NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two men charged after Hobart evade incident

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Two men charged after Hobart evade incident

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:52 pm.

    Two men have been charged with numerous offences following a protracted incident yesterday. Both men had been actively avoiding police and were arrested following the incident where they utilised two vehicles in an attempt to evade police. Today, they have been charged with a total of 60 offences.
    A 22 year old man with no fixed address has been charged with 35 separate charges including:1x Dangerous Driving2x Evade Police (aggravated circumstances)1x Aggravated assault1x Attempted Carjacking4x Drive whilst not the holder of a driver’s licence1x Computer related Fraud7x Motor Vehicle stealing1x Possess a controlled drug1x Unlawful possession of property1x Breach of interim Family Violence Order9x Breaches of bail2x Burglary1x Stealing1x Attempted stealing1x Destroy property1x Dangerous article in public place2x FTA Warrant1x Warrant First instance
    A 19 year old man from Herdsman Cove has been charged with 25 charges including:
    1x Motor vehicle stealing17x Breach of family violence order1x Possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued.1x Possess ammunition when not the holder of the appropriate firearm licence.1x Breach of restraint order1x Breach of bail conditions1x Unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.1x Possess a controlled drug1x Dangerous article in public place
    Tasmania Police would like to thank the members of the public who have provided information to support the investigation.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigate Kingston house fire

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigate Kingston house fire

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:53 pm.

    Approximately 8:30am on 3 May 2025, Police and the Tasmania Fire Service were called to Lewan Avenue, Kingston in relation to a house on fire.The unit suffered significant damage, however the fire was contained within the address and extinguished.The fire appears to be suspicious and a 52 year-old Kingston man is currently assisting police with their enquiries.This appears to be an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider community.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact:Tasmania Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at crimestoppers.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister’s open letter to veterans ahead of VE Day

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Prime Minister’s open letter to veterans ahead of VE Day

    An open letter from Prime Minister Keir Starmer to veterans ahead of VE Day celebrations.

    In an open letter to veterans, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    To our veterans,

    As we approach the VE Day anniversary, I want to salute your ongoing dedication to keeping our country safe. 

    This week, we celebrate the greatest victory our armed forces ever secured. And like so many families across the country, my relatives served and fought in the Second World War. Therefore, it is the highest honour of my role to meet veterans of that conflict. I think of people like Stanley Fisher and Mervyn Kersch, two Jewish veterans of the Normandy landings, who went on to become eyewitnesses to the horrors of the Bergen Belsen concentration camp in the early days of its liberation by British forces. Their stories – and countless others we will hear this week – are a reminder that our victory was not just for Britain. It was also a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil. VE Day is a chance to acknowledge, again, that our debt to those who achieved it can never fully be repaid. 

    Yet as the nation falls silent on Thursday, I know that my mind will also turn to those who carry the torch of their legacy in our armed forces today – people like you. As time marches on, we all have a responsibility to renew the bonds of our history so that future generations inherit our national story as their own. But alongside our history and our values, service is the other great force that binds a nation together. So this week, I want you to know: the whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example. It is not just that you keep us all safe. It is also that you represent the best of who we are. A living link of service that unites the values we must stand for in the present, with the stories we must pass down from our past. 

    Furthermore, I know that this is not without sacrifice. I will always remember the conversation I had with a sub-mariner in Faslane, who brought home exactly what over 200 days a year underwater means for the simple things most families take for granted. Missing birthdays, weddings, anniversaries. Not being there in the photographs. From the Carrier Strike Group at sea, to our postings in Estonia, Cyprus and here in the UK, every service man and woman I have met has had a version of this story. And I recognise that this too is a debt that can never fully be repaid. But this week, the country will show you just how thankful we all are. Because we know, that without your service, the freedom, peace and joy that these celebrations embody, would not be possible. 

    So, wherever you are, wherever you serve, have a wonderful VE Day. And on behalf of a proud and grateful nation: thank you for your service.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash at Paechtown

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Two men have died following a fatal crash in Paechtown yesterday.

    Just after 5pm yesterday (Sunday 4 May), police received a report of a serious crash involving a Holden sedan on Echunga Road.

    Major Crash Investigators attended the scene to investigate the cause of the crash.

    The driver of the Holden sedan, a 22-year-old man from Angle Park and passenger a 21-year-old man from Prospect, suffered critical injuries and sadly died at the scene.

    Road closures were in place but have since reopened.

    The driver and passengers deaths are the 26th and 27th lives lost on South Australian roads so far this year.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Albanese of Australia: 4 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Albanese of Australia: 4 May 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, this morning.

    The Prime Minister began by congratulating the Australian leader on his historic election win yesterday.

    Australia and the UK has a strong and enduring friendship, and the Prime Minister said he looked forward to working with Prime Minister Albanese in the years to come, including through increased trade and economic security for working people in both countries.

    Discussing defence and security, including our shared support for Ukraine, the leaders also agreed to increase ambition on our joint submarine programme, AUKUS. The Prime Minister said he would ask his AUKUS Adviser, Sir Stephen Lovegrove, to travel to Australia in the coming weeks to discuss the programme further.

    The leaders agreed to stay in close touch.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election flops – a night to forget for minor parties on the left and the right

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maxine Newlands, Adjunct Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Policy Futures, University of Queensland, Adjunct Principal Research Fellow, Cairns Institute, James Cook University

    Minor parties were all the rage at the last election when, along with independent candidates, they secured almost a third of votes.

    But they have failed to build on that success at this election. The biggest and best funded of the minor parties – the Greens, One Nation and Trumpet of Patriots – have all had disappointing results.

    Few green shoots

    The Greens are the largest party outside of the traditional two-party system. But they failed to launch on Saturday night.

    In 2022, the Greens secured 12.2% of the primary support which returned a record four members to the lower house. This time around, their nationwide vote is up – but only marginally and not where it matters.

    The party has lost big in Queensland, with Stephen Bates in Brisbane and Max Chandler-Mather in Griffith relinquishing their seats to Labor. Elizabeth Watson-Brown could hold on in the neighbouring seat of Ryan, though preference flows will be critical.

    Peter Dutton might not be the only party leader to lose his seat, with Adam Bandt on a knife’s edge in Melbourne, which he has held for 15 years. Again, it will come down to the spread of preferences.

    The Greens had high hopes for two other Melbourne-based seats. They remain a chance in Wills, but got nowhere near it in Macnamara.

    And it is unlikely to snatch the New South Wales seat of Richmond from Labor despite running a close second on primary vote.

    Balance of power

    The Greens have performed much better in the Senate, where they will once again be the largest cross bench party with a predicted 11 seats.

    While the ALP will clearly dominate the lower house in the 48th parliament, the Senate is looking to be more of a two-way spilt between Labor and the Coalition.

    The Albanese government will likely require only the support of the Greens to pass legislation. This is a much better scenario for Labor than the previous parliament when it needed to stitch together all the Greens and four independents to navigate the Senate.

    Once again, the Greens will effectively hold the balance of power. However, Labor will have other crossbench options, such as independents David Pocock, Lidia Thorpe and Fatima Payman if the Greens obstruct bills that are also opposed by the Coalition.

    Minor party fizzers

    Despite their disappointing result in the lower house, the Greens easily outperformed the right-wing minor parties, most of which flopped.

    None more so than Clive Palmer’s newly registered Trumpet of Patriots, which fielded candidates in most lower house seats and in the Senate. It scored 1.8% of the vote, the highest positive swing of all the minor parties.

    But it misfired everywhere, despite Palmer’s reported $A50-60 million advertising spend. While Senate votes are still being counted, Trumpet of Patriots is lagging behind both One Nation and the Legalise Cannabis Party.

    Pauline Hanson’s One Nation recorded just over 6% of first preference votes, up only slightly on its 2022 result and nowhere near enough to win any lower house seats. However, there are enough disaffected voters in Queensland to return Malcolm Roberts to the Senate. Hanson won’t be up for reelection until 2028.

    Hanson’s daughter Lee Hanson is an outside chance of securing a Senate spot for One Nation in Tasmania. Her main rivals are Jacqui Lambie and Legalise Cannabis, which is also in the mix to win the final Senate seat in Victoria.

    Gerard Rennick’s People First party also failed to make an impression. So too, Fatima Payman’s Australia’s Voice.

    What next for the minor parties?

    Minor parties play an important role in the Australian political landscape, and have long been players in federal parliament.

    The previous two elections have seen shifts away from the two-party system, with one in four voters preferring minor parties or independent candidates in 2019, and one in three in 2022.

    On the numbers counted so far in this election, voters have favoured either the traditional major parties or the array of independent candidates.

    The trend towards minor parties has been halted, at least for now.

    Maxine Newlands 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. Election flops – a night to forget for minor parties on the left and the right – https://theconversation.com/election-flops-a-night-to-forget-for-minor-parties-on-the-left-and-the-right-255623

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: State of the states: 6 experts on how the election unfolded across the country

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Clune, Honorary Associate, Government and International Relations, University of Sydney

    While counting continues nationally, the federal election result is definitive: a pro-Labor landslide and an opposition leader voted out.

    But beyond the headline results, how did Australians in the key seats in each state vote, and how did it shape the outcome?

    Here, six experts break down what happened in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia.

    New South Wales

    Swing to Labor: 3.4%

    David Clune, honorary associate, government and international relations, University of Sydney

    The election results showed, in NSW as with the rest of Australia, a stronger than predicted swing to the government, returning it with a solid majority.

    Not only did Labor hold all its NSW marginals, many with increased margins, but it appears to have gained from the Liberals the seats of Banks and Hughes in suburban Sydney. Labor’s Jerome Laxale has retained Bennelong which was notionally Liberal after the redistribution.

    The Liberals appear likely to lose Bradfield to Teal Nicolette Boele and former National Andrew Gee seems likely to retain Calare in the central west as an independent.

    The three sitting Teals were all easily re-elected and right wing independent Dai Le held Fowler.

    At the time of writing, Labor has won 28 seats in NSW to the Coalition’s 12, a gain of three, with four independents so far and the probability of two more.

    The ALP two-party preferred vote in NSW was 54.8%, a swing towards it of 3.4%.

    Labor’s primary vote was 35.0% to the Coalition’s 31.8%, a swing against the latter of 4.7%.

    Albanese staged a Houdini-like escape from what seemed to be, in 2024, a steady decline in his prospects. Although only an average campaigner in 2022, he ran an almost flawless campaign three years later. The prime minister had a consistent, resonant message about Labor’s record, appealing policies for the future, and projected an image of stability in government.

    Given the bite of the cost of living, particularly in Western Sydney, the government should have been vulnerable. Instead, Albanese transformed this into a strength by persuading voters he was best placed to deal with the crisis.

    Queensland

    Swing to Labor: 3.9%

    Paul Williams, associate professor of politics and journalism, Griffith University

    I long argued Queensland would be inconsequential as to who would win the keys to The Lodge at this election.

    I was partly right. If Labor, as projected, wins 93 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, the six Queensland Labor appears to have seized from the Liberal-National Party (LNP) are but a small fraction of the government’s national haul. Even with no Labor gains in Queensland, Albanese could still have governed with a comfortable majority.

    But I was also partly wrong. The fact there were primary swings of up to five percentage points away from the LNP across Queensland (even in very safe seats like Maranoa), and the fact Labor appears to have captured two seats (Brisbane and Griffith) from the Greens, suggests the state has behaved very differently from expectations and, for the first time in more than a decade, become one of real consequence.

    Labor now looks to hold 13 of the state’s 30 seats, the LNP 15, the Greens one, and Bob Katter returned in Kennedy for the KAP. Few would be surprised that Pauline Hanson’s One Nation (PHON) and Clive Palmer’s Trumpet of Patriots failed to win any House seats, although PHON’s Malcolm Roberts is likely to be returned to the Senate.

    Nor is it unexpected that Dickson, held by the LNP by a tiny 1.7% margin, should have been in play this election. But that fact Dickson was lost by an opposition leader – the first such occurrence at federal level – is astonishing.

    So, too, are the LNP losses in the outer-suburban “battler” seats of Forde and Petrie (held by the LNP since 2010 and 2013 respectively) that embraced former Liberal PM Scott Morrison, even when he was at his nadir.

    The additional reality of an LNP losing such contrasting seats as Leichhardt in far north Queensland and Bonner in middle Brisbane suburbia now points to a deep existential crisis for conservatives even in their Queensland heartland.

    In the Northern Territory, Labor’s Marion Scrymgour has retained the seat of Lingiari and strengthened her position, with a 6.6% swing in her favour.

    So, what happened? How did Queensland, like the rest of Australia, defy electoral gravity? Was it that angry Queenslanders, stinging from a cost-of-living crisis, had already vented their wrath on a state Labor government six months ago? Or did the state finally warm to an Albanese it now concluded was a more competent economic manager? Or did Queensland, like every other state, reject a hard-right Peter Dutton – offering little in meaningful policy amid a ramshackle campaign – as out of touch with a moderate, centrist Australia?

    After defeats at local and state elections in 2024, Labor is back in Queensland.

    South Australia

    Swing to Labor: 5.1%

    Rob Manwaring, associate professor of politics and public policy, Flinders University

    On first glance, South Australia did not seem to be at the centre of the Albanese government’s landslide win. Of the ten electoral seats in the state, only one changed hands – the seat of Sturt which Labor’s Claire Clutterham won from the Liberals’ James Stevens. Yet, this was a massive win for Labor, with a 57–43 two-party preferred vote.

    This is a seismic result and exemplifies all of the Coalition’s electoral problems. Sturt was a classic Liberal blue ribbon seat which the Liberals had held since 1972. The Teal candidate in Sturt, Dr Verity Cooper, might well be disappointed not to have scored a higher primary vote than her 7.2%.

    Elsewhere, Labor handsomely improved its position in the hitherto marginal seat of Boothby. A 8% swing to Louise Miller-Frost saw the Liberals’ Nicolle Flint easily routed.

    To confirm the Liberal misery in the state, the Centre Alliance’s Rebekha Sharkie consolidated her place in Mayo. The scale of Labor’s performance also brought into scrutiny the Liberal regional seat of Grey, where long-standing member Rowan Ramsay retired. The Liberals will retain it despite a swing against them.

    Overall, this is now a solidly Labor state, and the party holds a remarkable seven of the ten seats. Those with long memories, will know seats like Kingston and Adelaide, traditionally bellweather, are now solidly safe Labor seats.

    The Liberals’ loss of Sturt confirms the party now has only two seats in the state, and no representation at all in the major cities around the country. It might well be a long road back for the centre-right.

    Tasmania

    Swing to Labor: 8.1%

    Robert Hortle, deputy director of the Tasmanian Policy Exchange, University of Tasmania

    If the Liberal Party’s ranks were thinned out on the mainland, in Tasmania they have been clear-felled. The state elected four Labor candidates out of five, and notably, all women.

    In Braddon, Labor’s Anne Urquhart overturned the 8.3% margin enjoyed by retiring Liberal MP Gavin Pearce. It looks like the swing to Labor will be around 15%, with Urquhart’s pro-salmon farming and pro-jobs position resonating in the traditionally conservative electorate.

    A swing of around 10% to Labor in Bass was more than enough for first-time candidate Jess Teesdale to defeat Liberal MP Bridget Archer. Labor’s messaging that “a vote for Archer is a vote for Dutton” successfully neutralised Archer’s personal popularity in the electorate and reputation for standing up to her party.

    Lyons was Tasmania’s most marginal seat after the 2022 election. That’s no longer the case, with Rebeca White, former state Labor leader, securing a swing of around 10%. White’s popularity as a state MP transferred smoothly to the federal level – Labor’s primary vote in the seat looks to have jumped by more than 14%.

    So why was the swing to Labor in these Tasmanian seats so much greater than on the mainland? Astute candidate selection played a role – in particular, White and Urquhart were well-known in their communities.

    It is also possible the ongoing travails of the state Liberal government played a part. Northern Tasmanians are strongly opposed to the controversial AFL stadium in Hobart, and the ongoing Spirit of Tasmania ferry fiasco has involved prominent mismanagement of port upgrades in Devonport in the state’s north-west. State politics isn’t usually considered to have a big impact on federal elections, but these issues may have been high profile – and long running – enough to make a difference.

    The southern seat of Franklin was a focal point for a lot of drama during the campaign. In the end, Julie Collins, Tasmania’s only cabinet minister, received a bit of a scare. She slightly increased her primary vote, but the ABC currently projects her overall margin will be cut in half. Anti-salmon farming independent Peter George achieved the second highest primary vote, but wasn’t close enough to Collins for preferences to get him over the line.

    As expected, independent Andrew Wilkie won the Hobart seat of Clark for a sixth time, with a margin of just over 20%. He increased his primary vote, but it looks like Labor will shave a tiny amount off his margin.

    Victoria

    Swing to Labor: 1.8%

    Zareh Ghazarian, senior lecturer in politics, school of social sciences, Monash University

    The Liberal Party’s fortunes in Victoria went from bad in 2022 to much worse in 2025.

    The ALP’s primary vote increased by about 1% while the Liberal Party’s primary vote fell by about 2.5%. While the percentages are smaller than in other states, this performance had a significant affect on the representation of the parties in Victoria.

    The Liberal Party lost Deakin in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Held by Michael Sukkar since 2013, the seat has been marginal for several elections. The primary vote swing against the Liberal Party was 4.2%. In a two-party preferred outcome, Deakin now appears to be a relatively safe seat for Labor.

    The Liberal Party primary vote also went backwards in Kooyong which was held by independent Monique Ryan. High profile Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer could not reclaim the seat which had previously been held by then-Treasurer Josh Frydenberg.

    Goldstein, the other inner metropolitan seat won by an independent at the last election, looks to be a closer contest with the Liberal Party’s Tim Wilson experiencing a rise in the primary vote but it may not be enough to defeat incumbent Zoe Daniel.

    Compounding the problems for the Liberal Party was that it could not make any inroads in other key seats across the eastern suburbs in Melbourne. This was where the party needed to win seats if it was to be competitive in forming government. In Aston, the seat the party lost at a byelection in 2023, the Liberal Party’s primary vote fell by 5%. The party’s primary vote also went back in Chisholm and McEwen.

    In short, this was a disastrous result for the Liberal Party in the state of Victoria.

    Western Australia

    Swing to Labor: 1.2%

    Narelle Miragliotta, associate professor in politics, Murdoch University

    WA didn’t disappoint for Labor. Although the two-party swing was more muted than in other parts of the country, it came off the back of a more much stronger electoral position entering this contest. On a two-party preferred basis, Labor gained 56.2% of the vote.

    Labor has retained the nine lower house seats it won in 2022, and it has also managed to make decent, even if not spectacular, gains in the party’s share of the primary vote in Tangney (+4.9%), Hasluck (+5.93), Swan (+3.5%), and Perth (+4.7%).

    One of the unexpected wins for Labor was the former Liberal held seat of Moore. Labor won the seat on the back of +0.9% increase in the party’s primary vote. Assisting Labor’s electoral fortunes was a former Liberal incumbent who ran as an independent, and whose vote accounts for much of the -10.4% swing against the Liberal candidate.

    But it wasn’t all good news for Labor, going backwards on primary votes in Fremantle (-4.48%) Brand (-5.96%) and Pearce (-0.01%).

    The Liberals’ performance affirms just how much trouble the party in the West. The Liberals recorded a swing of -5.66% in their primary vote, winning only 28.5% of the first preference vote.

    In addition to the loss of Moore, the party failed to win back the once-prized seat of Curtin, despite a heavy investment of resources into the contest. The Liberals also have a fight to retain the seat of Forrest, where is registered a -13.4% swing in its primary vote. The Liberals are, however, expected to win it.

    There were very few bright spots for the Liberals. The Liberals did achieve an increase in their two-party preferred vote in O’Connor (+6.3%) and Canning (+3.8%). And at last check, the Liberals are still in the hunt for the new seat of Bullwinkel.

    In the senate, the swing against the Liberals on primary votes was even more pronounced (-7.36%) although the party are on track to elect two senators. The Greens senate primary vote held up, enjoying a very slight increase (+0.74%) and comfortably returning a senator. Although recording a -0.04% swing, Labor has two senators confirmed and the possibility of the election of a third.

    Paul Williams is a research associate with the T.J. Ryan Foundation.

    David Clune, Narelle Miragliotta, Rob Manwaring, Robert Hortle, and Zareh Ghazarian do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. State of the states: 6 experts on how the election unfolded across the country – https://theconversation.com/state-of-the-states-6-experts-on-how-the-election-unfolded-across-the-country-255508

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor makes Senate gains, and left-wing parties will hold a Senate majority

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    On Saturday, Labor won a thumping victory in the House of Representatives, and this has carried over to the Senate results.

    Only 35% of enrolled voters have been counted in the Senate so far, compared with 71% in the House. It’s likely that the current Senate count is biased to Labor, so Labor is likely to drop back in some states as more votes are counted.

    There are 76 senators, who have six-year terms, with about half up for election at every House election. Each state has 12 senators, with six up for election, and the territories have two senators each, who are all up for election.

    Senators are elected by proportional representation with preferences. A quota in a state is one-seventh of the vote, or 14.3%. In the territories, it’s one-third or 33.3%. I had a Senate preview on April 16.

    Comments on each state are below. I disagree with the ABC’s view that Labor is “likely” to win a third New South Wales seat. Putting this seat into the doubtful column reduces Labor to an overall 27 senators with the Greens on 11, so the two main left-wing parties would hold a minimum 38 of the 76 seats in the new Senate.

    This would represent a two-seat gain for Labor (one in Queensland, one in South Australia). Labor has reasonable chances to gain further Senate seats.

    If Labor and the Greens combined hold the minimum 38 seats after the election, Labor will only need one more vote to pass legislation supported by the Greens but opposed by right-wing parties. Independent David Pocock, former Green Lidia Thorpe and former Labor senator Fatima Payman will be good options.

    In NSW, Labor has 2.6 quotas, the Coalition 1.9, the Greens 0.9 and One Nation 0.4. Labor would win three seats on current primaries, but the Senate swing to them is much greater than in the House, so they will drop back.

    In Victoria, Labor has 2.4 quotas, the Coalition 1.9, the Greens 1.0, One Nation 0.3 and Legalise Cannabis 0.3. Labor is likely to drop back, with the final seat likely a three-way contest between Labor, One Nation and Legalise Cannabis.

    In Queensland, Labor has 2.1 quotas, the Liberal National Party 1.8, the Greens 0.9, One Nation 0.5 and former LNP senator Gerard Rennick 0.35. One Nation is the favourite to win the sixth seat.

    In Western Australia, Labor has 2.4 quotas, the Liberals 1.7, the Greens 1.1, One Nation 0.4, Legalise Cannabis 0.3 and the Nationals 0.3. Labor would be the favourite to win the sixth seat on current counting, as the Liberals would absorb right-wing preferences that would otherwise help One Nation.

    In SA, Labor has 2.6 quotas, the Liberals 1.8, the Greens 1.0 and One Nation 0.4. Labor won the House vote in SA by 58.4–41.6, so the Senate result looks plausible. Labor and the Greens are likely to win four of SA’s six Senate seats.

    In Tasmania, Labor has 2.4 quotas, the Liberals 1.5, the Greens 1.2, Jacqui Lambie 0.5, One Nation 0.4 and Legalise Cannabis 0.3. It’s difficult to determine which parties are the favourites to win the last two seats.

    In the ACT (two senators), Pocock has been easily re-elected with 1.3 quotas, and Labor will win the second seat. In the Northern Territory, Labor and the Country Liberals will win one seat each.

    Doubtful House seats, and the Greens’ and teals’ performance

    There are many seats where the electoral commission selected the incorrect final two candidates on election night and now needs to redo this count. Labor could lose Bean, Fremantle or Calwell to independents. Labor could also lose Bullwinkel or Bendigo to the Coalition.

    The Greens have lost Brisbane and Griffith to Labor. They lost Brisbane after falling to third behind Labor and the LNP and Griffith because the LNP fell to third and their preferences will help Labor. Labor is narrowly ahead against the Greens in Wills.

    In Greens leader Adam Bandt’s Melbourne, there was a substantial primary vote swing to Labor and against Bandt, and the electoral commission needs to redo the preference count between Bandt and Labor.

    Teal independents in Kooyong, Goldstein and Curtin are likely to retain their seats, but they didn’t gain substantial swings that usually occur when an independent elected at the last election recontests. It’s possible they’ve become too associated with the left in their seats. Fortunately for them, the left won a thumping victory at this election.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Labor makes Senate gains, and left-wing parties will hold a Senate majority – https://theconversation.com/labor-makes-senate-gains-and-left-wing-parties-will-hold-a-senate-majority-255848

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering for Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister to publish Programme for Government.

    New measures to strengthen Scotland’s public services and ensure people are supported during the cost-of-living crisis will be set out by the First Minister this week.  

    First Minister John Swinney will deliver his Programme for Government on Tuesday 6 May, focused on his four key priorities – eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, investing in public services and tackling the climate emergency.

    The First Minister announced last month that he would bring forward the Programme for Government from its expected publication date post-summer to enable a full year of delivery before the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.

    The First Minister said:  

    “Times are tough for households and businesses across Scotland, and the world around us is changing in ways that are difficult to predict. 

    “But my promise to the people of Scotland is that amidst the uncertainty there is one thing they can be sure of: the government I lead will always seek to do what is best for Scotland.

    “As First Minister, I will always put the needs and interests of the people of Scotland first.

    “I made the decision to bring my Programme for Government forward to ensure people know that the government I lead is entirely focused on improving their lives.

    “On Tuesday, I will bring my plan to Parliament that will strengthen our health service and ensure more money stays in people’s pockets during this cost of living crisis. 

    “The 2025-26 Programme for Government will make Scotland healthier and wealthier.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Goodwood Road, Adelaide

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at the intersection of Goodwood Road and Greenhill Road, Adelaide.

    The collision occurred just before 8am on Sunday 4 May.

    Police are closing the intersection while emergency services work at the scene.

    Goodwood Road is closed to all traffic from South Terrace.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government’s tech reform to transform cancer diagnosis

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Government’s tech reform to transform cancer diagnosis

    Cancer 360 brings patient data into one central system, so clinicians can prioritise those most in need and see patients quicker

    • Millions of patients to receive faster cancer diagnosis, helping slash treatment delays as groundbreaking new tech rolled out on NHS as part of major reform to health service
    • For first time, all NHS trusts will have access to technology that brings key patient information together so medical teams can easily spot those in need of urgent attention
    • The £2bn tech investment from the Autumn Budget will drive essential reforms, freeing up staff time and saving lives, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change

    Millions of cancer patients will receive a faster diagnosis, helping cut treatment delays and boost survival rates as the government rolls out pioneering new technology across the NHS through the Plan for Change.

    Currently, there are over 2 million people living with cancer, many of whom face a complex journey of tests, appointments or treatments. But a trailblazing new tool – dubbed Cancer 360 – brings all that data into one central system, so clinicians can prioritise those most in need and see patients quicker – with the technology set to benefit millions over the next 5-10 years.

    This government inherited a broken NHS. Lord Ara Darzi’s independent investigation found the NHS in ‘critical condition’ – with surging waiting lists and deteriorating national health – and set out the need to improve cancer waiting time performance and cancer survival.

    Cancer 360 represents the crucial reform that must accompany investment, shifting the NHS from analogue to digital, by creating a simple dashboard showing clinicians all the information they need about their patients in one place. Instead of having to gather vital information about each cancer patient from various systems, spreadsheets, emails, and records.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    This government grasped the nettle and made difficult but necessary choices to invest £26 billion into our NHS – a move that is already helping millions of patients and will help millions more.

    It’s a long road, but we’re already getting our NHS back on its feet, giving patients over 3 million more appointments, hiring 1,500 new GPs and starting the roll out of new tech that will save lives.

    It is only this government’s Plan for Change that will deliver for patients and make our NHS fit for the future.

    The real-time tool will help teams to easily track a patient’s progress, avert delays, and even produce personalised treatment plans. It will dramatically reduce paperwork and help ensure vital warning signs aren’t missed. 

    Cancer 360 is a prime example of the government’s commitment to reform – doing things differently by harnessing digital innovation to improve patient outcomes.

    Following recent expansion of the NHS App, which has already stopped 1.5 million hospital appointments being missed and saved 5.7 million staff hours since July 2024, Cancer 360 demonstrates how we are continuing to drive the NHS from analogue to digital, giving patients better care and more control over their healthcare journey.

    The investment comes from the Autumn Budget – where the government made difficult but necessary choices to put £26 billion in our NHS. This includes the biggest increase in NHS spending since 2010, excluding COVID-19 years – including £1 billion for digital transformation projects and £121 million for the NHS Federated Data Platform (FDP). While this investment is crucial, it’s the reforms in how we use these resources that will truly transform cancer care.

    The new tool is built into the FDP, which brings patient information together from across separate systems into one safe and secure environment. Since April 2024, hospitals using the platform have typically performed 70,000 more procedures and reduced unnecessary hospital stays by almost 19% – treating more patients and freeing up valuable bed space.

    Suraiya Abdi, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Chelsea and Westminster Foundation Trust said:

    The implementation of Cancer 360 has enabled my team to monitor and safely carry our patients through their cancer pathway.

    The tool enables us to have in-depth conversations at our weekly meetings regarding a patient’s next step as well as allowing us to escalate queries directly to other teams for faster turnaround.

    The tool has reduced the amount of admin time spent by our cancer team therefore enabling them to focus on the patient journey. I have witnessed an improvement in performance, team spirit and most importantly patient experience.

    The government’s National Cancer Plan will transform the way we approach this disease, improving care and bringing this country’s cancer survival rates back up to the standards of the best in the world.

    Through the Plan for Change, the government is driving forward work to develop innovative treatments and technologies for patients. Last month the Prime Minister announced plans for a new health data research service, to transform access to NHS data so clinical trials can be fast-tracked to accelerate the development of the medicines and therapies of the future, in turn helping boost the UK’s world leading life sciences sector and drive growth. 

    The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence also recently announced thousands of cancer patients will benefit from new artificial intelligence which detects skin cancer. In addition, it was confirmed that the NHS will become the first health system in Europe to offer a new injectable form of nivolumab – one of the most widely used cancer treatments in England. 

    This forms part of the government’s wider ambitions to cut waiting lists under its Plan for Change. With a total of 3 million additional appointments already delivered 6 months early, the government is exceeding its own targets and driving down waiting lists at pace, which have fallen for 6 months in a row and by 219,000 since July 2024 – evidence that reform and investment together can deliver real results for patients.

    Notes to editors

    • Cancer 360, soon to be rolled out across all NHS trusts, demonstrates the shift from analogue to digital processes which is central to the government’s plans to reform the NHS. 
    • For patients, this means faster diagnoses, reduced waiting times, and more coordinated care throughout their cancer journey. It follows successful pilots at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and Royal United Hospital Bath.

    Dr Vin Diwakar, NHS National Clinical Transformation Director, said:

    Every cancer patient deserves swift, effective care, and our new Cancer 360 solution harnesses data to ensure exactly that. By giving clinicians a comprehensive view of patient pathways, we can identify and address delays immediately.

    The NHS Federated Data Platform is already showing its value in transforming cancer care, helping our hard-working staff deliver better outcomes while reducing administrative burden. As Cancer 360 expands to more hospitals nationwide, I’m confident we’ll see meaningful improvements in both treatment times and patient experience.

    Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    I’ve seen first-hand the stress and heartbreak that cancer causes in my own family.

    Dependent on archaic pen-and-paper systems, life-saving diagnostics appointments hung on whether a post-it note lost its stick, or a piece of paper went missing. That put lives at risk, and with the technology we have today, there’s no reason for any part of our healthcare service to run in such a way.

    Simply by keeping accurate records, the technology we are putting to work today will cut waiting times and save lives, delivering on our Plan for Change. That way, people can once again trust that their local hospital has the tools it needs to focus on what matters – treating their loved ones and keeping families together for longer.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: King leads nation in tribute to the greatest generation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    King leads nation in tribute to the greatest generation

    His Majesty The King will join Second World War veterans in London tomorrow for a military procession and fly past to mark VE Day 80

    • Hollywood actor Timothy Spall will read Churchill speech
    • Iconic buildings across the country will light up from Tuesday evening in tribute
    • National two-minute silence will be held at 12 noon on Thursday

    Four days of national commemorations to the Second World War generation kick off in London tomorrow with a recital of iconic Winston Churchill speeches by Hollywood actor Timothy Spall.

    Timothy Spall will start the events by reading extracts from Churchill’s iconic VE Day victory speech in 1945. Normandy veteran Alan Kennett, 100, will formally start the procession after being handed the Commonwealth War Graves’ Torch For Peace by Air Cadet Warrant Officer Emmy Jones.

    The procession, featuring more than 1,300 members of the Armed Forces and youth groups will march down Whitehall, through Admiralty Arch and up the Mall towards Buckingham Palace where Their Majesties The King and Queen, as well as Members of The Royal Family, the Prime Minister and a number of Second World War veterans will be on a specially built platform on the Queen Victoria Memorial.

    A fly past, which Members of the Royal Family will watch from the Balcony at Buckingham Palace, will conclude Monday’s events. From 9pm on Tuesday evening, hundreds of buildings across the country will be lit up to mark VE 80. Buildings include Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, Canary Wharf’s 1 Canada Square, the Shard, Lowther Castle, Rochester Cathedral, Manchester Printworks, Cardiff Castle, Senedd, Perth Bridge, City Chambers and Belfast City Hall.

    On Thursday, a service at Westminster Abbey will begin with a national two-minute silence, which is expected to be replicated across the nation.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This 80th anniversary is a moment of national unity. A time to celebrate that hard won peace, honour the memory of those who lost their lives, and remember the sacrifices made by so many to secure our freedom. Their legacy lives on today in how we stand together in defence of the values they fought for and which bind us together as a nation. This week, we come together to salute their service.

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    80 years ago millions of people celebrated the end of the Second World War in Europe. This week, we will recreate this moment across towns and cities, in our homes, in pubs and on our streets.

    We must do all we can to ensure that the stories and memories of this period in our history are not forgotten. We must not forget the hardships, the heroics and the millions who lost their lives.

    We are here because of the sacrifices they made and the horrors they endured. This week, I urge the nation to come together and send a powerful message: we will remember them.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors

    Across the four days, official events and services will be taking place across the UK to mark 80 years of the end of the Second World War in Europe including events in the Devolved Nations, including:

    Monday 5 May:

    • To ensure the commemorations act as a point of remembrance of the millions who lost their lives in the conflict as well as a celebration of peace, the commemorations will begin in Whitehall. The Cenotaph, the nation’s focal point of remembrance, will be dressed in Union Flags for the duration of the four day commemorations, echoing the 1920 unveiling of the monument to the fallen. From Monday 5 May, it will provide a focal point for the commemorations and a place to pay silent tribute to all those who died, both at home and abroad, during the Second World War.
    • The VE Day 80 commemorations will continue with a street party on HMS Belfast. HMS Belfast fired some of the opening shots on D Day in 1944 and protected Arctic convoys during the Second World War and is the most significant surviving Second World War warship.
    • Street parties, barbecues and community get togethers, supported by ideas and inspiration from The Together Coalition and The Big Lunch, will be held by communities across the country, echoing the celebrations 80 years ago as the population welcomed the end of the war.

    Tuesday 6 May:

    • An installation of ceramic poppies will return to the Tower of London to mark the anniversary. Nearly 30,000 of the original poppies from the 2014 display at the Tower, which commemorated the centenary of the First World War, will be displayed in a new installation within the walls of the fortress. This poppies installation will resemble a ‘wound’ at the heart of the Tower, which was itself bombed during the Blitz and still bears some of those scars today.  It will mark and reflect on the sacrifices made by so many during the Second World War.
    • Scotland Salutes VE80 concert will take place at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall.

    Wednesday 7 May:

    • On the evening of 7 May 1945, a newsflash announced that the following day would be Victory in Europe Day. To commemorate this important moment in the nation’s history, the Parliament Choir will host a Victory in Europe Day Anniversary Concert in the famous Westminster Hall at the Palace of Westminster.
    • At a special VE Day event at IWM North, jointly produced by IWM and the National Theatre, some of the letters that the public submit will become part of a performance along with high profile public figures sharing letters from the IWM collection and excerpts from ‘The Next Morning’.
    • A National Service of Remembrance will be held at Llandaff Cathedral.

    Thursday 8 May:

    • A service will take place at Westminster Abbey that will be both an act of shared remembrance and a celebration of the end of the war. It will be a moment to give thanks and to honour a generation that showed extraordinary courage and resilience.
    • The events will conclude with a concert at the historic Horseguards Parade to finish the VE Day 80 commemorations in a celebratory tone, echoing how the nation reacted to the news 80 years before. With more than 10,000 members of the public in attendance, the concert will feature stars of stage and screen including John Newman and Dames Joan Collins, Mary Berry, and Sheila Hancock as well as military musicians and tell the story of victory and the legacy of the Second World War in Europe.

    Services of remembrance and community celebrations will take place across Northern Ireland throughout the week. The Government has launched Tip Top Towns, a programme to encourage communities across the country – whether towns, villages or cities – to get together with their communities ahead of 5 May when the nation will come together for street parties to celebrate VE Day. Members of the public are encouraged to get in the VE Day spirit by making their own decorations, planting flowers, encouraging children to draw pictures for their windows or hosting arts and craft sessions.

    Full list of buildings being lit up:

    London:

    Houses of Parliament, London

    Elizabeth Tower, London

    Buckingham Palace, London

    10 Downing Street, London

    Battersea Power Station, London

    Tower 42 (Natwest Building), London

    Millenium Bridge, London

    The Shard, London

    Tower of London, London

    St Paul’s Cathedral, London

    London Eye, London

    Canary Wharf 1 Canada Square, London

    National Theatre, London

    British Film Institute, London

    The Cenotaph, London

    HMS Belfast, London

    IWM London, London

    BFI IMAX, London

    BFI Southbank, London

    London Bridge, London

    Cannon Street Railway Bridge, London

    Southwark Bridge, London

    Waterloo Bridge, London

    Golden Jubilee Footbridges, London

    Westminster Bridge, London

    Lambeth Bridge, London

    Blackfriars Bridge, London

    102 Petty France, London

    The National Archives, London

    120 Fenchurch Street, London

    Twickenham/Aviva Stadium, London

    North West England:

    IWM North, Salford

    Liverpool’s Royal Liver Building, Liverpool

    Manchester Printworks, Manchester

    The Royal Exchange, Manchester

    Lowther Castle, Cumbria

    Blackpool seafront & tower, Blackpool

    Rivington Pike, Chorley

    Chorley Town hall, Chorley

    North East England:

    Durham Cathedral, Durham

    Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Newcastle

    Glasshouse International Centre, Newcastle

    Municipal Buildings, Middlesborough

    Town Hall, Middlesborough

    Town Hall Clock Tower, Middlesborough

    Central Library, Middlesborough

    Bottle of Notes, Middlesborough

    St Hilda’s Bell structure, Middlesborough

    Zetland Car Park, Middlesborough

    The Issac Wilson pub, Middlesborough

    Dorman Museum, Middlesborough

     South East England:

    The Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth

    Rochester Cathedral, Rochester

    Brighton Royal Pavillion, Brighton

    South West England:

    Runnymede Air Force Memorial, Surrey

    County Hall, Dorset

    Aerospace Bristol, Bristol

    The Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare

    East England:

    St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Suffolk

    West Midlands:

    Birmingham Central Library, Birmingham

    Tamworth Castle, Staffordshire

    Kings Heath (trees), Birmingham

    National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire

    East Midlands:

    Derwent Dam, Peak District

    Scotland:

    The Kelpies, Falkirk

    The Falkirk Wheel, Falkirk

    Perth Bridge, Perth

    Hamilton House, Lanarkshire

    City Chambers, Edinburgh

    St Paul’s Church, Perth

    Northern Ireland:

    Belfast City Hall, Belfast

    Titanic Museum, Belfast

    Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen

    Strule Arts Centre, Omagh

    Parliament Buildings 

     Wales:

    Welsh Government Building in Cathays Park, Cardiff

    Welsh Parliament ( Senedd Cymru) in Cardiff Bay

    Cardiff Castle, Cardiff

    Castell Coch, Cardiff

    Caernarfon Castle, Caernarfon

    Channel Islands:

    Castle Cornet, Guernsey

    Fort Grey, Guernsey

    Beau Sejour Leisure, Guernsey

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Just champion! Council leader hails Leeds United’s title winners

    Source: City of Leeds

    The leader of Leeds City Council has sent a “delighted” message of congratulations to Leeds United following their Championship title win.

    United made sure of top spot in dramatic fashion today with a last-gasp 2-1 victory at Plymouth Argyle in their final game of the season.

    Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said:

    “I’m absolutely delighted to be sending, for the second time in the space of a couple of weeks, congratulations to Leeds United from everyone at the council.

    “Winning promotion back to the Premier League was a fantastic achievement in itself, and to follow that up by securing the Championship title has provided a fitting end to a season that will live long in the memory.

    “Leeds, as invariably seems to be the case, didn’t do it the easy way today, but to score such a vital goal so late on shows the spirit of determination and togetherness that Daniel Farke has drilled into his team.

    “Being crowned champions sets up both club and city perfectly for a really special celebration in the form of Monday’s open-top bus parade. Daniel and the players have done us proud this season, now let’s return the compliment and give them a reception they’ll never forget.”

    Further information about Monday’s parade can be found here.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TUV Condemns Cliftonville Disrespect at Cup Final

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV Vice Chairman and local football fan, Cllr Allister Kyle:

    “Congratulations to Dungannon Swifts FC on winning the Clearer Water Irish Cup for the first time in their history. However, it is disappointing that the start of the match was marred by Cliftonville FC fans who endeavoured to drown out the National Anthem with ‘boos and chants’.

    “Respect costs nothing and I have no doubt those same people who tell unionists that they will be welcome in a “New Ireland” failed to show any respect today.

    “With my Tyrone roots in mind, I’d like to give a massive well done to the Swifts who have had an outstanding season. Best wishes especially to manager Rodney McAree and his father, Dungannon stalwart Joe.

    “I’m sure there will be some celebrations in Dungannon tonight.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 3, 2025 1300 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 031250

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0750 AM CDT Sat May 03 2025

    Valid 031300Z – 041200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PARTS OF
    THE CAROLINAS…MID-ATLANTIC STATES…AND NEW ENGLAND…

    …SUMMARY…
    Strong to severe storms are possible this afternoon into evening
    from parts of the Carolinas into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. An
    isolated severe threat may develop across the Southeast, and also
    across parts of the Great Basin.

    …Carolinas/Mid-Atlantic States to Southern New England…
    Thinking remains that the primary severe risk will focus today
    across parts of the Mid-Atlantic into southern New England,
    including western/northern Virginia and parts of West
    Virginia/Maryland into southern/eastern Pennsylvania to southeast
    New York and southern New England. Even with higher-level cloud
    cover spreading into the region, ample heating will occur within the
    prefrontal warm sector, generally coincident with near 60/lower 60s
    F surface dewpoints in the lee of the Appalachians, with upwards of
    1000 J/kg MLCAPE possible especially across parts of
    Virginia/Delmarva into southeast Pennsylvania and New Jersey. A belt
    of moderately strong mid-level southwesterly flow in advance of the
    slow-moving mid/upper trough will provide sufficient deep-layer
    shear for some storm organization, coincident with the moderately
    buoyant warm sector.

    Organized cells/clusters should develop during the afternoon from
    the Mid-Atlantic into southern New England, as a frontal wave
    and modestly enhanced low-level jet move northeastward across the
    region. These storms will pose a threat of damaging winds and
    isolated hail, and possibly some localized tornado potential.

    Farther south, scattered storm development is expected during the
    afternoon near/east of the Blue Ridge. Moderate buoyancy/shear and
    relatively steep low-level lapse rates will support a threat of
    damaging wind and hail with the strongest storms.

    …Southeast States/Tennessee Valley…
    Several linear bands of storms and possibly multiple weak MCVs are
    ongoing this morning across the Florida Panhandle, eastern Alabama,
    into western/northern Georgia. An isolated severe risk may exist
    early today primarily across the Florida Panhandle with an ongoing
    linear cluster of storms. Otherwise, subsequent later-day
    destabilization is uncertain in the wake of this convection. Some
    increase in deep-layer shear and cooling temperatures aloft will
    accompany the approaching mid/upper trough, and adequate
    heating/destabilization could result in redevelopment of strong to
    locally severe storms along the cold front during the afternoon and
    evening. This could potentially include parts of Alabama, eastern
    Tennessee, northern Georgia and eastern Mississippi.

    …Nevada into Oregon/Idaho…
    Scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon across the
    northern Great Basin and vicinity, as favorable large-scale ascent
    and steep mid-level lapse rates overspread the region. Buoyancy will
    generally remain modest (MLCAPE around 500 J/kg or less), but
    moderate deep-layer shear and steep low-level lapse rates could
    support a few stronger storms capable of localized severe wind gusts
    and small to marginally severe hail.

    …Parts of the Texas Big Bend/Trans-Pecos region…
    Very isolated storm development is possible during the afternoon and
    evening, within a post-frontal regime across parts of west Texas.
    Guidance varies somewhat regarding the magnitude of destabilization
    across the region, though MLCAPE may remain rather modest (around
    500 J/kg). Veering wind profiles will support sufficient deep-layer
    shear for storm organization, and if somewhat greater instability
    materializes, severe probabilities might need to be introduced for
    isolated supercell/related hail potential.

    ..Guyer/Jewell.. 05/03/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1630Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Overtaking the Conservatives

    Source: Liberal Democrats UK

    Our results are a real sign of hope. Across the country, local Liberal Democrat champions will be getting to work, delivering for local communities and championing our liberal values.

    But we cannot ignore the other big news of these elections – Nigel Farage and Reform, with big money behind them, making huge gains from both Labour and the Conservatives.

    We know the threat Reform poses – to our communities, our democracy and our precious liberal values. We know where their divisive, destructive brand of politics could lead.

    As Ed Davey said in Oxfordshire yesterday – the Liberal Democrats are the antidote to Reform, and we must continue to take a stand.

    Over the past two days, we’ve seen a surge in new members joining the party – people worried about the rise of divisive populist politicians like Donald Trump and Nigel Farage, and who know that it will be the Liberal Democrats standing up for true British values.

    Please share Ed’s message to help reach more people:

    Share: Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, X

    Congratulations to all those elected – we can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve in office.

    A massive thank you to everyone who stood as a candidate but didn’t quite make it this time – you can be incredibly proud of being our liberal voice in your local area. A particular mention to Mike Ross and the team in Hull and East Yorkshire who took the fight to Reform and came second in the mayoral race there – you fought a fantastic campaign, thank you for standing up for our values.

    Thank you also to everyone who supported our campaign, volunteering, donating, voting or helping in any other way – we couldn’t have done it without you.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SUD SUDAN – Until the very end, Pope Francis sent letters to South Sudanese leaders urging them to work for peace

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Juba (Fides Agency ) – “Pope Francis worked until the very end for peace in South Sudan,” Sister Elena Balatti, a Comboni missionary in South Sudan, told Fides Agency.“Unfortunately, South Sudan is once again on the brink of civil war. Despite his illness, Pope Francis sent letters to President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Vice President Reik Machar, now under house arrest, asking them to work for peace,” said the missionary.At the beginning of March, tensions rose between the faction led by President Kiir and that headed by Machar, who was placed under house arrest on March 26 (see Fides 27/3/2025).“The Holy Father was remembered by South Sudanese people with numerous messages of condolence on social media. The local population remembers well his visit to South Sudan in February 2023,” Sister Elena points out.“The Presidency of South Sudan declared April 25 a national day of mourning for the death of Pope Francis. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, in his message of condolence, explicitly recalled this visit and emphasized that the South Sudanese people understood very well how special a place South Sudan had in the heart of Pope Francis, who worked so hard for peace and brotherhood in this country. The President also recalled the historic gesture with which, after inviting the country’s government and opposition leaders to the Vatican in 2019, he kissed their feet in that ecumenical moment together with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland, Rev. John Chalmers.”“The Pope’s visit, his gesture of kissing the feet of government and opposition leaders, and the closeness he showed to South Sudan during his illness from the Gemelli Hospital will remain in the hearts of all South Sudanese who remember him with gratitude,” concluded the missionary. (LM) (Fides Agency 3/5/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tiffany Sadler, UK Special Envoy to the Great Lakes to visit Kigali

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Tiffany Sadler, UK Special Envoy to the Great Lakes to visit Kigali

    The UK Special Envoy to the Great Lakes, Tiffany Sadler, will be in Kigali next week, after visiting Kinshasa and Kampala.

    The Special Envoy to the Great Lakes, Tiffany Sadler, will meet representatives of government, business, and civil society during her visit to Rwanda; all of which provide an opportunity to discuss the current conflict and to reiterate the UK’s commitment to the region’s stability and long-term prosperity.

    This is Ms. Tiffany Sadler’s second visit to Rwanda since taking up her position in September 2024. 

    The Special Envoy to the Great Lakes, Tiffany Sadler, said:

    I am delighted to be back in Rwanda during this critical and solemn time. The agreement signed between DRC and Rwanda in Washington, and the joint statement issued by DRC and M23 after their meetings in Qatar are very good news. 

    I will be discussing with the government, civil society, and business what the UK can do to sustain this positive momentum. Security and prosperity will lead to huge benefits for all. The region deserves to live in peace.

    She will also experience the long-standing UK-Rwanda education partnership in practice, with a visit to a school in the northern province. 

    As her trip to Rwanda is during the solemn period of Kwibuka (remembrance), she will listen firsthand to the testimony of survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    Finally, she will visit the Ruzisi III hydropower site with Minister of Infrastructure, Dr Jimmy Gasore. This signals the UK’s strong and ongoing commitment to the project and the benefits it will bring to the people of Rwanda, DRC, and Burundi by increasing their energy supply.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK statement on attacks against the Druze community in Syria

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Government response

    UK statement on attacks against the Druze community in Syria

    The UK has issued a statement in response to recent attacks against the Druze community in Syria.

    A UK Government spokesperson said:

    The UK is appalled by recent attacks against the Druze community in Syria. We urge the authorities to take steps to restore calm, shield civilians from violence and hold those responsible to account. 

    We strongly call on all parties to reject violence, to ensure the protection of civilians and to refrain from actions that could risk aggravating tensions between communities in Syria.  We call on Israel to refrain from actions that could risk destabilising Syria – respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is paramount.

    There can be no lasting peace or better future for Syrians unless all of Syria’s communities are protected and fully included in Syria’s transition.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Record high for Green Party after County Council elections 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    After this year’s County Council elections in England, the Green Party has made a net gain of 43 seats, taking their tally to 859 seats on 181 councils. The party held 38 seats, gained 48 and lost just 5. 

    The Greens gained from both the Conservatives and Labour and lost no seats to either. 24 seats were gained from the Conservatives, while 17 were gained from Labour. There were also 6 gains from the Lib Dems, with just one loss, and 3 gains from Independents. Only four seats were lost to Reform, compared to hundreds of losses suffered by the Conservatives and Labour.    

    The Green Party has made breakthroughs in Leicestershire, Staffordshire and Cambridgeshire. 

    Commenting on the record-breaking results, Green Party co-Leader Carla Denyer MP said: 

    “The Green Party has broken new records by increasing our number of councillors for the eighth year running. While Labour and the Conservatives have buckled under the Reform insurgency, Greens just keep growing. 

    “We have taken seats off the Tories and Labour and have shown we can be the positive and progressive antidote to Reform, holding their vote back in some places while breaking through onto other councils where Reform dominated.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TUV expose Stormont’s extreme trans policy on female only spaces, names and pronouns

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “Having read the Assembly’s Transgender Policy, I am deeply alarmed by its contents. It reads as though it were drafted by the most extreme of trans activists.

    “Astonishingly, the policy states — explicitly — that biological males “are free to use restrooms and facilities belonging to the gender with which they identify from the point at which they begin to present permanently in the sex to which they identify.”

    “In other words, a man who does not even hold a Gender Recognition Certificate can access the female toilets in Stormont. Earlier versions of the policy referred to gender reassignment – which was bad enough. That has since been replaced with gender identity — a vague and contested concept — meaning individuals can self-declare themselves the opposite gender to which they were born.

    “And it goes further. The policy proudly notes that visitor passes to Stormont do not contain gender-based honorifics — Mr, Mrs, etc.; yet another concession to ideological activism and an effort to erase biological and social norms.

    “Concerningly, it states that “records will reflect the name and expressed gender identity of the person concerned.” This renders records effectively meaningless. If anyone can enter Parliament Buildings under a name and gender of their choosing, how are security and accountability maintained? What use are records if the person concerned can turn up using a different name – and presumably a different gender – the next day? Apart from other considerations, this has the potential to cause confusion at the desk where visitors are asked if their details are already on file and if they are this eases and speeds up the process of getting people into the building; something which can be important when it comes to large events.

    “Worse still, the policy invites complaints to the Assembly Commissioner for Standards if a person feels that their gender identity has not been affirmed — for instance, if someone fails to use their preferred pronouns, or questions their presence in a toilet. This is not governance; it is capitulation to an ideology.

    “Stormont must answer serious questions about how such a policy came into effect without any apparent opposition from the Assembly Commission. Who approved this? Why was there no scrutiny?

    “I will be pursuing this matter vigorously in the days ahead. I have tabled both a Matter of the Day and an Urgent Oral Question to the Assembly Commission. I trust the Speaker will acknowledge the seriousness of this issue and ensure it is addressed promptly after the May Day recess.

    “Let me be clear: the Supreme Court has not changed the law; it has clarified it. Female spaces were always protected by law — and Stormont must reflect that. The guidance must be withdrawn immediately. The Assembly should not be leading the charge in eroding women’s rights; it should be protecting them.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 3, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 030600

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0100 AM CDT Sat May 03 2025

    Valid 031200Z – 041200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM THE CAROLINA
    PIEDMONT INTO PARTS OF THE MID ATLANTIC AND NEW ENGLAND…

    …SUMMARY…
    Strong to severe storms are possible later today into this evening
    from parts of the Carolinas into the Mid Atlantic and Northeast. A
    more isolated severe threat may also develop across the Southeast
    and Ohio Valley, and also across parts of the Great Basin.

    …Synopsis…
    A slow-moving mid/upper-level cyclone is forecast to develop across
    parts of IL/MO later today. This cyclone will be embedded within a
    broad mid/upper-level trough covering much of eastern CONUS. A
    slow-moving cold front will gradually progress southeastward from
    parts of the Ohio Valley into the Mid Atlantic and Northeast. One
    frontal wave may move east-northeastward during the day toward
    southern New England, while the primary surface low gradually
    consolidates over the OH/TN Valleys. The western portion of the
    front will continue to move across Deep South TX into the lower MS
    Valley.

    For the western CONUS, a mid/upper-level trough will amplify and dig
    southeastward into parts of the Southwest and Great Basin. A cold
    front will move eastward across parts of the Great Basin in
    conjunction with this system.

    …Parts of the East…
    The greatest relative severe threat within the broad prefrontal
    region across the East is currently expected from the Carolina
    Piedmont into parts of the Mid Atlantic and southern New England,
    where somewhat stronger diurnal heating/destabilization is currently
    expected. A belt of moderate midlevel southwesterly flow in advance
    of the slow-moving mid/upper trough will provide sufficient
    deep-layer shear for some storm organization within a moderately
    buoyant environment.

    Organized cells/clusters may develop during the afternoon from the
    northern Mid Atlantic into southern New England, as a frontal wave
    and modestly enhanced low-level jet move northeastward across the
    region. These storms will pose a threat of damaging winds and
    isolated hail, and perhaps some localized tornado potential.

    Farther south, scattered storm development is expected during the
    afternoon near/east of the Blue Ridge. Moderate buoyancy/shear and
    relatively steep low-level lapse rates will support a threat of
    damaging wind and hail with the strongest storms.

    Uncertainty is greater regarding potential for destabilization in
    the wake of morning storms across parts of eastern MS into AL/GA and
    FL Panhandle. However, some increase in deep-layer shear and cooling
    temperatures aloft will accompany the approaching mid/upper trough,
    and adequate heating/destabilization could result in redevelopment
    of strong to locally severe storms along the cold front during the
    afternoon and evening. Portions of the Southeast may require greater
    severe probabilities if trends begin to support stronger instability
    in advance of the cold front.

    …Parts of NV into OR/ID…
    Scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon across the
    northern Great Basin and vicinity, as favorable large-scale ascent
    and steep midlevel lapse rates overspread the region. Buoyancy will
    generally remain modest (MLCAPE around 500 J/kg or less), but
    moderate deep-layer shear and steep low-level lapse rates could
    support a few stronger storms capable of localized severe gusts and
    small to near-severe hail.

    …Parts of the TX Big Bend/Trans-Pecos region…
    Isolated storm development is possible during the afternoon and
    evening, within a post-frontal regime across parts of west TX.
    Guidance varies somewhat regarding the magnitude of destabilization
    across the region, though MLCAPE may remain rather modest (around
    500 J/kg). Veering wind profiles will support sufficient deep-layer
    shear for storm organization, so if somewhat greater instability
    materializes compared to current expectations, then a supercell or
    two with some hail potential could evolve with time.

    …Deep South TX…
    Strong storms could be ongoing near the cold front across a small
    part of Deep South TX at the start of the forecast period, though it
    is also possible that the front and any remaining severe threat will
    have already passed through the region. Any remaining storms this
    morning could pose a threat of isolated hail and damaging gusts.

    ..Dean/Moore.. 05/03/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests after stolen vehicle tracked to Salisbury East

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Two people were arrested after allegedly driving a stolen car across the state at high speed.

    Just before 7am on Saturday 3 May, police were alerted that a car stolen from a Cummins property, on the Eyre Peninsula, was being tracked by the owner.

    The silver Kia was tracked as it travelled at extreme speeds across the Eyre Peninsula and through the Mid North of the State.

    PolAir responded and headed to the area while police on the ground attempted to spike the vehicles tyres numerous times as it continued to head towards Adelaide.

    The stolen Kia was located in Lysander Place, Salisbury East about midday and the two occupants ran from the vehicle.

    It will be alleged the man discharged a small calibre firearm but was quickly apprehended by police.  The man was taken to hospital for assessment prior to charging.

    No shots were fired by police.

    Fortunately, no police officers were injured during the incident.

    The firearm has been seized by police.

    A 31-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman were arrested and will be interviewed by police.  Investigations are continuing.

    Anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage of this vehicle that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal Announces 2025 Women of the Year Award Winners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    Today, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced the five winners of the 2025 Congressional Women of the Year award from the Central Coast.

    The five winners of this year’s award are: Alison Wales from Lompoc, JoAnne Meade Young from Santa Barbara, Lisa Kawamura from Arroyo Grande, Julie Rodewald from Los Osos, and Cherie Eulau from Ventura.

    “Each year, I am inspired by the extraordinary women who are shaping the future of the Central Coast,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The 2025 Women of the Year winners represent the very best of our region—leaders, educators, advocates, and public servants who have dedicated themselves to uplifting others and driving meaningful change. From San Luis Obispo to Ventura, their stories are powerful reminders of the strength and spirit that define our district. I am proud to recognize their achievements in the Congressional Record and to celebrate their invaluable contributions.”

    The Congressional Women of the Year Award honors exceptional women across the 24th Congressional District who have made a positive impact on their communities. Winners span a variety of backgrounds and professions and represent the thousands of women working tirelessly to improve the quality of life on the Central Coast. 

    Carbajal will recognize the winners by permanently entering the accomplishments of each woman into the official Congressional Record, preserving their stories and their impact on the community. An award ceremony will be held at a later date where each honoree will also receive a special congressional pin.

    Below are the biographies for this year’s honorees:

    Alison Wales, Lompoc

    Alison Wales is a dedicated advocate for survivors of sexual violence. She was instrumental in establishing a 24/7 crisis hotline at the North County Rape Crisis Center and creating a prevention education program that works with local schools to reduce incidents of sexual violence. She also launched the She Raised Her Hand initiative to address the unique challenges faced by female veterans, many of whom struggle with PTSD, military sexual trauma, and reintegration into civilian life. She is a true champion for the North County community.

    JoAnne Meade Young, Santa Barbara

    JoAnne Meade Young attended a segregated two-room school through the third grade. Learning did not come easily to her, which motivated her to ensure that low-income children, children of color, and children with learning disabilities and ADHD were recognized and placed on a path to educational success. When she moved to Santa Barbara in 1990 to become principal of Mountain View School in Goleta, she became the school’s first Black principal. Over the next 17 years, she served as principal of Brandon School, El Rancho School, Ellwood School, and as Director of the Goleta State Preschool. Even in retirement, she has continued to serve the community. She ran the Santa Barbara Spelling Bee for five years, and helped found the Santa Barbara Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, and served as a board member of the Family Services Agency and as the District 2 Commissioner for Women. Her lifelong commitment to equity and education has left a lasting impact on generations of students and the broader Santa Barbara community

    Lisa Kawamura, Arroyo Grande

    Lisa Kawamura is currently President of the Executive Board of the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Chapter of the California Faculty Association union. She fights to ensure that her colleagues receive the pay and treatment they deserve. As a woman of color, she is particularly supportive of other women-of-color faculty and encourages them to speak up for themselves, no matter who else is in the room. She is also a 27-year lecturer in the Department of Communication at Cal Poly SLO, where she has taught hundreds of students public speaking. Lisa has been a featured speaker at the SLO County Women of Color Network’s annual Women of Color Symposium two years in a row. Through her leadership, advocacy, and teaching, Lisa Kawamura continues to empower both colleagues and students, leaving a meaningful mark on the Cal Poly community and beyond.

    Julie Rodewald, Los Osos

    Julie Rodewald’s dedication to democracy and public service has shaped lives in San Luis Obispo for decades. She served for 33 years in the Office of the SLO County Clerk-Recorder, ensuring everyone had the right to vote. Even in retirement, she continues to advocate for voting rights. She serves on the Board of Directors for the SLO County League of Women Voters and launched the Empowering the Voters of Tomorrow, Today initiative, which registered or pre-registered over 3,500 local high school students. She worked with the Latino Voter Engagement Project to help Spanish speakers in the community exercise their right to vote, and even helped create a short film, Forever Voters, to inspire civic engagement. Julie’s dedication to ensuring every citizen exercises their right to vote is truly inspiring.

    Cherie Eulau, Ventura

    Cherie Eulau taught for 27 years in the Ventura Unified School District, shaping generations of young people in the process. Her classes on World History, Government, and Economics inspired many to pursue careers in public service. She went above and beyond, developing interactive lesson plans that helped students truly understand the past and how it shapes the present. She also encouraged her students to get involved in the community, partnering with organizations like the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) on issues such as environmental justice and voting rights. Cherie brings joyful optimism and fiery energy to igniting the minds and hearts of local youth, encouraging them to raise their voices and change the world around them.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Driver arrested on North-South Motorway

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man was arrested after trying to flee police on the North-South Motorway last night.

    Police spotted the man’s vehicle on Bower Road, Semaphore just before 11pm on Friday 2 May but it took off and they called in the police helicopter to follow the black Holden sedan as it turned onto Causeway to head to the Port River Expressway.

    The vehicle travelled at high speeds, taking the Northern Connector onto the North-South Motorway, before crashing into a roundabout near the Waterloo Corner Road exit.

    The driver abandoned his vehicle and was walking east towards Port Wakefield Road but was easily spotted by police and arrested without further incident.

    The 41-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash.

    He was charged with excessive speed, speed dangerous and drive unlicensed and unregistered.  He did not apply for bail and will appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday 5 May.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested after trying to evade police at Parafield Gardens

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man has been arrested after trying to evade police at Parafield Gardens last night.

    At 8.30pm on Friday 2 May police spotted a red Holden sedan on Martins Road, Parafield Gardens and directed the driver to stop.

    The driver refused and took off at speed. The vehicle wasn’t pursued by police as fortunately PolAir was in the area and tracked the vehicle from above. The vehicle was tracked onto John Rice Avenue and the Grove Way where it will be alleged it reached speeds of 120 km/h.

    Patrols successfully spiked the vehicle on two occasions on the Grove Way.

    The vehicle continued into Fairview Park before stopping on Hamilton Road and the driver attempted to run from the car.

    He was swiftly arrested after a short foot chase.

    Checks revealed the 32-year-old driver from Banksia Park was currently disqualified from driving.

    He was arrested and charged with fail to stop, drive dangerously to escape police, speed dangerous, drive disqualified and resist police.

    His vehicle was impounded, and he was bailed to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on 18 June.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Previously unheard Nazi tapes released ahead of WW2 80th anniversary Digitized recordings of conversations with protagonists of 20th century conflict – including undercover conversations with high-ranking Nazis who fled to semi-hiding in South America – will be released ahead of the 80th anniversary of Germany’s surrender in World War Two.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Digitized recordings of conversations with protagonists of 20th century conflict – including undercover conversations with high-ranking Nazis who fled to semi-hiding in South America – will be released ahead of the 80th anniversary of Germany’s surrender in World War Two.
    They form part of the Gerd Heidemann collection held at the Hoover Institution Library & Archives at Stanford University, which  is described by University of Aberdeen historian and Hoover Visiting Fellow Professor Thomas Weber as ‘the most important private collection on the Third Reich and the inner lives of extremists acquired by a university archive’.
    Weber and his Hoover colleague Kathatina Friedla facilitated the acquisition of the archive by Hoover, which includes an abundance of conversations with Nazis spanning the 1960s to the 1990s. Friedla is the Taube Family Curator for European Collections at Hoover’s Library & Archives.
    Among those Heidemann interviewed – included in the material made available – is Bruno Streckenbach the head of personnel of the SS agency in charge of the Holocaust, who spoke about what Heydrich and Himmler had told him regarding Hitler’s role in the Holocaust.
    The release of the recordings and transcriptions in both German and English, will allow researchers to explore, understand, and learn from voices of the past.
    The conversations were conducted by German investigative journalist Gerd Heidemann – a contentious figure who accumulated an expansive trove of materials that document major world events, war, and dictatorship in the twentieth century. His reputation was sullied in 1983 by the acquisition of forged Hitler diaries but new research led by Weber and Friedla has shown that he played a crucial role hunting down Nazis, which included work over two decades for the Israeli intelligence services.
    The Hoover Institution, together with Weber, went to great lengths to authenticate Heidemann’s Collection, which included an authentication of Streckenbach’s voice recording by the former head of the voice recognition unit of the German Federal Police.
    Weber and Friedla say the release of the Heidemann tapes is an important landmark in understanding the inner lives of key Nazi perpetrators.
    “It is due to the tenacity and diligence of Gerd Heidemann as an investigative journalist that we now have at our hands a collection of more than seven thousand folders of papers and a hundred thousand photos in addition to the audio tapes pertaining to 20th century conflict,” they said.
    Professor Weber met Heidemann, who died in 2024 aged 93, more than 20 times over a ten-year period.
    “We long knew about the World Press Photo Award that Heidemann won in the 1960s for his coverage of colonial warfare. Through an interview I recorded with Gerd Heidemann two weeks prior to his death, we now also know much better about the trust Mossad’s Nazi war crime unit put in him in the 1970s in hunting down Nazi war criminals in hiding,” Professor Weber said.
    “Camouflaging as an aide to former SS-General Karl Wolff, Himmler’s liaison officer to Hitler, Heidemann managed to get in touch with the community of Nazis who had fled to South America, including Klaus Barbie, the ‘butcher of Lyon’, responsible for the deaths of many Jews and resistance fighters.
    Professor Weber added that the newly released tapes show that while being recorded by Heidemann, Barbie and other Nazi war criminals boasted perfectly openly of what they had done, assuming they were speaking among friends.
    “The recordings pull away the rug under the lies that Nazi perpetrators told in postwar court rooms. Back in Germany, Heidemann managed to get Bruno Streckenbach to reveal how SS perpetrators and their lawyers had lied in court rooms in a coordinated fashion about their role in the ‘Holocaust by Bullets’, which resulted in the death of 1.5 million Ukrainian Jews,” Weber said.
     “This is an enormous archive and we’ve only really begun to scratch the surface of the secrets like this that it may hold.
    Historians, alongside all those interested in the meaning and role of history, can now begin to sift through the ‘new trove of material’ that will allow them to study in greater detail than ever before the first-person perspective of the radicalization and crimes against humanity by extremists, something Professor Weber says is absolutely vital at a time at which the world once again is starting to give in to the lure of extreme political behaviour.
    “In line with new breakthroughs in the study of extremism, we need triangulate the inner lives of extremists against other evidence relating to their behaviour”, he said.
    “As Dutch scholar of extremism Rik Peels has said, ‘extremists are also people who act from convictions, for reasons, who have intentions and goals, who think and reflect and make difficult choices. To truly understand and explain radicalization, we must not only look at all kinds of factors that transcend them, but also at what they themselves bring to the table when they explain their beliefs and actions.
    “I have spent more than a decade working to ensure the Heidemann archive could be preserved, and with the wonderful work of Katharina and the Hoover Institution Library & Archives, it will now be opened up to researchers and the general public across the globe.”
    For more information about this collection, visit the Hoover Institution Library & Archives digital collections website and YouTube channel.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Help shape the future of SEND provision on the Isle of Wight 2 May 2025 Help shape the future of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision on the Isle of Wight

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    A consultation on Isle of Wight Council proposals to increase Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision for Island children launches today (Friday).

    We are asking communities to share their views on proposals, the key aim of the proposed programme is to provide specialist education placement for additional children from September 2025 and beyond.

    The proposals continue to support the Island’s education strategy — an overarching masterplan to transform the school system from one that has consistently underperformed compared to national trends, to one that is recognised nationally for the quality of its education.

    The consultation runs from today (Friday 2 May) until Monday 9 June 2025 and all Island residents’ input is welcomed.

    Why is this happening?

    The proposed additional specialist SEND provision will help manage an increase in the number of children with SEND, including those requiring an education health and care plan (EHCP) for their needs to be met, and ensure we are able to meet the needs of children requiring specialist provision.

    The consultation 

    The consultation seeks to expand specialist SEND provision at the following places:

    • Expansion of places at Medina House School from 138 places to 168, with 30 places being provided at a satellite specialist SEND provision located at the site of the former Chillerton & Rookley Primary School, Chillerton IOW.
    • Expansion of the resourced specialist SEND provision at Hunnyhill Primary School from 8 places to 12 places for children for Social Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH).
    • Expansion of the resourced specialist SEND provision at Brading CE Primary School from 8 places to 12 places for children with Autism Spectrum (AS) and/or Complex Learning.
    • Expansion of the resourced specialist SEND provision at The Bay CE School (Secondary site) from 15 places to 20 places for children with Autism Spectrum (AS).
    • Expansion of Lionheart School from 60 places to 120 places, with 60 places for children with complex high anxiety mental health (Non- EHCP/Section 19 children) being provided at the Cowes Primary School site, Cowes (subject to closure on the 31/8/2025).
    • Expansion of St Georges School from 208 places to 228 places, with 40 places being provided at the satellite site located in East Cowes.
    • Creation of a new 12 place primary resourced specialist SEND provision at Brighstone CE Primary School for children with Autism Spectrum (AS) and/or Speech Language Communication Need (SLCN).

    How can I comment?

    It is important that we hear your views on the proposals.

    You can share your views by contacting us;

    • Via Email: strategic.planning@iow.gov.uk
    • Or via Post: Jade Kennett, Service manager – Strategic Development, County Hall, Newport IOW PO30 1UD.
    • For further information please visit SpecialEducational Needs and Disabilities

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cyber attacks are “wake up call” for businesses – Pat McFadden

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Cyber attacks are “wake up call” for businesses – Pat McFadden

    Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, will set out what action the government is taking to improve cyber security in a speech next week.

    • Pat McFadden led briefing with national security officials and National Cyber Security Centre CEO on Friday about support being provided to retailers
    • He will use keynote speech at CyberUK to say “companies must treat cyber security as an absolute priority”
    • Comes as National Cyber Security Centre works closely with affected organisations to provide expert advice and support 

    In the wake of a wave of cyber attacks on retailers, Pat McFadden will set out what action the government is taking to improve the country’s cyber security in a speech next week, as the government secures Britain’s future through the Plan for Change.

    Recognising the impact such attacks have on working people as they go about their daily lives, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will highlight moves to “bolster our national defences” including through the Cyber Security Bill.

    It follows a briefing he led with national security officials and NCSC CEO Richard Horne on Friday about the recent hacks and expert support being provided to retailers.

    In the keynote speech at the CyberUK conference in Manchester next week, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will say:

    “These attacks need to be a wake-up call for every business in the UK.

    “In a world where the cybercriminals targeting us are relentless in their pursuit of profit – with attempts being made every hour of every day – companies must treat cyber security as an absolute priority.

    “We’ve watched in real-time the disruption these attacks have caused – including to working families going about their everyday lives. It serves as a powerful reminder that just as you would never leave your car or your house unlocked on your way to work. We have to treat our digital shop fronts the same way.”

    The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is working closely with organisations that have reported incidents to them to fully understand the nature of these attacks and to provide expert advice to the wider sector based on the threat picture.

    They’re also urging leaders to follow the advice on the NCSC website to ensure they have appropriate measures in place to help prevent attacks and respond and recover effectively.

    In his speech next week, Pat McFadden will encourage firms from all sectors to consider what cyber protections they have in place.

    In a message to business leaders across the UK, he will say: “We are ready to support you. The National Cyber Security Centre is standing ready to support businesses and provide advice, and guidance, on how to raise the cyber security bar.”

    Pat McFadden will set out the action the government is taking to boost the country’s cyber protections.

    He will say: “We’re modernising the way the state approaches cyber, through the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill. That legislation will bolster our national defences.

    “It will grant new powers for the Technology Secretary to direct regulated organisations to reinforce their cyber defences It will require over 1,000 private IT providers to improve their data and network security.

    “It will require companies to report a wider array of cyber incidents to the NCSC in the future – to help us build a clearer picture of who, and what, hostile actors are targeting.”

    Last month (April) the government launched a Cyber Governance Code of Practice. This is a package of measures which shows boards and directors how they can manage digital risks and protect their businesses and organisations from cyber attacks.

    It covers a range of areas, including having robust cyber strategies in place, promoting a culture in workplaces so all employees are aware of the potential cyber risks they could face in their daily work, and having incident response plans in place which will mean organisations can respond quickly to cyber incidents as they occur.

    Small businesses looking to strengthen their online defences are also encouraged to engage with the NCSC’s Small Business Guide, which provides quick and easy actions to help bolster their defences and support through the Cyber Local scheme, which provides tailored funding to boost regional cyber skills.  

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Britain’s nuclear future? What small reactors, fusion and ‘Big Carl’ mean for net zero

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Tomas Martin, Associate Professor in Materials Physics, University of Bristol

    Former UK prime minister Tony Blair recently argued nuclear power is an “essential part of the answer” to net zero. Writing in the foreword of a report by his thinktank, the Tony Blair Institute, he claimed small modular nuclear reactors, nuclear fusion and other advanced technologies can help lower the emissions of the electricity sector.

    It’s worth looking at what these technologies involve, and how far off the UK is from integrating them into its electricity system. But we should first recognise great progress in the electricity sector in the past 15 years, and how dramatic reductions in the cost of wind and solar have led to huge increases in renewable capacity across the globe.

    The UK completely removed all coal-fired power in 2024, largely replaced by offshore wind and gas. However, relying on any one technology makes an electricity grid less resilient, and nuclear is zero-carbon and can help stabilise the grid when so much electricity comes from intermittent renewables.

    Historically, nuclear has contributed around 15% to 25% of the UK’s electricity supply, however most reactors have closed or are approaching the end of their life. The fleet of 26 Magnox reactors built in the 1960s finished operation by 2015 and are now being decommissioned.

    Over the past three years three other sites have also closed, with the remainder currently anticipated to run until 2028-2030. At this point, what was once 41 reactors will have shrunk to just Sizewell B, a power plant operational on the Suffolk coast since 1995.

    Replacing this drop in electricity production must be a big priority. The construction of two new reactors at Hinkley Point C in south-west England started in 2016 but won’t finish until at least 2029. Significant planning has taken place for an identical site at Sizewell C in Suffolk, and a final decision is expected shortly.

    The pressurised water reactor design at these two sites produces significantly more electricity than past UK designs, and these four reactors will together produce 6.4GW of electricity, replacing all 14 of the reactors that are retiring.

    Supporting the construction of new reactors at Hinkley Point and Sizewell is essential for maintaining the UK’s electricity supply, but basically returns the country to the status quo. Beyond, there are number of exciting new developments.

    SMRs

    Small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs) have frustratingly similar names, but have become the main way to categorise the two options. The “small” in SMRs is because they produce between 30MW and 300MW of electricity, compared to 1,600MW for each reactor at Hinkley Point C.

    The “modular” is driven by a desire to produce multiple identical reactors at once in a factory, rather than constructing on site. This can dramatically reduce manufacturing and installation time, potentially making them much cheaper.

    A combination of new SMRs and one or two new Hinkley C-sized reactors would enable UK nuclear capacity to expand beyond the status quo in the 2030s, further reducing the carbon emissions of the electricity sector.

    The next generation

    Further into the future, exciting research is taking place on the next “generation IV” nuclear designs: advanced modular reactors (AMRs).

    Some AMRs can run at much higher temperatures, which could help decarbonise tricky industries like steelmaking or produce hydrogen for energy storage or low-carbon plane fuel. Some designs can even reuse nuclear waste, reducing how long it needs to be stored safely.

    Even further in the future, nuclear fusion – the same process that powers the sun – could offer clean electricity without producing long-lasting radioactive waste. The UK is supporting this by building a demonstration fusion plant called STEP which aims to start operating by 2040.

    One of the biggest criticisms of nuclear is the cost. Building a nuclear plant is a massive project that can take many years or even decades. Hinkley Point C, for example, has up to 10,000 workers and more than 100 cranes on site, including the world’s biggest crane “Big Carl”.

    Because plants take so long to build, the money is borrowed years before any electricity is generated, gathering significant interest in the meantime. These interest payments can ultimately make up as much as two-thirds of the total cost.

    A new funding model, similar to that used for big infrastructure projects like Crossrail, should lower costs.

    But once a nuclear plant is built and paid off, it’s one of the cheapest ways to generate electricity – especially as modern reactors can run for up to 80 years. That’s why government support to cover upfront construction costs can pay off in the long run.

    The previous UK government ambition was to build 24GW of new nuclear power by 2050 – about four times more than the country has today. However, the current government has not confirmed it will stick to this target.

    To get there, the UK would need to approve several new nuclear projects every few years starting in 2030, which will require major investment in skills, resources and collaborations.

    We urgently need to decarbonise our energy system, and future nuclear reactors can play an important role in that alongside renewables and other technologies.

    Tomas Martin receives funding from EDF and the Royal Academy of Engineering as part of the Royal Academy of Engineering Senior Research Fellowship scheme. His research work includes projects sponsored by EDF, UKAEA and UKNNL.

    – ref. Britain’s nuclear future? What small reactors, fusion and ‘Big Carl’ mean for net zero – https://theconversation.com/britains-nuclear-future-what-small-reactors-fusion-and-big-carl-mean-for-net-zero-255797

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –