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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transport Secretary acts to make thousands of extra driving tests available each month

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Transport Secretary acts to make thousands of extra driving tests available each month

    Further action to reduce waiting times will see thousands of additional tests made available every month.

    • new measures unveiled to crack down on test-buying bots and deliver at least 10,000 extra tests a month 
    • training capacity to be doubled to drive-up availability of driving examiners
    • government action to help ready learners pass, unlock opportunities, and drive economic growth — delivering on our Plan for Change

    Learner drivers are set to benefit from reduced waiting times as the Transport Secretary announced new measures today (23 April 2025) to combat test-buying bots and provide thousands of additional tests every month.

    The Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, has instructed the DVSA to intensify its efforts to reduce waiting times and improve access to driving tests which will break down barriers to opportunity as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    To open up more tests and break down barriers to opportunity, she has announced: 

    • those in other DVSA roles who are qualified to examine will be asked to return to the frontline to provide practical driving tests
    • doubling the number of permanent trainers to skill up new driving examiners quickly
    • accelerated consultation to investigate the potential abuse of the driving test booking system and prevent bots from accessing tests
    • reintroduction of overtime pay incentives for everyone delivering driving tests

    Taken together, the government aims for these measures to reduce driving test waiting times to 7-weeks by summer next year.

    Significant progress has already been made as part of the DVSA’s 7-point plan to reduce waiting times, with 1.95 million tests delivered last year. However, further action is required to help learners pass quickly and ensure young people can access vital training and job opportunities to help them get on in life.

    Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander said:  

    We inherited an enormous backlog of learners ready to ditch their L-Plates but being forced to endure record waiting time for their tests.

    We simply cannot deliver on our Plan for Change if thousands remain held back, with their aspirations on pause.

    I am instructing DVSA to take further action immediately to reduce waiting times which will see thousands of additional tests made available every month. We’re acting fast to get Britain’s drivers moving.

    The DVSA’s Additional Testing Award scheme will reopen for up to 18 months, allowing more examiners to deliver additional tests. 

    Examiner training capacity will be doubled to ensure newly recruited driving examiners can qualify as quickly as possible. An accelerated consultation will also launch in May to improve the booking system and block bots from accessing tests. This comes on top of the work DVSA is already undertaking with leading IT specialists to enhance resilience against resellers.

    Additionally, the government will temporarily ask eligible staff to deploy into examining roles, increasing test availability and providing coverage for examiner sickness or leave. 

    These measures come following the launch of a 7-point plan to drive down the waiting times to 7 weeks.  

    Progress has been made in recruiting more than 100 new examiners, increasing the short notice cancellation period for candidates, and introducing tougher terms and conditions for driving instructors booking driving tests for their pupils.  

    DVSA Driver Services Director, Pauline Reeves said:

    Since December 2024, we’ve made significant progress on implementing our plan to reduce waiting times. But we know that many learner drivers are not seeing the immediate effects of the measures.

    The further action which the Secretary of State has announced today will help us to accelerate those measures, including expanding training capacity for newly recruited driving examiners so more of them can start carrying out driving tests sooner.

    Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com car insurance said:   

    A long wait for driving test availability has held back many learner drivers from getting their licence. That’s why it’s positive to see that the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, is enforcing more measures to improve waiting times for learners. This will bring hope to those starting to learn, or still waiting to take their test. And ultimately, it should help make what is meant to be an exciting time for them something they can look forward to without the thought of a long wait.

    Emma Bush, Managing Director of AA Driving School, said:

    Learner drivers have been dealing with frustratingly long waiting times to book a driving test since the easing of pandemic related restrictions several years ago. As we have highlighted, there is an urgent need for effective action to bring waiting times down to an acceptable level and, as such, we welcome today’s announcement giving further details of how the DVSA will meet its target waiting time of 7 weeks by the end of the year.

    Many people, particularly young people, need to pass their driving test for their job or to access education. Unblocking the system by creating extra tests will help ensure people are not being held back due to a lack of a driving licence.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rent control consultation published

    Source: Scottish Government

    Views sought on exemptions from rent control and where rent could be increased above cap.

    A consultation has been published on potential for certain exemptions from rent controls or increases above the rent cap.

    Last year, the Scottish Government set out its plans for long-term rent controls in the Housing (Scotland) Bill, which will help create a fairer, better-regulated rented sector for tenants and landlords.

    Tenants, landlords and others in the rented sector are being asked to share their views on possible exemptions to the rent cap, for example in connection with mid-market and Build to Rent properties.

    The consultation also considers where landlords could be allowed to increase rents above the cap, for example where there have been improvements to their property or where rents have consistently been charged at a level below market rates.

    Views are also being sought on how Ministers’ regulation-making powers could be used to clarify how private sector joint tenancies are ended.

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “The rent control proposals we have published as part of the Housing Bill are just some of the measures we are taking to improve lives and work towards achieving our goal of ending child poverty in Scotland.

    “Our rent control proposals will help provide certainty for tenants by keeping them in their homes and ensure rents remain affordable during a cost-of-living crisis.

    “Rental properties are a crucial element of our efforts to tackle the housing emergency and we want landlords to have the confidence to invest and continue to provide good quality, affordable homes.

    “We have published this consultation as part of our ongoing engagement with those who will be affected by rent control.  The responses will help us strike the right balance between supporting tenants, whilst ensuring the rights of landlords are protected and we continue to support investment in the rented homes we need.”

    Background

    Housing (Scotland) Bill – Scottish Government consultations – Citizen Space

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local Plan – Inspectors to begin examination hearings

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    The examination hearings for a Local Plan for St Albans District are to start with an opportunity for objectors to raise any concerns.

    Two Planning Inspectors, Matthew Birkinshaw and Thomas Bristow, are to assess whether St Albans City and District Council’s Local Plan is sound and complies with all legal requirements.

    They are to begin their task by hearing from organisations who have opposed the Local Plan (LP) which the Council submitted to the Government five months ago.

    The hearings will take place in public at the Council Chamber in the Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, on Tuesday 29 April to Friday 2 May.

    Anyone wanting to follow the proceedings can do so online with the Council providing a live webcast of the event.

    Only those who have been invited by the Inspectors to participate will be allowed to speak at the hearings.

    They are entitled to be represented by a legal advocate such as a solicitor or barrister with expertise in planning law.

    The hearings’ main purpose is to allow the Inspectors to probe arguments put forward by objectors about the LP’s soundness or legal compliance.

    On the opening day, they will consider the LP’s legal compliance while on the Wednesday, they will deal with housing growth and strategy.

    Thursday is due to be taken up by the principle of Green Belt issues, though not specific sites, while the final day will be reserved for any other business.

    The Council may be asked by the Inspectors to respond to any of the objections that are raised and is also entitled to expert legal representation.

    Amanda Foley, the Council’s Chief Executive, said:

    Producing a Local Plan is one of the most challenging and complex tasks that a planning authority is required to undertake.

    The Local Plan that we submitted for examination in November last year is the culmination of more than three years’ work including extensive public consultations.

    We are pleased that the examination process will shortly get underway with the first stage allowing for the Inspectors to look in depth at objections.

    Supporters of the LP, the Council apart, will not be heard at these hearings, so it may seem a little one sided. However, it is only fair that the Local Plan goes through a robust test such as this.

    Following these stage one hearings, the Inspectors will hold a further set of hearings to consider the main issues at a date yet to be decided.

    The Inspectors will then compile a report for the Council with its initial findings, setting out their conclusions and any modifications to the LP which they deem necessary.

    The LP is a blueprint for the sustainable growth of St Albans District over the next 16 years.

    It identifies land suitable for future housing and commercial development as well as the necessary infrastructure.

    The proposed LP allows for the building of 15,000 new homes in the District up to 2041 at designated sites. This figure is in accordance with national planning policy guidelines and will include 1,200 social rent properties.

    It also provides for £750 million of new infrastructure including nine primary schools, four secondary schools, improvements to public transport, locations for 15,000 jobs, green spaces and health facilities.

    You can find out more about the hearings including how to access the webcast here.

    Media contact: John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727 819533, john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement from the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council on the Passing of Pope Francis

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Statement from the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council on the Passing of Pope Francis

    23 April 2025

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr has issued a statement following the passing of Pope Francis today in Rome.

    She said: “It is with profound sorrow that I heard of the passing of Pope Frances. As Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community across our district, Ireland, and the world on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

    “Pope Francis’ papacy was marked by a profound commitment to humility, social justice, and inclusivity.   

    “Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis championed the causes of the marginalised, advocated for environmental stewardship, and called for compassion and understanding across all communities. His focus on dialogue and reconciliation resonated deeply, especially in regions like ours that have experienced division.

    “He was a man of huge compassion and courage with a commitment to justice and the dignity of every human being. He challenged us to care for the poor, the disadvantaged and to live a life of love for everyone. 

    “On behalf of the people of Derry and Strabane, I offer our deepest sympathies to Archbishop Eamon Martin, the clergy, and all members of the Catholic Church. May Pope Francis rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to guide us toward compassion and unity.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: VE Day commemoration

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    PLANS to mark the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day in Dundee are well underway.

    The city’s commemoration, which forms part of a national marking of the date, will be hosted by Lord Provost Bill Campbell.

    Starting with a short service of remembrance and thanks on the steps of the Caird Hall attended by local clergy and church leaders, invitations are also being extended to councillors, other politicians, council leaders and veterans.

    Organisations representing veterans, military organisations, cadet forces and reserves are being encouraged to parade on the City Square.

    Lord Provost Bill Campbell said: “We must never forget the sacrifice made on all fronts, including at home, in the Second World War and it is important that we and future generations always remember the ultimate price many paid to maintain freedom from totalitarian and genocidal regimes.

    “Dundee citizens in every branch of the armed services and on every front in the conflict gave their lives or were in some way affected by the Second World War.

    “We would like the people of the city to join us in the City Square on Saturday 10 May 2025, to pay tribute, and mark VE Day commemorating the surrender of German forces to the Allied powers at the end of World War II.” 

    Further details of the event and timings will be announced nearer the date.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery

    Clean energy projects, reservoirs, railway lines, and other major infrastructure to be built faster, under changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill

    Clean energy projects, public transport links, and other major infrastructure will on average be delivered at least a year faster, as the government accelerates planning reforms to unleash growth and restore Britain’s rightful place as a world leader in building.

    Burdensome statutory consultation requirements unique to major infrastructure projects will be scrapped, through amendments to the pro-growth Planning and Infrastructure Bill, cutting down the average two-year statutory pre-consultation period by half and paving the way for new roads, railways, and windfarms that will bolster the country’s connectivity and energy security.

    Developers currently spend significant time and money on long, technical documents resulting in communities feeling fatigued and confused, which is a direct result of overly complex planning rules that are leaving working people deprived of the things their areas need to thrive. It also disincentivises developers making improvements to projects for fear of having to re-consult, even if in the community’s best interest.

    Recognising community voices remain vital, the government will bring this process in line with planning applications for major housing schemes, and set out new statutory guidance to promote meaningful local engagement without repeating these flaws. This will allow changes to be made dynamically based on community feedback, reducing delays and potentially saving over £1 billion for industry and taxpayers this Parliament. These changes will help ensure Britain is open for business, attracting billions of pounds of new private investment.

    This will go even further in streamlining infrastructure delivery through the government’s landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill, as part of the Plan for Change to power and heat homes with clean energy, raise living standards, create well-paying jobs, and put more money into the pockets of working people and families. The reforms will also boost the government’s efforts to build 1.5 million homes by making it easier to deliver the roads, reservoirs and energy generation needed so we can restore the dream of homeownership to families across the country.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: 

    “Critical national infrastructure is key to Britain’s future and security – so we can’t afford to have projects held up by tiresome requirements and uncertainty, caused by a system that is not working for communities or developers and holding back our true potential.

    “We are strengthening the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to make sure we can lead the world again with new roads, railways, and energy infrastructure as part of the Plan for Change, whilst ensuring local people still have a say in our journey to get Britain building.”

    Alongside statutory guidance for developers on applications, the Planning Inspectorate will maintain high standards for accepting projects – informed by community engagement. Local authorities will also be made aware of proposed applications so that they can continue to play an important role informing and advising on developments, as well as advocating for local interests.

    As a result, local people can still object and share their views but in a more effective way, with developers given the flexibility to adapt their schemes as needed without restarting the process: reducing delays and costs for projects, including datacentres, reservoirs, and solar farms, while ensuring local people’s voices are heard.

    Meanwhile the government is already taking action – consenting more nationally significant solar projects since the start of the Parliament compared to the whole of the previous one, including the Mallard Pass Solar Project in Lincolnshire, and making the largest ever investment in offshore wind, as we deliver our Plan for Change milestone of 150 decisions on major infrastructure projects by the end of the Parliament.

    Examples of delays under current system:   

    • Fens Reservoir: Over 1,000 days in pre-application due to a number of issues including around consultation requirements, expected submission in December 2026, supplying 250,000 homes with water.   
    • National Grid – Bramford to Twinstead: 717 days in pre-application for 29km of overhead lines and underground cables.   
    • Hinkley Point C: Three years in pre-application consultation; Sizewell C spent around seven-and-a-half years at this stage.  

    Wider reforms in the Bill will streamline and speed up planning decisions, remove blockers to major infrastructure and housing delivery, and support environmental goals through the new Nature Restoration Fund to achieve win-win outcomes for both nature and the economy.

    These changes build on the recent OBR forecast confirming the government’s planning overhaul, through an updated National Planning Policy Framework, will drive UK housebuilding to its highest level in over 40 years and boost the economy by £6.8 billion by 2029/30.

    Notes to editors:

    Carl Trowell, President of Strategic Infrastructure, National Grid, said:

    “Consulting with communities and stakeholders will always be a fundamental part of the way we at National Grid develop and shape our projects. We welcome the Government’s proposal today which will ensure that consultation and engagement can be more effective and targeted. This will accelerate the path to delivering critical infrastructure while continuing to ensure the views of local communities are heard.”

    Benj Sykes, UK Country Manager, Ørsted said:

    “Ørsted welcomes the ongoing work of the Government to reform the planning system, including these changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. Engaging and working with communities and other stakeholders in the pre-application stage has always been central to our work developing new energy projects and will remain so; the changes being introduced will allow everyone involved in these engagements to focus on the issues that matter to stakeholders and local communities, and to our developments.”

    James Robottom, Head of Policy, Renewable UK said:

    “This announcement represents a significant step forward for the renewable energy industry, as it will enable us to speed up the delivery of vital infrastructure projects to boost the UK’s energy security, grow the economy and help us to reach the Government’s target of clean power by 2030.  The industry has a long track record of engaging early and closely with local communities and a wide range of environmental stakeholders, and this will continue as we want to carry on building projects with local support by giving communities a clear voice in the decision-making process. We look forward to feeding into the new guidance that will enable us to spend more time engaging with key stakeholders on the most important issues for each new project on a case by case basis and lead to even higher quality engagement and positive outcomes for nature.” 

    Sam Richards, CEO of pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade, said:

    “Today’s bold reforms to cut red tape and get vital infrastructure delivered faster are a big step toward unlocking clean energy, better transport, and the homes Britain desperately needs. Too often consultation is a long and expensive box ticking exercise. By slashing delays and encouraging real community engagement, the government is backing growth, investment, and the kind of national renewal we all want to see.”

    Adam Berman, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Energy UK said:

    “Energy UK is fully behind the Government’s mission to speed up the planning system, unlocking the investment in clean energy we need to secure our future power needs. More targeted engagement with statutory consultees will result in faster and more appropriate applications, allowing relevant public bodies to focus on planning applications that matter most to them.”

    Richard Greer, Fellow, Climate & Sustainability Services, Arup:

    “Building on the Planning and Infrastructure Bill with further legislative improvements will be essential to delivering the Government’s ten-year Infrastructure Strategy and its pipeline of projects across transport, energy, water, and the new economy sector (such as data centres).  A step-change in infrastructure delivery requires a comprehensive package of reforms that streamlines the entire project lifecycle.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI AND BLUMENTHAL SLAM TERMINATION OF CRITICAL CRUISE LINE SANITATION PROGRAM AMID GROWING REPORTS OF ILLNESS OUTBREAKS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to Acting Director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Susan Monarez criticizing the elimination of all full-time staff at the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), a vital program that works to prevent and control public health incidents and disease outbreaks aboard cruise ships. In their letter, Matsui and Blumenthal cite recent reports of illnesses spreading on cruise ships, including norovirus. The decimation of the VSP comes at a time of cuts, freezes, and firings at the CDC from the Trump Administration’s Department of Government Efficiency.

    “Through routine inspections, training of cruise ship personnel, and responses to and documentation of outbreaks aboard cruise ships, the VSP protects and promotes public health for cruisegoers everywhere. This critical information helps the traveling public make informed decisions before they sail,” wrote the lawmakers. “It is therefore confounding that the VSP has been swept up in the indiscriminate cuts that were initiated recently at the CDC.”

    “As we saw with the rampant spread of COVID-19 aboard cruise ships in the early days of the pandemic, these environments provide a prime opportunity for the transmission of disease. That is why it is absolutely critical that the CDC maintains the office and staff responsible for dealing with outbreaks on cruise ships. Severely reducing or eliminating the program that holds CDC’s subject matter expertise on this issue is short-sighted, and will ultimately lead to more illnesses,” continued Matsui and Blumenthal.

    The full text of the letter can be found below.

     Dear Acting Director Monarez,

     We are extremely alarmed by reports that all full-time employees of the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) have been terminated.[1] As news of the worst outbreak aboard a cruise ship this year is making headlines, it is incomprehensible that the officials responsible for protecting the health of the cruise-going public would be abruptly terminated.[2]

     The VSP is a vital program that works to prevent, control, and publicize public health incidents aboard cruise ships.[3] Through routine inspections, training of cruise ship personnel, and responses to and documentation of outbreaks aboard cruise ships, the VSP protects and promotes public health for cruisegoers everywhere.[4] Among its most important functions are VSP’s maintenance of databases of outbreaks in its jurisdiction and inspection scores for cruise ships.[5] This critical information helps the traveling public make informed decisions before they sail. It is therefore confounding that the VSP has been swept up in the indiscriminate cuts that were initiated recently at the CDC. According to reports, the CDC’s Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, which housed the VSP, was decimated by staff losses.[6] 

    Elimination of the VSP is especially concerning now, when just last month a massive norovirus outbreak was reported on a luxury cruise liner travelling from England to the Caribbean.[7] This outbreak aboard the Queen Mary 2 sickened 224 passengers and 17 crew members.[8] And indeed, while this is the most widespread cruise ship outbreak so far this year, it is far from the first. According to the database maintained by the VSP, there have already been thirteen confirmed outbreaks aboard cruise ships in the first three months of 2025, sickening almost 1,400 people this year alone.[9]

     As we saw with the rampant spread of COVID-19 aboard cruise ships in the early days of the pandemic, these environments provide a prime opportunity for the transmission of disease. That is why it is absolutely critical that the CDC maintains the office and staff responsible for dealing with outbreaks on cruise ships. Severely reducing or eliminating the program that holds CDC’s subject matter expertise on this issue is short-sighted, and will ultimately lead to more illnesses. 

    It is therefore critical to understand CDC’s plan to continue its vital cruise ship monitoring efforts, in the absence of the VSP. To that end, we request answers to the following questions by May 6, 2025:

    1. Please describe what plans, if any, the CDC has for eliminating the VSP.
      1. Please describe what metrics, if any, were used when evaluating the potential elimination of the VSP.
    2. Please describe how the CDC intends to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect public health aboard cruise ships in the absence of the VSP.
    3. How many employees working for the VSP have left since January 20, 2025? Please include employees who accepted a deferred resignation offer, had their employment terminated, or were placed on administrative leave.
    4. Will CDC continue to update its inspection scores database so the travelling public can make informed decisions when planning a cruise?
    5. Will CDC continue to update its database of outbreaks to ensure the public has access to critical public health information about illnesses on cruise ships?

     We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your timely response. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Geoengineering – an explainer on the science and ethics

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Geoengineering, also known as climate engineering or climate intervention, refers to the deliberate, large-scale manipulation of the Earth’s climate system to counteract human-caused climate change. It involves interventions like reflecting sunlight back into space to mitigate the effects of global warming. While the UK government and main research funders are in favour of conducting fundamental research to improve our understanding of these potential interventions (but not deployment of these approaches), these initiatives have still proved controversial with many inside and outside science, who argue that even researching this area is a dangerous distraction from the kind of climate action we need now.

    The National Environment Research Council (NERC) announced £10 million of new funding for modelling solar radiation management schemes last week and we expect ARIA to announce funding soon. The Royal Society is currently working on a new report on Solar Radiation Management (SRM) expected later this year, and NERC, part of UK Research and Innovation, have also announced a public engagement exercise this summer. With all this activity planned, the SMC invited some leading experts to meet science journalists explain the main scientific approaches to this research, outline why funders believe this research is justified and answer questions.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Mark Symes, Programme Director, ARIA and Professor of Electrochemistry and Electrochemical Technology, University of Glasgow

    Kate Hamer, NERC Director, Strategy & Analysis

    Prof Jim Haywood, Professor of Atmospheric Science, University of Exeter

    Dr Pete Irvine, Research Assistant Professor, Solar Geoengineering, University of Chicago and Co-founder of SRM360

    Dr Sebastian Eastham, Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Aviation, Imperial College London

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lightweight portable oxygen system to save lives

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Lightweight portable oxygen system to save lives

    New compact and lightweight portable oxygen delivery system will improve safety and can be deployed immediately for use by frontline medics.

    The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), in collaboration with Defence Medical Services (DMS), has unveiled a cutting-edge portable oxygen delivery system designed to improve casualty survival rates for UK soldiers and civilians.

    Weighing just 5kg, this ground-breaking system offers sustainable oxygen delivery on the battlefield, overcoming limitations of traditional pressurised oxygen cylinders.

    Current cylinders pose logistical challenges due to their weight, risk of explosion and requirement to be refilled using specialist equipment after use. The Dstl system offers improved safety flexibility and reusability.

    Lightweight Portable Oxygen Unit – For Frontline Troops

    The innovative concentrator system works by drawing air from the environment surrounding the patient, pushing it into a series of chambers that removes the nitrogen present in atmospheric air, allowing breathable oxygen-rich gas to be delivered directly to the patient.

    Additionally, its rebreather element conserves exhaled breath, scrubs carbon dioxide out of it and enables it to be breathed back in. This combination ensures that any oxygen consumed by the patient is replaced, maintaining a consistently high concentration of oxygen delivered to the patient.

    The system also provides rebreathing capabilities and patient ventilation for casualties unable to breathe unaided, all within the same weight class as a standard oxygen cylinder.

    Dstl Military Advisor Major Andrew Maggs said:

    The ability to deliver oxygen at the point of injury represents a game-changing advance in battlefield medicine. By reducing logistical burden and improving safety, the system will provide critical care in situations where every second counts.

    The first deployment of the system is yet to be determined, but potentially means 15 prototype systems will be deployed out to operations. The system, which was developed using a combination of off-the-shelf components, is currently undergoing design work to create a mass-producible version tailored for rigorous military use.

    This collaboration highlights the importance of UK science and innovation in addressing real-world challenges. Dstl and DMS are working to ensure this technology is refined and ready to meet the demands of military and civilian operations and crises.

    Impact of this new system

    Oxygen therapy is critical for trauma patients suffering from blood loss, head injuries and lung trauma – injuries frequently seen on the battlefield. By getting oxygen delivery directly to the point of injury, the system can dramatically improve the likelihood of survival and recovery.

    Dstl’s Chief Executive Dr Paul Hollinshead said:

    In operational terms, this system will reduce the logistical strain on supply chains while improving battlefield care. The ability to also reuse the system with external power or replaceable batteries means it offers unparalleled flexibility.

    In its current format, the cumulative cost of the separate components is approximately £15,000 per unit, but efforts are underway to design an even more cost-effective system with greater scalability.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter to the Prime Minister on incentivising private investment in climate adaptation and resilience

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Letter to the Prime Minister on incentivising private investment in climate adaptation and resilience

    Advice to the Prime Minister on how government can mobilise private investment into climate adaptation and resilience.

    Documents

    CST advice on incentivising private investment in climate adaptation and resilience

    HTML

    CST advice on incentivising private investment in climate adaptation and resilience

    PDF, 161 KB, 4 pages

    Details

    In September 2024, the Council for Science and Technology (CST) provided advice to the Prime Minister and Cabinet on how the government can incentivise private investment in climate adaptation and resilience.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First prisoners arrive at new 1,500-place jail

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    First prisoners arrive at new 1,500-place jail

    The first prisoners have been locked up at a new jail that will create nearly 1,500 prison places, helping to cut crime and make streets safer today as part of the Government’s Plan for Change (23 April).

    • New prison built to cut crime and keep dangerous offenders locked up 

    • Part of Government’s Plan for Change to make streets safer 

    • 2,400 prison places already delivered since July

    HMP Millsike in Yorkshire is now operational, making it the first of four new jails to be opened as part of the pledge to create 14,000 extra prison places by 2031, keeping dangerous offenders locked up.  

    This extra capacity will help keep the public safe by making sure the country never runs out of space again.  

    As a Category C “resettlement” prison, HMP Millsike has been designed with a clear aim – cutting crime and reducing reoffending. It includes 24 workshops and training facilities aimed at getting offenders into work on release and away from crime for good, so fewer people become victims in the future.     

    Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, James Timpson, said: 

    HMP Millsike is a vital part of our Plan for Change, building 14,000 new prison places by 2031.  

    This modern prison has been designed to cut crime. This prison will force offenders to turn their backs on crime, delivering safer streets and ensuring there are fewer victims in the future.” 

    The prison is the size of 39 football pitches and comes fitted with security technology to combat the drugs, drones and phones that have plagued prisons in recent years and risked the safety of frontline officers.   

    This includes reinforced barless windows to deter drone activity, hundreds of CCTV cameras, and X-ray body scanners to spot and stop contraband entering the prison.  

    The prison will be operated by Mitie Care and Custody. Education and workplace training provider PeoplePlus will give offenders the tools they need to find work on release and stay on the straight and narrow. 

     Russell Trent, Managing Director, Immigration and Justice, Mitie Care & Custody said:  

    As the first prisoners arrive at HMP Millsike, our focus is on building safer communities by creating an environment that promotes problem solving and self-determination to help the rehabilitation process enabling prisoners to break the cycle of reoffending.  

    As a resettlement prison, every element including the design, facilities and technology is purposfully structured so that prisoners leave HMP Millsike qualified, employable and ready to integrate and contribute to society.” 

    With the country still using many of its Victorian prisons, HMP Millsike has been built to also stand the test of time. Its use of modern materials and fittings will keep running and repairs costs to a minimum for taxpayers.   

    Its opening is a major milestone in the government’s 10-year prison capacity strategy published in December. This plan includes 6,400 places through new houseblocks and 6,500 places via new prisons. One thousand rapid deployment cells will be rolled out across the estate while more than 1,000 existing cells will be refurbished.    

    It follows a £2.3 billion investment to deliver these prison builds, with a further £500 million going towards vital building maintenance across prisons and the probation service by the end of March 2026. The strategy will work alongside the Independent Sentencing Review to ensure the most serious offenders can always be sent to prison to protect the public. 

    Background information 

    • The first prisoners arrived today, and the population will steadily increase each week to ensure a safe and stable ramp-up process. 

    • Ramp up will be strictly monitored and can be adjusted or paused should the safety or stability of the prison require it. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Anniversary Statement: De Havilland Canada DHC-8-402, 9H-LWB

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Anniversary Statement: De Havilland Canada DHC-8-402, 9H-LWB

    Runway excursion at Guernsey Airport, 23 April 2024

    The investigation into the runway excursion involving aircraft registration 9H-LWB is nearing completion.  The investigation has been comprehensive, examining operational, technical and human factors to determine if these aspects contributed to the occurrence of this Serious Incident.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash on Horrocks Highway, Templers

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Templers.

    The collision occurred on the Horrocks Highway, Templers, just before 6pm on Wednesday 23 April.

    The highway is closed to all traffic in both directions between Roseworthy Road and Templers Road.

    Motorists are asked to find an alternate route.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sheffield payroll director banned after company went into liquidation with £2.5 million VAT bill

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Sheffield payroll director banned after company went into liquidation with £2.5 million VAT bill

    The company substantially under-declared the amount of tax it had to pay in 2020 and 2021

    • Hubert Omukhulu failed to declare the correct amount of VAT his Remedy Payroll Solutions Ltd company was required to pay  

    • VAT returns submitted by the company in a 15-month period between June 2020 and September 2021 suggested it had little more than £250,000 to pay 

    • In reality, the company owed more than £2.5 million in tax

    The boss of an umbrella company which failed to pay more than £2.5 million in VAT has been banned as a director. 

    Hubert Omukhulu, 36, failed to accurately declare the amount of VAT Remedy Payroll Solutions Ltd had to pay in 2020 and 2021. 

    The inaccurate returns Remedy Payroll Solutions submitted suggested the company had no VAT to pay in 2020 and just over a quarter of a million pounds in 2021. 

    However, this was an under-declaration of more than £2 million according to calculations from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

    Omukhulu, of Nethershire Lane, Sheffield, has now been disqualified as a company director for eight years.

    Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Hubert Omukhulu allowed his payroll supply company to substantially under-declare the amount of VAT it owed in 2020 and 2021. 

    More than £2 million in VAT was not paid by the company. This money should have gone towards funding vital public services such as the NHS, schools and our nation’s defence. 

    Omukhulu’s conduct falls well below the standards the Insolvency Service expects which is why he has been banned as a company director until 2033.

    Debbie Porter, Assistant Director of Fraud Investigation Service at HMRC, said:

    We are determined to create a level playing field that allows honest businesses to thrive which is why it’s crucial we work closely with the Insolvency Service and other partners to act against rogue directors.  

    The majority pay the tax that is due, but we will pursue those who refuse to play by the rules.

    Remedy Payroll Solutions was established in May 2020 with Omukhulu as its sole director.  

    The company initially had its registered office as Omukhulu’s home address in Sheffield before switching it on several occasions between addresses in Romford and Hainault. 

    Remedy Payroll Solutions submitted three VAT returns in 2020 claiming it had no tax to pay in that year. 

    The company submitted another three returns in 2021, claiming it had a combined £264,276 to pay in VAT. 

    HMRC investigated Remedy Payroll Solutions’ bank accounts and contacted its customers. Through their investigations, they calculated that £2,584,044 was owed by the company in VAT. 

    Remedy Payroll Solutions went into liquidation in July 2022. 

    Omukhulu claimed there was third-party involvement in the running of Remedy Payroll Solutions but failed to provide any evidence of this when asked by the Insolvency Service. 

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Omukhulu and his ban started on Thursday 17 April.  

    The undertaking prevents him from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New survey shows the extent of class privilege in UK journalism

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Imke Henkel, Lecturer in Journalism and Media, University of Leeds

    UK journalism has a class problem. This statement will not surprise most people familiar with UK newsrooms. What is astonishing, though, is the scarcity of empirical data that could help us better understand the extent to which class inequality affects journalists and their work.

    For the first time, research by my colleagues and me an for the report UK Journalists in the 2020s uses a representative sample of UK journalists to measure their socioeconomic background. The vast majority of our respondents came from a privileged background, measured by their schooling and by the job held by their main household earner when they were a child.

    Previous research on this issue was based on considerably more limited data. In July 2009, a report commissioned by the then Labour government found that journalism was one of two professions that had experienced the biggest decline in social mobility (the other being accountancy).

    Research by the Sutton Trust established repeatedly (most recently in 2019), that leading news editors, broadcasters and newspaper columnists are about six to seven times more likely to be privately educated than the general population, a typical marker for privilege in Britain.

    Some of the best data we have regarding UK journalists’ social class was collected by the National Council for the Training of Journalists, who since 2017 has regularly published reports on the diversity among UK journalists.

    However, as the report’s author Mark Spilsbury concedes, the findings have a considerable margin of error. The report uses data from the UK Government Labour Force Survey, and only extrapolates its figures for the small fraction of journalists within that workforce.

    Our report, for the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford, draws on a survey that media researchers Neil Thurman, Sina Thäsler-Kordonouri and I conducted between September 27 and November 30 2023.

    We used data from the 2021 Census for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and from the Roxhill Media database to estimate the total number of UK journalists to be 68,279. Given how notoriously reluctant journalists are to respond to surveys, already swamped as they are with similar requests, we sent our questionnaire to 16,497 randomly selected participants.

    We considered journalists to be those who worked for a media outlet with an identifiable focus on news, and who earned at least 50% of their income from journalism or worked at least 50% of their working week as a journalist. To be included in our survey, respondents also needed to work for a news outlet with a UK base and that was aimed, at least in part, at a UK audience.

    After data cleaning, we retained a final sample of 1,130 respondents, a sufficient size to achieve a confidence level of at least 95% and a maximum error margin of 3%.

    Our survey is part of the international Worlds of Journalism Study, which uses the same core questionnaire across 75 countries. The survey covers a wide range of topics, including journalists’ demographics, working conditions and their experience of safety and wellbeing.

    For the UK study, we added two questions regarding journalists’ socioeconomic background. First, we asked what job the main earner in their households held when the respondents were 14 years old. Second, we asked about the school journalists attended: fee-paying private or state primary and secondary school, non-fee-paying selective secondary school (such as grammar school) or a school not in the UK.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    The question on parents’ occupation allowed respondents to write in the title of the relevant job. We coded the replies manually using the nine categories of the Office for National Statistics’ 2020 Standard Occupational Classification.

    Seventy-one percent of journalists in our sample came from a privileged background, with the main earner in their childhood household holding a job within the three top categories of the classification. Only 12% of our respondents came from a working-class background (sales and customer service occupations; process, plant and machine operatives and elementary occupations).



    Read more:
    Know your place: what happened to class in British politics – a podcast series from The Conversation Documentaries

    We lack the data for an outright comparison with the general population. But the 2021 census gives an indication. It shows that 23.3% of the main earner in all households in England and Wales held a job in the highest AB social grade, about equivalent to the top three categories in our classification. Nearly double (43.9%) fell into the social grade C2 and DE, roughly equivalent with our bottom three categories.

    Journalists’ privilege also shows in their schooling. Twenty-two percent of journalists in our sample attended a fee-paying secondary, and 13% attended a fee-paying primary school. Around 6% of the general pupil population in England attends private schools, and fewer in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

    Does privilege matter?

    Our data does not suggest that a privileged upbringing makes it more likely for journalists to hold a top management position. Where it does make a difference, though, is whether they work for national media or outlets with international presence (like the Guardian or the Financial Times). Of those who do only 9% come from a working-class background, while 72% come from a privileged one (the rest come from the middle groups in our classification).

    In contrast, 20% of journalists working for local and regional outlets (including regional arms of national outlets, such as BBC Wales) have a working-class background, and 57% grew up in a more privileged household.

    Our survey also shows other areas of inequality. An interesting one is age. Both women and journalists from an ethnic minority background seem to drop out of the profession after the age of 50. Journalists with an Asian or Black background in particular remain underrepresented compared to the overall population, as they were in 2015.

    Female journalists are also still less well paid, less likely to have a permanent contract or to hold a top management role than their male colleagues. They also more often report feeling stressed out. Their disadvantage against their male colleagues may well be a reason.

    New survey data shows that of those who work for national media, 72% are from a privileged background.
    Zeynep Demir Aslim/Shutterstock

    One reason for the privileged background of so many journalists will be that journalism has become a thoroughly academic profession. Nine out of ten journalists in our sample were university educated.

    In an increasingly complex world, there may be good reasons for those who report on it to undergo an academic training. However, as some scholars have argued, trust in journalism not only depends on accurate and reliable reporting, but also on emotional and social factors that are essential for the relationship between journalists and audiences.

    Given the lack of trust in news and rising news avoidance among UK audiences, the inequalities our report found should be of concern. If journalists are found to belong to a privileged elite they are less likely to be trusted by the general public. Reliable data on the inequalities that shape the journalism profession is a necessary start to tackle this problem.

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

    – ref. New survey shows the extent of class privilege in UK journalism – https://theconversation.com/new-survey-shows-the-extent-of-class-privilege-in-uk-journalism-254838

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens lodge plans to tackle holiday home growth where housing costs are highest

    Source: Scottish Greens

    23 Apr 2025 Finance

    Homes are for living in and not for profiteering.

    More in Finance

    The Scottish Greens are lodging plans to tackle the housing crisis in the areas where it is worst by cracking down on the spread of holiday homes.

    At present, someone buying a second or holiday home anywhere in Scotland must pay a tax known as the Additional Dwelling Supplement. 

    New proposals, lodged by Ross Greer MSP as an amendment to the upcoming Housing Bill, would create a further charge on top of this in areas where rent control measures are introduced.

    In some communities such as Lochranza on the Isles of Arran over a third of houses are holiday homes. This trend pushes up housing costs and often forces young people to move out of their own communities in search of an affordable place to live.

    Since the last election the Scottish Greens have doubled the Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) from 4% to 8% and given councils the power to double Council Tax on holiday homes. 

    The reforms have had the desired effect on house purchases, with 2455 fewer second homes bought last year than in 2023, the largest decrease in a decade. ADS will also raise more than a quarter of a billion pounds for public services in the current financial year. 

    Greer’s amendments would allow for further targeted efforts to reduce holiday home ownership in areas where the housing crisis is particularly acute by increasing the Additional Dwelling Supplement in rent control zones. At present, this tax can only be increased or decreased nationwide, with targeted changes not possible.

    Ross Greer said:

    “Many of the areas where rent is highest are the same ones being filled up with far too many holiday homes. This reduces the number of houses available for people to actually live in and pushes up prices for both renters and first-time buyers.

    “Everyone should be able to access a good quality, affordable home. Yet, all across Scotland people are being priced out of the communities they grew up in by holiday homes and buy-to-let landlords.

    “This simple proposal will help people trying to find a home in areas where the housing crisis is at its worst. The money raised will come from those who are already wealthy enough to buy extra properties, something totally outwith the reach of most people.

    “The housing market is broken. Far too many properties are being used as cash cows for short-term lets and holiday homes, and it is renters who are paying the price. We badly need to shift the balance and free up more homes for those who really need them.”

    Mr Greer added:

    “The changes already delivered by Green MSPs have reduced the number of second and holiday homes bought each year, freeing up more properties for people who need a home to live in and raising millions of pounds for vital services like schools and hospitals.

    “We need to build on this success and ensure that the communities where rent is highest are the ones where people are supported the most.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green MSP lodges bill to ban greyhound racing

    Source: Scottish Greens

    23 Apr 2025 Nature

    It’s time to end greyhound racing for good.

    More in Nature

    This morning Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell will officially lodge his bill to ban greyhound racing in Scotland.

    The bill has received crossparty support allowing it to progress to this stage, but it is yet to secure the support of the Scottish Government.

    In April the Welsh Government announced that it would ban the cruel gambling-led entertainment “as soon as practically possible.”

    According to the RSPCA, there are only 9 countries in the world that still allow commercial greyhound racing, including all 4 UK nations.

    Data from 2023 showed that 109 greyhounds died trackside in the UK, an increase on the number for 2022. There were 4,238 injuries to greyhounds during racing in 2023.

    Mr Ruskell said:

    “This is a milestone moment for my bill and I am grateful to all of the MSPs and campaigners who have helped us to get to this stage.

    “Greyhound racing is a cruel sport that causes a huge amount of harm to dogs. Far too many have been killed or badly injured on the tracks.

    “There is no safe or humane way to force a group of dogs to run around an oval track at 40 mph and it is totally wrong to make them do it in the name of profit.

    “With Wales taking action, Scotland is looking increasingly isolated in allowing this gambling-led spectacle to continue.

    “I hope that the Scottish Government and MSPs from all parties will support me and that we can get my bill over the line and end greyhound racing for good.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reeves: I will always act to defend British interests

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Reeves: I will always act to defend British interests

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves travels to Washington DC for her first spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    The Chancellor has pledged to “stand up for Britain’s national interest”, as she heads to Washington DC for her first spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    During a three-day visit to the United States, Rachel Reeves is set to hold meetings with G7, G20 and IMF counterparts about the changing global economy. She will make the case for open trade that provides stability for businesses and security for working people. The Chancellor will underline the importance of tackling barriers to trade to kickstart economic growth, supporting businesses and putting more money in working people’s pockets.

    Earlier this month the Chancellor announced over £400 million of trade and investment deals with the Indian Government across a range of business sectors, including defence, financial services, education, and development. In recent weeks the government has acted to save British Steel, safeguarding the future of steelmaking in the UK and protecting 2,700 jobs in Scunthorpe and up to 37,000 jobs in the wider supply chain, announced a £20 billion boost to UK Export Finance which will give thousands of British access to government-backed financing and announced new measures to give British car makers certainty and stability, and to support them on the transition to electric vehicles. Earlier this month over 3 million workers in shops, restaurants and workplaces across the UK received a pay boost worth £1,400 a year for an eligible full-time worker, while also rolling out free breakfast clubs in primary schools putting £450 a year in the pockets of working parents and protecting the payslips of working people from higher taxes.

    She will hold discussions with finance ministers about the opportunities to strengthen economic ties with Britain, including members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Talks with European finance ministers will also focus on going further and faster to increase defence spending and improve cooperation in response to continued Russian aggression and the invasion of Ukraine.

    Reeves will hold her first in person meeting with her US counterpart Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about working together to deepen the UK-US economic partnership through a new trade agreement.

    In Washington, the Chancellor will also meet with business leaders to talk about the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth. She will champion Britain as the best place to live, work and grow a business, highlighting the government’s ambition to go further and faster to tackle the barriers to investment. By backing the builders not the blockers, through reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework – which alone is expected to deliver an extra 170,000 homes by 2029/30, as well upcoming the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and a government pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter, making Britain the best place to do business and drive economic growth.

    Speaking ahead of her visit, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    The world has changed, and we are in a new era of global trade. I am in no doubt that the imposition of tariffs will have a profound impact on the global economy and the economy at home.

    This changing world is unsettling for families who are worried about the cost of living and businesses concerned about what tariffs will means for them. But our task as a government is not to be knocked off course or to take rash action which risks undermining people’s security.

    Instead, we must rise to meet the moment and I will always act to defend British interests as part of our Plan for Change. We need a world economy that provides stability and fairness for businesses wanting to invest and trade, more trade and global partnerships between nations with shared interests, and security for working people who want to get on with their lives.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Forest visitors: follow warning signs and take care

    Source: Northern Ireland Direct

    Date published:

    Take care when visiting a forest, as there are risks in a working woodland. Serious accidents can happen if attention isn’t paid to warning signs.

    Risks and hazards in forests

    Be aware of the hazards to make sure forests can be enjoyed safely. 

    The forest is a natural environment and you should be prepared for:

    • sudden changes in weather
    • rugged terrain
    • deep water
    • hidden cliff edges

    The forest is also a working environment and forest operations take place all year round.

    Work areas will be clearly signposted. You should obey signs to help your personal safety.

    Warning signs are used to highlight dangers and risks. Diversions are put in place to avoid work sites because the heavy machinery used can be very dangerous.

    Both felled timber and woodlands that are part-felled can pose dangers.

    You can find further safety advice on the following page:

    Instructions on site signs is for your protection. Following these instructions will help make sure that a visit to the forest remains safe and enjoyable.

    More useful links

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aid to Gaza: E3 foreign ministers’ statement, 23 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Aid to Gaza: E3 foreign ministers’ statement, 23 April 2025

    Joint statement on behalf of the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the UK on more than 50 days of Israel’s block on aid to Gaza

    Israel has now fully blocked the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza for over fifty days. Essential supplies are either no longer available or quickly running out. Palestinian civilians – including one million children – face an acute risk of starvation, epidemic disease and death. This must end. We urge Israel to immediately re-start a rapid and unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza in order to meet the needs of all civilians. During the last ceasefire, the UN and INGO system was able to deliver aid at scale. The Israeli decision to block aid from entering Gaza is intolerable. Minister Katz’s recent comments politicising humanitarian aid and Israeli plans to remain in Gaza after the war are unacceptable – they harm prospects for peace. Humanitarian aid must never be used as a political tool and Palestinian territory must not be reduced nor subjected to any demographic change. Israel is bound under international law to allow the unhindered passage of humanitarian aid.

    Humanitarians must be able to deliver aid to those who need it most, independent of parties to the conflict and in accordance with their humanitarian principles. Israel must ensure unhindered access for the UN and humanitarian organisations to operate safely across Gaza. Hamas must not divert aid for their own financial gain or use civilian infrastructure for military purposes.

    We reiterate our outrage at recent strikes by Israeli forces on humanitarian personnel, infrastructure, premises and healthcare facilities. Israel must do much more to protect the civilian population, infrastructure and humanitarian workers. This includes restoring deconfliction systems, allowing humanitarian workers free movement within Gaza. And Israel must prevent harm to medical personnel and premises in the course of their military operations. They must allow the urgent healthcare needs of the population to be met, while allowing the sick and wounded to temporarily leave the Gaza Strip to receive treatment.

    Crucially, we urge all parties to return to a ceasefire. We continue to call on Hamas for the immediate release of all the remaining hostages, who are enduring terrible suffering. We must all work towards the implementation of a two-state solution, which is the only way to bring long-lasting peace and security to both Israelis and Palestinians and ensure long-term stability in the region.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at St George’s Day reception: 22 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    PM remarks at St George’s Day reception: 22 April 2025

    Prime Minister’s remarks from the St. George’s Day reception in Downing Street.

    Maro, it’s fantastic to see you up here and to hear you talk about the pride of pulling on an England jersey.

    I think it’s something we’ve dreamt of doing all our lives, though I only got to pulling on a replica.

    But it’s really important, that sense of pride that you described by the simple act of putting on a shirt, a sports shirt, and I think that pride and joy is hugely important.

    And as for your reminder of St George I’ve got a few ideas about what we could feed the dragon.

    But look it’s amazing just to look out and see so many people here, Tony Adams here in his red suit.

    He won’t remember this, but Vic and I drove along the Cotswolds years ago and he was out for a walk and I screeched to halt and insisted on shaking his hand, so it’s great to see you again.

    But it’s a really fantastic group of people and thank you so much for coming here to be in Downing Street with us.

    This is where I work and live just upstairs but it’s also your building and I’m really keen to get across this sense that this isn’t just a remote place where the government is, but that we are here to serve our communities and serve our country.

    So this is your place just as much as it is mine, it’s your right to be here and my privilege to invite you here as guests, so you are very welcome, to test and push us and to tell us what your ideas are and have the opportunity to put your fingerprints on everything we’re doing as a government.

    And of course – as a proud Englishman, this is a particularly special occasion: St. George’s Day. And it’s the eve of the day to revel in all the wonder and joy of our country.

    You see that reflected in this reception and I think it’s one of the biggest we’ve had here in Downing Street running all the way through to the rooms at the back with some fantastic people.

    We’ve got Pimms, we’ve got English sparkling wine and we’ve got our brilliant showcases with Melton Mowbray pork pies, Lancashire Eccles cakes, Bakewell tarts and gin from Exmoor distillery. We were going to have Morris Dancers too at one point, but we’re saving them for the next Cabinet away day instead.

    Because one of the great things about this country is we have so many wonderful traditions and so many individual, personal reasons that make us proud to be English.

    For me – it always starts with football of course. I was there at Wembley in Euro 1996. I was there at Wembley in 2021 and I was there also last year when we went to Germany, where we came so close again.

    But that still makes the nation proud. Though whatever it is, whether it’s football, festivals, cricket, Shakespeare – his birthday tomorrow of course, or our music – from Elgar to the Rolling Stones, our art – from Tracy Emin to Turner or our universities, inventions and innovations – the world’s first vaccine was an incredible moment, the world wide web, the computer and of course our landscape.

    Everyone in this room will have their favourite spots. Whether it’s rocky coves and beaches in Cornwall or the incomparable beauty of the Lake District.

    My late mum struggled to walk, so she decided to have all her holidays in the Lake District where the only thing you can do is walk, but that summed her up.

    And we still go there with our children now. But you also have the Chalk Hills of the North Downs where I grew up: this is a beautiful country, rich with pride, potential and creativity. 

    It’s also a country where a person like me who grew up working class and a person like the previous occupant, Rishi Sunak, an English Hindu, can both become Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. That for me is something I think we should always be proud of and never take for granted. 

    Because, while this is a day for celebration, we cannot be under any illusions that there is a never-ending fight for our flag and what it represents. I’ll put it this way, when I was standing in the old Wembley in 1996 – not many people sat down that day, it felt like that whole tournament embodied the best of our country.

    Yet now – there are people trying to sow division in our communities, people taking the red and white of our flag, like the bunting downstairs, with them, as they throw bricks at businesses… 

    The day after the terrible Southport incident last year, I went up to take the opportunity to shake the hands of the first respondents of police and ambulance workers, you’ll now have seen what they all faced.

    As I simply said thank you, almost all said to me they were just doing their job, but of course they weren’t, and it’s just incredible to think about what they were doing, and they were all back in work the next day to help clear up.

    By the time I got back to London that very day, we had people throwing bricks at the very same police officers I was shaking hands with.

    And that’s why the battle for our flag is really important because that is what happened and that was only last year. So, we have to fight for our flag and for our values.

    Because it was the aftermath of the riots that showed what it means to be English. It marked the coming together of a country.

    People who got together the morning after, all across Britain with shovels, brooms, and brushes, to clean up their communities. Rebuilding walls, repairing damage and it’s in that spirit that we reclaim our flag and that was incredibly uplifting to go from rioting to people coming out to do what they could for our country.

    So that’s what we must do for our country, for English decency, honour and fairness. Wrench it out of the hands of those who want to divide this nation and reclaim it for good.  

    Because that flag doesn’t belong to me as Prime Minister or any group or political party and that is the point.

    It belongs to all of us to England, in all its wonder and diversity. And we should be proud of that flag, we must never concede it, because it is an expression of our values and our patriotism.

    And patriotism – for me is about serving the country we love. That’s what drove me when I was Chief Prosecutor, serving people who’d faced appalling crimes and injustice. People like John and Penny Clough who are with us today – they lost their daughter in an appalling crime and came to see me many years ago in their journey for justice and have become friends of mine.

    And it’s what drives me today – when I say I want to make working people’s lives better.

    It’s at the heart of this Government, what’s written through our Plan for Change: putting money in people’s pockets; getting public services back on their feet so they serve the public in the way that people deserve; making our streets safer so we can all enjoy our communities; building the homes working people need, which are an aspiration and opportunity for so many; breaking down barriers to opportunity and honouring Britain’s veterans – by making sure there are “homes for heroes”.

    As we also protect our national security with the biggest defence investment since the end of the Cold War. 

    We know this won’t be easy and we’re living through a time of uncertainty which I’m sure everyone in this room can feel that over the past six months. Whether that’s through defence, national security or the global economy.

    But moments like this, as we come together to celebrate St. George’s Day are a reminder of all our nation has been through over generations and the values that have endured.

    The creativity, resilience and good will and humour that have remained a constant through the ages and will endure for generations to come.

    So, let’s be proud of our national identity, let’s pay tribute to all those who keep our country going from the generations who laid down their lives to keep us free, to those serving our country today. Our armed forces, our NHS staff, our teachers and the small businesses who serve their community. 

    Let’s remember our shared history, our shared inheritance and the values that have endured. And most of all, let’s hear it for England and for St. George! Thank you very much.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: All singing, all dancing at Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Families in Portsmouth are invited to a special event at Cosham Community Centre on Wednesday 30 April from 10:30am to 2:30pm for Local Offer Live.

    Organised by Portsmouth City Council, the event brings together services and groups who support families who have children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

    Parents/carers can also take part in free dance and performance workshops with their children at the event.

    Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

    “Local Offer Live provides families with the information they need to live happy and healthy lives in the city. Community groups and services come together to offer advice and signpost individuals.

    “The introduction of Boogie Mites and Identical Dance helps families to have fun and be active together. These sessions are free and a great way to meet other parents/carers.”

    Identical Dance is a unique performance group where children are encouraged to be themselves and make new friends. Their session will take place at 11:15am with families invited to learn simple techniques to dance at home.

    Boogie Mites is an interactive music and dance group exclusively for families of children and young people with additional needs. This workshop will take place at 12:30pm. The session gives children the creative flair to dance to music through easy-to-follow routines.

    Families will need to arrive before the workshop begins as sessions will start promptly. Trained facilitators will be available during each session to support everyone.

    Local Offer Live is one-way parents/carers and professionals can learn more about services in the city with 20 exhibitors in attendance on the day.

    For those who are unable to make the event, the Portsmouth SEND Local Offer website is a comprehensive resource designed to support children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The website provides detailed information about the services and support available in the PO1 – PO6 area.

    For more information on Local Offer Live and to register for a ticket, please visit portsmouthlocaloffer.org.uk/live.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged over stalking and assault

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man will face court tomorrow charged with stalking and indecent assault.

    Following investigations, today, Wednesday 23 April, police officers from SAPOL’s Public Protection Branch arrested a 41-year-old Evanston man and charged him with four counts of stalking and seven counts of indecent assault.

    The incidents allegedly occurred in the northern suburbs of Adelaide.

    The man’s vehicle, which was allegedly used in the commission of the offences, has been seized by police.

    The arrested man was refused police bail and will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Thursday 24 April.

    Detective Acting Chief Inspector Luke Smith reminds the public to be aware of their surroundings and trust their instincts.

    “If you see any suspicious behaviour or vehicles, report it as soon as possible on the police assistance line on 131 444, or Triple Zero in an emergency.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Liz Hicks, Lecturer in Law, The University of Melbourne

    Roberto La Rosa/Shutterstock

    Snipers in helicopters have shot more than 700 koalas in the Budj Bim National Park in western Victoria in recent weeks. It’s believed to be the first time koalas have been culled in this way.

    The cull became public on Good Friday after local wildlife carers were reportedly tipped off.

    A fire burned about 20% of the park in mid-March. The government said the cull was urgent because koalas had been left starving or burned.

    Wildlife groups have expressed serious concern about how individual koalas had been chosen for culling, because the animals are assessed from a distance. It’s not clear how shooting from a helicopter complies with the state government’s own animal welfare and response plans for wildlife in disasters.

    The Victorian government must explain why it is undertaking aerial culling and why it did so without announcing it publicly. The incident points to ongoing failures in managing these iconic marsupials, which are already threatened in other states.

    Hundreds of koalas were left starving or injured after bushfires in Budj Bim National Park a month ago.
    Vincent_Nguyen/Shutterstock

    Why did this happen?

    Koalas live in eucalypt forests in Australia’s eastern and southern states. The species faces a double threat from habitat destruction and bushfire risk. They are considered endangered in New South Wales, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.

    In Victoria, koala population levels are currently secure. But they are densely concentrated, often in fragments of bush known as “habitat islands” in the state’s southwest. Budj Bim National Park is one of these islands.

    Over time, this concentration becomes a problem. When the koalas are too abundant, they can strip leaves from their favourite gums, killing the trees. The koalas must then move or risk starvation.

    If fire or drought make these habitat islands impossible to live in, koalas in dense concentrations often have nowhere to go.

    In Budj Bim, Victoria’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Parks Victoria have tackled koala overpopulation alongside Traditional Owners by moving koalas to new locations or sterilising them.

    But Budj Bim is also surrounded by commercial blue gum plantations. Koalas spread out through the plantations to graze on the leaves. Their populations grow. But when the plantations are logged, some koalas have to return to the national park, where food may be in short supply.

    Plantations of blue gums are located near Budj Bim. Animal welfare groups claim logging has driven koala overpopulation in the national park.
    Anna Carolina Negri/Shutterstock

    Animal welfare groups say logging is one reason Budj Bim had so many koalas.

    It’s hard to say definitively whether this is the case, because the state environment department hasn’t shared much information. But researchers have found habitat islands lead to overabundance by preventing the natural dispersal of individuals.

    So why was the culling done? Department officials have described the program as “primarily” motivated by animal welfare. After the bushfire last month, koalas have been left starving or injured.

    Why shooters in helicopters? Here, the justification given is that the national park is difficult to access due to rocky terrain and fire damage, ruling out other methods.

    Euthanising wildlife has to be done carefully

    Under Victoria’s plan for animal welfare during disasters, the environment department is responsible for examining and, where necessary, euthanising wildlife during an emergency.

    For human intervention to be justified, euthanasia must be necessary on welfare grounds. Victoria’s response plan for fire-affected wildlife says culling is permitted when an animal’s health is “significantly” compromised, invasive treatment is required, or survival is unlikely.

    For koalas, this could mean loss of digits or hands, burns to more than 15% of the body, pneumonia from smoke inhalation, or blindness or injuries requiring surgery. Euthanised females must also be promptly examined for young in their pouches.

    The problem is that while aerial shooting can be accurate in some cases for larger animals, the method has questionable efficacy for smaller animals – especially in denser habitats.

    It’s likely a number of koalas were seriously injured but not killed. But the shooters employed by the department were not able to thoroughly verify injuries or whether there were joeys in pouches, because they were in the air and reportedly 30 or more metres away from their targets.

    While the department cited concerns about food resources as a reason for the cull, the state’s wildlife fire plan lays out another option: delivery of supplementary feed. Delivering fresh gum leaves could potentially have prevented starvation while the forest regenerates.

    What should the government learn from this?

    The state government should take steps to avoid tragic incidents like this from happening again.

    Preserving remaining habitat across the state is a vital step, as is reconnecting isolated areas with habitat corridors. This would not only reduce the concentration of koalas in small pockets but increase viable refuges and give koalas safe paths to new food sources after a fire.

    Future policies should be developed in consultation with Traditional Owners, who have detailed knowledge of species distributions and landscapes.

    We need better ways to help wildlife in disasters. One step would be bringing wildlife rescue organisations into emergency management more broadly, as emphasised in the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission and the more recent Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.

    This latter report pointed to South Australia’s specialised emergency animal rescue and relief organisation – SAVEM – as an effective model. Under SA’s emergency management plan, the organisation is able to rapidly access burned areas after the fire has passed through.

    Victoria’s dense communities of koalas would be well served by a similar organisation able to work alongside existing skilled firefighting services.

    The goal would be to make it possible for rescuers to get to injured wildlife earlier and avoid any more mass aerial culls.

    Liz Hicks has previously received a Commonwealth Research Training Program stipend. She is a member of the Australian Greens Victoria, although her views do not reflect a party position or party policy.

    Dr Ashleigh Best previously received a Commonwealth Research Training Program scholarship, which supported some of the research in this article. She is an inactive member of the Animal Justice Party, and previously volunteered with Wildlife Victoria.

    – ref. Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull – https://theconversation.com/sniping-koalas-from-helicopters-heres-whats-wrong-with-victorias-unprecedented-cull-254996

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Five people charged with burglary and stealing

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Five people charged with burglary and stealing

    Wednesday, 23 April 2025 – 3:05 pm.

    As part of the ongoing investigation into a burglary at a supermarket in Brighton this morning, police have charged five people with burglary and stealing. 
    A 24-year-old woman from New Town, a 20-year-old man from Herdsmans Cove, a 25-year-old man from Bridgewater and a 22-year-old man of no fixed address, were charged and detained to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court today. 
    A 46-year-old man from New Town was charged and bailed to appear in court at a later date. 
    With investigations ongoing, police would like to speak to anyone who saw a silver Nissan X-Trail in the area around the time this morning. 
    Information can be provided to Bridgewater Police on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000 – quote OR773066. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Operation Safe Arrival: Easter Road Safety results

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Operation Safe Arrival: Easter Road Safety results

    Wednesday, 23 April 2025 – 3:14 pm.

    Tasmania Police has concluded its Easter road safety blitz, Operation Safe Arrival.
    Assistant Commissioner Adrian Bodnar thanked the community for its cooperation.
    “It was a busy time on Tasmanian roads and our officers were out there, working hard to keep people safe,” he said.
    “Sadly, during the Easter period we had three deaths on our roads.”
    “So far this year we have had 19 deaths from crashes, compared to eight at this time last year.”
    “It’s devastating, and we need all motorists to realise the reality of taking risks on our roads.”
    Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said Operation Safe Arrival might be over, but police would continue to enforce the road rules to keep people safe.
    “Keeping Tasmania’s roads safe is a mission for the whole community, not just police.”
    “By working together, obeying road rules, and reporting dangerous driving, we can prevent crashes and save lives.”
    Key enforcement results

    Drink and drug driving: Tasmania Police conducted 7596 random alcohol tests and 135 drug tests, resulting in 27 drink driving offences and 47 positive drug tests.
    Speeding: 591 people were caught speeding.
    Mobile phone use: Officers issued 21 fines for illegal mobile phone use while driving.
    Seatbelts: 12 offences were detected for failing to wear a seatbelt correctly.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Graduation time for Course 79

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Easter may have come and gone but celebrations continued at South Australia Police’s (SAPOL) academy this afternoon for Course 79’s graduation.

    Ranging in age from 22 to 35, 11 men and three women begin their policing careers after 9.5 months of thorough training.

    The 14 new police officers bring a variety of former work experience, including from retail, grain testing, health and fitness, refrigeration, and as Police Security Officers.

    Prior to joining SAPOL, Sam was working as a personal trainer and enjoyed hitting the jiu-jitsu mats.

    “I’ve always wanted to be a police officer, but what started off as wanting to fight crime, became a desire to do something more with my life and partake in an exciting, challenging and rewarding career,” he said.

    “Following my time at the academy, I’m a more self-assured, confident and capable individual.”

    Fellow graduate Renae alternated seasonal jobs grain testing and cellar hand vintage work, with working as a refit merchandiser before becoming a police officer.

    “This experience will benefit me in policing as no two working days were the same, and I have a variety of different skills,” she said.

    “I am excited to see where my career will take me as there are endless opportunities in different areas of policing.”

    Dylan was working as an RAA retail sales consultant before joining SAPOL and has played cricket since a young age.

    “Policing appealed to me since I was young, and this is due to the difference police make in the community and even being able to help one person who is having their worst day,” he said.

    “I have gained better conversational skills as well as dealing with people more confidently.”

    Sam hopes to one day work in STAR Operations, while Renae is open to any SAPOL career path but particularly interested in Dog Operations Unit, and Dylan has ambitions to become a District Duty Inspector and would love to eventually work in the executive leadership team.

    Sam encouraged anyone interested in a SAPOL career to “put the work in”.

    “If you feel you will struggle with the fitness side of the training, train. If you feel it will be the academic portion, you’ll have a hard time with, study,” he said.

    Renae said the past 9.5 months have been the toughest but most rewarding she had experienced.

    “If you’re thinking about joining, now is the time,” she encouraged.

    Dylan similarly urged people looking for a new career to “just go for it”.

    “It is a great time to join, and you will make lifelong friends,” he added.

    “Make sure you have some good study habits and fitness habits when you join.”

    Course 79 members will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including Whyalla, Port Pirie, and Port Augusta.

    SAPOL is currently recruiting and is keen to hear from people interested in an inspiring career with unmatched experiences and rewards.

    If you’re looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit Achievemore – Join Us (police.sa.gov.au)

    Sam, Renae, and Dylan are excited to embark on new policing careers after today graduating from Course 79.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: LDV Automotive Australia in court for alleged misleading advertising

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The ACCC has instituted proceedings in the Federal Court against Ateco Automotive Pty Ltd, trading as LDV Automotive Australia, (LDV) for allegedly making misleading representations to consumers about the durability and suitability of particular models of LDV branded vehicles in breach of the Australian Consumer Law. The ACCC alleges that those vehicles had a propensity to rust or corrode within five years of being manufactured.

    It is alleged that during various periods of time between approximately 23 April 2019 and 30 November 2024, LDV made misleading representations to consumers that models with T60 and G10 in their names (excluding the eT60) were durable and tough, and that they were suitable for use in, near, or on, a variety of environments and off-road terrains.

    LDV made these alleged representations in advertisements published on various mediums including its website, television, radio, Facebook and Instagram, which often portrayed the vehicles on beaches; near lakes, rivers or other pooled water; or on unsealed roads, or in dirt or gravel terrain.

    The ACCC alleges the relevant T60 and G10 vehicle models had a propensity to develop rust or corrosion within the first five years from the date of manufacture, and therefore the advertised LDV vehicles, including those in which rust or corrosion occurred, were not durable and tough.

    It is also alleged that the propensity to rust, which increased if the vehicles were used in, near or on certain terrains, made the advertised vehicles, including the vehicles in which rust occurred, not suitable for use in, near, or on, the advertised terrains.

    “A new car is a significant financial purchase, and consumers rightfully expect that the vehicle they purchase will live up to the quality and uses that it was advertised to include,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

    The ACCC also alleges that in advertising a 10-year anti-corrosion warranty between 23 April 2019 and 31 August 2020, LDV made representations to consumers that the relevant T60 vehicle models did not have a material risk of developing rust or corrosion in the first 10 years of manufacture. The ACCC alleges that these representations were false or misleading due to the propensity for those vehicles to develop rust or corrosion.

    In addition or instead, the ACCC alleges that, by April 2019, LDV was aware that rust or corrosion issues were prevalent in the T60 and G10 vehicle models within the first five years of being manufactured, and that the representations alleged in the case were false or misleading because LDV did not have a reasonable basis to make the representations.

    Between approximately January 2018 and November 2024, LDV received more than 5,000 consumer complaints regarding rust or corrosion in its T60 and G10 vehicle models, usually via LDV dealerships.

    “We allege that despite being aware of the propensity for the vehicles to rust, LDV continued to make representations for a number of years that the T60 and G10 vehicles were durable and suitable for use in a variety of terrains,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “As a result, we allege that LDV’s conduct is likely to have caused harm to affected consumers, including because the propensity for rust or corrosion lowered the value of their vehicles, and because consumers lost the opportunity to make an informed decision that may have involved purchasing an alternative vehicle that did not carry the same risks.”

    The ACCC is seeking penalties, declarations, consumer redress, costs and other orders.

    Examples of the allegedly misleading statements used in LDV’s advertisements

    • The T60 is up to any challenge you care to take on – work or play, on-road or off… It turns the toughest tracks into a walk in the park.
    • The T60 Ute has the tough build and all the robust features needed to take you anywhere, be it work or play.
    • Who needs roads when you’re driving a T60?
    • Why take a long walk on the beach when you could take a drive in the LDV T60 Ute?
    • G10s are built to stand up to the everyday and so much more.

    Background

    Ateco is an Australian vehicle importer that trades under various business names, including LDV Automotive Australia.

    Ateco is headquartered in NSW and has imported cars to Australia and New Zealand since 1985. Ateco currently distributes LDV branded vehicles and other vehicles through dealerships in Australia.

    Ateco is the exclusive importer of LDV branded vehicles in Australia. Its range of models includes both commercial and passenger vehicles, such as the T60 Max Ute, G10 Van and D90 SUV. LDV vehicles are generally priced between $36,000 to $65,000.

    There are 102 LDV dealerships across Australia, with locations in every state and territory. The majority of LDV dealerships are located in New South Wales (31), Victoria (25) and Queensland (22).

    Between the years 2018 to 2024 (inclusive), LDV’s dealerships sold more than 60,000 T60 and G10 vehicle models which generated more than $1.5 billion in revenue (excluding GST).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 23, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 23, 2025.

    The ‘responsible gambling’ mantra does nothing to prevent harm. It probably makes things worse
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charles Livingstone, Associate Professor, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University Haelen Haagen/Shutterstock Recent royal commissions and inquiries into Crown and Star casino groups attracted much media attention. Most of this was focused on money laundering and other illegalities. The Victorian royal commission found widespread

    This election, Gen Z and Millennials hold most of the voting power. How might they wield it?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Intifar Chowdhury, Lecturer in Government, Flinders University The centre of gravity of Australian politics has shifted. Millennials and Gen Z voters, now comprising 47% of the electorate, have taken over as the dominant voting bloc. But this generational shift isn’t just about numerical dominance. It’s also about

    Only a third of Australians support increasing defence spending: new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Dunley, Senior Lecturer in History and Maritime Strategy, UNSW Sydney National security issues have been a constant feature of this federal election campaign. Both major parties have spruiked their national security credentials by promising additional defence spending. The Coalition has pledged to spend 3% of Australia’s

    After stunning comeback, centre-left Liberals likely to win majority of seats at Canadian election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne In Canada, the governing centre-left Liberals had trailed the Conservatives by more than 20 points in January, but now lead by five points and are likely to

    The Greens are hoping for another ‘greenslide’ election. What do the polls say?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Narelle Miragliotta, Associate Professor in Politics, Murdoch University Election talk is inevitably focused on Labor and the Coalition because they are the parties that customarily form government. But a minor party like the Greens is consequential, regardless of whether the election delivers a minority government. Certainly, the

    Victory for US press freedom and workers – court grants injunction in VOA media case
    Asia Pacific Report The US District Court for the District of Columbia has granted a preliminary injunction in Widakuswara v Lake, affirming the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) was unlawfully shuttered by the Trump administration, Acting Director Victor Morales and Special Adviser Kari Lake. The decision enshrines that USAGM must fulfill its legally required

    Scientists claim to have found evidence of alien life. But ‘biosignatures’ might hide more than they reveal
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Campbell Rider, PhD Candidate in Philosophy – Philosophy of Biology, University of Sydney Artist’s impression of the exoplanet K2-18b A. Smith/N. Madhusudhan (University of Cambridge) Whether or not we’re alone in the universe is one of the biggest questions in science. A recent study, led by astrophysicist Nikku

    What would change your mind about climate change? We asked 5,000 Australians – here’s what they told us
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Kirkland, Research Fellow in Psychology, The University of Queensland LOOKSLIKEPHOTO/Shutterstock Australia just sweltered through one of its hottest summers on record, and heat has pushed well into autumn. Once-in-a-generation floods are now striking with alarming regularity. As disasters escalate, insurers are warning some properties may soon

    Even experts disagree over whether social media is bad for kids. We examined why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Knight, Associate Professor, Transdisciplinary School, University of Technology Sydney A low relief sculpture depicting Plato and Aristotle arguing adorning the external wall of Florence Cathedral. Krikkiat/Shutterstock Disagreement and uncertainty are common features of everyday life. They’re also common and expected features of scientific research. Despite this,

    Australian women are wary of AI being used in breast cancer screening – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alison Pearce, Associate Professor, Health Economics, University of Sydney Okrasiuk/Shutterstock Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly relevant in many aspects of society, including health care. For example, it’s already used for robotic surgery and to provide virtual mental health support. In recent years, scientists have developed AI

    These 3 climate misinformation campaigns are operating during the election run-up. Here’s how to spot them
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alfie Chadwick, PhD Candidate, Monash Climate Change Communication Research Hub, Monash University Australia’s climate and energy wars are at the forefront of the federal election campaign as the major parties outline vastly different plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle soaring power prices. Meanwhile, misinformation about

    Port of Darwin’s struggling Chinese leaseholder may welcome an Australian buy-out
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Colin Hawes, Associate professor of law, University of Technology Sydney Slow Walker/Shutterstock Far from causing trade frictions, an Australian buyout of the Port of Darwin lease may provide a lifeline for its struggling Chinese parent company Landbridge Group. Both Labor and the Coalition have proposed such a

    When rock music met ancient archeology: the enduring power of Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Craig Barker, Head, Public Engagement, Chau Chak Wing Museum, University of Sydney Sony Music The 1972 concert film Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii, back in cinemas this week, remains one of the most unique concert documentaries ever recorded by a rock band. The movie captured the band

    Gambling in Australia: how bad is the problem, who gets harmed most and where may we be heading?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alex Russell, Principal Research Fellow, CQUniversity Australia Mick Tsikas/AAP, Joel Carret/AAP, Darren England/AAP, Ihor Koptilin/Shutterstock, The Conversation, CC BY Gambling prevalence studies provide a snapshot of gambling behaviour, problems and harm in our communities. They are typically conducted about every five years. In some Australian states and

    Lest we forget? Aside from Anzac Day, NZ has been slow to remember its military veterans
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato Fiona Goodall/Getty Images Following some very public protests, including Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata handing back his medal, the government’s announcement of an expanded official definition of the term “veteran” brings some good news for former military personnel ahead

    Dutton promises Coalition would increase defence spending to 3% of GDP ‘within a decade’
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will promise a Coalition government would boost Australia’s spending on defence to 2.5% of GDP within five years and 3% within a decade. Launching the Coalition’s long-awaited defence policy on Wednesday in Western Australia, Dutton will

    Leaders trade barbs and well-worn lines in unspectacular third election debate
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton have met for the third leaders’ debate of this election campaign, this time on the Nine network. And while the debate traversed much of the same ground as the first two, the quick-fire

    Election Diary: Dutton in third debate gives Labor ammunition for its scare about cuts
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In the leaders’ third head-to-head encounter, on Nine on Tuesday, Peter Dutton’s bluntness when pressed on cuts has given more ammunition to Labor’s scare campaign about what a Coalition government might do. “When John Howard came into power, there was

    To truly understand Pope Francis’ theology – and impact – you need to look to his life in Buenos Aires
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Fernanda Peñaloza, Senior Lecturer in Latin American Studies, University of Sydney Pope Francis’ journey from the streets of Flores, a neighbourhood in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to the Vatican, is a remarkable tale. Born in 1936, Jorge Bergoglio was raised in a middle-class family of Italian Catholic immigrants.

    Bougainville takes the initiative in mediation over independence
    By Don Wiseman, RNZ Pacific senior journalist In recent weeks, Bougainville has taken the initiative, boldly stating that it expects to be independent by 1 September 2027. It also expects the PNG Parliament to quickly ratify the 2019 referendum, in which an overwhelming majority of Bougainvilleans supported independence. In a third move, it established a

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Greens are hoping for another ‘greenslide’ election. What do the polls say?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Narelle Miragliotta, Associate Professor in Politics, Murdoch University

    Election talk is inevitably focused on Labor and the Coalition because they are the parties that customarily form government.

    But a minor party like the Greens is consequential, regardless of whether the election delivers a minority government. Certainly, the level of anti-Greens campaigning by third party groups, like Better Australia, suggests as much.

    The Greens’ have declared that their electoral aim is to “Keep Dutton out and get Labor to act”. They know this would be best achieved in a minority government, where the crossbench would be powerful players.

    But can the Greens build on their historic 2022 election result, which delivered four lower house seats and the balance of power in the Senate?

    State of play

    An aggregation of the main polls estimates the Greens’ nationwide primary vote has ticked up since 2022, now ranging from 12.4% to 14.1%.

    They are expected to retain all six Senate seats up for election. When combined with their five other Senate seats, the party will be critical in the next parliament to the fate of legislation in the red chamber.

    In the contest for the House, the Greens are defending a record four seats: Melbourne, Brisbane, Griffith and Ryan. Melbourne is held by party leader Adam Bandt, on a comfortable 8.5% margin. It is as safe as it gets for the Greens.

    The balance of the party’s seats are all Brisbane-based, starting with Ryan, which is held by just 2.6% if the two-party preferred vote. Despite the slender margin, Ryan has better prospects than the neighbouring seat of Brisbane, which it holds by 3.6%. This is based on the party’s 2022 swing of almost 10%, which placed them second in Ryan on primary votes.

    In contrast, the Greens finished in third position on primary votes in Brisbane on the back of a respectable, but much more modest swing of just under 5%. The electoral dynamics are also complicated because the seat is a genuine three-cornered contest.

    On the other hand, Griffith is now classed as a safe seat for the Greens. The party attained the highest number of primary votes (34.6%) on the back of a 10.94% swing three years ago. The Greens should be able to defend Griffith.

    Target seats

    The Greens have declared five additional electorates as “priority target seats” – two in Victoria and one in each of New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia.

    Wills is the first of two Melbourne-based seats earmarked by the Greens. The party is betting on a redistribution in the Labor held seat, which independent analyst The Poll Bludger estimates will reduce the ALP’s primary vote by 2.6% and increase the Greens’ vote by 5%. The Greens are also fielding a high profile candidate, former state MP Samantha Ratnam.

    In the case of Macnamara, the Greens finished in second position behind Labor in 2022. At the point of the Greens’ exclusion in the count they were on 32.84%, just marginally behind Labor on 33.48%

    While the Greens’ prospects might be helped by a weakened Victorian Labor brand, victory could still prove elusive. In the case of Macnamara, the electorate takes in parts of the state seat of Prahran, which the party lost in a byelection in February. The by-election was precipitated by the resignation of the state Greens MP owing to allegations of inappropriate conduct with an intern.

    Moreover, Liberal how-to-vote cards in both Wills and Macnamara are preferencing Labor over the Greens, which may be enough to push Labor over the line in both seats.

    Chances elsewhere

    The NSW seat of Richmond is a marginal Labor electorate that was once held by the Nationals. The Greens are calculating the seat is winnable based on their strong primary vote in 2022 and candidate continuity.

    Richmond boasts one of the highest levels of rental stress in the nation, making it a perfect setting for Greens campaigning on housing affordability issues. Polling shows the Greens vote is up by 3% in NSW. If it’s accurate, and translates to Richmond, then the seat is potentially winnable.

    Sturt in South Australia is the Liberal Party’s second most marginal seat (0.5%). However, the likelihood of a Greens victory is slim. At the 2022 election the Greens attracted only 16.39% of the primary vote, well behind both Labor and the Liberals.

    The party’s final target seat is Perth, held by Labor on a very safe 14.4%, two party preferred. The seat’s demography explains why it’s a Greens priority. Perth is a relatively affluent inner metropolitan seat, with a high percentage of people who finished school, and a constituency that skews young.

    But Perth is unlikely to turn to the Greens. In 2022 they finished in third position on primary votes (22.16%), well behind Labor (39.25%). The party’s Perth campaign may have also been damaged by plans, since abandoned, to hold a fundraising event on ANZAC Day.

    Numbers game

    Based only on the seats examined, the Greens will likely retain at least Melbourne and Griffith in the lower house, along with the 6 senate seats it is defending.

    A more optimistic reading of the polling would also include Ryan, Brisbane and Wills. A best case scenario would also add Richmond and Macnamara to that list.

    And then, of course, there are the unexpected victories that many of us simply don’t see coming. This is because party support and voter swings are never uniform at the seat level. There will be electorates that under-perform for all parties. And that includes the Greens.

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

    – ref. The Greens are hoping for another ‘greenslide’ election. What do the polls say? – https://theconversation.com/the-greens-are-hoping-for-another-greenslide-election-what-do-the-polls-say-254600

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –