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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) Joint Communiqué

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) Joint Communiqué

    Today the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Fleur Anderson MP, attended the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in Hillsborough Castle.

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Fleur Anderson MP, with Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris and Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, at the latest meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference, held in Northern Ireland.

    A meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference took place in Hillsborough Castle on 24 April 2025.

    The Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was represented by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Fleur Anderson MP.

    The Government of Ireland was represented by the Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris TD, and the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan TD.

    Legacy

    The UK Government and the Government of Ireland noted that one of the aims of the Good Friday Agreement – to acknowledge and address the suffering of victims and survivors of the Troubles – remains unrealised. Both Governments reaffirmed their strong desire to work in partnership on this issue and expressed a mutual commitment to making timely progress so that families can obtain the information and accountability that they deserve and have long sought. 

    Both Governments reflected on the positive and constructive bilateral discussions that had taken place since the last BIIGC on the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy & Reconciliation) Act 2023 and the Commission it established. They noted the substantive progress made and emphasised that their aim remains to reach agreement on a joint, comprehensive approach to legacy issues consistent with the principles of the Stormont House Agreement – including ensuring that legacy mechanisms are human rights compliant and balanced, proportionate, transparent, fair and equitable.

    The UK Government and the Government of Ireland agreed that any joint approach to legacy will require agreement on all key issues, including: fundamental reform of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery to ensure its human rights compliance and to strengthen its practical independence, governance and oversight; the approach to legacy inquests and information retrieval; and ensuring that there are clear reciprocal commitments by both the UK Government and the Government of Ireland. 

    It was agreed that both Governments would continue to work quickly and intensively in seeking to finalise a joint approach. The UK Government remains committed to introducing legislation to repeal and replace the Legacy Act when Parliamentary time allows, and the Government of Ireland will introduce its own legislation as necessary. Ultimately, securing the confidence of victims, survivors, and families will remain at the heart of the work of both Governments.

    Political stability

    The Governments discussed their shared commitment to the good operation of all three strands of the Good Friday Agreement. They affirmed the importance of the full and timely implementation of the Windsor Framework. They took stock of recent developments including US tariff measures and their respective engagement with stakeholders to date. 

    The UK Government also provided an update on the ongoing efforts to support the Northern Ireland Executive with public service transformation. 

    Security update

    The Governments discussed the current security situation, including the Northern Ireland-related terrorism (NIRT) threat. That the NIRT threat level remains unchanged at SUBSTANTIAL is testament to the work being done by agencies on both sides of the border. This cross-border cooperation remains a vital part of work to tackle the terrorist threat and wider harms.

    They discussed an update on the process underway jointly to appoint an Independent Expert to carry out a short scoping and engagement exercise to assess whether there is merit in, and support for, a formal process of engagement to bring about paramilitary group transition to disbandment.

    British-Irish cooperation

    Ministers reflected on the recent UK-Ireland Summit, including on how future meetings of the BIIGC could complement the programme of cooperation agreed at the Summit.

    They reaffirmed their shared commitment to protecting the Common Travel Area to the benefit of citizens across these islands and noted, in particular, the importance of continued engagement with all stakeholders to ensure the UK ETA scheme operates smoothly.

    The Governments agreed that the Conference would meet again in the coming months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at the IEA Future of Energy Security summit: 24 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    PM remarks at the IEA Future of Energy Security summit: 24 April 2025

    Prime Minister’s remarks from the IEA Future of Energy Security summit.

    Good afternoon, everyone – it’s really fantastic to see so many people here, in London, welcome to London, I’m so pleased we have got so many representatives from so many places and in a sense we’re here today for one simple reason:

    Because the world has changed.

    From defence and national security on the one hand, much discussed in recent months…

    To the economy and trade…

    Old assumptions have fallen away.

    We are living through an era of global instability…

    Which is felt by working people as an age of local insecurity.

    Factory workers, builders, carers, nurses, teachers… 

    Working harder and harder for the pound in their pocket…

    But feeling at the same time that they have less control of their lives.

    *

    And energy security is right at the heart of this.

    Every family and business across the UK…

    Has paid the price for Russia weaponizing energy. And it has.

    But it’s not just that.

    *

    Let’s be frank.

    When it comes to energy…

    We’re also paying the price for our over-exposure…

    Over many years…

    To the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets.

    Leaving the economy – and therefore people’s household budgets…

    Vulnerable to the whims of dictators like Putin…

    To price spikes…

    And to volatility that is beyond our control. 

    Since the 1970s, half of the UK’s recessions have been caused by fossil fuel shocks. 

    That’s true for many of the other nations represented here this afternoon.

    So what’s different today is not the information we have.

    It’s not our awareness of the problem.

    No.

    What’s different now… 

    Is our determination…

    In a more uncertain world…

    To fix it.

    It’s our determination that working people…

    Should not be exposed like this anymore.

    *

    So, to the British people, I say:

    This government will not sit back…

    We will step up.

    We will make energy a source…

    Not of vulnerability, but of strength.

    We will protect our critical infrastructure, energy networks and supply chains…

    And do whatever it takes…

    To protect the security of our people.

    Because this is the crucial point – 

    Energy security is national security…

    And it is therefore a fundamental duty of government.

    And I’m very clear – 

    We can’t deliver that by defending the status quo…

    Or trying to turn the clock back…

    To a world that no longer exists.

    *

    Of course, fossil fuels will be part of our energy mix for decades to come.

    But winning the fight for energy security depends on renewal –

    It depends on change…

    It depends on cooperation with others.

    And that’s why we’re all here today – so many countries, so many communities represented.

    *

    The IEA was founded in 1974,

    In the midst of an energy crisis,

    To help us work together to secure energy supplies…

    And reduce future energy shocks.

    Well, that has taken on a new urgency today. 

    So our task is clear – 

    To act – together… 

    To seize the opportunity of the clean energy transition. 

    Because homegrown clean energy…

    Is the only way…

    To take back control of our energy system… 

    Deliver energy security…

    And bring down bills for the long term.

    *

    And I want to tell you –  

    That is in the DNA of my government.

    When we came into office last year… 

    We knew there was no time to waste.

    So in our first 100 days…

    We launched Great British Energy –

    As a national champion to drive investment and transform clean power.

    We scrapped the ban on onshore wind…

    And became the first G7 economy to phase out coal power.

    While we won’t turn off the taps…

    We’re going all out –  

    Through our Plan for Change…

    To make Britain a clean energy superpower… 

    To secure home grown energy…

    And set a path to achieving clean power by 2030.

    *

    Now, I know, some in the UK don’t agree with that.

    They think energy security can wait.

    They think tackling climate change can wait.

    But do they also think that billpayers can wait too?

    Do they think economic growth can wait?

    Do they think we can win the race for green jobs and investment by going slow?

    That would serve no one. 

    Instead, this government is acting now…

    With a muscular industrial policy –

    To seize these opportunities…

    To boost investment…

    Build new industries…

    Drive UK competitiveness…

    And unlock export opportunities –

    In wind, nuclear, hydrogen, carbon capture, heat pumps and so much more.

    That is the change we need.

    We won’t wait – 

    We’ll accelerate.

    *

    Because we’re already seeing the benefits.

    The UK’s net zero sectors are growing three times faster than the economy as a whole.

    They have attracted £43 billion of private investment since last July. 

    And now they support around 600,000 jobs across the UK.

    That means more opportunities…

    And more money in people’s pockets.

    And we’re going further.

    We’ve stripped out unnecessary red tape…

    To put Britain back in the global race for nuclear energy…

    And allow for Small Modular Reactors for the first time.

    We’re speeding up planning for clean energy projects –

    Including onshore wind…

    To power millions of homes and unlock further investment of £40 billion each year.

    *

    It’s really clear to me – 

    That investors want policy certainty.

    They want ambition.

    That is what we’re providing.

    And now we are raising our ambition even further.

    I am really pleased to announce today…

    That we’re creating a new Supply Chains Investment Fund –

    As part of Great British Energy.

    It will be backed by an initial £300 million of new funding… 

    For domestic offshore wind…

    Leveraging billions of new private investment…

    Supporting tens of thousands of jobs…

    And driving economic growth.

    When companies are looking to invest in clean energy…

    When partners are looking to build new turbines, blades or cables…

    Our message is simple:

    Build it in Britain.

    I am determined to seize this opportunity –

    To win our share of this trillion-dollar market…

    And secure the next generation of great jobs.

    I’ve met apprentices at the docks in Grimsby – fantastic individuals…

    I’ve been to Holyhead in Wales…

    And the National Nuclear Laboratory in Preston…

    And I’ve seen the brilliant clean power infrastructure that we are building in this country.

    But more than that…

    I’ve seen the pride that these jobs bring.

    This is skilled, well-paid work…

    Meaningful work –

    A chance to reignite our industrial heartlands…

    To rekindle the sense of community pride and purpose…

    That comes from being part of something that is bigger than yourself.

    And so I’m pleased to tell you…

    That I can share some more good news this afternoon.

    Earlier today, we finalised a deal with ENI.

    It will see them award £2 billion in supply chain contracts…

    For the Hynet Carbon Capture and Storage project…

    Creating 2,000 jobs, across North Wales and the North West.

    I want to thank all those here today who are part of this success story.

    Because it is all built on stability, yes…

    But our ruthless focus on delivery…

    But it is also built on partnership.

    *

    So let me say –

    It is a real pleasure today to welcome my friend –

    President von der Leyen.

    Ursula – it is so good to have you with us this afternoon. Last time we were in this building, Ursula and I stood together with other colleagues here at Lancaster House, that was just last month, six weeks ago…

    Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with President Zelenskyy…

    Working together for European security.

    Today we stand, again together with Fatih and others and the IEA…

    United behind European energy security.

    Europe must never again be in a position where Russia thinks they can blackmail us on energy.

    And until Russia comes to the table and agrees a full and unconditional ceasefire…

    We must continue to crack down on their energy revenues which are still fuelling Putin’s war chest.

    This is the moment to act. 

    And it is the moment to build a partnership with the EU that meets the needs of our time –

    Facing up to the global shocks of recent years…

    And working together to minimise the impact on hard-working people.

    So we’re doing more with the EU to improve our interconnections…

    And make the most of our shared energy systems…

    As well as building on the fantastic partnerships that we already have…

    With countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Norway and so many others.

    We have a common and important resource in the North Sea…

    Which can help us meet common challenges –

    To me, this is just common sense.

    So let’s seize this potential…

    To drive down bills…

    And drive up investment, growth and energy security.

    I was elected with a mandate to deliver change.

    So I make no apologies for pursuing every avenue…

    To deliver in the national interest and secure Britain’s future.

    That is always my priority. 

    And of course this has to be a global effort as well.

    We need to see a wider coalition…

    That unites the north and south…

    In a global drive for clean power.

    That’s why I launched the Global Clean Power Alliance at the G20 last year…

    Working alongside the EU’s Global Energy Transitions Forum.

    And that’s why we’re joining forces to take this forward.

    We want to tackle the barriers and bottlenecks that are holding countries back.

    So I am pleased to announce today…

    That, under the Global Clean Power Alliance…

    We are establishing a first-of-its-kind global initiative…

    To unblock and diversify clean energy supply chains.

    We are harnessing the political leadership needed to make this happen.

    Because, ultimately…

    That is what this is about:

    Leadership.

    In this moment of instability and uncertainty…

    Where we are buffeted by global forces…

    We are taking control.

    We are working together with partners from around the world…

    With the IEA and all of you here today…

    To accelerate this vital global transition.

    And in the UK…

    We are stepping up now…

    To make energy a source…

    Not of vulnerability, and worry…

    Which it is at the moment and it has been for so long…

    But a source of strength, of security and pride.

    With British energy, powering British homes, creating British jobs –  

    A collective effort, to boost our collective security…

    For generations to come.

    Thank you very much.

    *

    And now it is my very great pleasure and privilege to introduce…

    President von der Leyen, my friend Ursula, thank you very much for being here. Ursula, the stage is yours.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK bolsters support for Syrian people by amending Syria sanctions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK bolsters support for Syrian people by amending Syria sanctions

    Updates to UK Syria sanctions regulations will help the people of Syria rebuild their country and economy following the fall of Assad

    • Today’s updates to UK Syria sanctions regulations will help the people of Syria rebuild their country and economy following the fall of Assad. 
    • Amendments will allow UK to hold Assad and his associates accountable for human rights violations. 
    • Ensuring long-term stability in Syria is essential for regional and UK security – the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change. 

    The Syrian financial system will be supported to open up and rebuild following the fall of Assad, with the UK government announcing today (24 April) that it is amending its sanctions regulations on Syria and lifting sanctions on 12 entities.  

    The amendments will remove UK restrictions on some sectors including financial services and energy production in Syria, helping to facilitate essential investment in Syria’s energy infrastructure and supporting the Syrian people to rebuild their country and economy. 

    Amendments to UK legislation will also allow the UK to hold Assad and his associates accountable for their atrocious actions against the people of Syria, while giving the UK scope to deploy future sanctions in the Syria context, should that become necessary. 

    Additionally, sanctions on 12 entities will be lifted, including the Syrian Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior and media companies. 

    Sanctions imposed on members of the former regime and those involved in the illicit trade in captagon will remain in place.  

    These amendments will support Syria’s transition to a more stable and prosperous country, bolstering regional and UK security in line with the government’s Plan for Change. 

    Hamish Falconer, Minister for the Middle East, said: 

    The Syrian people deserve the opportunity to rebuild their country and economy, and a stable Syria is in the UK’s national interest. That’s why I’m pleased that today the UK has amended its Syria sanctions and lifted sanctions on 12 entities to support them to do just that.

    The UK is committed to building greater stability in Syria and the wider region. This also enables us to bolster national security at home to support the government’s Plan for Change.

    This announcement builds on the decision in March to lift asset freezes on 24 Syrian entities, including the Central Bank of Syria, Syrian Arab Airlines, and energy companies. 

    The UK remains committed to working with the Syrian government and international partners to support an inclusive political transition in Syria, including the protection of human rights, unfettered access for humanitarian aid, safe destruction of chemical weapons stockpiles, and combatting terrorism and extremism. We will continue to press the Syrian government to ensure it meets the commitments it has made.

    The UK continues to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to Syrians inside Syria and across the region, including pledging £160 million to support Syria’s recovery and stability in 2025. 

    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 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Court bill for verbally abusing City Council staff and Northumbria Police officers

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Two residents who verbally abused City Council and Northumbria Police officers have been left with court bills of more than £1,000 each.

    The court bills follow an incident earlier this year on Monday 28 January when officers from the council’s Neighbourhood Enforcement Team and Northumbria Police were making enquiries in Broadsheath Terrace, Southwick.

    They were investigating reports about ‘public nuisances’ caused by a caravan and quad bikes being stored on the public highway.

    During the visit, the two residents were verbally abusive and aggressive towards officers. They were both charged with offences under the Public Order Act 1986 for using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.

    Rebecca Trott and Bradley Moody, both of Broadsheath Terrace, admitted the offences when they appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court. Magistrates were shown bodycam footage of the incident and imposed fines of £660, victim surcharges of £264 and costs of £85 on both defendants.

    Sunderland City Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, Councillor Kelly Chequer said: “Officers in the City Council and Northumbria Police are working hard to help keep our communities safe. They should never be subjected to abuse or intimidation for simply doing their jobs.

    “The court has sent a very clear message that threatening officers while carrying out their community duties is completely unacceptable. Both the City Council and Northumbria Police stand united that any abuse and intimidation will not be tolerated.”

    A Northumbria Police spokesperson added: “We want to make it clear that violence towards our officers, or any of our partners – be that physical or verbal – is completely unacceptable. Our officers come to work every day to protect and serve our communities, not to be abused and violence and intimidation against them will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

    “Let this result be a clear message to those who choose to commit violence, you will be dealt with and put before the courts.”

    The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 2 April.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Windfarm Capable of Powering Half of Scotland’s Homes

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Windfarm Capable of Powering Half of Scotland’s Homes

    Moray West offshore wind farm capable of powering half of Scotland’s homes is switched on by Scottish Secretary.

    The UK’s drive towards clean power, which is a huge jobs and economic opportunity for Scotland, took a significant step forward today [24 April] when Scottish Secretary Ian Murray switched on full power at Ocean Winds’ new Moray West offshore windfarm.

    The windfarm, located 13 miles off the coast of Buckie, is one of Scotland’s largest offshore windfarms. It will generate up to 882MW output – enough to power 1.3 million homes – half of Scotland’s households. Upon full power, Ocean Winds will become the largest offshore wind operator in Scotland, running two windfarms off the North East coast and with a third in development.

    Clean energy represents the economic opportunity of the 21st century, with this project alone creating around 1,500 jobs during the construction phase. The developer, Ocean Winds, has used more than 80 UK suppliers in the project to date, which has involved installing the biggest turbines yet in British waters, spanning up to 257m above sea level.  

    Speaking after his visit, Mr Murray said:

    “It was a huge moment today when I switched on full power for the Moray West Windfarm. 

    “Investment like that being made by Ocean Winds is absolutely central to ensuring that Scotland and its workers benefit from the skilled jobs and economic growth that clean energy can bring.

    “With Great British energy located in Aberdeen, and billions of pounds of investment on the table, Scotland is at the very heart of the UK Government’s drive to make the UK a clean energy superpower.”

    Moray West takes the UK Government a step closer to achieving the 43-50GW offshore wind targets set for 2030, as published in the Clean Power Action Plan- helping deliver on its mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower. 

    During his visit to Ocean Winds, Mr Murray met staff who have transitioned into renewables after careers in the oil and gas industry and the UK’s armed forces. 

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    “Offshore wind is the backbone of our plans for clean power by 2030, as the UK is blessed with thousands of miles of coastline.

    “Developments like Moray West take us a step closer to getting off the fossil fuel rollercoaster and help deliver on our Plan for Change, protecting households from volatile gas prices and creating good jobs.”

    After switching on the windfarm to full power, Mr Murray travelled to Aberdeen.

    There he visited Sarens PSG and ETZ Ltd. 

    Sarens PSG were involved in the construction of the Moray West windfarm, marshalling 62 giant ‘monopiles’ – the wind turbine foundations. 10 metres in diameter and 84 metres long, the 2.000 tonne monopiles are the largest and heaviest ever to be handled in the United Kingdom. Mr Murray saw Sarens PSG’s new £1.6 million Aberdeen training facility for wind farm workers. The company opened the facility recently, saying that Great British Energy’s headquarters being located in Aberdeen made the city the ideal location for the facility⁠.

    Touring the Energy Transition Zone, Mr Murray visited the Floating Wind Innovation Centre, the UK’s first dedicated facility of its kind for floating wind technology, run by ORE Catapult.

    Also today [24 April 2025] Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill visited the Port of Leith, located within the Forth Green Freeport, to mark the official opening of Forth Ports’ new Outer Berth. Forth Ports has invested a total of £100 million into transforming the Port of Leith into a world class renewables hub, which is already playing a key role in supporting Scotland’s energy transition. The Leith Renewables Hub is part of the Forth Green Freeport’s strategically located tax sites, which aim to reindustrialise central Scotland, generating thousands of high-quality green jobs by increasing trade and supporting the growth of businesses across the Firth of Forth.

    These visits are happening against the background of the UK Government co-hosting the International Energy Agency summit in London, a global event bringing together countries to discuss energy security.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Secretary Increases Scottish Government Borrowing Powers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Scottish Secretary Increases Scottish Government Borrowing Powers

    The Scottish Government will have increased borrowing powers following an Order made in Parliament this week by Scottish Secretary.

    Ian Murray has laid the ‘The Scotland Act 1998 (Increase of Borrowing Limits) Order 2025’ which increases the Scottish Government’s borrowing limits to a cumulative total of £3 billion for capital and £629 million for resource. 

    The Scottish Government’s borrowing limits (both annual and cumulative) are uprated annually in line with inflation, as set out in the Fiscal Framework. As the cumulative limits are legislated for under the Scotland Act 1998, secondary legislation is required to make the annual changes. The annual limits are non-legislative so no legislative change is required to amend these. 

    Speaking after laying the Order, Mr Murray said:

    “I’m very pleased to have laid this Scotland Act Order which increases the Scottish Government’s cumulative borrowing limits to a total of £3.6 billion. The Autumn Budget provided an additional £4.9 billion for the Scottish Government, ending austerity. These borrowing powers are on top of the Scottish Government’s record funding settlement of £47.7 billion this financial year. We have reset the relationship with the Scottish Government, and this order is a key part of our commitment to maintain the devolution settlement.”

    The Order will take effect on 30 June 2025. There will be a debate in the House of Commons before then. 

    The 2023 Fiscal Framework Agreement between the Scottish and UK Governments sets out the Scottish Government’s funding arrangements, including budget management tools such as borrowing powers. 

    Officials in both the UK Government and the Scottish Government worked together to deliver the Order, as they do with all Scotland Act Orders.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major carbon capture project to deliver jobs and growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Major carbon capture project to deliver jobs and growth

    Thousands of jobs created as major carbon capture and storage network is ready for construction – boosting energy security and the government’s Plan for Change.

    • Plan for Change delivers 2,000 skilled jobs to build major carbon capture network driving growth and reducing emissions in industrial heartlands
    • clean energy to be hardwired into national planning rules to attract investment, give certainty and boost mission to become a clean energy superpower
    • comes as UK-led Global Clean Power Alliance announces its next mission to diversify clean energy supply chains by unblocking bottlenecks and boosting global manufacturing capacity

    British families and businesses will be more energy secure as a major carbon capture and storage network is now ready for construction – supporting 2,000 jobs through the Plan for Change. 

    Launching this new industry for Britain provides a major boost for heavy industry – part of the government’s commitment to backing British manufacturing.

    Energy company Eni have today (24 April 2025) finalised a major deal with government which will see them award around £2 billion in supply chain contracts for their Liverpool Bay Carbon Capture and Storage Project, spanning North Wales and the North West of England. 

    Today’s deal delivers on a commitment made by the Prime Minister and Energy Secretary in October, to develop a world leading carbon capture industry – backed by £21.7 billion – reigniting industrial heartlands across the country and kickstarting growth in manufacturing communities. 

    This announcement comes as the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) awards three carbon storage permits to Eni for its Liverpool Bay CCS project.

    It will create a network of clean infrastructure, decarbonising industries like energy from waste, hydrogen and cement production – whilst backing highly skilled jobs in construction and enabling future generation of low carbon power.  

    Alongside this, the government has set out further planning reforms to provide certainty and clarity for developers on the importance of clean power projects, such as solar, onshore and offshore wind and nuclear, when making decisions on energy infrastructure of critical national priority. 

    Previously where policy, legislation and guidance left room for doubt, planners and decision-takers have adopted a cautious approach to consenting clean energy infrastructure, leading to lengthy paperwork and red tape blocking decisions, hindering Britain’s energy security. 

    Changes will streamline the planning system and get Britain building by giving developers clarity on what is needed for their clean power project to succeed. By putting clean power by 2030 at the heart of planning policy, the government is backing industry, removing delays and getting clean energy projects built quicker.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    Our Plan for Change is working – we said we’d deliver jobs and growth through carbon capture technology, and now we have. Shovels ready for the ground, supporting over 2,000 new jobs and supporting thousands more, transforming the lives of hard-working people.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:  

    Today we keep our promise to launch a whole new clean energy industry for our country – carbon capture and storage – to deliver thousands of highly skilled jobs and revitalise our industrial communities. 

    We are making the UK energy secure and backing our engineers, electricians and welders so we can protect families and businesses and drive jobs through our Plan for Change.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    We promised to revitalise our nation’s industrial heartlands, create good jobs, make Britain a clean energy superpower and grow our economy to put more money in working people’s pockets.

    This deal is another example of us delivering on those promises with thousands of new jobs created, our energy security strengthened, and our industries decarbonised with a game-changing technology – our Plan for Change in action.

    Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi said:  

    The strategic agreement with the UK government paves the way for the industrial-scale development of CCS, a sector in which the United Kingdom reaffirms its leadership thanks to the promotion of a regulatory framework that aims to strengthen the development of CCS and make it fully competitive in the market.  

    Eni has established itself as a leading operator in the UK thanks to its key role in CO2 transport and storage activities as the leader of the HyNet Consortium, which will become one of the first low-carbon clusters in the world. 

    Stuart Payne, Chief Executive of the North Sea Transition Authority, said:  

    We have taken another major step on the way to turning this country’s ambitions for carbon storage into reality. It’s been a collaborative mission and demonstrates the way that we must all work together in unlocking the UK’s vast potential to tackle climate change and deliver energy security.

    The Prime Minister confirmed the deal today in a speech at the Future of Energy Security Summit – hosted by the UK government and International Energy Agency. Ministers and business leaders from around the world gathered in London, including the President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen, as countries take action to protect themselves from future energy shocks in these unstable times.

    At the summit the government also established a new mission focused on strengthening global supply chains through the UK-led Global Clean Power Alliance (GCPA). The GCPA will bring together the Global North and South – drawing on and sharing the UK’s world-leading experience of pursuing Clean Power by 2030 to speed up the global clean energy transition.  

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    This week’s Summit is a critical opportunity to make progress on international energy security.

    We’re working with partners through our Global Clean Power Alliance (GCPA) to accelerate global clean energy, which promises to bring growth, jobs and lower bills to the UK. As the Prime Minister has set out today, the GCPA will next focus on assuring reliable, low-cost clean energy supply chains. In a more uncertain world, cooperation across the Global North and South will be essential to deliver this.

    The supply chain mission will bring countries together to diversify clean energy supply chains, drive investment into renewables and address bottlenecks. Working with other countries will not only help to secure and diversify clean energy of the future, but provide new growth opportunities across our countries and relevant supply chains; from critical mineral processing to strengthening manufacturing and industrial partnerships.
     
    The rapid drop in the price of renewables is driving strong growth in clean energy around the world. In 2024, 80% of growth in global electricity generation was provided by renewables and nuclear. The UK alone has already attracted £43.7 billion of private sector investment announcements in clean energy since July. 

    Notes to editors 

    CCUS is a proven technology that captures carbon dioxide emissions before they reach the atmosphere – storing them safely and permanently deep beneath the seabed and preventing their contribution to the climate crisis. 

    Today’s announcement delivers on the commitment made by the Prime Minster in October where £21.7 billion was allocated to kickstart the UK’s carbon capture industry. The signing of contracts for Hynet means the UK’s second carbon capture network is now shovel ready. 

    The Climate Change Committee describes CCUS as a “necessity, not an option” to achieving net zero by 2050. 

    Eni is the operator of the Transport and Storage network of Hynet, through its Liverpool Bay CCS project, which will transport captured CO2 from industrial sites and bury it deep beneath the seabed.  

    It means that now both government-backed carbon capture projects have reached final investment decisions, after the East Coast Cluster in Teesside reached the same milestone in December.  

    The consultations on the National Policy Statements for energy will run from 24 April to 29 May.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rouge Bouillon closure update24 April 2025 Following the completion of demolition of the outbuildings and boundary walls last week, geotechnical investigation survey work has continued within the sinkhole caused by the burst water main. This… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 April 2025

    Following the completion of demolition of the outbuildings and boundary walls last week, geotechnical investigation survey work has continued within the sinkhole caused by the burst water main. 

    This phase of work is highly complex which presents ongoing safety challenges that are being assessed and managed. 

    While progress is being made, the complexity of the investigations may result in delays to the overall completion date. Every effort is being made to mitigate this and maintain progress. 

    We expect all scaffolding to be removed from the site next week, marking a big step towards reopening the road. The road will reopen at the earliest possible opportunity, once the site is made safe and the voids have been filled. 

    Further updates will be provided as work continues. The next scheduled update will be in 7 days. 

    For more information and a schedule of works, please visit: Gov.je​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dementia support group has contract extended24 April 2025 Islanders with new or mild dementia can continue to benefit from a group which helps them to cope with their symptoms, stay healthy and stimulate their memory. Dementia Jersey has been awarded a further… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 April 2025

    Islanders with new or mild dementia can continue to benefit from a group which helps them to cope with their symptoms, stay healthy and stimulate their memory. 

    Dementia Jersey has been awarded a further three-year contract by Health and Care Jersey, (HCJ, to deliver its successful Meeting Place Project in St Clement and St Helier.

    Launched in 2021, with the support of Government funding, the Meeting Place Project is a weekly group for people with mild symptoms and a diagnosis of dementia where they can meet other Islanders with dementia and share advice and support. 

    During the sessions, people can take part in brain stimulating activities such as language and number games, take part in light exercise including Tai Chi as well as share their own experiences with people in similar situations. 

    Due to the new contract with HCJ, Dementia Jersey can continue to provide The Meeting Place Project in St Helier and St Clement. The charity also offers groups in St Martin, St Brelade and St Ouen. 

    Ally Cordery, whose godfather attends the Meeting Place Project, said: “When Roger was diagnosed with dementia 12 months ago, I felt so sad for him and neither of us discussed the diagnosis, we treated it as a shameful secret. I went on a course to increase my understanding of the condition, and Roger began attending the Meeting Place, and suddenly, we both came to the realisation that Roger was living with dementia and not suffering from it.

    “He benefits hugely from the safe environment of the group and the socialising, as well as the puzzles and games. He has never attended a company Christmas party during his 40+ years of employment, but he went along to the Christmas party at Dementia Jersey and thoroughly enjoyed it. We’re so grateful for all the support the charity offers, not only to Roger but also to my family.” 

    Ann-Marie Self, who attends the St Helier sessions after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2023, said: “The Meeting Place Project is very supportive. It’s great because I don’t feel like I’m alone with my diagnosis. Everyone is different but we all have this in common. I was worried after getting my diagnosis from the Memory assessment service, but they referred me to the Meeting Place Project and it’s really helped.” 

    The Meeting Place Project embodies the Government’s Common Strategic Policy to support Islanders to live healthier, active, longer lives, improve the quality of and access to mental health services and to put patients and their carers at the heart of Jersey’s health and care system. 

    The Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Tom Binet, said: “When we published the Dementia Strategy and its Implementation Plan last year, we were clear that we wanted to ensure that Islanders living with dementia and their families have access to the care and support that they deserve. 

    “I’m delighted that Dementia Jersey will continue to provide these sessions as we know that The Meeting Place Project provides invaluable support for Islanders as they navigate their diagnosis.” 

    Claudine Snape, Dementia Jersey CEO, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Health and Care Jersey and the Government of Jersey for their continued support. This renewed funding ensures that people living with dementia can access the help they need in a supportive and stimulating environment. We’ve seen firsthand the difference the Meeting Place Project makes, and we’re proud to continue this vital work across the island.” 

    To apply or to find out more, please contact the Meeting Place Coordinator Dan Du Heaume by emailing: Dan@dementia.je​ or call 01534 723519.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wouldn’t it be nice to have less congestion in York?

    Source: City of York

    City of York Council has today unveiled a new video starring eight York residents, business owners and students and poses a question – wouldn’t it be nice to have less congestion in York?

    The video opens with each person telling us about their experiences of transport in York, before going on to explain what the Council is doing about these issues.

    The first of two films to communicate the new Local Transport Strategy (LTS), which was adopted in 2024, this video highlights findings from the public consultation on the LTS. It also shows how this year alone £10m of nationally allocated, ringfenced funding is being invested in resurfacing pavements, roads and pathways; lighting; real-time bus information; a barrier removal programme, and delivering on our adopted Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).

    The video will be followed in the coming weeks by a public consultation on improvements to the Park and Ride sites including accessible EV charging bays, new toilets (including Changing Spaces facilities), overnight parking facilities, plus better signage, lighting and integrated transport options.

    Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said “Not only does this video show the wonderful diversity of people and transport options we have across York, but the very real impacts that transport has on all our lives, and the reasons why we are working hard to improve options for how people move around. 

    I hope all residents can see a little of themselves across the eight stories, and I’m looking forward to unveiling some of our new plans as well as updating everyone on all the great work our teams are doing to make York a healthier, more sustainable and better-connected city.

    I’d like to thank the eight residents and businesses, as well as the venues used for filming, plus the highways and transport teams who helped coordinate all the elements of filming.”

    The eight residents represent the following issues, and how we are resolving them:

    • A woman bus driver who asks “Wouldn’t it be nice to have less traffic in York?” – our on-going work to make buses more accessible, promote bus use and lower the cost of bus travel for young people has already helped to reduce the number of cars on the road, freeing up road space for those whose journeys are essential.
    • A university student who uses a wheelchair and whose route is blocked by steel barriers – our barrier removal programme will begin in Spring and make dozens of pathways accessible again
    • An older woman who isn’t online so can’t check bus times before she leaves the house – our bus team have improved over 200 elements at bus stops, including real time information screens, better shelters, lighting and seating
    • A college student who doesn’t have buses running to their village – we work with each of the six bus operators in York to help subsidise existing services, and continue to work with the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire to ensure financial support for bus services offers better travel options for residents and businesses
    • A woman runner who has to choose different routes depending on lighting and personal safety considerations – our lighting teams have been installing new LED lights across the city, and will deliver future improvements at the Jubilee Terrace to Scarborough Bridge Riverside Path (where the runner was filmed)
    • A woman who uses an adapted cycle and would like to explore more of York – our LCWIP will help us create a more joined up and accessible cycle network, as well as increasing the number of accessible cycle parking spaces in the city centre. To further improve access for disabled residents, we have been increasing the number of Blue Badge holder bays across York
    • A business owner who explains the issues his delivery drivers face, with congestion causing problems for businesses. By encouraging more people to use public transport and travel by wheeling and walking, we aim to reduce the level of congestion in the city and miles travelled by vehicles by 20% by 2030
    • And a young person who just loves riding their cycle but faces a lot of traffic. By encouraging more people to leave the car at home where they can, we are creating better environments for people of all ages

    The video is available on YouTube

    Notes to editors:

    Filming took place in Fulford, Naburn and Acomb, as well as on Nunnery Lane, Walmgate Stray, Millennium Bridge, Blossom St, The Mount and Riverside Path and at York College and at Middleton’s Hotel.

    In addition to the people featured in the film and the lining, lighting, road maintenance, communities teams within CYC, our thanks go to York College, Transdev, Get Cycling CIC, Middleton’s Hotel and to York based videographer, Paul Richardson.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Progress Congratulates Chairman Jack Egan on NACD New England Leadership in Corporate Governance Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Prestigious honor recognizes Egan’s outstanding contributions to corporate governance and board leadership

    BURLINGTON, Mass., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Progress (Nasdaq: PRGS), the trusted provider of AI-powered digital experience and infrastructure software, today announced that its Board Chair, John R. “Jack” Egan, has been honored with the Leadership in Corporate Governance Award by the National Association of Corporate Directors New England Chapter (NACDNE). This distinguished recognition highlights Egan’s exceptional leadership, dedication to corporate governance excellence and commitment to fostering strong, responsible board practices.

    A highly respected leader in the business and investment community, Egan is the founding managing partner of Egan-Managed Capital, L.P., a Boston-based venture capital firm. Throughout his career, he has served on the boards of numerous prominent organizations. In addition to his role at Progress, he is the Lead Independent Director of NETSCOUT and has previously been a board member for EMC Corp., Verint Systems, Inc., VMware and Boston College’s Board of Trustees.

    “Jack’s strategic vision and steadfast leadership have been invaluable to Progress,” said Yogesh Gupta, CEO of Progress. “His recognition by NACDNE is a testament to his unwavering commitment to corporate governance excellence. We are privileged to benefit from his insight and experience.”

    The Leadership in Corporate Governance Award is part of NACDNE’s Annual Director of the Year Awards, which celebrate the achievements of board directors across New England. Now in its 17th year, the ceremony honors individuals and boards that have demonstrated outstanding leadership in enhancing stakeholder value, strengthening governance structures and driving long-term corporate success.

    Egan will be formally recognized at the NACDNE Director of the Year Awards Gala in Boston on April 28, 2025.

    About Progress
    Progress (Nasdaq: PRGS) empowers organizations to achieve transformational success in the face of disruptive change. Our software enables our customers to develop, deploy and manage responsible AI-powered applications and digital experiences with agility and ease. Customers get a trusted provider in Progress, with the products, expertise and vision they need to succeed. Over 4 million developers and technologists at hundreds of thousands of enterprises depend on Progress. Learn more at www.progress.com.

    Progress is a trademark or registered trademark of Progress Software Corporation and/or its subsidiaries or affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. Any other names contained herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.  

    Press Contact:
    Jeff Young
    Progress
    +1-800-477-6473
    pr@progress.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The hidden history of Philadelphia’s window-box gardens and their role in urban reform

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Sonja Dümpelmann, Professor of Environmental Humanities, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich

    Window-box gardening has been a Philly tradition since the 1800s. Sonja Dümpelmann, CC BY-SA

    It’s that time of year when Philadelphia row home owners with a green thumb fastidiously attend to their window boxes – selecting new plants to design an artful blend of colors, shapes and textures.

    Sonja Dümpelmann is a historian of landscapes and the built environment who lived in Philly from 2019 to 2023. During this time, she researched how female reformers and activists in Philadelphia in the 19th and 20th centuries tended to window-box gardens both for charity and to spur urban renewal in rundown neighborhoods.

    Dümpelmann recently published an article on this history in the architectural journal Buildings & Landscapes. She spoke with The Conversation U.S. about what she learned.

    Some homeowners change out their plants throughout the year.
    Sonja Dümpelmann, CC BY-SA

    How did you become interested in window boxes?

    When I first moved to Philadelphia from Cambridge, Massachusetts, in August 2019, I was immediately struck by the window boxes. The lushness and freshness of the plants in many of the boxes, and sometimes in sidewalk planters, made walking more pleasant and interesting. This was especially the case in the hot summer months when I would often see plants from subtropical and tropical climates in the Rittenhouse Square, Fitler Square and Graduate Hospital neighborhoods.

    I noticed that there were three categories of window boxes. Many were visibly cared for, often freshly planted and decorated several times a year in accordance with the changing seasons. Some were derelict and had spontaneous growth of saplings and different grasses. And a third category were boxes outfitted with plastic plants, perhaps signaling absentee owners or landlords who seek to simulate care.

    What makes them landscape architecture?

    Window boxes – especially the planted boxes, but also painted boxes that are empty – change outdoor space and building exteriors. They make them more colorful and interesting, and they break up plain vertical walls by protruding from the facade.

    You could say that the window boxes “greet” passersby. They connect private indoor space with the public realm of the street. As one early window-box promoter observed in 1903, “The man in the street gets as much enjoyment out of them as its owner.”

    “Gardens in a box,” as they were also referred to by early promoters, can make homes and entire neighborhoods look and feel different. They forge distinct identities with their plant selection and the style and color of the boxes.

    Window gardens are a way to greet passersby on the street.
    Sonja Dümpelmann, CC BY-SA

    How did window gardening begin?

    Window gardening became popular in Victorian England and continental Europe in the 19th century. It began as an indoor activity and was practiced especially by women, but it soon also moved outdoors. There it became part of what American women in the late 19th century called “municipal housekeeping.” It extended their conventional female roles as housekeepers and mothers into the larger “household” of the community.

    Window gardening became a means of female social reform during the Progressive Era. During this period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when industries and cities were growing fast, women sought to improve education, public health and living conditions, especially for poor and immigrant communities. By offering plants, flowers and entire window boxes, the women supported homemakers of lesser means.

    However, these boxes were also a way to make sure that order in and outside of homes was maintained. Window gardens became cultural symbols of cleanliness and good housekeeping. Furthermore, reformers considered window gardening as a practice that could help immigrants assimilate into American society.

    When did they become political?

    In Philadelphia there were two big window-gardening movements. The first occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and I describe it as window-box charity. The second, which I call window-box activism, began in the 1950s.

    Window-box charity was carried out primarily by white philanthropists and social workers who would distribute plants and goods sent from outside the city to the urban poor and sick, especially immigrants and Black Americans. Sometimes the window boxes were ready to be installed outside the windows. Other times recipients built and planted boxes themselves.

    The Neighborhood Garden Association, the organization that pioneered window-box activism, at work near the now-closed Alexander Wilson School in West Philadelphia in 1955.
    Courtesy of the McLean Library and Archives, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    Several decades later, in the mid-20th-century, plants became a vehicle for white suburban garden club ladies and Black inner-city residents to counter urban decay resulting from racism and public disinvestment. On annual planting days, the garden club ladies brought plants into the city and joined residents in planting and installing window boxes to brighten up their neighborhood blocks.

    Plants were key in both window-box charity and window-box activism. People came together to care for plants, creating friendships among neighbors and ties between low-income and wealthy neighborhoods. The women used plants and window boxes to protect private space and increase the safety of public space. In the 1960s, the Philadelphia police reported less crime on streets with window boxes.

    Of course, window boxes and plants alone could not solve larger urban social problems such as poor housing conditions and racial discrimination. So while they could be catalysts of neighborhood change, they also helped to camouflage and quite literally naturalize larger social problems that required political responses.

    Are they still linked to urban renewal?

    Like a smaller version of public parks, community gardens and street trees, window gardens can contribute to green gentrification. This occurs when the construction of parks or the planting of trees contributes to an increase in property values that leads to the displacement of long-term residents in low-income neighborhoods.

    Window gardening did help save some of Philly’s old row house neighborhoods from demolition during urban renewal beginning in the 1950s. However, quite a few of these neighborhoods – such as Washington Square West and Graduate Hospital – have since been gentrified, and families who once window gardened to turn their neighborhoods into more beautiful and safer places could no longer afford to live there.

    The 20th century window-box activism drew the attention of sociologists and other national and international observers, especially because it brought white and Black residents together during the tensions of the Civil Rights Movement. It also raised public awareness about unequal access to urban green spaces.

    Window boxes on Delancey Street in Philadelphia.
    Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia, CC BY-SA

    Yet despite the movement’s good intentions and positive effects, racial segregation remains a persistent problem in Philadelphia.

    In gentrified parts of Center City today, new and restored row houses often include fixtures and built-in irrigation pipes for window boxes. Many owners outsource window-box planting and maintenance to paid service providers.

    But for lower-income residents, the costs in both time and money to install and maintain window gardens can be prohibitive.

    Sonja Dümpelmann does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The hidden history of Philadelphia’s window-box gardens and their role in urban reform – https://theconversation.com/the-hidden-history-of-philadelphias-window-box-gardens-and-their-role-in-urban-reform-254361

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Farce of Surrendering the Union deal exposed

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister MP:

    “Today’s decision by the Government to plough ahead and add a new EU rule to the Windsor Framework, in spite of Unionists unanimously opposing it, is yet more evidence that the much vaunted Safeguarding the Union deal was a farce.

    “This is the second occasion when the Government has dismissed Unionist concerns and ridden roughshod over their objections.

    “It is yet further evidence of the lies on which the so-called Safeguarding the Union deal was sold to the public. Far from safeguarding the Union, the deal was one which amounted to surrendering the Union as Unionists meekly accepted a return to Stormont as Protocol implementors.

    “It is obvious that the Government has calculated that it can afford to treat Unionist objections with contempt. That attitude is understandable when Unionists meekly returned to Stormont on the basis of a deal which did nothing to reverse the constitutional damage of the Protocol.

    “Unless or until Unionists show some backbone decisions like that made today will continue to be made and bit by bit our position within the United Kingdom will continue to be eroded.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth museum to host ancient Sudan talk by British Museum curator

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    A fascinating talk about the Kingdom of Kush is being hosted at Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery, as its ancient Sudan exhibition draws to a close.

    On Wednesday 30 April, British Museum curator Dr Loretta Kilroe’s ‘In the presence of giants’ talk will look at giraffe symbolism in the Kingdom of Kush, as well as other important themes in Kushite iconography, as part of the Ancient Sudan: enduring heritage exhibition programme.

    The British Museum touring exhibition is in its last few weeks at the museum and is due to close on Saturday 11 May.

    The free exhibition focuses on the Kingdom of Kush, which flourished in Sudan nearly 3,000 years ago and at its height was one of the largest empires in the ancient world. It examines this ancient culture’s skilled craftmanship, distinct religious beliefs and the important role of women, as well as exploring the rich culture of modern Sudan.

    Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “We’ve been privileged to host the British Museum spotlight loan exhibition, which has been a big success.

    “Highlights include beautiful examples of ceramics, a carved stone offering table and a striking bronze depiction of a goddess.

    “For those who haven’t seen it yet, this is a chance to both visit the exhibition and hear directly from the British Museum’s curator of this important collection, so I’d encourage people not to miss it.”

    Alongside these ancient items on loan from the British Museum, the exhibition features poems from Sudanese refugees in partnership with the Rural Refugee Network and items from members of the Sudanese Community In and Around Portsmouth group, including a tabag and a traditional Sudanese bridal gown.

    The talks will be at 12.30pm and 5.30pm and will last for approximately an hour with time for questions at the end.

    It is free but booking is advised. To book call Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery on 023 9283 4779 or visit the museum and ask at the front desk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: YJB response to government’s PAVA announcement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    YJB response to government’s PAVA announcement

    The YJB’s response to the Ministry of Justice’s announcement that PAVA (synthetic pepper spray) will be issued at Young Offender Institutions that hold children.

    The Youth Justice Board

    Keith Fraser, Chair of the Youth Justice Board, says:

    The Youth Justice Board (YJB) does not support the use of PAVA in youth custody due to the overall detrimental effect on children and the distinct lack of evidence that its use improves safety. Our advice to the government, based on robust evidence, is that PAVA spray is not effective in reducing violence or in preventing children offending or reoffending. In fact, its use could be harmful.

    The YJB has not seen any evidence that would justify this decision, and this move is a further indication that the current model for youth custody is not working.

    We will be writing to the Minister to express our extreme disappointment at this decision, reaffirm our advice and to voice our specific concerns. In particular, we are concerned that there is a significant risk that children from ethnic minority communities, particularly Black boys, children with speech, language, communication needs, and those who are neurodivergent will be unfairly targeted. We are concerned that the introduction will erode trust and relationships, undermining safety and rehabilitation efforts.

    We urge the government to instead invest in sustained reform, to include increased staff levels, improved staff training and retention, effective behaviour management strategies and evidence-based programmes to improve safety. In the longer-term, there should be a move towards smaller, locally-based units staffed by professionals who are specially trained to work with children with complex needs. These units should prioritise education and training to support children to be positive members of society and will contribute to making communities safer.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sign up now for Buskfest 2025 in Banbridge

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    L-R: Banshee, the overall winner from last year, Chris Nelmes, The Boulevard Banbridge, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy, Ralph McLean, BBC Radio Ulster, Banshee member and Michael Donaghy, Banbridge Chamber of Commerce.

    Calling all musicians, performers, and music lovers! Buskfest, one of the most anticipated musical events of the year, is back in Banbridge on Saturday 14 June 2025, and buskers of all ages and genres are being asked to sign up for a chance to perform, compete, and win incredible prizes.

    With a total prize pot of £3,500 and other exciting prizes, this year’s Buskfest promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a first-time busker, this is your chance to showcase your talent to a lively crowd in the heart of Banbridge. The event is free to both buskers and visitors and offers a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere.

    BBC Radio Ulster’s Ralph McLean, one of the event’s esteemed judges said,

    “Buskfest is one of my favourite musical days of the year and in my opinion, the biggest and best celebration of busking around. What makes it so special is the platform it gives performers of all kinds to step out, be heard, and connect with an audience.

    “Every year, I’m blown away by the range and quality of talent on show. Whether you’re a solo singer, a band, or something in between, there’s a space for you here. Judging is never easy, but it’s always inspiring and I can’t wait to see Banbridge come alive once again with music on every corner.”

    Registration for this year’s Buskfest is now open at buskfest.com and will close on 13 June 2025.

    On the day of the event, all participating buskers must check in at the Old Town Hall between 11.30am and 1.00pm to claim their performance pitch. The streets will come alive with music from 2.00pm to 5.00pm, followed by the prize giving and evening concert from 5.00pm to 8.30pm in the town centre. The finale will feature a stellar line-up of local talent, including Banshee – last year’s overall winner – The Reilly’s, and headliners The Nooks.

    Not only will buskers have the opportunity to win part of the £3,500 prize pot, but they’ll also be part of an incredible celebration of music, community, and creativity. The event will feature free family-friendly activities in the afternoon, ensuring fun for all ages.

    Buskfest is an event that brings people together through the power of live music, and we want you to be a part of it. To register visit buskfest.com.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City-wide ban and fines for fouling and poor dog control to start

    Source: City of York

    From 1 June 2025, Council officers will be able to fine people found urinating in public, or not controlling or picking up after their dogs.

    Discretionary powers to act against these offences committed anywhere in York have been awarded by the Council who, this week on Tuesday 22 April, agreed a new, city-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO). 

    This decision follows a public consultation from December to February. During it, over 90% of the 1,026 people who took part, agreed with the proposals.

    Evidence from North Yorkshire Police, BID Street Rangers and members of the public can be used to support the issue of fines for people behaving anti-socially and creating health hazards.

    Once the evidence has been provided, the fines will be mailed to offenders as fixed penalty notices. By introducing these PSPO fines, the number of slow, costly and work-intensive prosecutions will be reduced.

    For a breach of the PSPO by urinating or defecating in public, for not controlling a dog or not picking up after it, fines of £100 will be issued. This level of fine reflects the health hazards and administrative costs these offences incur, and enables us to resolve offences more quickly. It also represents a £25 increase to fines for dog fouling, mirroring increases to fines for littering. 

    The fines will contribute to a safer, better-managed and vibrant night-time economy, and are expected to help tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in the city centre, supporting the city’s Purple Flag status.

    Exemptions to these fines will be made for people who are registered blind or partially-sighted, and for people in charge of a registered assistance dog.

    Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Safer Communities at City of York Council, said:

    We want these offences to stop. They create health hazards and an unwelcome environment for people simply going about their daily business. This decision means we have a stronger deterrent, and a more timely and proportionate enforcement approach.

    “People should use toilets in the pubs and cafés they’ve visited, and control and pick up after their dogs. For those who we find not doing so, our officers will be able to take immediate action with fines which will reflect the associated risks and costs.

    “We will continue to work with partners, including the police and York BID who, like us, can provide supporting evidence. Together, we will take an intelligence-led approach to enforcement, targeting known hot-spot areas at key times.”

    Superintendent Ed Haywood-Noble, North Yorkshire Police’s senior operational commander for York and Selby, said:

    The Public Spaces Protection Order in York enhances our collective power to take direct action against individuals and groups whose behaviour have a detrimental impact.

    “We have a strong partnership with our City of York Council colleagues through the Community Safety Hub, which tackles crime and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to do all we can to improve the safety and quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors to our magnificent city.”

    The full report was discussed at the Council’s Executive meeting on 22 April at 4:30pm. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reminder of no local elections in Leeds on Thursday 1 May

    Source: City of Leeds

    This is a fallow year for Leeds so no local elections taking place

    Leeds City Council has issued a reminder to voters that there are no local elections taking place in the city on Thursday 1 May. As part of the elections cycle, once every four years there are no local elections held. This is called a fallow year, and occurs this year in the Leeds schedule.

    Details of the local elections cycle and how it works:

    • Every Leeds City Council ward is represented by three councillors who are each elected to serve a four-year term.
    • Their terms are staggered so that only one councillor is elected per ward in each local election.
    • This system is called voting by thirds, because a third of councillors are elected each year, over a four-year cycle.
    • Leeds had local elections in 2022, 2023 and 2024, so 2025 is the scheduled fallow year.

    The next local elections to be held in Leeds are scheduled to take place next year on Thursday 7 May 2026, when the elections cycle resumes with a one-third election and 33 seats on Leeds City Council available.

    ENDS

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reusable period products given out at Leeds leisure centres

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds City Council’s leisure centres are supporting visitors and staff to make the switch to reusable period products and removing the barrier of periods when being active.

    Together with period poverty charity Freedom 4 Girls, Active Leeds are giving out free sustainable products at their leisure centres across Leeds over the next few months.

    1 in 10 girls in the UK can’t afford period products, and a lack of access can mean missing school, work and physical activity.

    Members of staff at Leeds leisure centres have shared their experiences of how periods have impacted them at work, whether it is the fear of leaking, getting caught short and not having products with them at work, navigating perimenopause and irregular periods or struggling with feeling confident to do their job whilst on their period.

    Over the next few months, Active Leeds and Freedom 4 Girls are providing the opportunity for staff and visitors to explore and take home sustainable period products, removing both financial and cultural barriers to physical activity. They are also asking for help to stock the leisure centres’ period stations through donations of disposable or sustainable menstrual products.

    At the two pilot events that have already taken place, teams handed out 208 free sustainable products including 121 period pants, 57 period swimwear and 30 reusable pads. In exchange for the free products, they collected over 100 packets and boxes of disposable products, to be able to offer free period products for all visitors at the Active Leeds sites.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This initiative is about more than just access to reusable and sustainable period products, it’s about normalising conversations, building confidence, and ensuring that no one is left behind because of their period.

    “Following the success of the pilot events, we’re looking forward to rolling this out across more leisure centres over the next few months.”

    Events will take place at the following leisure centres:

    Kirkstall Leisure Centre – 21 May

    Armley Leisure Centre – 22 May

    Garforth Leisure Centre – 11 June

    Rothwell Leisure Centre – 12 June

    Middleton Leisure Centre – 25 June

    Pudsey Leisure Centre – 26 June

    Scott Hall Leisure Centre – 9 July

    Fearnville Leisure Centre – 10 July

    John Smeaton Leisure Centre – 16 July

    Morley Leisure Centre – 17 July

    Find out more about Active Leeds at https://active.leeds.gov.uk/.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests, removes Dominican alien charged with drug crimes, assaulting a police officer in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested an illegally present Dominican national charged with drug trafficking crimes and assaulting a police officer. Officers with ICE Boston arrested Daniel Encarnacion-Sanchez, 20, in Boston Feb. 7.

    “Daniel Encarnacion-Sanchez illegally entered the United States and has been charged with trafficking poison in our Massachusetts community and assaulting an officer of the law,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He represents a significant threat to our residents that we will not tolerate. ICE Boston remains dedicated to our mission to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats from New England neighborhoods.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Encarnacion-Sanchez Nov. 21, 2023, after he illegally entered the United States. The Border Patrol served Encarnacion-Sanchez a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge.

    The Malden District Court arraigned Encarnacion-Sanchez Nov. 27, 2024, for trafficking a controlled substance and possession to distribute drugs.

    ICE Boston lodged an immigration detainer against Encarnacion-Sanchez Dec. 3, 2024, with the Middlesex County House of Corrections.

    The Boston Police Department arrested Encarnacion-Sanchez Feb. 6, and charged him with assault and battery on a police officer causing injury and trafficking drugs, heroin and crack. The next day, the Dorchester District Court, released Encarnacion-Sanchez on personal recognizance.

    Officers with ICE Boston arrested Encarnacion-Sanchez, after release from Dorchester District Court in Boston Feb. 7.

    ICE removed Encarnacion-Sanchez to the Dominican Republic March 16.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FMQs: Scottish Government urged to halt controversial industrial salmon farm at Loch Long

    Source: Scottish Greens

    24 Apr 2025 Nature

    The Loch Long industrial development will scar the landscape.

    More in Nature

    The First Minister has been urged to ensure local people are listened to in their campaign against destructive proposals for an industrial salmon farm development at Loch Long.

    Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess has led a campaign that has seen over 4300 people lodging objections via a web portal created by the Scottish Greens.

    The controversial proposal was rejected by the National Park Authority in 2022. It was appealed by the developers almost 12 months ago, with the Scottish Government taking the rare decision to “call” it in.

    In her first question to the First Minister, Ms Burgess said:

    “To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on when the Scottish Government expects to respond to the Loch Long salmon farm planning application.”

    In his response the First Minister did not provide a timeframe for the decision.

    In her second question, Ms Burgess said:

    “The industrial salmon farm development proposed for Loch Long will scar the loch’s coastline and harm its wildlife.

    “It has been opposed by the community, the local planning authority, and even the industry. But we have now been waiting over a year for the Government’s response after the application was called in.

    “First Minister – more than 4,000 people have written to the Government asking it to protect Loch Long from this damaging development. Will the First Minister personally ensure that my constituents voices will be listened to?”

    Only 2 miles from Loch Lomond, at the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Loch Long is an iconic landscape. It’s home to seals, otters and seabirds, as well as linking with the Endrick Water Special Area of Conservation, which hosts a fragile population of endangered Atlantic Salmon.

    The final decision now lies with the Scottish Government and Cabinet Secretary Shona Robison.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Port Meadow incident: appeal for information following death of foal

    Source: City of Oxford

    Thursday, 24 April 2025

    Oxford City Council is appealing to the public for information following two serious incidents involving powered paragliders disturbing livestock on Port Meadow.

    On 10 April, a powered paraglider was seen flying low and erratically over the Meadow, causing distress to a group of horses. Tragically, a young foal was injured during this incident. Despite the best efforts of those caring for it, the foal did not recover from its injuries and has since been put to sleep. 

    A second incident occurred on 20 April, at approximately 7:30pm, when three paragliders were seen swooping low and noisily over the Meadow, causing further distress to the animals on site. Witnesses reported that the horses were visibly panicked, running erratically around the area in fear. 

    Both incidents have been reported to Thames Valley Police’s Rural Crime Team, which is now gathering evidence. The matter is being taken extremely seriously, and legal action will be pursued against those responsible. 

    We are urging anyone with information about these incidents, or who may know the identity of the individuals involved, to come forward. 

    Please report any relevant details to the Police Rural Crime Team by calling 101. 

    Comment 

    “These reckless actions have not only caused significant distress to the animals and local residents but may have also resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of a foal. We are asking those responsible to stop this dangerous behaviour immediately, and for the public’s help in identifying them. 

    “The safety of the animals, residents, and visitors to Port Meadow is of utmost importance, and we will continue to work closely with the police and community to prevent further incidents. 
    Tom Hook, Deputy Chief Executive 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Australian Oilseeds Issues Annual Shareholder Letter

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COOTAMUNDRA, Australia, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a manufacturer and seller of sustainable edible oils to customers globally, today issued a letter to shareholders from Gary Seaton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, that highlights recent performance and future milestones.

    Dear Fellow Shareholders,

    Across the globe, 2024 presented serious challenges including the ongoing war in Ukraine and serious conflicts in the Middle East and growing geopolitical discord, notably with China. Our hearts go out to those whose lives are profoundly affected by these events.

    Despite the unsettling geopolitical discord, we are pleased with our progress since launching the Company, as a Nasdaq listed company, and its unique products of Non-GMO cold-pressed and chemically-free processed oils.

    Within the last 12 months, we have sold our products through the majority of retailers in Australia, including Woolworths and Coles, the two largest supermarket chains in Australia, as well as Costco and Independent Grocers of Australia, an Australian chain of supermarkets (IGA), with sales and awareness gradually increasing. In addition to our expanding market presence in Australia, the Company has also been successful in exporting and marketing its products in Japan, China and Vietnam.

    Throughout the last year, we have demonstrated the power of our mission and guiding principles, as well as the value of being there for our customers. The result was continued healthy growth across our products and geographic expansion. Fiscal 2024 results were strong with revenues increasing by more than 16% driven by strong demand for our cold pressed canola oils. Our gross margin improved by 40 basis points and we delivered Adjusted EBITDA growth of nearly 16%. Our business momentum continues to build and we remain deeply committed to our mission as well as driving long-term value for our Shareholders.

    We believe we are well positioned for the future and anticipate several key milestones as we continue to execute our growth strategy. Within the next six months we expect that our Good Earth Oils brands of Australian Canola Oil and Olive oil will be launched in Taiwan and India. We are also expecting significant growth in China over the next 12 months as we benefit from Australia’s preferential duty for its products into China compared to Canada and USA, which have current import duties of 100% and 124% respectively. Finally, we intend to launch our products in the USA subject to clarity on the current tariff structure for Australian imports into the USA – the current tariff structure on Australian Canola Oil into the USA is 10%.

    I would like to express my deep gratitude to our Shareholders and our employees. We appreciate your continued support as we continue our exciting journey of taking chemicals out of the food supply chain and promoting healthy Canola Oil and Olive oil to consumers around the world along with the concept of regenerative farming.

    Sincerely,
    Gary Seaton
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

    About Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited. Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: COOT) through its subsidiaries, including Australian Oilseeds Investments Pty Ltd., an Australian proprietary company, tis focused on the manufacture and sale of sustainable oilseeds (e.g., seeds grown primarily for the production of edible oils) and is committed to working with all suppliers in the food supply chain to eliminate chemicals from the production and manufacturing systems to supply quality products to customers globally. The Company engages in the business of processing, manufacture and sale of non-GMO oilseeds and organic and non-organic food-grade oils, for the rapidly growing oilseeds market, through sourcing materials from suppliers focused on reducing the use of chemicals in consumables in order to supply healthier food ingredients, vegetable oils, proteins and other products to customers globally. Over the past 20 years, the Company’s cold pressing oil plant has grown to become the largest in Australia, pressing strictly GMO-free conventional and organic oilseeds.

    Contact
    Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited
    126-142 Cowcumbla Street
    Cootamundra New South Wales 2590
    Attn: Amarjeet Singh, CFO
    Email: amarjeet.s@energreennutrition.com.au

    Investor Relations Contact
    Reed Anderson
    (646) 277-1260
    reed.anderson@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster Insight – Women and Girls in Sport Conference

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Westminster Insight – Women and Girls in Sport Conference

    Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock delivered the keynote speech at the Westminster Insight – Women and Girls in Sport Conference

    Thank you all for being here and inviting me to speak to you today. I am sorry I can’t be with you in person. 

    I want to talk to you today about the remarkable growth of women’s sport that we have witnessed in recent years, and what the Government is doing to build on this momentum. 

    I would like to begin by sharing some statistics. In 2024, UK Women’s Sport attracted audiences of over 44.17 million, an increase of nearly 40% in just two years. Over 2.6 million people attended a women’s sport event in person in 2023, an increase of 23% from the previous year.

    Globally, Deloitte predicts that revenue generated by women’s elite sports will reach at least $2.35 billion, or £1.8 billion, in 2025, with revenues predicted to have risen by 240% in 4 years. 

    This is, of course, good news for economic growth and for those playing women’s elite sport. But most importantly the impact that it will have on women and girls across the country will be profound. 

    Inspiring women and girls across the country to take part in sport is hugely important to me as Sports Minister.

    Girls need to know from a young age that they belong in sport.  That is why we want to review and shape our education system to inspire girls from an early age to get active and build a lifelong love and affinity for sport.  

    To achieve this goal, Government is driving progress across women’s sport: from investing in grassroots facilities to supporting national campaigns.

    It also means action on the elite end of sport, from hosting major events to supporting action to professionalise women’s sport. 

    Bringing all of these elements together is our strategy for women and girl’s sport. Let me take you through each of those in turn.

    Firstly, we want more women and girls than ever to stay physically and mentally fit and healthy.

    In order to do this, we need to keep evolving and challenging the way we think of women in sporting environments in order to understand what challenges and motivates them.  

    Sport England campaigns like This Girl Can has inspired nearly 4 million women to get active and 8 out of 10 women say that the campaign has boosted their confidence.    

    We want women to have options and variety available to them within their local area.  

    Getting this right starts with inclusion. Statistics show that for women on lower incomes from under-represented groups, the challenges and feelings of not being included are even greater.  

    When we support women’s sport, we will support women and girls right across our communities – not just elite athletes however important they are

    Secondly, we know that in order to reach women and girls from all walks of life, equal access to high quality PE and school sports has a fundamental role to play. 

    I have seen first hand the value of school sports in my own constituency in Barnsley South. It was great to visit High View Primary Centre Centre in Wombwell a few weeks ago to watch the FA’s annual Biggest Ever Football Session, and I have enjoyed seeing the impact that events such as the Daily Mile can have on local children across Barnsley. 

    So, through our expert-led review of the curriculum, we are going to ensure that every child has the opportunity to engage in a broad range of subjects, including PE and sport.  I’ve been working closely with the Minister for Schools and with National Governing Bodies across a range of issues, and we are committed to ensuring that all children can access high-quality sport and physical activity across the school day. 

    We also know that access to facilities, player welfare standards and suitable kit and equipment are all key parts of ensuring women and girls have the opportunity to excel.

    On 21 March, we announced an investment of £100 million to fund grassroots facilities throughout the UK. £98 million of this will support projects in 2025/26. 

    This funding will support more women and girls to take part in the sports that they love, particularly by ensuring that funded sites across the UK provide priority slots for women and girls. Beyond this, in England there is funding specifically targeted at creating female-friendly facilities off the pitch, including changing rooms and toilets. 

    As well as focusing on getting women and girls active at a grassroots level, progress in women’s sport requires a healthy professional system to fund participation and to create inspirational role models.

    This is why I am acting on the recommendations of Karen Carney’s independent Review of Women’s Football starting with a series of in depth discussions on the recommendations, and led by a taskforce I have convened to drive this forward.

    We want Karen’s excellent Review to lead to tangible change in women’s football, acting as a wider blueprint for all of women’s sport.

    Our work is already making a difference: we the Taskforce recently agreed on a series of concrete actions to improve player welfare in women’s football. 

    I also want to address one of the major issues identified by Karen in the Review, which is the lack of research.  Only 6% of all sports science research today is dedicated solely to female athletes. Obviously this imbalance is a global challenge but I believe the UK is well positioned to take the lead in addressing, building on our reputation for world class research. This Government is determined to ensure that our sport science research continues to be world leading and tailored to the needs of our athletes.

    On a recent visit to Loughborough University’s Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub, I saw first hand ground breaking innovation which will shape the future of women’s sport. 

    This includes development in areas such as the menstrual cycle, the design of pregnancy and postpartum sportswear, sports nutrition, and innovation in sports bras.

    This vital work will help us accelerate the progress we have already made and ensure that research into women’s sport is tailored to female athletes.

    Finally, progress in women’s sport also means increasing visibility and inspiring a nation, by showcasing what our world leading female athletes can do.

    We know women and girls across the country are inspired by female role models.

    This summer, some fans will be watching the Lionesses on TV with their family, while others will be at the Women’s Rugby World Cup across England enjoying the atmosphere. Many more will be watching their favourite local teams and athletes from their home town.

    We want everyone to join us in marvelling at the incredible talent we have here in the UK.  We want to create the best women’s leagues in the world and we want to lead the way in helping women’s sport  to stand the test of time and be financially sustainable.

    This will mean that a girl growing up in my area of Barnsley will be able to watch us host major events like the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Women’s T20 World Cup and the Tour de France Femmes, and be able to recreate moments with their friends at school.

    With our incredible track record for hosting these kinds of events, I know that they are going to be huge success stories that inspire everyone watching women’s sport right across the globe. 

    We are also working hard to support the FA’s bid for the 2035 Women’s World Cup, a tournament with the potential to inspire yet another generation of women’s football fans.

    This is how we lead the way in women’s sport and create lasting legacies for generations to come.

    Before I end today, I want to directly address last week’s Supreme Court ruling, which I am sure is on the minds of many of you attending today. As a Government we have always been clear that when it comes to women’s sport, biology matters and we will continue to support sports to develop policies that protect fairness and safety, particularly when it is not possible to balance those factors with inclusion. Alongside this, sports need to come up with approaches to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part somehow – and I know that sporting bodies will be considering this in light of the Supreme Court decision.

    As I finish speaking to you today, I recognise that we still have challenges to overcome when it comes to women’s sport. However, the future is also one of huge opportunities to drive women’s sport forward. 

    Progress in women’s sport requires a clear vision.  From young girls learning about sport and movement in school through PE, to teenagers accessing facilities built with women and girls in mind, to adults having the right knowledge, kit and environment, to excel we want to support women and girls at every stage of their lives.  

    We want women and girls across the UK to watch global events hosted at home, to be inspired by their role models and to have the opportunity to dream big.  Every girl deserves that chance.

    And to enable this, this Government is committed to improving access to sport in schools, to making provision of facilities more equal, to improving research, driving visibility and investing in women’s sport at every level.

    It is not enough to focus on one aspect alone.  We must drive progress across all of these areas as part of one cohesive women’s sport strategy.  

    I look forward to working with you all to ensure all women and girls have the opportunities they deserve.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent market named best in Staffordshire

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 24th April 2025

    A Stoke-on-Trent market which dates back over 150 years has been named the best in Staffordshire.

    Longton Victorian Market clinched the title of ‘Staffordshire Market of the Year’ at the Our Staffordshire News’ Business, Charity, Community and Food Awards 2025.

    The awards, which took place earlier this month, awarded Tunstall Market, also managed by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, third in the same category.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, regeneration and infrastructure at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Our markets are really important to our local communities and this award is testament to that.

    “All of our traders and our dedicated markets team work tirelessly to make sure our markets remain at the heart of our town centres, so I would like to pass on my huge congratulations to them.

    “If you haven’t visited for a while, I would encourage you to pop down and support your local market.”

    For more information about Stoke-on-Trent Markets visit www.stoke.gov.uk/markets

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Minister for Local Transport visits Jersey today24 April 2025 The UK Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood MP, is visiting Jersey today to gain greater insight on the Island’s bus service model. During the visit, the Minister will meet the Infrastructure… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 April 2025

    The UK Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood MP, is visiting Jersey today to gain greater insight on the Island’s bus service model. 

    During the visit, the Minister will meet the Infrastructure Minister, Connétable Andy Jehan, tour Liberation Station with the Constable of St Helier, and visit the LibertyBus depot at La Collette. He will also meet LibertyBus staff and drivers, speak directly with passengers, and experience Jersey’s bus service first-hand by travelling on the Number 15 route. 

    The visit comes at the same time as the UK Parliament is considering a Bill which aims to make it easier for local transport authorities to franchise bus services in their areas, and improve performance, accessibility, and the quality of bus passenger services in the country. 

    As part of the Minister’s Active Travel brief, St Luke’s School will be welcoming him to see their School Street in action and to witness the benefits of closing the street to traffic, enabling students to travel to and from school safely. Jersey’s Home Affairs Minister will also be meeting Mr Lightwood to discuss the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy. In addition, the Deputy Bailiff will be hosting a tour of the States Assembly. 

    The Minister for Infrastructure, Connétable Andy Jehan, said: “I am pleased to be welcoming Simon Lightwood to Jersey, particularly following the recent award of the new 10-year contract to Liberty Bus. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the benefits that long-term contracts have, Jersey’s investment in a more environmentally friendly fleet, as well as our efforts to enhance local community services such as the TownLink and a new northern route.”​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor launches powerful Mental Health Arts exhibition in Strabane

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor launches powerful Mental Health Arts exhibition in Strabane

    24 April 2025

    The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, recently launched the solo exhibition ‘Narratives’ by Derry-born artist Eamon McAteer at the Alley Theatre in Strabane. The stunning collection of paintings resonates deeply with the theme of this year’s NI Mental Health Arts Festival ‘CathARTSis,’ a play on the word catharsis.

    The launch was attended by an appreciative audience of family, friends, art educationalists, and fellow artists, all gathered to celebrate Eamon McAteer’s powerful body of work. ‘Narratives’ offers viewers a glimpse into the artist’s emotional responses and personal interpretations, providing solace and sanctuary in today’s often chaotic world.

    Mayor Barr emphasised the significance of the festival, saying: “The NI Mental Health Arts Festival is a powerful initiative which brings hope to many in our community. The power of artistic expression cannot be understated. In a world where the pressures of daily life can often feel overwhelming, this festival provides a vital lifeline. It offers a compassionate space where individuals can share their most personal experiences, find solace in creativity, and connect with others through the universal language of art.”

    She further added, “Our mental health is precious, and programmes like this remind us that seeking support, expressing our vulnerabilities, and celebrating our resilience are fundamental to our collective well-being. By platforming diverse stories through music, visual arts, performance, and literature, the festival breaks down barriers and helps destigmatise conversations around mental health. I had the pleasure of opening Eamon McAteer’s show ‘Narratives’ at the Alley Theatre and saw first-hand how much the paintings resonated with the audience. The festival is a wonderful initiative which offers an outlet where mental health can be promoted in a positive, open and welcoming environment, well done to everyone involved.”

    Artist Eamon McAteer expressed his delight at being part of the festival, saying: “I am delighted to be exhibiting my solo show of paintings, ‘Narratives’ at The Alley Theatre as part of the NI Mental Health Arts Festival. My work resonates with the festival’s theme of CathARTSis. My focus is to create something personal, individual and honest. The work is inspired by my emotional response to a wide variety of influences, I paint intuitively in the studio so that the work suggests memories and personal interpretations. There is a sense of intimacy and intensity, and the idea of a glimpse into a remembered reality. My paintings mostly relate to the Irish expressionist landscape tradition.”

    Noelle Mc Alinden, Co-Chair of the NI Mental Health Arts Festival, highlighted the importance of such exhibitions saying: “There is no doubt that Eamon’s exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity to inspire and enthuse audiences young and old. Exhibitions like this help to show the power of the arts and the vital role our artists contribute to the inspiration and well-being of others.”

    Eamon McAteer’s exhibition ‘Narratives’ will continue at The Alley Theatre Strabane until May 30th.

    The NI Mental Health Arts Festival will run from May 9th to May 20th across Northern Ireland, featuring a diverse programme of events including poetry, comedy, dance, theatre, walks, talks, and tours. Two major symposiums will also take place, in Belfast on May 9th and in the Guildhall on May 20th. Both events are free and are guaranteed to inspire, providing an excellent forum for compassionate dialogue, performances, panel discussions and excellent insights from those with lived experience drawn from Health, Arts, Community, Education and Academic Research. The events will be hosted by the Mayors of both cities. Celebrating artists from across Northern Ireland the NI Mental Health Arts Forum is delighted Derry-based artist Bronagh Corr McNicholl’s photographic exhibition is touring between both cities – first at The Garden of Reflection in Derry and then Belfast Exposed. Justine Scoltock’s exhibition Hidden Layers also features in the Garden of Reflection throughout May.

    For more information on the NI Mental Health Arts Festival and the exciting  programme of events, please visit www.nimhaf.org.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

    The Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, has written to the Speaker of the NI Assembly today, 24 April

    Documents

    Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

    PDF, 209 KB, 4 pages

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    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email communications@nio.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Details

    The NI Secretary, Hilary Benn, has written to the Speaker of the NI Assembly to set out the decisions and declarations the UK Government will be making at the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee on the 29th of April which concern the Windsor Framework.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Project Meridian FX shows possibility of cross-border linkages for FX transactions between wholesale payment infrastructures

    Source: European Central Bank

    24 April 2024

    • Project Meridian FX proves that wholesale payment infrastructures, such as real-time gross settlement (RTGS) systems, can be interoperable via new technologies for FX transactions
    • The joint project between the Bank for International Settlements, Bank of England, Banque de France, Banca d’Italia, Deutsche Bundesbank and European Central Bank explored synchronising foreign exchange (FX) transactions
    • It demonstrated that FX transactions could be settled across jurisdictions and different types of infrastructures

    The Bank for International Settlements and its central bank partners have successfully demonstrated how wholesale payment infrastructures, such as RTGS systems, can interoperate with each other for FX transactions via new technologies.

    The project involved synchronising the settlement of FX transactions, using distributed ledger technology, so that the transfer of one leg of the transaction (such as buying a currency) happens only if the transfer of the other (such as selling another currency) occurs.

    Meridian FX sought to address some of the actions called for in the Group of 20 cross-border payments roadmap. For example, reducing foreign exchange settlement risk using payment-versus-payment transactions and establishing realistic links between the wholesale payment infrastructures of different countries. Synchronisation could also mitigate some of the liquidity risk and credit risk challenges in the foreign exchange market.

    The project connected a synthetic version of the UK RTGS system to three experimental Eurosystem interoperability solutions: DL3S (developed by the Banque de France), TIPS Hash-Link (developed by the Banca d’Italia) and the Trigger Solution (developed by the Deutsche Bundesbank).

    Combined with the results of previous work undertaken by the BIS and the Bank of England, Meridian FX shows that synchronisation can be agnostic to both the asset or fund of the transaction involved and the technology of the ledgers, highlighting its potential use in other markets.

    Insights gained from the project will inform the work programmes of the participating central banks.

    For media queries, please contact Benoit Deeg, tel.: +49 172 1683704.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Future of Energy Security summit: Energy Secretary opening remarks

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Future of Energy Security summit: Energy Secretary opening remarks

    The Energy Secretary delivered opening remarks at the International Energy Agency (IEA) Future of Energy Security summit.

    Francine, thank you so much.  

    And distinguished delegates, on behalf of the UK government and the International Energy Agency, I want to welcome you all to this historic setting of Lancaster House and to London for this first global summit on the Future of Energy Security. 

    As Francine has said, there are numerous countries represented here – almost 60 countries represented here today.  

    And I want to thank each and every one of you who have made the trip here. We truly appreciate your presence and we really look forward to the discussions over the coming 2 days. 

    We also have leaders from more than 50 global businesses with us. 

    And I want to thank all of you for everything you do to help create energy security for our countries and our world.  

    And we also have NGOs and civil society groups from around the world who are here with us, who play an important role in ensuring accountability of governments.

    I also want to pay a specific thank you to the official partners of the summit: Iberdrola-Scottish Power, National Grid, SSE and Urenco.  

    And if I may, I want to also thank the teams at the International Energy Agency and across the UK government who have worked incredibly hard to pull this event together. It is some feat of organisation. 

    And I want if I may also to pay particular tribute to Fatih Birol. Fatih, your leadership of the IEA for nearly a decade now has been marked by your commitment to rigour, to values and to multilateral cooperation. That is why the IEA is so central to the global discussion on energy, and I want to thank you. Perhaps the audience could show our appreciation for Fatih and the work he does.  

    You’ve got much more interesting people than me to hear from in these coming sessions, but let me make a few remarks to frame our discussions over the next 2 days.  

    First, our starting point for this summit is that in an unstable and uncertain world, there can be no national or international security without energy security.   

    And indeed it is now more than 50 years since the IEA was founded in response to the oil crisis of 1973.

    Over that time, the challenges we face have changed.  

    But I think the principle underpinning the IEA’s work – that countries need to collaborate to secure the uninterrupted supply of energy at an affordable price – remains the same.  

    And in the years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine we’ve been reminded in the UK, and indeed across Europe and the world of a simple truth:  

    That as long as energy can be weaponised against us, our countries and our citizens are vulnerable and exposed.  

    It is for this reason that energy security is also at the heart of economic security – because it is central to living standards, job creation and economic growth.  

    And we hope this summit marks an important moment for countries to come together and discuss what the shifting global landscape means for how we deliver energy security in this era.

    Second, the act of bringing together, which is an initiative that I’ve taken alongside Fatih and the IEA, I think stems from an underlying belief that can unite us all, which is there is huge benefit for us from cooperating on the basis of our shared interests.  

    I think it’s really important to say every country faces its own energy security challenges and its own constraints.  

    And each country will pursue its own pathway, following its national interest in securing its energy supplies.  

    Different pathways – and I think this is a really important point for this conference – different pathways for different nations should be respected.   

    And we will all get a chance to reflect on our different national circumstances in our discussions over the coming days.  

    But here is the key thing: whatever our national pathways, I do believe that we share a fundamental belief that shared challenges invite shared solutions.  

    Multilateral co-operation can make us stronger not weaker – in our own individual national interest.  

    Third point – hopefully this is also a uniting idea – I believe that we gathered here are the optimists about what we can achieve for our society. Business, government, civil society – I believe we are, in this energy sector, the optimists.  

    Abundant energy can raise living standards, economic growth and deliver for today’s and future generations of citizens. 

    For the UK, just to talk about us for a moment, there is an exciting vision of energy security and abundance from cheap, homegrown, low carbon power.  

    Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we saw family finances, business finances and public finances wrecked as fossil fuel prices rocketed on the global markets, and therefore here in Britain.  

    Now oil and gas, including from our North Sea, will continue to play an important role in our energy system, and we really value our industry and the jobs it supports. But as with many countries, we are a price taker not a price maker in international fossil fuel markets.  

    So our vision of low carbon power goes well beyond the climate imperative — important as that is. Homegrown low carbon power is our nationally chosen route to energy security.  

    Solar power, wind power, tidal, geothermal, nuclear power – also an essential part of the low carbon opportunity.  

    These are often unlimited, low-cost power supplies which we can exploit for the benefit of our citizens.  

    So to be clear about this, ours is a hard-headed approach to the role of low carbon power as the route to energy security. 

    And I believe this isn’t just true for the UK – alongside a continuing important role for oil and gas, low carbon energy can play a critical role in delivering energy security for many countries around the world.  

    And it presents a solution to the issue of energy security that simply wasn’t true in the same way as a decade and a half ago – and this again is important – and that’s because of what many countries in this room, working with business, public and private sector together, have achieved.  

    The cost of solar globally has fallen by 90% since 2010.   

    Offshore wind by more than 60%.  

    That’s in part why last year, $2 trillion was invested in clean energy with 80% of new electricity generation met by renewables and nuclear.  

    Indeed, according to BNEF, for more than two-thirds of the world’s population, new renewables are the cheapest source of bulk power generation.  

    In the spirit of multilateralism, the UK is determined to work with others to accelerate this transition, including through our Global Clean Power Alliance, which the Prime Minister launched at the G20 last year.  

    Final point, let me finish by saying that at a time when so much of what is happening in the world looks so intractable, I hope we can carry this spirit of optimism into our deliberations.  

    And I hope genuinely that everyone here enjoys this event and your time in London. 

    I want to end with the following message from His Majesty The King that he has asked me to read out to you all because this summit is something that he was very much personally interested in.  

    And this is the message from King Charles: 

    As we all navigate the transition to cleaner energy for our planet and energy security for our citizens, summits such as these are of vital importance in facilitating shared learning between nations, particularly those in the global south and across the Commonwealth.  

    Events over recent years have shown that, when well-managed, the transition to more sustainable energy sources can itself lead to more resilient and secure energy systems.  

    While each country will follow its individual path, there are many shared challenges and opportunities on which we can work together, as partners. 

    And he ends by saying: 

    I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for participating in this summit on the future of energy security, and to send my warmest best wishes for productive discussions over the coming days.

    Ladies and gentlemen, thank you so much for your attendance, and now it’s my huge privilege to introduce the Executive Director of the IEA, Dr Fatih Birol.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –