sports and activities with the organisations.

    Cllr Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “This event was a wonderful example of what happens when education and sport come together to inspire young people. Giving every child, regardless of background or ability, the opportunity to be active, confident and included is at the heart of what we aim for in Coventry’s schools. It’s especially meaningful to see inclusive sport embedded in learning and I’m proud that our city is leading the way with programmes like this.”

    Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport, said: “It was fantastic to see the energy and excitement at Sowe Valley Primary School as children took part in inclusive athletics led by Hannah Cockroft. Initiatives like this are exactly what we need to tackle inactivity and the health inequalities that affect so many of our communities. Encouraging active lifestyles from an early age is key to improving long-term physical and mental health across Coventry and this partnership is a powerful step in the right direction.”

    England Athletics’ purpose is to inspire individuals of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to take up running and athletics, fulfil their potential and develop a lifelong love of the sport.

    According to Sport England’s annual Active Lives survey 2023/24, only 47% of children are meeting the UK’s Chief Medical Officer’s recommended daily activity levels**, with children from low-income families and underserved communities the least likely to be active.

    According to Citroen’s own research, it found that a lack of time and interest were cited by over a third of parents as the main barriers to getting their children to exercise. Around one in eight toddlers and primary school-aged children in England are categorised as obese.

    In year 6, the prevalence of obesity alone in children is 22.7% and for those living in the most deprived areas this increases to 30.2%.

    The UK has some of the poorest child mental health outcomes globally, with the cost of living crisis further limiting opportunities for physical activity. Inequality and poverty put the opportunity for organised exercise and activity beyond the reach of around 4 million children and young people across the UK.

    The partnership between Citroën, England Athletics and Personal Best Foundation will help to change this, as initially 15 primary schools – prioritising those with the greatest need and children most at risk of inactivity – in Coventry, Warwickshire and Ellesmere Port, close to Citroen Headquarters, will benefit from free weekly after-school athletics programmes. In addition, free training for the teachers in the schools will allow the programme to be continued and ensure that running, jumping and throwing have a place in the curriculum.

    The partnership will also support young, up and coming athletes in England through England Athletics’ National and Age group championships and its Talent Pathway Programme, which aims to help gifted young athletes progress to be the international athletics stars of the future.

    England Athletics, Chief Executive Officer, Chris Jones, said: “We are proud to welcome Citroën into the England Athletics family. This partnership supports our shared commitment to sustainability and making athletics more accessible for young people. Through our Personal Best Foundation, Citroën’s support will help young people in schools across England experience athletics and will open the doors of opportunity for some of the most disadvantaged children and young people in England.

    “Citroën’s backing of our national events and talent programmes – supported by Citroën’s electric vehicles – aligns with our drive for a more sustainable future and our approach to encourage our network of athletes and clubs to adopt more sustainable practices.”

    Chris Theobold, Sales and Operations Director, Citroën UK, added: “We’re proud that our partnership with England Athletics will give young people access to sport and exercise, help improve young people’s lives and offer support to the next generation of talent.

    “The statistics on childhood inactivity and health is very concerning and we are very happy to be able to make running, jumping and throwing more accessible, just as we are making electric vehicles accessible to all. In partnering with England Athletics and its official charity, we believe we can help make a difference and give school children in some of the country’s less fortunate areas the chance to enjoy the benefits of athletics, be active and have fun. Whilst also supporting elite talent on the pathway to success.”

    Hannah Cockroft CBE, Personal Best Foundation Ambassador and England Athletics Sustainability Ambassador, said: “It’s fantastic to be part of this exciting new partnership between England Athletics, the Personal Best Foundation, and Citroën. It’s a privilege to meet the school children today and see first-hand how powerful sport can be in changing lives and helping young people discover what they are truly capable of.

    “I passionately believe that every young person should have the access and the opportunities to experience the physical and mental benefits of sport irrespective of their background or personal circumstances. It’s also great to see a partnership with a real commitment to sustainability, promoting a healthier, more active, and more responsible future.”

    You can find out more about the partnership and England Athletics at englandalthetics.org.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-EU summit ‘should be the start, and not the end of strengthening ties with Europe’ – Plaid Cymru

    Source: Party of Wales

    Rejoining the Single Market and Customs Union in Wales’ economic interests –  Llinos Medi MP

    Plaid Cymru’s Business and Trade Spokesperson, Llinos Medi MP has urged the UK Government to “take action” to fix the UK’s damaged relationship with Europe.

     

    Ahead of next week’s EU-UK summit, the MP for Ynys Môn said that the people of Wales have been “let down” by those who promised that Brexit would lead to a brighter future and has instead caused “huge damage” to the communities and economy of Wales.

     

    By 2025, Brexit has cost the Welsh economy up to £4 billion and has reduced the value of Welsh exports by up to £1.1 billion.

     

    In a speech in the House of Commons on Tuesday 13 May, Ms Medi called on the UK Government to establish a Youth Mobility Scheme and join Erasmus+ to allow young people to study and work abroad.

     

    Llinos Medi MP also said that the UK should commit to the long-term goal of joining the Single Market and Customs Union, claiming that it would help the UK Government achieve its mission of growing the economy.

     

     

    Speaking in the House of Commons, Llinos Medi MP said:

    “The hard Brexit pursued by the previous UK Government has cost the Welsh economy up to £4 billion; it has reduced the value of Welsh exports by up to £1.1 billion, and post-Brexit trade deals such as with New Zealand and Australia have been unfavourable for Welsh agriculture and manufacturing.

    “Since Brexit, Wales has lost out on £1 billion in European structural and rural development funding which could have been used to support our deprived communities. 

    “This was despite the promise made by the then Conservative UK Government in 2019 to “at a minimum match the size” of former EU funding in Wales and the other nations of the UK.”

     

     

    Llinos Medi MP continued:

    “The Government should create Youth Mobility Scheme and join Erasmus+ so that our young people can study and work abroad, creating new skills and opportunities for the next generation. We also need to see cooperation on the environment, the arts and on defence.

    “I hope next week’s summit will be the start, and not the end of strengthening our ties to Europe. Any plan needs clear aims and goals – Plaid Cymru believes the goal should be to eventually join the Single Market and Customs Union.

    “This Government has said its first mission is to grow the economy. I can see no better opportunity to improve growth by committing the UK and Wales to the long-term goal of joining the Single Market and Customs Union.

    “Wales has suffered badly by those who championed the false promises of Brexit, this Government must now take action to fix our damaged relationship with Europe to protect the Welsh economy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Students must not be abandoned by Housing Bill

    Source: Scottish Greens

    14 May 2025 Housing

    Students in Scotland need afforable housing

    More in Housing

    The Scottish Government will be abandoning students to the ‘wild west’ of the student accommodation market if they do not include support for students in the Housing (Scotland) Bill, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.

    During a committee meeting yesterday, Shirley-Anne Somerville, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, confirmed that the Scottish Government has no intention to include the purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) sector in the Housing Bill.

    This follows MSPs voting to ensure student accommodation could be covered by rent control regulations only last week, with calls supported by MSPs from the Scottish Greens, Conservatives, and Labour.

    Ms Chapman said: 

    “I’m disappointed and angry that the Scottish Government has decided to leave students out in the cold on the Housing Bill. Only last year they publicly committed to legislate on student accommodation, but now seem to be abandoning their commitments to students all together. [1]

    “The student accommodation market is currently an unregulated wild west, and we should not allow this to continue. PBSA providers, companies who often provide just the bare minimum to students, often snatch up potential sites that should be used for family homes and community facilities too. We desperately need regulation of this sector.

    “We’ve been listening to students and housing campaigners and they’ve been clear: the market is broken. Students across Scotland are paying on average over 80% of their loan on poor quality and insecure PBSA housing, because the Scottish Government has yet to engage with stakeholders on alternative solutions. [2]

    “I hope that the Cabinet Secretary reconsiders her statement and helps us to fight for students in this housing bill. We have had too many years of an unregulated, unsustainable, and unaffordable housing market in Scotland. It’s time we make it fair and affordable for everyone.”

    Notes:
    [1] In February 2024, the Scottish Government commit in the chamber to take forward recommendations from the PBSA Review Group, which had significant student input, which is shown here: Written question and answer: S6W-25244 | Scottish Parliament Website

    [2] The statistic on PBSA cost is sourced from this NUS research showing the state of student housing: Towards a Student Housing Strategy for Scotland – NUS Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Glasgow Pride: A statement from Patrick Harvie MSP 

    Source: Scottish Greens

    14 May 2025 LGBTQ+

    Mr Harvie responds to the suspension of political parties at Pride.

    More in LGBTQ+

    Following the announcement by Glasgow’s Pride that all political parties and related groups are currently suspended from attending the event, Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP issued a response.

    The Glasgow event organisers are taking the same action as many of their counterparts across England, who earlier this week suspended political parties from participating in Pride events this year. 

    Event organisers say this has stemmed from a lack of action and delay of comment from politicians following the UK Supreme Court decision, with organisers concerned about the impact on LGBTQIA+ community members. 

    Any elected officials who wish to attend must do so as individuals on behalf of local communities, not on behalf of the party they represent. 

    Green MSP for Glasgow, Mr Harvie said:

    “As both a politician and someone who has been out since before my first election and has never shied away from standing up to prejudice, I feel ashamed of how politics in this country is letting down my own community.

    “I am of course disappointed at this decision, but the betrayal of our human rights by most political parties is the cause of this horrendous situation, and I fully respect the right of Pride organisers to make this decision.

    “Greens have stood solid against the current wave of prejudice, and will continue to do so. But it is now abundantly clear that the community has lost trust in political parties more broadly, and I urge those in leadership positions across the spectrum, and members of all parties who do support LGBTQ+ people’s human rights, to put their house in order.

    “Even at the lowest point of the political weaponization of homophobia in the 80s and 90s, Pride events never felt the need to take this step. But even in those worst of times, the Government wasn’t actually imposing segregation of public spaces as is happening now to trans people. The culture war against us needs to end.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call for SNP to provide urgent update on support for Israel’s arms dealers

    Source: Scottish Greens

    14 May 2025 Peace

    More in Peace

    The SNP must urgently update parliament on what it is doing to end Scottish Government support for companies arming and supporting Israel, say the Scottish Greens.

    The Scottish Government has rightly opposed the bombing and collective punishment of Gaza. Despite this, since the war began, it has given over £1 million to companies that have armed Israel via its business unit, Scottish Enterprise.

    It has been three months since the Scottish Government committed to review the human rights checks which are applied by public bodies to grant applicants, following a motion brought by the Scottish Greens.

    Yet, so far, no substantive updates have been provided, and the terms of the review have yet to be published.

    The legality of UK arms exports to Israel is being considered this week by the High Court in London, following a legal challenge by campaigners.

    Scottish Green Co-leader Lorna Slater said: 

    “The genocide in Gaza is getting worse with every passing day. The scale of the suffering is horrific.

    “The destruction is only possible because of the companies and governments who have armed and supported the assault.

    “The Scottish Government talks a lot about human rights, but it has continued to pour money into the companies who are making a killing from the conflict.

    “It is three months since the Deputy First Minister committed to reviewing the grants given by the Scottish Government but there have been no details.

    “With UK arms exports in court this week, it is long past time for them to set out the terms of the review and to at least provide a timeline and explain what advice they have taken from human rights experts.

    “Any human rights policy worthy of the name would have to conclude that it is wrong to be funding companies who are profiting from war crimes and killing, so why are they taking so long?

    “Scotland may not have the power to halt UK complicity in Israel’s attacks on Gaza, but we can lead by example. The message should be clear, not another penny for Israel’s arms dealers.”

    Text of letter from Lorna Slater to DFM Kate Forbes

    Dear DFM Forbes

    Thank you for your response dated 17th March 2025 regarding the Scottish Enterprise Funding for Arms Companies.

    However, it is three months since the vote and the Scottish Government is yet to publish the terms of the review or any timeline.

    With Israeli forces planning a full occupation of Palestine, the humanitarian crisis is becoming even more grave and severe. This development could have significant implications for the Palestinians and the overall stability of the region.

    This week the High Court in London is considering the legality of UK arms exports to Israel, including weapons that have been made by companies who have received grants from Scottish Enterprise.

    Given the gravity of the situation, I would like to inquire about what actions the Scottish Government is taking in response to these reports, when this review will take place, who will be carrying it out and which human rights experts will be consulted in its production.

    I look forward to your response and to learning more about the actions being taken to address this pressing issue.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Standing Up to Divisive Politics

    Source: Liberal Democrats UK

    They closed down safe and legal routes for refugees, putting more power in the hands of traffickers. They allowed the asylum backlog to balloon on their watch, trapping asylum seekers in limbo for months or even years. And they threatened the fundamental right to asylum with their cruel Illegal Migration Act and failed Rwanda scheme.

    Now, the Labour government has a real opportunity to fix this mess and start building a more compassionate, effective system. But sadly, they have so far failed to bring forward the positive change that people deserve.

    I’m deeply proud of our party’s history of standing up for people fleeing war and persecution in particular. From getting new visas introduced for Hong Kongers coming to the UK, to ending the previous Labour Government’s practice of detaining children for immigration purposes, Liberal Democrats have long been at the forefront of securing change.

    I’m determined that we continue in this proud tradition – which is why I’ve been making these same arguments as the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill passed through Parliament.

    First and foremost, that means pushing for more safe and legal routes for refugees. Whether that’s establishing new humanitarian travel permits, or continuing Lib Dem peer Sally Hamwee’s tireless efforts to extend family reunion rights. This will be crucial for taking power out of the hands of the criminal trafficking gangs responsible for dangerous crossings in the Channel.

    At the same time, we need an asylum system that makes decisions fairly and swiftly – which is why we’ve been calling to tackle the backlog by establishing a dedicated unit to improve the speed and quality of asylum decision-making.

    And we will keep pushing Labour to take the action that’s needed. If they really cared about improving integration, they would have backed our amendment this week that would have scrapped the ban on asylum seekers working. But our party won’t give up, and will now take this fight to the House of Lords.

    In the face of divisive and destructive politics, it is more important than ever that the Liberal Democrats continue to offer a liberal alternative. One that is kind and compassionate – standing up for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, and ensuring all migrants are treated with dignity and respect like they deserve.

    I am determined to do everything in my power to ensure this is the case.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Swindon Borough Council fails to meet RSH’s consumer standards

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Swindon Borough Council fails to meet RSH’s consumer standards

    The Regulator of Social Housing has today issued five new regulatory judgements.

    Swindon Borough Council has failed to meet the outcomes in the consumer standards and has been given a C3 grading from the Regulator of Social Housing, as part of a range of regulatory judgements published today. 

    An inspection was brought forward after the council made a self-referral over health and safety issues and its repairs service.  

    RSH’s inspection found that Swindon Borough Council: 

    • Was unable to report accurately on the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 

    • Was unable to track or monitor faults from electrical safety checks. 

    • Has more than 800 overdue fire safety actions, the majority of which were overdue by more than a year.  

    • Was not actively tracking, monitoring, or reporting open damp and mould cases, though there was evidence that reports are followed up effectively. 

    • Was unable to demonstrate how tenants’ views have been considered in its decision making, with no evidence of actively encouraging participation from under-represented groups. 

    Swindon Borough Council has demonstrated that it understands the issues and is taking action towards rectifying the failures identified. 

    RSH is continuing to engage with the landlord to make sure the necessary improvements are made. 

    Separately, three housing associations – Housing 21, Torus62 and Sovereign Network – received C2/G1 gradings following inspections. This means that they meet the governance requirements but there are some weaknesses in their delivery of the outcomes of the consumer standards and improvement is needed. 

    All three housing associations meet the viability requirements with Housing 21 and Torus62 retaining V1 gradings, and Sovereign Network Group retaining its V2 grading.  

    While both V1 and V2 landlords meets the viability requirements and have the financial capacity to deal with a reasonable range of adverse scenarios, V2 landlords need to manage material risks to ensure continued compliance.  

    RSH also published interim G1/V1 gradings for Bromford Flagship, after Flagship Housing Group became a subsidiary of Bromford Housing Group in February this year.  

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

    “We take health and safety very seriously and expect all landlords to make sure tenants are not at risk in their homes.  

    “We also want to see better data management from landlords, to demonstrate they understand their homes and tenants. Self-referrals are a good indicator that a landlord not only understands our requirements, but that they are taking accountability.  

    “Lastly, our scrutiny of housing associations’ governance and viability remains vital for delivering more and better homes for tenants.” 

    Notes to Editors 

    Provider Consumer grade Governance grade Viability grade Process
    Bromford Flagship Limited Not assessed yet G1 (Interim Grading) V1 (Interim Grading) Merger Activity
    Housing 21 C2 G1 V1 Inspection
    Torus62 Limited C2 G1 V1 Inspection
    Sovereign Network Group C2 G1 V2 Inspection
    Swindon Borough Council C3 – – Inspection

    1. RSH regulates housing associations and other private registered providers against its full set of standards. Councils are regulated against the consumer and rent standards only. 

    2. More information about RSH’s responsive engagement and programmed inspections is also available on its website.  is also available on its website.   

    3. RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.   

    4. RSH’s gradings are listed below. More information is available on its website.  Governance 

    Grading Description
    G1 Our judgement is that the landlord meets our governance requirements.
    G2 Our judgement is that the landlord meets our governance requirements but needs to improve some aspects of its governance arrangements to support continued compliance.
    G3 Our judgement is that the landlord does not meet our governance requirements. There are issues of serious regulatory concern and in agreement with us the landlord is working to improve its position.
    G4 Our judgement is that the landlord does not meet our governance requirements. There are issues of serious regulatory concern, and the landlord is subject to regulatory intervention or enforcement action.

    Viability 

    Grading Description
    V1 Our judgement is that the landlord meets our viability requirements and has the financial capacity to deal with a wide range of adverse scenarios.
    V2 Our judgement is that the landlord meets our viability requirements. It has the financial capacity to deal with a reasonable range of adverse scenarios but needs to manage material risks to ensure continued compliance.
    V3 Our judgement is that the landlord does not meet our viability requirements. There are issues of serious regulatory concern and in agreement with us the landlord is working to improve its position.
    V4 Our judgement is that the landlord does not meet our viability requirements. There are issues of serious regulatory concern, and the landlord is subject to regulatory intervention or enforcement action.

    Consumer 

    Grading Description
    C1 Our judgement is that overall the landlord is delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards. The landlord has demonstrated that it identifies when issues occur and puts plans in place to remedy and minimise recurrence.
    C2 Our judgement is that there are some weaknesses in the landlord delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards and improvement is needed.
    C3 Our judgement is that there are serious failings in the landlord delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards and significant improvement is needed.
    C4 Our judgement is that there are very serious failings in the landlord delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards. The landlord must make fundamental changes so that improved outcomes are delivered.
    1. For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leader announces new Cabinet for 2025/26

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 14 May 2025

    Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, has announced her Cabinet for 2025/26.

    Councillor Louise Upton is not on the Cabinet in 2025/26 because she will be serving as the Lord Mayor of Oxford.

    The Cabinet has subsequently been reduced from nine members to eight.

    The Cabinet Members are:

    • Councillor Susan Brown, Leader, and Cabinet Member for Partnership Working and Inclusive Economic Growth
    • Councillor Ed Turner, Deputy Leader (Statutory), and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management
    • Councillor Anna Railton, Deputy Leader, and Cabinet Member for a Zero Carbon Oxford
    • Councillor Lubna Arshad, Cabinet Member for a Safer Oxford
    • Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies
    • Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet member for Planning and Culture
    • Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford and Small Business Champion
    • Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities

    The responsibilities of each Cabinet Member are:

    • Councillor Susan Brown
      • Council strategy and policy delivery
      • Democratic Services and Member Support
      • Partnerships and outside bodies including
      • District Councils Network (Labour Vice Chair)
      • Fast Growth Cities (Chair)
      • Local Government General Assembly member
      • Oxford Growth Commission
      • Oxford Strategic Partnership
    • Councillor Ed Turner
      • Deputise for Leader as required
      • Financial and treasury strategy
      • Financial support for local residents and businesses
      • Links with our twin cities
      • Property and asset management and maintenance
    • Councillor Anna Railton
      • Deputise for Leader as required
      • Air Quality
      • Biodiversity delivery including verge and tree planting
      • Carbon reduction, heat decarbonisation and retrofitting
      • Delivery of Zero Carbon Oxford City Council by 2030
      • Delivery of the outcomes of the Oxford Citizens Assembly on Climate Change
      • Parks, Allotments, Cemeteries and Open Spaces
      • Renewable energy and energy planning
      • Sustainability
      • Taxi Licensing
      • Transport liaison with Oxfordshire County Council and Highways England and other providers
    • Councillor Lubna Arshad
      • Community safety and tackling antisocial behaviour
      • Safeguarding Adults and Children
      • Working with Thames Valley Police to tackle anti-social behaviour, child sexual exploitation, county lines, drug dealing, domestic abuse, knife crime, modern slavery, violence against women and girls and crime generally
    • Councillor Nigel Chapman
      • Business Improvement
      • Customer Service
      • Oxford Direct Services as contractor
      • OX Place as a company
      • Service delivery
      • Street scene, public conveniences
      • Tree management
      • Waste and recycling
    • Councillor Alex Hollingsworth
      • Car Parking Policy
      • City Centre Action Plan delivery
      • Culture, cultural partnerships and events (including St Giles Fair, Cowley Road Carnival etc.)
      • Development and Building Control
      • Infrastructure planning
      • Licensing Policy
      • Local Plan and planning policies including biodiversity
      • Spatial Planning and conservation
      • Major projects delivery
      • Museum of Oxford
      • Promotion of a thriving music and night-time economy
      • Tourism
    • Councillor Chewe Munkonge
      • Addressing health inequalities and public health promotion
      • Children and young people policies and school liaison
      • Leisure partnership and contract management
      • Local market promotions
      • Promotion of Oxford Living Wage
      • Small Business Champion
      • Sport and physical activity
    • Councillor Linda Smith
      • Affordable housing delivery
      • Community centres, pavilions and grants
      • Estate regeneration projects
      • Homelessness services including prevention
      • Housing allocations and strategy
      • Regulation of the Private Rented Sector
      • Tenancy management and sustainment
      • Tenant and Resident involvement

    The new Cabinet will be announced at the Annual Council Meeting tomorrow (15 May).

    “The Cabinet will continue our work focused on our key priorities: tackling inequality and the high cost of living in Oxford, delivering more affordable homes, making Oxford a great place to live and preparing our city for climate change. In order to achieve this, we will continue to provide stable and prudent council finances and good quality services.

    “We want to make sure that Oxford’s strong and growing economy is delivering for all of Oxford’s citizens. As a cabinet we are committed to continuing to work with Oxford’s diverse communities and businesses to support their needs. Oxford is a great place to live, work and do business and we want everyone to feel proud of their neighbourhood. That is what we are striving to achieve.”

    Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public International Law panels recruitment open

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Public International Law panels recruitment open

    Applications close on Wednesday 18 June

    The Public International Law panels (PIL) panels were created in 2014 and supplement the work of the Attorney General’s existing panels of civil counsel.

    Members of the panels advise the government on matters of public international law and undertake cases involving public international law in international courts and in the courts of the UK. The PIL panels are divided into A, B and C panels based on experience in the practical application of international law, whether as an adviser or advocate, or a mix of both. Further information is available: PIL information sheet 2025 (MS Word Document, 93.8 KB)

    The five-week application window is now open and will close at midday on Wednesday 18 June. Appointments will commence on 1 January 2026 for a 5 year term.

    This exciting opportunity is open to practitioners and academics with relevant experience in the practical application of international law and who are qualified in a UK jurisdiction. All panellists are expected to understand and be able to advise on fundamental precepts of international law, including treaties, customary law and other sources and state responsibility. Applications are welcomed from those with experience in specific areas of international law.

    Application process

    Contact the Panel Counsel Secretariat for an application pack, which includes referee templates, an equality and diversity monitoring form and panel specific criteria. Make sure to include whether you are applying for the A, B or C panel.

    Those applying to the A panel will be expected to supply 5 references and those applying to the B and C panels will be expected to supply 3 references.

    Join the virtual information evening on  Tuesday 20 May, 5pm to 6pm. Details of this session and how to register: PIL event flyer (MS Word Document, 444 KB)

    If you have any queries, please contact the Panel Counsel Secretariat.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Find out about opportunities as Adult Education hosts Jobs Fair

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It will take place at the Foyer Building, Old Hall Street WV1 3AU from 10am to 2pm.

    Local recruitment agencies, care providers and the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Supported Employment Team will be among those showcasing opportunities currently available in the city.

    Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “Whether you’re a professional, recent graduate, or just looking for new options, the Jobs Fair is the perfect place to see what is available in the local job market.”

    Entry is free and jobseekers are reminded to bring an up to date CV.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: E-scooter trial extension to be considered at next week’s Council meeting

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Council will next week consider if the share hire e-scooter trial in Greater Bendigo should be extended for another 12 months.

    The City of Greater Bendigo appointed Beam Mobility (Beam) following a public Request for Quote process to operate the trial until May 23, 2025 at no cost to the City.

    The trial was developed in consultation with the City to assess the success of shared hire e-scooters as an alternative mode of transport for residents and visitors.

    Beam has been operating a small trial area in urban Bendigo to provide better links between precincts and encourage a shift away from cars for shorter trips.

    The purple e-scooters are only available for hire between 5am and 11pm, 7 days a week. The maximum speed limit is set at 20km/h, and 15km/h in some busy areas, and e-scooters are only allowed to ride on roads, bicycle lanes, and shared cycle paths in line with Victorian road rules.

    It is illegal to ride e-scooters on footpaths and significant penalties apply. The Victorian Police enforce fines.

    Manager Strategic Planning Anthony Petherbridge thanked community members and external stakeholders who provided valuable feedback about the trial.

    “824 people contributed to our Let’s Talk Greater Bendigo survey and the results indicated mixed sentiment from the community with 66.88% expressing some level of dissatisfaction with the trial, 17.9 per cent offered solutions to improve the trial, 8.5 percent found it to be good and 6.6 per cent said it was excellent,” Mr Petherbridge said.

    “The City also collaborated with internal and external stakeholder groups throughout the trial to improve it. They support the proposal for a trial extension with further recommendations in place. This includes expanding the area to include Golden Square, Long Gully and White Hills to align with shared walking/cycling networks. They also want to see improved operator patrols and a faster response to incidents if the trial extends.

    “The trial demonstrated that e-scooters continue to have potential as an alternative transport option that is sustainable. However, community and stakeholder feedback has informed a set of recommendations.

    “A 12-month trial extension in an expanded urban Bendigo is recommended with improved trial requirements. This would allow the share hire scheme’s full potential to be assessed over a larger area and incorporate important lessons from the initial trial. This phase may also explore integrating e-bikes and technological improvements for e-scooters to curb illegal footpath riding.”

    The feedback collected through the survey and insights from key stakeholders has contributed to the overall evaluation of the trial in a Council report. It will be presented at the next Council meeting at The Capital on Monday May 19. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government-built “Humphrey” AI tool reviews responses to consultation for first time, in bid to save millions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Government-built “Humphrey” AI tool reviews responses to consultation for first time, in bid to save millions

    A government-developed AI tool has been used for the first time to review public responses to a consultation – helping save time and improve efficiency.

    • AI technology, ‘Consult’, built by the UK government as part of the Humphrey suite has been used to speed up analysis of what the public and experts told the Scottish Government in a recent consultation
    • Nearly identical results were found by AI after expert review, ranking themes that were most important for policymakers to take on board
    • While currently in trial with more development taking place, AI will analyse other consultations responses in a bid to save officials from 75,000 days of manual analysis every year, which costs £20m in staffing costs, helping to create a more agile, effective state refocused on delivering Plan for Change

    A new AI tool has summarised what the public have told the government in response to a consultation for the first time – providing nearly identical results to officials.

    The tool, called ‘Consult’, was first used on a live consultation by the Scottish Government when it was seeking views on how to regulate non-surgical cosmetic procedures – like lip fillers and laser hair removal – as use of the treatments has risen.

    The tool now set to be used across departments in a bid to cut down the millions of pounds spent on the current process, which often includes outsourcing analysis to expensive contractors – helping to build a productive and agile state to deliver the Plan for Change.

    Reviewing comments from over 2,000 consultation responses using generative AI, Consult identified key themes that feedback fell into across each of six qualitative questions. These themes were checked and refined by experts in the Scottish Government, the AI tool then sorted individual responses into themes and gave officials more time to delve into the detail and evaluate the policy implications of feedback received.

    As this was the first time Consult was used on a live consultation, experts at the Scottish Government manually reviewed every response too. Identifying what an individual response is saying, and putting it in a ‘theme’ is subjective, humans don’t always agree. When we compare Consult to the human reviewer, we see they agree the majority of the time – with differences in view having a negligible impact on how themes were ranked overall.

    ‘Consult’ is part of ‘Humphrey’, a bundle of AI tools designed to speed up the work of civil servants and cut back time spent on admin, and money spent on contractors. It forms part of the government’s plan to make better use of technology across public services, in a bid to target the £45 billion in productivity savings that it offers while creating a more agile state that can more effectively deliver the Plan for Change.

    Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    No one should be wasting time on something AI can do quicker and better, let alone wasting millions of taxpayer pounds on outsourcing such work to contractors.

    After demonstrating such promising results, Humphrey will help us cut the costs of governing and make it easier to collect and comprehensively review what experts and the public are telling us on a range of crucial issues.

    The Scottish Government has taken a bold first step. Very soon, I’ll be using Consult, within Humphrey, in my own department and others in Whitehall will be using it too – speeding up our work to deliver the Plan for Change.

    The Scottish Government’s Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said:

    Using the tool was very beneficial in helping the Scottish Government understand more quickly what people wanted us to hear and our respondents’ range of views. Officials were reassured through the process that the AI was doing a good job, supporting us to undertake the analysis that will inform our next steps.

    Using this tool has allowed the Scottish Government to move more quickly to a focus on the policy questions and dive into the detail of the evidence we’ve been presented with, while remaining confident that we have heard the strong views expressed by respondents.

    While these early results are promising, ‘Consult’ is currently in trial. More evaluation covering the accuracy and efficiency of the tool will take place to ensure it’s working properly ahead of final rollout decisions. 

    Across the 500 consultations the government runs annually, the tool could help save officials from around 75,000 days of analysis every year, which costs the government £20 million in staffing costs.

    In doing this, the technology will help create a more agile state that can more easily respond to new challenges and effectively deliver the Plan for Change.

    Officials who worked with Consult from the Scottish Government on this first live test commented that they were “pleasantly surprised” that AI analysis provided a “useful starting point” in its initial analysis, with others noting that it ultimately “saved [them] a heck of a lot of time” and allowed them to “get to the analysis and draw out what’s needed next”.

    They also added that the use of Consult “takes away the bias and makes it more consistent”, by removing opportunities for individual analysts to “project their own preconceived ideas”.

    With some consultations receiving tens or hundreds of thousands of responses, and given the strong levels of accuracy demonstrated in early tests, Consult will soon be used on major consultations without officials manually reviewing every response individually.

    That said, Consult has been designed to keep the experts in the loop throughout. Officials will always review the themes and how responses are sorted into them through an interactive dashboard that will allow them to filter and search for insights.

    Notes to editors

    The response to the Scottish Government consultation will be published before the end of June. The consultation will inform the content of a Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Bill that was announced on 6 May.

    The first live evaluation of Consult shows that it secured an F1 score (a common measure of alignment for AI tools) of 0.76, widely considered ‘good’ when evaluating the performance of AI tools.

    The full evaluation, published today, can be found here. We expect further testing and evaluation of the tool to happen in coming months, ahead of any decisions about wider rollout.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman reported after road rage crash at Nailsworth

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A driver has lost her licence after a road rage crash on Main North Road, Nailsworth on Monday night.

    Just before 10pm on Monday 12 May, police and emergency services were called to Main North Road, Nailsworth after a silver sedan crashed into and ruptured a fire hydrant.

    Footage obtained from an eyewitness captured the collision.  The silver sedan also crashed into the side of a blue sedan, which did not stop at the scene, before colliding with the fire hydrant.

    The blue sedan continued south on Main North Road.

    Following investigations, a 21-year-old Para Hills woman, who was the driver of the silver sedan, was reported for driving in a manner dangerous to the public and issued with a 12-month instant loss of licence.  She will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

    Anyone with information about the blue sedan or its driver is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: FirstCash to Acquire H&T Group, the Leading Operator of Pawnshops in the United Kingdom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Marks FirstCash’s strategic entry into the UK market through an established, industry-leading brand;
    Provides further geographic diversification and unlocks additional growth opportunities;
    Expected to be meaningfully accretive to EBITDA and EPS;
    Strengthens FirstCash’s position as a global leader in pawn operations

    FORT WORTH, Texas, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FirstCash Holdings, Inc. (“FirstCash” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: FCFS), a leading international operator of over 3,000 retail pawn stores in the U.S. and Latin America, today announced that it has reached agreement on the terms of a final* recommended cash acquisition of H&T Group plc (“H&T”), the leading operator of pawn stores in the United Kingdom. Under the terms of the agreement, FirstCash (through a newly incorporated wholly-owned U.K. subsidiary, Chess Bidco Limited) will pay cash consideration of 650 pence for each share of H&T stock. In addition, H&T shareholders will receive a final dividend of 11 pence for each H&T share to be paid on June 27, 2025. The total equity value, including cash consideration for the shares and the final cash dividend, is approximately £297 million or $394 million USD based on the exchange rate as of the close of business on May 13, 2025.

    The acquisition of H&T expands FirstCash’s geographic footprint into a new and attractive market, further providing the Company with enhanced scale, operating efficiencies and long-term growth opportunities. This combination of FirstCash and H&T will create the largest publicly traded pawn platform in the United States, Latin America and the United Kingdom.

    Mr. Rick Wessel, Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of the Board of FirstCash, commented, “We are excited to add H&T, the leading pawn operator in the United Kingdom, as part of FirstCash’s global platform. This strategic transaction provides an entry into a significant new market which we believe will unlock additional growth opportunities for the Company. We have great confidence in H&T’s continued success given their proven track record coupled with their experienced management and operations teams. FirstCash looks forward to working together to drive long-term value for all of our customers, employees, and shareholders.”

    Mr. Chris Gillespie, Chief Executive Officer of H&T, commented, “The acquisition has a compelling strategic rationale, bringing together two businesses with complementary offerings focused on the values and benefits of their customers. I am extremely proud of H&T, we have built a fantastic team and highly attractive business, and FirstCash’s offer is a clear acknowledgment of this. It’s clear to us that FirstCash has full appreciation of our capabilities, the dedication of our employees, commitment to the customer and with their backing and support, I am confident H&T will have an extremely bright future.”

    * The financial terms of the acquisition are final and will not be increased or improved, except that Chess Bidco Limited reserves the right to increase the amount of the cash consideration payable by it (i) if there is an announcement on or after the date of this announcement of a possible offer or a firm intention to make an offer for H&T by a third party or (ii) with the consent of the UK’s Panel on Takeovers and Mergers (which will be granted only in wholly exceptional circumstances).

    Compelling Strategic and Financial Benefits

    • Establishes FirstCash as the leading operator of pawn stores in the UK: H&T represents a highly complementary strategic fit as the UK’s largest pawnbroker, operating with a network of 285 stores.
    • Expands FirstCash’s Geographic Reach: Entry into the UK pawn market represents another major step in FirstCash’s international growth strategy, adding further geographic diversification to the Company’s existing U.S. and Latin American pawn operations.
    • Unlocks Further Growth Opportunities: H&T’s well-recognized brand provides FirstCash with a platform for increased penetration across key regions of the UK and opens the door for potential expansion into other European markets.
    • Enhances Scale and Operating Leverage: The addition of 285 stores increases FirstCash’s scale, operational footprint and ability to leverage efficiencies across its global platform.
    • Adds Experienced UK-Based Leadership: H&T’s seasoned management team brings deep local expertise and a proven track record of performance, positioning FirstCash to drive strong execution and continued momentum in the UK market.
    • Financially Compelling: The transaction is expected to be meaningfully accretive to both EBITDA and EPS, strengthening FirstCash’s financial profile and long-term shareholder value.

    Transaction Timeline and Additional Details
    The acquisition has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both FirstCash and H&T. The transaction is subject to approval by H&T’s shareholders and customary regulatory approvals in the United Kingdom. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to receipt of these approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

    Presentation
    Associated presentation materials regarding the transaction will be available on the investor relations section of FirstCash’s website at https://investors.firstcash.com/.

    Advisors
    Jefferies LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor to FirstCash. Alston & Bird LLP and Macfarlanes LLP are serving as legal counsel to FirstCash. 

    Canaccord Genuity is serving as lead financial advisor to H&T and Shore Capital is serving as joint financial advisor to H&T. Gowling WLG (UK) LLP is serving as legal advisor to H&T.

    Further Information; No Offer or Solicitation
    This release is for information purposes and is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, an offer, invitation or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, pursuant to the all-cash offer by Chess Bidco Limited, a newly-established indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of FirstCash Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”), for the entire issued and to be issued share capital of H&T Group plc, a company incorporated in England and Wales (“H&T”) (such acquisition, the “Acquisition”), or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities of H&T in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. The Acquisition will be made solely by means of a court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement (the “Scheme”) under Part 26 of the United Kingdom Companies Act 2006, as amended (the “UK Companies Act”) (or, if the Acquisition is implemented by way of a takeover offer, as such term is defined in the UK Companies Act (the “Takeover Offer”), the offer document), which will contain the full terms and conditions of the Acquisition, including details of how to vote in respect of the Scheme. Any vote in respect of the Scheme or other response in relation to the Acquisition should be made only on the basis of the information contained in the Scheme document (or, if the Acquisition is implemented by way of a Takeover Offer, the offer document). H&T shareholders are urged to read the Scheme document when it becomes available, because it will contain important information relating to the Acquisition.

    Additional Information
    The Acquisition is being made to acquire the shares of an English company by means of a scheme of arrangement provided for under English law. A transaction effected by means of a scheme of arrangement is not subject to the tender offer rules or the proxy solicitation rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“U.S. Exchange Act”). Accordingly, the Scheme will be subject to disclosure requirements and practices applicable in the United Kingdom to schemes of arrangement, which are different from the disclosure requirements of the U.S. tender offer and proxy solicitation rules. The financial information included in this release and the Scheme documentation has been or will have been prepared in accordance with accounting standards applicable in the United Kingdom and thus may not be comparable to financial information of U.S. companies or companies whose financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. If Bidco exercises its right to implement the Acquisition by way of a Takeover Offer, such offer will be made in compliance with applicable U.S. laws and regulations.

    The receipt of cash pursuant to the Acquisition by a U.S. holder as consideration for the transfer of its H&T shares pursuant to the Scheme will likely be a taxable transaction for United States federal income tax purposes and under applicable United States state and local, as well as foreign and other, tax laws. Each H&T shareholder is urged to consult their independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Acquisition applicable to them.

    In accordance with normal United Kingdom practice and pursuant to Rule 14e-5(b) of the U.S. Exchange Act (to the extent applicable), Bidco, its nominees or its brokers (acting as agents) may from time to time make certain purchases of, or arrangements to purchase, H&T shares outside of the U.S., other than pursuant to the Acquisition, until the date on which the Acquisition becomes effective, lapses or is otherwise withdrawn. If such purchases or arrangements to purchase were to be made, they would be made outside of the U.S. and would be in accordance with applicable law, including the U.S. Exchange Act and the United Kingdom City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the “Code”). These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be disclosed as required in the United Kingdom, will be reported to a Regulatory Information Service and will be available on the London Stock Exchange website at www.londonstockexchange.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This release contains forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, the Acquisition, the anticipated benefits and timing of the Acquisition and the business, financial condition, outlook and prospects of the Company and H&T. Forward-looking statements, as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “outlook,” “believes,” “projects,” “expects,” “may,” “estimates,” “should,” “plans,” “targets,” “intends,” “could,” “would,” “anticipates,” “potential,” “confident,” “optimistic,” or the negative thereof, or other variations thereon, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, objectives, estimates, guidance, expectations, outlook and future plans. Forward-looking statements can also be identified by the fact these statements do not relate strictly to historical or current matters. Rather, forward-looking statements relate to anticipated or expected events, activities, trends or results. Because forward-looking statements relate to matters that have not yet occurred, these statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties.

    While the Company believes the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurances such expectations will prove to be accurate. Security holders are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Certain factors may cause results to differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements made in this release. With respect to the proposed Acquisition, these factors, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the risk that the Acquisition may not be consummated, including as a result of a failure by Company or H&T to obtain the necessary shareholder (in the case of H&T) or regulatory approvals required for the Acquisition, or that required regulatory approvals may delay the Acquisition or result in the imposition of conditions that could reduce the anticipated benefits from the Acquisition, or the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Acquisition; the risk that Company will incur additional indebtedness to finance the Acquisition, which may not be on favorable terms to the Company; the length of time necessary to consummate the Acquisition, which may be longer than anticipated for various reasons; the risk that H&T will not be combined and integrated successfully; the risk that the cost savings, synergies and growth from the Acquisition may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; the diversion of management time on Acquisition-related issues; the risk that costs associated with the integration of H&T is higher than anticipated; inherent risks resulting from Company’s entry into a new geographical market, including exposure to local economic and political conditions, exchange rate fluctuations and the extensive regulatory regime in the UK; risk related to the ability to hire and retain key H&T personnel; and the effects of tax assessments or tax positions taken, risks related to goodwill and other intangible asset impairment, tax adjustments, anticipated tax rates, or other regulatory compliance costs.

    Additional risks and uncertainties with respect to the Company are discussed and described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risks described in Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” thereof, and other reports the Company files with the SEC. Many of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the ability of the Company to control, nor can the Company predict, in many cases, all of the risks and uncertainties that could cause its actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of the date of this release, and the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to report any updates or revisions to any such statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    Publication on website
    In accordance with Rule 26.1 of the Code, a copy of this release will be made available, subject to certain restrictions, on the Company’s website at https://investors.firstcash.com/ by no later than 12 noon (London time) on the business day following publication of this release. For the avoidance of doubt, the contents of any websites referred to in this release are not incorporated into and do not form part of this release.

    Right to request hard copies
    In accordance with Rule 30.3 of the Code, a person so entitled may request a hard copy of this release (and any document or information incorporated into it by reference to another source) by contacting H&T’s registrars, Equiniti, by writing to Equiniti at Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN99 6DA, United Kingdom or by calling them during business hours on +44 (0)371 384 2030. Lines are open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. (London time) Monday to Friday (except English and Welsh public holidays). Calls are charged at the standard geographical rate and will vary by provider. Calls from outside the United Kingdom will be charged at the applicable international rate. For persons who receive a copy of this release in electronic form or via a website notification, a hard copy of this release (and any document or information incorporated by reference into this release) will not be sent unless so requested. In accordance with Rule 30.3 of the Code, such persons may also request that all future documents, announcements and information to be sent to them in relation to the Acquisition should be sent in hard copy form.

    About FirstCash
    FirstCash is a leading international operator of pawn stores focused on serving cash and credit-constrained consumers. FirstCash’s more than 3,000 pawn stores in the U.S. and Latin America buy and sell a wide variety of jewelry, electronics, tools, appliances, sporting goods, musical instruments and other merchandise, and make small non-recourse pawn loans secured by pledged personal property. FirstCash’s pawn segments in the U.S. and Latin America currently account for approximately 80% of annualized segment earnings, with the remainder provided by its wholly owned subsidiary, AFF, which provides lease-to-own and retail finance payment solutions for consumer goods and services.

    FirstCash is a component company in both the Standard & Poor’s MidCap 400 Index® and the Russell 2000 Index®. FirstCash’s common stock (ticker symbol “FCFS”) is traded on the Nasdaq, the creator of the world’s first electronic stock market. For additional information regarding FirstCash and the services it provides, visit FirstCash’s websites located at http://www.firstcash.com and http://www.americanfirstfinance.com.

    About H&T
    H&T is the UK’s largest pawnbroker, a leading retailer of high quality new and pre-owned jewelry and pre-owned watches and provides a range of financial products tailored for a customer base which has limited access to, or is excluded from, the traditional banking sector. These products include Pawnbroking, Retail and Foreign Currency.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Autumn GB Magazine out now!

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Subscribe to our e-newsletter or read our quarterly publication about services and activities, topics and issues affecting the City.

    Subscribe to GB news

    If you like your news in your inbox, sign up for our weekly e-newsletter for the latest news from the City, upcoming events, opportunities to have your say and more.

    GB Magazine

    GB Magazine is published three times a year and includes information about services and activities, topics and issues affecting Greater Bendigo.

    It’s distributed to all residents, with extra copies available at our Customer Service centres as well as the Bendigo and Heathcote Visitor Centres.

    Each issue includes information on a wide range of subjects including:

    • City services and activities
    • Special events
    • Community consultations
    • City safety
    • Environmental information
    • Greater Bendigo’s neighbourhoods

    GB Magazine cover Autumn 2025

    Order a copy

    To order a copy of the latest issue:

    • Contact our Customer Service Centre on 1300 002 642
    • Email [email protected]
    • Drop in to one of our Customer Service or Visitor Centres in Bendigo or Heathcote

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Young detainees often have poor mental health. The earlier they’re incarcerated, the worse it gets

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emaediong I. Akpanekpo, PhD Candidate, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney

    Populist rhetoric targeting young offenders often leads to kneejerk punitive responses, such as stricter bail laws and lowering the age of criminal responsibility. This, in turn, has led to more young people being held in detention.

    In Australia, the number of young people held in detention facilities increased by 8% (from 784 to 845) between the June quarter of 2023 and the June quarter of 2024.

    But what if some of these young people were treated and helped, rather than incarcerated? A series of recently published studies examining mental health in the youth justice population suggests treatment would be more beneficial than punitive measures – some of which may even promote persistent offending.

    Increased incarceration

    New South Wales saw a 31% increase in young people in detention between 2023 and 2024.

    Increases in youth detention numbers have also been reported in Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania and South Australia over the same period.

    About 60% of young people in detention are First Nations youth.

    Custody as a catalyst

    Young people in the justice system have significantly higher rates of mental ill-health and adverse childhood experiences than their peers in the general population.

    However, less clear is how involvement in the justice system, particularly custody, affects the severity and trajectory of these mental health issues over time.

    Our team examined how exposure to the justice system affected mental health among young people in NSW. We analysed administrative health and justice data over two years post-supervision.

    These data came from more than 1,500 justice-involved youth who participated in the Young People in Custody Health Survey in 2003, 2009 and 2015 and Young People on Community Orders Health Survey between 2003 and 2006.

    We found young people who had spent time in custody faced markedly higher rates of subsequent psychiatric hospitalisation compared with those supervised in the community.

    The risk of psychiatric hospitalisations was higher for those with multiple custody episodes. This demonstrates the significant negative impact of incarceration on the mental health of young people long after they are released.

    We also examined how the impact of custody on psychiatric hospitalisations differed by age.

    We found psychiatric hospitalisation rates were similar among youth aged 14–17 years who had been supervised in the community, compared with those aged 18 and older.

    However, youth aged 14–17 who were placed in custody were hospitalised at significantly higher rates than their older peers aged 18 and above.

    This suggests incarceration is particularly harmful for younger offenders.

    How does this affect crime?

    When we examined the long-term consequences of youth detention on subsequent offending, we found conviction during adolescence, especially before the age of 14, significantly increased the likelihood of later entering the adult prison system.

    Those who were incarcerated during adolescence faced a fivefold increase in the risk of being incarcerated as an adult, compared with young people who’d never been in custody.

    This suggests it may be beneficial to delay the involvement of young people in the justice system to help prevent repeat offending in the future.

    Breaking the cycle

    So what can be done to help?

    In NSW, laws allow young people with mental health conditions to be diverted from judicial processes into treatment. Such laws for young people also exist in other states, although specific models vary.

    While research shows those diverted into treatment have a lower risk of reoffending, less than half of eligible youth receive this option.

    How do we help those who miss out? Our studies examined whether going to mental health services voluntarily (without a court order) could help reduce recidivism.

    Among boys who had been in custody, we found they were 40% less likely to reoffend if they received mental health treatment after release than those who did not receive such treatment.

    A similar, but larger, benefit was observed among boys supervised in the community. There, mental health treatment was associated with a 57% reduction in reoffending risk.

    Evidence-based reform

    Evidence shows punitive measures do not deter youth crime, but instead are likely to perpetuate cycles of offending into adulthood.

    Policymakers should reimagine youth justice to protect young people and create real pathways to rehabilitation.

    Raising the minimum age of criminal responsibility to delay the onset of formal contact with the justice system aligns with developmental science and prevents early criminalisation of young people.



    Read more:
    Locking up young people might make you feel safer but it doesn’t work, now or in the long term

    Enhancing routine mental health screening in the justice system and expanding access to diversion programs is warranted.

    Our findings on the benefits of routine mental health treatment highlight the potential for more integrated approaches. When combined with wraparound services for health and education, they could be even more effective.

    As detaining a young person costs around $1 million annually, mental health treatment-based approaches make sound financial sense too.

    Tony Butler receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council.

    Emaediong I. Akpanekpo 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. Young detainees often have poor mental health. The earlier they’re incarcerated, the worse it gets – https://theconversation.com/young-detainees-often-have-poor-mental-health-the-earlier-theyre-incarcerated-the-worse-it-gets-252376

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: March crime statistics

    Source: New South Wales – News

    The sustained targeting of recidivist thieves has resulted in another significant reduction in shop theft offences in South Australia, the latest crime statistics have revealed.

    The March rolling year crime statistics reveal shop theft has declined for the fifth successive period, recording an eight per cent reduction – 1,511 offences – from 18,783 to 17,272 reported incidents.

    The reduction follows the previous eight per cent reduction in the February period, a five per cent decline in January, three per cent in December and two per cent in November.

    Acting Assistant Commissioner (metropolitan Operations Service) John de Candia said the reduction in offending corresponded with the continuing efforts of officers involved in Operation Measure across all policing districts.

    “We continue targeting the hardcore, recidivist offenders we know are committing large numbers of shoplifting offences and that is having an impact,’’ he said.

    “Some of these offenders are committing literally dozens of offences across the metropolitan area, often endangering innocent members of the community.’’

    While Operation Measure teams continue to target individual offenders, operations are also held at specific locations that record high levels of offending. One such two-day operation at an eastern suburbs liquor outlet in March resulted in the arrest of four offenders.

    Significant arrests in March included a Christie Downs man, 27, who was charged with 19 counts of shop theft committed across multiple districts, a Renown Park man, 22, charged with 22 counts of shop theft mostly committed in the western suburbs and an Elizabeth South man, 37, who was charged with 14 counts of shop theft committed in the northern suburbs.

    The March rolling year statistics also reveal house break-ins have dropped for the ninth successive period, while car theft and robbery and related offences have also continued to decrease significantly.

    The figures reveal house break-ins declined by eight per cent in the period from 5,873 to 5,378 reported offences. This followed a seven per cent decline in the February period, a five per cent decline in the January period and a six per cent decline in the December period.

    The number of non-residential break-ins declined by five per cent from 3,672 to 3,476 reported offences. This followed an identical decline in the February period.

    Car theft and theft from a vehicle have again recorded decreases in the March period. Car theft dropped by nine per cent or 340 offences – from 3,814 to 3,474 offences. This followed an 11 per cent decline in the February period, 12 per cent in January and an 11 per cent drop in the December period.

    Theft from a motor vehicle declined by 23 per cent – from 10,082 to 7,796 offences. This followed a 22 per cent decline in February, a 20 per cent drop in January and a 19 per cent decrease in the December and November periods.

    Robbery and related offences also continued to decrease in the March period with a 13 per cent decline reported. Within that category aggravated robbery declined by 16 per cent or 80 offences – from 503 offences to 423 offences – while non-aggravated robbery declined by six per cent – from 81 offences to 76 offences.

    The number of homicides committed in South Australia has continued to decrease with a 52 per cent decline recorded in the March period – from 23 to 11 offences.

    While a majority of offence categories showed decreases in the March period, increases were recorded in offences including serious assaults not resulting in injury, common assault, aggravated sexual assault, property damage and graffiti.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trail bike riders intercepted during targeted operation in Launceston

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Trail bike riders intercepted during targeted operation in Launceston

    Wednesday, 14 May 2025 – 10:31 am.

    Police intercepted six trail bike riders during a targeted operation in Launceston on Saturday.
    Members of Launceston Police and Road Policing Services conducted the operation in bushland across several northern suburbs of Launceston, targeting the unlawful use of recreational vehicles and trail bikes.
    During the operation, police intercepted the six riders operating trail bikes who were in close proximity to residential houses.
    Three riders will face proceedings for offences committed, including unlicensed driving and breaches of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control (Noise) Regulations 2016.
    Tasmania Police remind users of recreational vehicles and trail bikes that they cannot operate within 500 metres of another residence that is not their own, nor within 500 metres of another residence if they are on their own land.
    Anyone wishing to report the unlawful use of recreational vehicles or trail bikes near their home is encouraged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Hooning incident at Bruny Island

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Hooning incident at Bruny Island

    Wednesday, 14 May 2025 – 10:37 am.

    A Kingston man responsible for burnouts in the gravel car park of the Bruny Island hotel will be prosecuted for hooning offences and driving without a licence.Tasmania Police used CCTV footage to help identify the driver from the incident on Monday and say they are disappointed in the behaviour shown by the 30-year-old man, who was a visitor to the island.Senior Constable Ashley Hopwood said the man was leaving the Hotel Bruny, at Alonnah on Bruny Island, about 5pm and proceeded to do burnouts in his vehicle in the gravel carpark of the hotel.The incident was reported to local police by members of the community.A review of CCTV footage helped identify the vehicle and the owner.“This sort of driving behaviour is reckless, and it puts innocent people at risk,” Senior Constable Hopwood said.“Police are committed to keeping our roads as safe as possible and hoons should be warned that this type of behaviour can lead to loss of licence, vehicle confiscation, vehicle destruction and significant fines.”“Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving on our roads should contact police on 131 444, or Triple-Zero (000) in an emergency.”“If you can’t call at the time, but you have dash cam or other footage, you can upload it to our evidence portal at police.tas.gov.au/report.”This week, May 12 to 16, is National Road Safety Week.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community Energy Generation Growth Fund opens

    Source: Scottish Government

    £8 million for community renewable projects.

    Communities across Scotland seeking to set up renewable energy generation projects can bid for support from an £8 million government fund which has reopened for applications.

    The Community Energy Generation Growth Fund supports local communities to install wind turbines and solar panels or develop other types of renewable energy generation, such as hydro, to meet local needs. 

    Successful applicants will also be able to earn money from their projects by, for example, allowing them to sell excess energy generated.

    The expanded Scottish Government fund, which includes £4 million from Great British Energy, is part of the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) and builds on last year’s support. 

    Since its inception, CARES has advised over 1,300 organisations and provided over £67 million in funding to communities throughout Scotland, supporting over 990 projects.

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes is set to announce the reopening of the fund at the All Energy Scotland conference in Glasgow this morning (Wednesday).

    Speaking ahead of the conference, Ms Forbes said: “Scotland is fast becoming a global renewable energy powerhouse, and it is vital that communities share in the benefits from this transition.

    “This funding, for stand-alone generation projects, responds to the needs of local groups – has the potential to lever in significant funds for communities. It will also  play a key role in our delivery of a just transition – supporting a greener, fairer future for Scots. 

    “It is also welcome that Great British Energy recognise the valuable role that communities play in our green transition and have provided support for the fund – helping to significantly increase the amount of support available to communities – and providing a catalyst for growth within the community energy sector.

    “We will continue to work with our partners to grow the community energy sector to ensure that the delivery of renewable energy comes with benefits for people in Scotland, as well as supporting progress towards net zero.” 

    Chris Morris from Local Energy Scotland said: “We’re pleased to be building on the success of last year’s Community Energy Generation Growth Fund pilot to support more Scottish communities looking to take the next steps in their renewable energy projects and play an active part in the nation’s transition to net zero.

    “Scottish communities demonstrated an appetite to develop new projects during the pilot phase and ideas taken forward include partnering with local authorities to install solar panels on schools, getting approvals for new solar farms and building wind turbines.

    We’re looking forward to supporting communities and helping even more of these inspiring projects be realised. For Scottish communities interested, the Local Energy Scotland team is here to help with information and case studies.”

    Background 

    More information on how to apply 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tens of thousands more patients receiving crucial scans quicker

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Tens of thousands more patients receiving crucial scans quicker

    More people were seen faster for scans including endoscopies, ultrasounds, and MRIs

    • Latest data shows 44,000 fewer people waited more than six weeks for diagnostic tests compared to last year 

    • Government drive to slash waiting times means patients are being seen faster for scans including endoscopies, ultrasounds, and MRIs 

    • Progress is latest milestone in government’s mission to reform the NHS through its Plan for Change 

    Tens of thousands more patients are getting crucial diagnostic scans within weeks under the government’s Plan for Change to slash NHS waiting times. 

    Latest data shows 44,000 fewer people were waiting more than six weeks for procedures like endoscopies, ultrasounds and MRIs compared to February last year. 

    It means some patients being referred for suspected illnesses including heart conditions, spinal cord injuries and various cancers could be diagnosed faster, helping save lives. 

    The government is continuing to expand Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) nationwide, offering 12-hour, seven-day access to vital tests and appointments.

    The expansion is funded from the extra £26 billion investment in the health service delivered at the Autumn Budget, bringing care closer to communities who need it. 

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 

    I’ve been honest that fixing our NHS will be a long road, but this government is bringing in the investment and reform that’s needed to get us there. 

    The additional diagnostic capacity we’ve unlocked isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet – it’s about giving people their lives back.  

    Every ultrasound, MRI or endoscopy represents someone who can now plan their future with certainty rather than fear.  

    Through our Plan for Change, we will get our NHS back on its feet and make it fit for the future.

    There are currently 169 conveniently located Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) across the country, bringing care closer to patient’s doorsteps.

    Many of these will be opened 12 hours a day, seven days a week where possible, making it easier for people to get their tests and appointments done at a time that suits them. 

    Between July and February, around 4.5 million tests, checks and scans were carried out in CDCs – a 50% increase on the previous year. 

    This equates to 18,000 more checks being delivered every day for patients to diagnose some of the biggest killers – including cancer and heart disease. 

    Dr Rhydian Phillips, Director of Diagnostics and Transport at NHS England, said:

    Community Diagnostics Centres are vital in helping ensure patients can get the all-clear or be diagnosed and treated for a range of conditions as quickly as possible.

    They are helping us to see more people than ever before and are at the heart of communities in locations that are more convenient for patients – with some even popping up in shopping centres.

    NHS staff are working incredibly hard to provide more tests and checks, while our campaigns encouraging people to come forward with worrying signs are also hugely important. If anyone has any health concerns, we would urge them to seek help and advice as it could save their life.

    More patients are being seen faster across the NHS thanks to the government’s push to slash waiting times and tackle the inherited waiting list of 7.6 million. 

    Since July, more than 3 million extra elective care appointments have been rolled out, ensuring more patients can get assessed and treated more quickly. 

    And the drive is having a big impact on cancer care, with an extra 80,000 patients having cancer diagnosed or ruled out within 28 days. 

    The progress forms part of the government’s wider Plan for Change and its drive to meet the NHS standard that 92 per cent of patients are treated within 18 weeks by the end of this Parliament.  

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost for British green aviation fuel production to support jobs and lift off emerging industry

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Boost for British green aviation fuel production to support jobs and lift off emerging industry

    New sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) measures will support aviation expansion and meet decarbonisation goals.

    • new laws introduced today will increase homegrown sustainable aviation fuel, positioning the UK as a world leading destination for the new emerging market
    • UK revenue certainty for green fuel producers will boost jobs across the country and enable the UK to go further and faster with expansion plans
    • passengers will be a step closer to more eco-friendly flights, as £400,000 announced to get new fuels to market quicker, delivering on the UK’s clean energy ambitions and powering up economic growth as part of the Plan for Change

    New measures to help the UK take off as a world leader in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), supporting the growth in the industry and jobs across the country, were introduced today in Parliament (14 May 2025).

    With decarbonisation key to accelerating expansion plans, the government has also announced an additional £400,000 of funding for producers so that new clean fuels can get to market quicker, speeding up the UK’s path to green flying.  

    SAF is an alternative to fossil jet fuel, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions on average by 70% on a lifecycle basis. While the fuel is more costly to produce than jet fuel, the government’s SAF measures protect industry and consumers from excessive costs.

    In addition, the revenue certainty mechanism (RCM) will keep ticket price changes minimal – keeping fluctuations to £1.50 a year on average – and will be industry funded through a levy on aviation fuel suppliers. The Department for Transport (DfT) will continue to engage with industry on the details of the RCM, including pricing.  

    A new round of government funding is also being announced, to offer fuel producers a share of £400,000 to support the testing and qualification of green fuels, helping to get them to market quicker. This support for producers follows £63 million of funding made available through the Advanced Fuels Fund this year.  

    Taken together, the government’s commitments on green fuels will help deliver on its missions to kickstart economic growth via job creation, become a clean energy superpower and will allow the UK to go further and faster with expansion plans, giving a boon to the tourism industry. 

    Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, said:  

    I want to see a golden age for green aviation and today sees take off for sustainable flights. 

    Aviation continues to be one of the fastest growing and most integral parts of the UK’s economy, offering more jobs across engineering, tourism and hospitality – and as we support aviation expansion, we need to move at full throttle towards decarbonisation.

    We are making the UK one of the best places in the world to produce sustainable aviation fuel, putting the pedal down on growth and boosting job opportunities across the country as part of the Plan for Change.

    The new legislation will help industry meet its requirements under the SAF Mandate, introduced in January this year, which specifies that at least 10% of all jet fuel used in flights taking off from the UK from 2030, be made with sustainable fuel, rising to 22% by 2040.  

    The new financial mechanism is another display that the UK is rock solid in its commitment to building a prosperous hub for homegrown sustainable fuel production. Furthermore, this vital update provides SAF producers and the industry at large the confidence and stability to plough investment into clean energy. 

    The government’s approach on low carbon fuels could add up to £5 billion to the economy by 2050 and position the UK as a global hub for SAF production.

    Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK, said: 

    This is a welcome announcement given the importance of the RCM to commercialising and scaling-up SAF production in the UK, a technology key to decarbonising aviation by 2050. A UK SAF industry, kick-started by the RCM and SAF Mandate, can create tens of thousands of jobs across the country whilst supporting our world-class aviation sector to deliver economic growth.

    We look forward to working with government on scheme design and how contracts are allocated, so that we balance the need to deliver the SAF required to support mandate compliance, whilst keeping costs as low as possible through a competitive and transparent bidding process that places the consumer at its heart.

    Duncan McCourt, Chief Executive of Sustainable Aviation, said:

    We hugely welcome the publication of this important legislation. SAF is a crucial element in the plan to decarbonise aviation as it can be used in existing aircraft with existing infrastructure.

    The challenge now is to scale the industry, ensuring we have enough SAF to meet the mandate whilst keeping costs low and create thousands of jobs in the process. This legislation will help to do that.

    Aviation, Europe and technology media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Great British Energy funding boost for Scottish communities

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Great British Energy funding boost for Scottish communities

    £4m Great British Energy funding scheme to target clean energy projects in Scottish communities.

    • Community-owned energy projects in Scotland to get access to funding from Great British Energy
    • new investment will help communities install clean power projects to cut bills and provide energy security
    • joint fund with the Scottish Government will give communities a stake in their local energy supply

    Communities across Scotland can today apply for new funding from a £4 million Great British Energy scheme.

    The funding targets 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.

    Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean power company, is giving communities a stake in generating their own energy so people can reinvest profits where it really matters.

    Great British Energy’s £4 million funding is part of the £8 million Community Energy Generation Growth Fund, with the remaining funding coming from the Scottish Government.

    Minister for Energy Michael Shanks said:

    This is our clean energy superpower mission in action – putting communities in the driving seat of energy generation and making sure people profit.

    Great British Energy wants to kickstart a community energy revolution, empowering our towns and villages to become mini energy producers and reinvest profits back into the local community.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator updates guidance to help charities open up opportunities for new trustees

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Regulator updates guidance to help charities open up opportunities for new trustees

    The Charity Commission has refreshed its guidance on recruiting trustees (CC30).

    The guidance redesign comes after the regulator’s research, with think tank and social sector research organisation Pro Bono Economics, revealed just 6% of trustees applied for their role via an advert. The report published last month indicated that more than half of charities relied on personal contacts to recruit new trustees.  

    The regulator is encouraging charities to use the guidance to help improve their recruitment and induction practices. The refreshed guidance focuses on practical steps charities can take to connect with a broader range of candidates, and to identify and remove barriers that may put people off applying for the role. The guidance also suggests considering a skills audit to test what the charity needs from its trustees. 

    The refreshed guidance encourages charities to write and keep under review their trustee role description and to distinguish between what is required and what can be learnt in the role.  It highlights ways to reach more candidates such as posting ads via social media or using organisations that offer trustee finder services. It signposts a range of free resources to help charities reach as many people as possible but is clear that charities can also pay for trustee recruitment services.  

    The regulator has expanded the induction section of its guidance to help charities not only recruit successfully to the role but also retain new trustees. It encourages charities to discuss with each new trustee what information and learning they need to become an effective trustee, and how to support them with this, setting out a range of approaches. 

    As the recent research revealed, one in three trustees (29%) are asked to join their board by the chair and one in four are asked by another board member. Recruiting within known circles can contribute to identifying good candidates but limits the field, and difficulties can arise when boards have several personal connections. The guidance highlights how having a group of trustees who have the right mix of technical skills, knowledge of the sector the charity works in, community connections and first-hand experiences can create well-rounded boards and promote strong governance at charities.  

    Mazeda Alam, Head of Trustee Guidance at the Charity Commission said:  

    It is fantastic that so many trustees recommend the role to others, and we know for some it is an essential way to fill vacancies.  

    However, we want our refreshed guidance to get trustees thinking about how they can broaden their reach when recruiting to their board. Small changes like writing your trustee role description differently or re-considering what skills are really essential, could widen the net and land you a valuable, new addition – taking your board from strength to strength.  

    Our casework has shown that it can be difficult to instil essential governance processes when there are multiple personal ties on a board. We’re also aware that some charities may not have the minimum number of trustees required by their governing document. We want our guidance to support trustees to avoid these risks and help open up trusteeship to all.

    The full guidance can be found on gov.uk.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –