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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New cyber laws to safeguard UK economy & secure long-term growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New cyber laws to safeguard UK economy & secure long-term growth

    The government sets out the scope and ambition of the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill for the first time today.

    New cyber laws to safeguard UK economy and secure long-term growth.

    • Plans set out to bolster UK’s online defences, protect the public and safeguard growth – the central pillar of the UK government’s Plan for Change. 
    • New measures will boost protection of supply chains and critical national services, including IT service providers and suppliers. 
    • Cyber Security and Resilience Bill to be introduced later this year to face down growing range of online threats.

    Hospitals and energy suppliers are set to boost their cyber defences under the new Cyber Security Bill, protecting public services and safeguarding growth as government delivers its Plan for Change.

    This will ensure firms providing essential IT services to public services and the wider economy are no longer an easy target for cyber criminals. 1,000 service providers will fall into scope of measures expected to be introduced later this year.

    The move forms part of the government’s drive to secure Britain’s future through the Plan for Change, delivering security and renewal by strengthening our critical infrastructure. It will give the British public, businesses and investors greater confidence in digital services – supporting the government’s mission to kickstart economic growth.

    Cyber threats cost the UK economy almost £22 billion a year between 2015 and 2019 and cause significant disruption to the British public and businesses. Last summer’s attack on Synnovis – a provider of pathology services to the NHS – cost an estimated £32.7 million and saw thousands of missed appointments for patients. Figures also show a hypothetical cyber-attack focused on key energy services in the South East of England could wipe over £49 billion from the wider UK economy.

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle, said:

    Economic growth is the cornerstone of our Plan for Change, and ensuring the security of the vital services which will deliver that growth is non-negotiable.

    Attempts to disrupt our way of life and attack our digital economy are only gathering pace, and we will not stand by as these incidents hold our future prosperity hostage. 

    The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, will help make the UK’s digital economy one of the most secure in the world – giving us the power to protect our services, our supply chains, and our citizens – the first and most important job of any government.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    Cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and create real risks for our health service if we do not act now to put the right protections in place.

    We are building an NHS that is fit for the future. This bill will boost the NHS’s resilience against cyber threats, secure sensitive patient data and make sure life-saving appointments are not missed as we deliver our Plan for Change.

    The government is also exploring additional measures to make sure it can respond effectively to new cyber threats and take rapid action where needed to protect the UK’s national security. This includes giving the Technology Secretary powers to direct regulated organisations to shore up their cyber defences – putting the UK in the strongest possible footing to defend against new and existing threats.

    Another potential avenue may include new protections for more than 200 data centres – bolstering the defences of one of the main drivers of economic growth and innovation, including through AI. Data centres process mountains of data which they need to churn out new products which have become commonplace everywhere from banking and online shopping to booking holidays and staying in touch with friends and family. The government will now consider the best route to deliver these additional measures.       

    In the year to September 2024, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) managed 430 cyber incidents, with 89 of these being classed as nationally significant – a rate of almost two every week. The most recent iteration of the Cyber Security Breaches Survey also highlights 50% of British businesses suffering a cyber breach or attack in the last 12 months, with more than 7 million incidents being reported in 2024. 

    To face down this threat, the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will ensure the vital infrastructure and digital services the country relies on are more secure than ever, as the government sets out its legislative ambitions for the first time today.

    Richard Horne, NCSC CEO, said:

    The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill is a landmark moment that will ensure we can improve the cyber defences of the critical services on which we rely every day, such as water, power and healthcare.

    It is a pivotal step toward stronger, more dynamic regulation, one that not only keeps up with emerging threats but also makes it as challenging as possible for our adversaries.

    By bolstering their cyber defences and engaging with the NCSC’s guidance and tools, such as Cyber Assessment Framework, Cyber Essentials, and Avctive Cyber Defence, organisations of all sizes will be better prepared to meet the increasingly sophisticated challenges.

    While the legislation will arm the UK with the cyber defences it needs to meet the challenges of today, it also includes measures to ensure a swift response to new threats which emerge in the future. To do this, the Technology Secretary will be given powers to update the regulatory framework to keep pace with the ever-changing cyber landscape.

    Confirmed in last year’s King’s Speech, today marks the first time the government has shared full details on its plans for the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, which will be introduced to Parliament this year. 

    The legislative proposals follow other government recent action to boost UK cyber security, including a new, world-leading AI cyber security standard to protect AI systems, a new international coalition to boost cyber skills and the Cyber Local programme to support the UK’s rapidly growing £13.2 billion cyber security industry, which has created 6,600 new jobs in the past year.

    Further Information

    A full copy of the policy statement containing details of the measures in the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill policy statement will be published today.

    Figures on the economic impact of a hypothetical cyber incident targeting the South East’s energy structure (PDF) by the University of Cambridge. 

    If the proposals are adopted:

    • More organisations and suppliers will need to meet robust cyber security requirements, including data centres, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and critical suppliers. This means third-party suppliers will need to boost their cyber security in areas such as risk assessment to minimise the possible impact of cyber- attacks, while also beefing up their data protection and network security defences. 
    • Regulators will have more tools to improve cyber security and resilience in the areas they regulate, with companies required to report more incidents to help build a stronger picture of cyber threats and weaknesses in our online defences. 
    • The government would have greater flexibility to update regulatory frameworks when needed, to respond swiftly to changing threats and technological advancement. This could include extending the framework to new sectors or updating security requirements.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman charged with drink driving following crash on West Tamar Highway

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Woman charged with drink driving following crash on West Tamar Highway

    Tuesday, 1 April 2025 – 9:02 am.

    A West Launceston woman has been charged with drink driving after she allegedly returned a breath analysis reading more than twice the legal limit following a single vehicle crash on the West Tamar Highway last night. 
    Emergency services were called to the crash about 9.45pm, where a black Subaru had crashed. 
    A 55-year-old woman who was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was not injured and was conveyed to the Launceston Police Station where she allegedly returned a breath analysis reading of.109 – more than twice the legal limit. 
    She was charged and bailed to appear in court at a later date. 
    Anyone who saw the vehicle in the area around the time is asked to contact police on 131 444 or provide information through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000 (information can be provided anonymously) – quote ESCAD 460-31032025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at the effect of 4:3 intermittent fasting versus calorie restriction on weight loss

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine looks at the effect of 4:3 intermittent fasting on weight loss. 

    Dr Maria Chondronikola, Principal Investigator and Lead for Human Nutrition, University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, said:

    “This is an intriguing study on a topic that has attracted significant scientific and public interest. The study is of high quality and its conclusion regarding the effect of 3:4 IMF on weight loss is well-supported. The results indicate that the 3:4 IMF group achieved significantly greater weight loss after 12 months, most likely due to a greater reduction in calorie intake during the 12-month intervention. It remains unclear whether the superior improvements in marker of insulin sensitivity observed in the 3:4 IMF group were due to greater weight loss or if they resulted from a direct effect of intermittent fasting.

    “The press release does not fully capture the study’s findings with complete accuracy. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of blood pressure, total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, or fasting glucose levels. This is not surprising, as the study was not specifically designed to assess the effects of 3:4 IMF on cardiometabolic health.

    “Nonetheless, it is possible that 3:4 IMF, when combined with an intensive behavioural support program led by a dietitian, may lead to superior weight loss outcomes compared to standard caloric restriction.”

     

    Dr Adam Collins, Associate Professor of Nutrition, University of Surrey, said:

    Does the press release accurately reflect the science?

    “The press release is lifted from the abstract, and so is a faithful summary of the study. However, it does not provide explanations or context for these findings.

    Is this good quality research?  Are the conclusions backed up by solid data?

    “The robustness of this study is in the administration of the two dietary approaches within a supported behavioural programme for weight loss.   The authors have also used an interesting objective measure of energy (calorie) deficit achieved across the intervention using estimates of energy expenditure and changes in body composition (fat and lean tissue).

    “The study’s main finding was that a 4:3 approach gives more weight loss than conventional calorie restriction,  despite participants prescribed the same overall calories.  Yet, this is not a magic property of the 4:3 approach per se, but because they achieved a bigger calorie deficit. The dietary intake data reveals some clues as to why this may be the case, based on what wasn’t measured, as much as what was.     Those assigned the 4:3 diet were only requested to record their intake on “fast” days, but we know from early studies on intermittent energy restriction (especially alternate day fasting), that there is a tendency for some people to eat less on non fast days too, whether that’s unconscious or subconscious.   Hence, measuring intake on fast days only may underestimate true intake. In contrast, adherence to continuous calorie restriction (i.e. every day) can be variable as seen from their dietary intake data.  Adherence to any diet over 6-12 months is challenging at the best of times, but this may explain why the 4:3 group were closer to the calorie deficit target overall. Nevertheless, it does support the notion that, in the real world, intermittent energy restriction protocols outperform conventional everyday calorie restriction both in terms of compliance and results (i.e weight loss).

    How does this work fit with the existing evidence?

    “Studies on this type of intervention are not new but it is interesting to see a recent study published on this 4:3 form of intermittent fasting, or more specifically, intermittent energy restriction (IER).  Especially given that interest in intermittent fasting has shifted  towards time restricted eating approaches (restricting eating windows to extend the “fast” within each 24 hour period). It reaffirms the fact that IER can be an effective and sustainable weight loss intervention. 

    When viewed in the round, you could argue that the difference in weight loss between these groups is not that large, given this was over a 12 month intervention.   But it does allude  to a more interesting feature of intermittent fasting which is the independent metabolic benefits it may provide.   Indeed, this has been a focus of our studies in this area.  A study we conducted 10 years ago,  similarly randomised participants to either continuous or intermittent energy restriction (a 5:2 protocol) of the same overall calorie prescription.  Crucially, follow up measurements were taken once participants had a 5% weight loss, to control for differences in weight lost.   The study was specifically powered to examine differences in markers of metabolic handling and health and suggested that the intermittent energy restricted approach gave more favourable improvements in metabolic handling of a meal. 

    Have the authors accounted for confounders?  Are there important limitations to be aware of?

    “The authors have been careful to caveat their findings within the limitations of their study, and have mainly focussed on the primary outcome of weight loss. They stress that the study was not powered for the secondary outcome measured related to cardiometabolic risk, nor that the findings can be generalised across the whole population,  as outcomes may vary  by gender, age, ethnicity, disease state, or underlying disorders or eating behaviours.

    What are the implications in the real world?  Is there any overspeculation?  

    “The research reaffirms that IER can be an effective and sustainable weight loss intervention, but within each group the extent of weight loss was highly variable, suggesting it may not be the best for everyone.  The authors themselves acknowledge this in their conclusion: “Future studies should evaluate biological and behavioural predictors of response to both 4:3 IMF and DCR to provide insight for personalization of dietary recommendations for weight loss”

    ‘The Effect of 4:3 Intermittent Fasting on Weight Loss at 12 Months’ by Catenacci et al. was published in Annals of Internal Medicine at 22:00 UK time on Monday 31st March. 

    Declared interests

    Dr Maria Chondronikola “I am currently leading a intervention study on the effects of time restricted eating in cardiometabolic health https://trestudy.org.uk/#:~:text=Dr.,in%20the%20UK%20and%20worldwide.”

    Dr Adam Collins “No conflicts of interest to declare on this”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested after riding motorcycle at police at Walkerville

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man was arrested after allegedly riding a motorcycle at police officers in Walkerville overnight.

    Police were called by reports of a suspicious motorbike loitering in Queen Street, Walkerville just after 3am on Tuesday 1 April.

    When the patrol started speaking with the rider, he became aggressive and additional officers arrived to assist.

    It will be alleged the rider then rode the motorcycle down the narrow one-way street at police.  One officer accidentally put his hand through a window as he leapt out of the way.  The police officer sustained a laceration to the hand and was treated in hospital.  Fortunately, his injury does not appear serious at this time.

    The Kawasaki rode off.

    Police were later called to a Clearview address about 4.15am and located the man at the property.

    The 27-year-old Para Hills man was arrested and charged with riding in a manner dangerous to the public, acts to endanger life, riding unlicensed, unregistered and uninsured, with no number plates or helmet, and breach of bail.

    He was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court later today.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Landmark summit agrees new measures against organised immigration crime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Landmark summit agrees new measures against organised immigration crime

    The Prime Minister and Home Secretary gathered leaders from across the world in London today (31 March) to tackle organised immigration crime.

    The purpose of the Organised Immigration Crime Summit is to agree new action to tackle organised immigration crime (OIC) and boost border security.

    Discussions at day 1 of the summit included:

    • tackling the supply chains and enablers of OIC
    • the role of criminal finances in facilitating OIC
    • the UK’s systems based approach to border security

    as well as how countries can tackle organised crime groups’ operations online in relation to the advertising, promoting and facilitating of illegal immigration services.

    The UK and allies including France, Iraq, Vietnam and the USA, and partners including the National Crime Agency (NCA) and representatives from social media organisations, met to agree actions to secure our collective borders, protect vulnerable people from exploitation, and tackle the global threat of organised immigration crime.

    Unlike previous summits, this event engaged both European nations and key source and transit countries, as well as those that are integral to the supply of equipment, including small boats and engines, ensuring a broader, more comprehensive approach to tackling OIC.

    Concrete outcomes have been agreed across Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and North America to strengthen international partnerships to disrupt OIC networks.  This also includes new joint work with France to tackle irregular migration in source and transit countries, through community outreach and bolstering false document detection capabilities to Iraqi officials.

    The agreement represents a key step forward in the government’s Plan for Change to deliver on working people’s priorities to restore order to the immigration system and comes after the publication of new figures showing more than 24,000 people with no right to be here have been returned since the election – the highest rate of returns in 8 years. 

    A communiqué was issued that sets out how we will deepen our collaboration internationally to tackle this vile crime.  

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    Organised immigration crime undermines our security and puts lives at risk. The criminal networks have spread across the globe and no single country can tackle this problem alone.

    Today, at the Organised Immigration Crime Summit, the UK has led the way forward by securing international commitments to disrupt and pursue this vile criminal trade in people – part of our Plan for Change to strengthen our borders and keep communities safe.

    Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt said:

    I have said since I came into my post as Border Security Commander that organised immigration crime requires a coordinated international response to effectively dismantle criminal networks.

    In my role I have seen first-hand how the cruelty and greed of criminal gangs puts the lives of the most vulnerable at risk in dangerous small boat crossings all for financial gain.

    This summit marks a step change in the international community’s approach to tackling the problem, presenting a critical opportunity to strengthen global cooperation, disrupt criminal networks, and prevent further loss of life.

    Director General of the National Crime Agency (NCA) Graeme Biggar said:

    Criminal gangs are using sophisticated online tactics, the abuse of legitimate goods and services, and illicit financial networks to facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys which put thousands of lives at risk each year and undermine border security.

    Today’s summit sets out international agreements to tackle an international problem.

    International intelligence sharing and cooperation is absolutely crucial to track criminal activity across borders allowing us to put a stop to these dangerous criminals.

    In addition, today the Home Secretary confirmed over £30 million in funding within the Border Security Command to tackle Organised Immigration Criminal Networks. This significant funding package will be spent on key security projects across Europe, the Western Balkans, Asia and Africa, designed to strengthen border security and combat international criminal smuggling gangs.

    The Home Secretary also announced joint work with France to fund an additional grassroots engagement programme to educate local communities on the dangers of irregular migration and people smuggling gangs, raising awareness of the realities and difficulties with travelling to Northern France to cross the Channel to the UK.

    This will target both potential irregular migrants and, for the first time, teachers, religious leaders, and family members within vulnerable communities, and builds on the Home Office digital deterrence comms campaign that is already running in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

    The UK will also collaborate with France to deliver critical training to Iraqi officials and commercial transport staff,  helping them detect fraudulent documents and passports used to facilitate irregular migration and OIC activities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Grants £2.7 Million to Paddington Arts for Building Development Project | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    • The project will create new creative, community and co-working spaces, allowing the charity to support 50% more young people each year. 

    Paddington Arts, a youth arts charity in Westminster, has secured £2.7 million from Westminster City Council to redevelop and expand its building.

    The investment forms part of the council’s North Paddington Programme and Cultural Strategy. The project supports with the council’s Fairer Westminster ambitions and its approach to supporting voluntary and community organisations

    The project will create 545 square metres of additional space. New facilities will include a dance studio, consultation rooms, co-working space, roof terrace, reception, café and live performance area.

    Match funding includes £1.419 million from the North Paddington Capital Budget, £1.25 million from the Paddington Arts Capital Budget, and £50,000 already approved. The council’s support unlocks £830,000 raised by Paddington Arts from external funders including the Garfield Weston and London Marathon Foundations.

    The redevelopment will allow Paddington Arts to increase the number of young people it supports by 50%. Founded in 1988, the charity runs creative programmes for children and young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds.

    New spaces will also support mentoring, emotional wellbeing, and disability arts. The expanded building will offer long-term financial resilience through workspace rental and venue hire. Paddington Arts has signed up to the council’s Sustainable City Charter, with plans including a green roof and energy-efficient systems.

    Match funding conditions include a 100-year charge on the building and a requirement to develop a new partnership strategy with local organisations. A senior council officer will join the charity’s board. The redevelopment is expected to complete within three years.

    North Paddington is now home to one of London’s Creative Enterprise Zones — part of a city-wide initiative to make space for artists and creative businesses to put down roots and grow.

    The designation brings new investment into skills, training and affordable workspaces, helping local people access careers in one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors.

    Paddington Arts is a key part of this creative infrastructure. Its expansion supports the wider ambition to make North Paddington a place where culture and opportunity go hand in hand.

    Councillor Cara Sanquest, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:

    I’m pleased that Westminster City Council is supporting the redevelopment of Paddington Arts with this match funding. Paddington Arts is a long-standing local organisation that has played a big role in the lives of generations of children and young people in North Paddington since 1988. This investment will enable Paddington Arts to provide more opportunities to access the arts – from drama to dance and playing steel pan – in an area with high levels of deprivation and to expand their valuable services.

     Steve Shaw, the Director of Paddington Arts says: 

    Paddington Arts has been working with children and young people in our community for over thirty-five years. We came up with a scheme to build an extension to our building, to include a café, rehearsal studio, creative workspace, and a roof garden. We are delighted that the Council has agreed to provide us with the necessary funding to complete our extension, and we look forward to working together to provide much needed facilities and creative activities for our young people and for the community. This  new space will also allow us to strengthen our support and collaboration with other local organisations.

    Notes to Editors 

    The Cabinet’s decision is to subject to the council’s usual call-in procedures.

    Read the full Cabinet papers here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine: 31 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    PM call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine: 31 March 2025

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke to President Zelenskyy.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, this evening.

    The leaders reflected on their visit to Paris last week and agreed there was real momentum to support Ukraine’s security for the long term.

    A meeting of the British, French and Ukrainian military leadership in the coming days would drive forward the next stage of detailed planning, the Prime Minister added.

    The leaders also discussed the third anniversary of the liberation of Bucha today. The Prime Minister reflected on his visit to the city in 2023 and paid tribute to the courage and strength of the residents and their loved ones that he met.

    Their stories of suffering were a painful reminder of Russia’s barbarity over the past three years, he added. 

    The leaders agreed to stay in close touch.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests Guatemalan alien charged with sex crimes in Connecticut

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HARTFORD, Conn. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan alien charged with second-degree felony sexual assault, fourth-degree felony sexual assault and felony risk of injury to minor. Officers with ICE Boston’s Hartford field office arrested Yosmar Imai Bravo-Ortiz, 21, in Hartford Feb. 20.

    “Yosmar Imai Bravo-Ortiz has been charged with sex crimes against a member of our Connecticut community,” said ICE Boston Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Bravo-Ortiz represents a threat to our New England neighborhoods that ICE will not tolerate. We remain committed to our mission of prioritizing public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats to our residents.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Bravo-Ortiz October 25, 2018, after he illegally entered the United States near Sasabe, Arizona. USBP transferred Bravo-Ortiz to the Office of Refugee Resettlement. On December 22, 2018, ORR released Bravo-Ortiz. Officers from the Hartford Police Department arrested Bravo-Ortiz May 14, 2024, and charged him with second-degree felony sexual assault, fourth-degree felony sexual assault and felony risk of injury to minor.

    Officers with ICE Boston’s Hartford field office arrested Yosmar Imai Bravo-Ortiz, 21, in Hartford Feb. 20. Bravo-Ortiz remains in ICE custody.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Working to Get Maine Farmers Expected Federal Investments to Sustain Operations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) joined his colleagues to introduce legislation that will direct much-needed funding to farmers in Maine. The Honor Farmer Contracts Act would release federal funding — currently being withheld by the White House — for all contracts and agreements previously agreed to by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
    Farmers, and the organizations that serve them, operate on tight margins, and right now are waiting for funding they rightfully deserve and need for essential operations. This legislation would require the USDA to pay farmers all past due payments as quickly as possible to prevent them from having to shut down. If not quickly made whole, these organizations will be forced to make difficult and unnecessary financial decisions, destroying years of progress in advancing local food systems.
    “Farmers are an original building block of our state economy, providing jobs and a secure food source for thousands of people in Maine and across the northeast,” said Senator King. “The Honor Farmer Contracts Act would ensure that Maine’s farmers receive the federal funding from all signed agreements and contracts as quickly as possible to prevent any operations from having to shut down. This is a critical step to protect the Maine agricultural economy and food supply that everyone in our state rely on for their essential nutrition needs.”
    “Maine farmers produce milk, apples, beef, seafood, wild blueberries, vegetables, and more. These nutritious foods sustain the health of Americans in Maine, New England, and throughout the country, and are the lifeblood and the economy of rural communities across the state,” said Eric Venturini, President of the Agricultural Council of Maine. “Increasingly, Maine’s farmers are forced to compete within our own domestic market with cheaper imported foods. The economic sustainability of the Maine agricultural community requires constant change and innovation to remain competitive in this global marketplace. USDA staffing and funding are all essential programs that support Maine farms. We thank Senator King and others for their ongoing support to maintain these important programs for Maine farms.”
    “Farmers are struggling with a perfect storm of stressors from escalating costs of production to labor shortages to low pay prices to extreme weather events,” said Heather Spalding, the Deputy Director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association. “The last thing that farmers need right now is for USDA to abandon the farmers they have pledged to support. Honoring the farmer contracts is all about putting American farmers first. It’s about building self-reliance, a strong economy, a clean environment and healthy people.”
    The Honor Farmer Contracts Act would:
    Require USDA to unfreeze all signed agreements and contracts;
    Require USDA to make all past due payments as quickly as possible;
    Prohibit USDA from cancelling agreements or contracts with farmers or organizations providing assistance to farmers unless there has been a failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the agreement or contract.
    Prohibit USDA from closing any Farm Service Agency county office, Natural Resources Conservation Service field office or Rural Development Service Center without providing 60 days prior notice and justification to Congress.
    The Honors Farmers Contracts is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Dick Durbin (D-Ill), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). 
    To read the full text of the bill, click here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Protein is being added to yoghurt, bread and even coffee – but is it really good for our health?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Aisling Pigott, Lecturer, Dietetics, Cardiff Metropolitan University

    Not all of these protein-enhanced food products are healthy. MAYA Lab/ Shutterstock

    Protein intake dominates fitness advice. Whether you want to build muscle, improve your fitness or watch your weight, the common advice handed out by everyone from fitness influencers to doctors is that we need more protein.

    But while protein does play an essential role in maintaining our muscle mass and overall health, all this increased attention on the importance of protein in the media and fitness circles has sparked a surge in products marketed specifically for their protein content. Some chocolate bars, ice cream, pizza, coffee and even alcoholic beverages now market themselves as protein foods.

    But our enthusiasm for protein might have gone too far. While protein is certainly important for our health, most of us don’t need these protein-enhanced foods as a regular feature in our diet. Not to mention that this marketing may lead to a “halo effect,” where consumers mistakenly equate high protein content with overall nutritional value. This effect can lead to the perception of protein-rich foods being inherently nutritious – even though many may not be.

    Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and immune function.

    Nutrition guidelines recommend people aim to eat around 0.75g of protein per kilogram of body weight. But some evidence suggests this recommendation may be an underestimate – and that the recommendation should be around 1.2g-1.6g per kg of body weight per day

    There’s also a strong body of evidence that suggests the amount of protein we need changes depending on our health. For instance, people need to eat more protein when they’re recovering from an illness. Research also shows that older adults should be aiming for at least 1.2g per kg of body weight in order to combat age-related muscle loss.

    Athletes also need to eat a greater amount of protein to support their training and recovery. Moreover, with the rising popularity of weight-loss drugs, strategies increasingly emphasise protein intake to minimise muscle loss while losing weight.

    But just because protein is good for maintaining muscle mass, that doesn’t mean more is better. In fact, it seems that even when we consume large amounts of protein, only a some of this is actually used by the body.

    Most of us probably need a little more protein than current guidelines suggest, but less than is often promoted by wellness influencers on social media (with some even suggesting we need up to 3g of protein per kg of body weight).

    Ironically, the necessary amount of protein suggested by emerging evidence (1.2g-1.6g per kg of body weight per day) is close to what the average protein consumption already is in most western countries.

    It’s better to try and eat a bit of protein from a whole food source at each meal.
    Margouillat Photo/ Shutterstock

    Most people can probably benefit from being more protein aware – not about how much protein they’re consuming, but about the quality and frequency of their protein choices. Ideally, we should aim to consume small amounts of protein-rich foods more often during the day.

    Current evidence suggests around 20g-30g of protein (around a handful of a protein source) at each meal supports muscle maintenance alongside physical activity.

    In an ideal world, this protein would come from whole foods (such as nuts, seeds, milk, eggs and legumes). But fortified protein products may have their space as a quick and easy snack – especially for those who may struggle to eat this much protein at each meal. It’s important to eat these foods in moderation, however.

    Ultra-processed products

    Supermarkets are full of “protein-enhanced” products. But while these products may contain additional protein, they may also contain additional sugars or carbohydrates.

    For example, protein milk often contains double the protein of regular milk. It does this by removing water or adding dried milk.

    Protein bars are another example. But depending on the brand you choose, alongside their additional protein content they may also be high in sugar.

    Many protein-fortified products share another common trait: they fall into the category of ultra-processed foods. Ultra-processed foods are commercially made products that include ingredients you wouldn’t typically find in your own kitchen.

    Research shows regularly consuming ultra-processed foods is consistently linked with poorer health outcomes – such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Current discussions around ultra-processed foods suggests uncertainty regarding whether it’s the processing itself, the poor nutritional quality of these foods or the combination of both of these factors that contribute to these negative health outcomes.

    Another issue with protein-enhanced products is that while they do indeed contain extra protein, some products may lack fibre, vitamins and essential minerals. A lack of fibre in modern diets is currently one of the biggest contributors to population-wide ill-health.

    All foods have their place within a balanced diet. But protein is only one component of overall nutritional health. The rise in protein-fortified foods as health foods is concerning.

    Protein-enhanced products are occasional foods that might support meeting protein intake, but they should not be mistaken for universally healthy foods. For people looking to reach their protein goals, choose a variety of protein sources, consider the role of convenience foods within the context of whole diet and think about other nutrients like fibre to really maximise health.

    Aisling Pigott receives funding from RCBC Wales (as part of Health Care Research Wales)

    – ref. Protein is being added to yoghurt, bread and even coffee – but is it really good for our health? – https://theconversation.com/protein-is-being-added-to-yoghurt-bread-and-even-coffee-but-is-it-really-good-for-our-health-252236

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Inner London residents told me their food waste problems – composting definitely isn’t the answer

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sayed Elhoushy, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Queen Mary University of London

    “It’s always frustrated me that we can’t compost here – even though I get why. Tower blocks just aren’t built for it,” said Alexandra, a 42-year-old Tower Hamlets resident, living on the ninth floor. She gestures toward the tall buildings in her neighbourhood. Her frustration is shared by many, where food waste collection from blocks of flats remains a challenge.

    Tower Hamlets in east London is England’s most densely populated borough, with more than 15,000 people per square kilometre. More than 81% of its residents live in high-rise flats, and 30% of its rubbish is food waste.

    For residents like Alexandra, the lack of options is disappointing. “When I first moved here, I looked into food waste disposal, but there weren’t many options for people in flats,” she says. Unfortunately, her experience reflects a wider problem.

    According to the UK waste charity Wrap, nearly a quarter of the UK’s food production is wasted each year – that’s over 6.4 million tonnes of edible food worth £21 billion, enough to feed the country for nearly three months. Households contribute approximately 60% of this waste, which not only costs money but also fuels climate change.

    London authorities have introduced reduction and recycling plans (RRPs) to tackle food waste and increase recycling. These efforts align with the mayor’s London-wide strategy to halve food waste by 2030. While these targets are ambitious, their implementation in high-rise boroughs such as Tower Hamlets remains a challenge.

    The communal bins overflowing with rubbish and recycling waste in London Borough of Tower Hamlets, April 2024.
    I Wei Huang/Shutterstock

    For many residents, food waste is both an environmental issue and a logistical nightmare. “We tried compost bins in our building, but rats and foxes loved them more than we did,” laughed Aisha, a resident I interviewed at a community centre in March 2023.

    Limited space makes traditional composting methods such as wormeries (small-scale systems where worms break down organic waste into compost) unfeasible. The people I interviewed explained that community-led schemes often struggle due to limited participation in the first place, contamination from improper waste disposal and pest control issues including attracting rats and foxes.

    In my work as a sustainability marketing researcher, I’m investigating alternatives and researching how best to maintain sustainable consumer behaviour.

    Co-creation – in this case, designing solutions with the residents trying to tackle food waste – is so important, but often overlooked. By talking directly to the people involved, a plan will end up being much more effective because people trust it more and engage with it more willingly.

    In 2023, I led a six-month behaviour change research project with East London Garden Society, a community-driven initiative focused on promoting gardening and environmental sustainability in east London. I interviewed 15 Tower Hamlets residents, listened to numerous community meetings and analysed community discussions to uncover the real barriers to food waste reduction.

    My findings were clear: residents don’t just want tips – they want a voice.

    As 64-year-old Maryam put it: “I really appreciate that you’re taking a resident-first approach, gathering feedback and understanding experiences. That’s how you’ll find what truly works.”

    By placing residents at the centre, we can ensure that solutions are built to last. But co-creation alone is not enough – residents need systematic changes, such as better infrastructure.

    The role of technology

    A 2024 study shows how technology is reshaping the food system from production to consumption. Apps such as Olio help consumers share surplus food and reduce waste.

    Some composting machines or food waste processors are compact enough for household kitchens, requiring no garden. Residents can use the resulting compost to grow small plants on their balconies or add it to their green waste bin – this process is made easier by the reduction in volume.

    Larger compost machines can turn organic food waste into nutrient-rich soil in just 24 hours, reducing its volume by up to 80% – while these can handle organic waste from multiple high-rise buildings, they need to be installed in a bigger shared community space.

    In Tower Hamlets, where space is limited, compact technology offers a convenient solution. But, as we found in our research, it’s not without its challenges.

    As Frank, a man who lives on a top-floor flat, explained: “This machine is much quicker than traditional composting, but what about the cost and the electricity it uses?” While smart technologies offer convenience, some Tower Hamlets residents raised concerns about energy consumption and costs – so there is a trade-off between ease and energy efficiency.



    Read more:
    Most food waste happens at home – new research reveals the best ways to reduce it

    Surprisingly, composting technology, often seen as the eco-friendly solution, may be worsening the food waste crisis. As a marketing expert, I spoke directly with many consumers at Tower Hamlets.

    One told me that composting makes them feel “less guilty” about throwing out food. When composting serves as a licence to waste, it can increase the amount of food that is discarded.

    Making composting easy diverts waste from landfills, but that doesn’t address root causes including simply buying too much food in the first place. To reduce food waste, technology must promote behavioural change such as better meal planning and waste monitoring. Knowing how much food waste they produce, compared to their neighbours, can encourage people to change their behaviour.

    So many cities face the same problems, with densely populated communities living in flats without gardens. Without co-creating practical solutions with residents, achieving waste reduction goals will be tough.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Sayed Elhoushy received funding from the East London Garden Society (£3000) for the Food Waste Pilot Project (#10239808) (Nov 1, 2022 – Feb 28, 2023) and from the SBM Small Grant Fund (£2,500) (Apr 3 – Jul 14, 2023).

    – ref. Inner London residents told me their food waste problems – composting definitely isn’t the answer – https://theconversation.com/inner-london-residents-told-me-their-food-waste-problems-composting-definitely-isnt-the-answer-250160

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dundee University: 700 staff cuts will pile further crisis upon institution

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Mar 2025 Education

    Dundee’s staff and students deserve much better.

    More in Education

    The announcement that Dundee University will be axing 700 jobs – over a fifth of its workforce – will pile further crisis on the institution while betraying staff and students, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.

    This follows reports that, in a letter to a Holyrood committee, interim principal Professor Shane O’Neill confirmed that around 700 roles will be affected.

    This month Ms Chapman was elected as the new Rector of the University, supported by students who back her calls for greater transparency and accountability at the institution. She will take up this voluntary role from 1 August 2025.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “This is even worse than many of us expected. It is a shocking act of vandalism that will pile further crisis on the institution. 

    “The sense of betrayal will be felt by staff and students all across the campus and beyond. And of course, this number doesn’t reflect the over 200 vacancies that currently exist and won’t be filled.

    “The university has been brought to the brink by years of mismanagement, incompetence and poor decisions from a senior management team that has failed to listen or to engage with those around them.

    “The crisis has exposed a total lack of transparency and accountability. If these cuts are allowed to go ahead they will deal a crushing blow to the campus and to the university’s reputation.

    “I stand with the workers, trade unions and students who make Dundee University the great institution it is. They deserve dignity, security, and real long term solutions, not even more pain and instability.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with President Stubb of Finland: 31 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Press release

    PM meeting with President Stubb of Finland: 31 March 2025

    The Prime Minister welcomed the President of Finland Alexander Stubb to Downing Street this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister welcomed the President of Finland Alexander Stubb to Downing Street this afternoon.

    They discussed the successful Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris last week, noting the strong momentum from European leaders to keep Ukraine in the fight and increase the pressure on Putin to agree a peace deal.

    The Prime Minister then updated the President on his ongoing work to strengthen the UK’s relationship with the European Union across a number of areas including defence and security, trade and economic growth. The President warmly welcomed the progress made so far.

    As fellow NATO and JEF members, they agreed that the UK and Finland share a close and unique partnership which they will continue working to strengthen in the coming months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building Skilled Leaders for the Future: Insights from CMI Communities Live – Birmingham

    Source: Arden University

    Last week, Arden University proudly partnered with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) to host CMI Communities Live – Birmingham, an event focused on the evolving skills landscape and how businesses can futureproof their workforce.

    This inspiring event welcomed HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, patron of the CMI, alongside influential industry leaders who shared their expertise on leadership, professional development, and workforce investment. The discussions were led by Ann Francke OBE, CEO of the Chartered Management Institute, and featured key insights from a distinguished panel, including:

    • Professor Carl Lygo, Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive at Arden University
    • Professor Dilshad Sheikh CBME CMgr CCMI, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor & Provost at Arden University
    • Dr Heather Melville OBE CMgr CCMI, Partner at Stork & May

    The Key Takeaways: Leadership, Development, and the Future of Work

    The panel discussion, backed by findings from CMI’s latest study Walking the Walk, explored several key areas vital for today’s leaders and aspiring managers:

    • The Evolving Leadership Skillset – The workplace is changing rapidly, and modern managers need a diverse skill set to drive success. The discussion highlighted how confidence, empathy, and expertise are essential traits for effective leadership.
    • Career Development Strategies – As industries evolve, upskilling and reskilling have become more critical than ever. The panel explored practical ways professionals can enhance their career prospects and remain competitive in the job market.
    • The Employer’s Perspective – Business leaders shared insights on how investing in workforce development leads to a strong pipeline of future-ready talent. Supporting employees’ professional growth isn’t just good for individuals—it strengthens entire organisations.
    • The Value of Chartered Manager Status – Earning professional accreditation, such as Chartered Manager status, was highlighted as a way to boost credibility and stand out in a competitive job market.

    Strong Leadership Builds Stronger Businesses

    Ann Francke OBE, CEO, Chartered Management Institute, emphasised the importance of skilled leadership:

    “Strong, skilled leadership is the backbone of a thriving economy and inclusive workplaces. As the world of work evolves, businesses must invest in developing managers who are equipped to lead with confidence, empathy, and expertise. At CMI, we are committed to ensuring that managers at every level have the tools and training they need to succeed, because when leadership thrives, businesses and communities do too.”

    At Arden University, we

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Culture in the Park a great success – despite the weather!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Even the weather couldn’t put a dampener on the Culture in the Park event last Saturday in Solitude Park, Banbridge with families coming out to enjoy some time together, to watch the fantastic acts on stage, get involved in the various activities and, of course, indulge in some yummy food!

    The photos tell the story of the evening – can you spot yourself?

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further investment in York’s city centre

    Source: City of York

    York’s historic city centre is set to be ready for the next, and future, millennia.

    With funding from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the council and its partners will reimagine the city centre and develop a ‘city centre spatial plan’ (known as Reimagining York Streets, to tell a new story about the city centre). 

    The plan will identify investment opportunities, development and improvements and will better connect the city centre with change taking place in different locations, such as Coney Street, York Central and the Minster Neighbourhood Plan.

    Reimagining York Streets will align with ‘Our City Centre vision’ which describes an ambitious future for the city centre, with residents and businesses at the heart of it. The vision for ‘a vibrant city centre, which a wide range of people want to spend time in across the day and night, will create the right conditions for responsive businesses to grow and adapt, for city living to develop, and for cultural and social activity to flourish’ will be become a reality through the Reimagining York Streets plan.

    Councillor Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economy and Culture said:

    “We are incredibly proud of our city centre which is already recognised the world over, bucking trends across the country with more visitors and higher shop occupancy than the national and regional average.  York’s strong and vibrant independent business sector is at the heart of our local economy and this, together with the outstanding festivals and events and beautiful built heritage make the city centre a unique, and much loved, national treasure.

    We are determined to make the city centre the best place it can be for residents and businesses as well as the millions of visitors who are welcomed here every year.

    “This new plan, Reimagining York’s Streets, aims to bring economic benefits which will benefit everyone across the city with more skilled jobs, investment, travel and leisure opportunities.

    “In the coming months we will start in-depth engagement with residents, businesses and visitors to make sure the city centre is an even better place we can all be proud of, and we want to hear as many voices as possible!”

    David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

    “York’s city centre is the heart of our region’s economy, culture, and heritage.

    “I was pleased to support the Reimagining York Streets plan through the Mayoral Investment Fund, investing in the future and ensuring our city centre remains a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

    By working together with the community, we can shape a city centre that is not only beautiful and welcoming but also future-ready.”

    In October 2024 at the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Committee Meeting, £430k funding from the Mayoral Investment Fund was approved to develop a public realm improvement strategy for city centre public spaces, delivery strategy and identified pipeline of capital regeneration projects.

    An officer delegated decision has been made which will start work on developing this strategy. This will include a citywide engagement process to hear from a range of voices as to what they want from the public spaces in York city centre.

    Further announcements will be made in the coming months, including details of how everyone can have their say and help shape this plan.

    To keep up to date with developments, register for the council’s e-newsletter at www.york.gov.uk/EmailUpdates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Marston’s agree to pay arbitrator’s fees and costs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Marston’s agree to pay arbitrator’s fees and costs

    Marston’s agreed to pay 100% of an arbitrator’s fees and costs in a Pubs Code arbitration after failing to identify the relevant costs provisions in their submissions to the arbitrator.

    What happened?

    The PCA appointed an alternative arbitrator to determine a dispute in relation to a Rent Assessment Proposal in 2023. The arbitrator ordered the tenant to pay 35% of the arbitrator’s costs, despite not finding the referral to be vexatious. The PCA’s view is that the arbitrator did not have the power to make this order.

    The PCA’s view is that, in Pubs Code Arbitrations, the pub-owing business must pay the reasonable fees and expenses of an arbitrator (in both MRO and non-MRO disputes), except if the arbitrator decides that the referral was vexatious, in which case they can require the tenant to pay some or all of those costs.

    This provision is within s51(6) of the Small Business Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 in relation to costs for non-MRO disputes and for MRO disputes this is provided for in regulation 3 of the Fees Regulations. These provisions are explained in the PCA’s tenant factsheet What Tied Pub Tenants Need to Know about Pubs Code Arbitration Disputes.

    The PCA has legal powers to request information or documents from an arbitration for regulatory purposes. The PCA reviewed Marston’s submissions to the arbitrator on costs and found that Marston’s had failed to reference s 51(6) of the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act.

    What did the PCA do?

    The PCA contacted Marston’s to express concern about this failure. The PCA met with Marston’s, who did not provide an adequate explanation for this failure on the part of lawyers instructed to act on their behalf. Following discussions with the PCA, Marston’s agreed to pay 100% of the arbitrator’s costs and not recoup them from the tenant.

    In August 2023, Ciarb wrote to all panel arbitrators at the request of the PCA to remind them of the PCA’s position as to the relevant costs provisions which apply to Pubs Code arbitrations.

    The PCA’s expectations of pub-owning businesses in Pubs Code Arbitrations

    The PCA wishes to promote conduct in arbitrations that supports the process to reach an outcome on the proper application of the regulations in a timely manner and which upholds the core Code principles.

    The PCA expects all pub-owning businesses to have a thorough understanding of the Pubs Code legislative framework, as well as information contained in guidance, advice and other material published by the PCA. The PCA further expects pub-owning businesses to be transparent in arbitrations and be clear where they are taking a different view of the law to the PCA, and to inform the PCA in advance if they apply a different view of the application of the Code on which the PCA has published advice or guidance.

    The PCA office can be contacted at office@pubscodeadjudicator.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dstl to tackle emerging health threats

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Dstl to tackle emerging health threats

    A new collaboration between The Pandemic Institute (TPI) and Dstl, is set to fund vital research into emerging infectious diseases.

    Researchers from both organisations aim to strengthen the UK’s ability to detect, understand and combat known and emerging pathogens.

    Bringing together experts in infectious diseases and pandemic research from different organisations is essential for improving the UK’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from these threats.

    This collaboration will support several research projects drawing on the expertise of both organisations. This includes developing new diagnostic tests, evaluating new therapeutics and using cutting edge technology to better understand viral pathogens.

    There are 9 projects in total. One of which will use artificial intelligence (AI) to predict virus-host interactions, aiding the development of new diagnostics and therapeutics.

    Professor Tom Solomon CBE, Director of The Pandemic Institute, emphasised the importance of the collaboration:

    “The recent global health crises have shown us that we must be proactive rather than reactive when dealing with infectious threats. This collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) will ensure that we are at the forefront of scientific innovation, developing tools that could be crucial in preventing future pandemics.”

    Dr Stuart Perkins, Programme Manager at Dstl stated:

    “This joint programme encourages and supports our scientists to work within national multidiscipline teams and will allow Dstl to access novel tools and products, being developed within academia, that could be utilised within the defence and security arena.

    “It generates value for money and ensures cohesion across defence and academic research.

    “The programme strengthens Dstl’s mission to ensure our armed forces maintain operational effectiveness at all times, even in the event they were exposed to infectious agents.”

    This partnership represents an exciting step forward in pandemic preparedness, and helps the UK remain at the cutting edge of infectious disease research.

    Find out more about Dstl’s work and funded projects at TPI.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Stops Discriminatory Practices Targeting Jewish New Yorkers at Rockland County Car Wash

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that her office has stopped Super 4 Seasons, a Rockland County car wash company, from running a discriminatory scam that targeted Jewish customers preparing for Passover. In the days leading up to Passover, many Jewish families clean their homes, cars, and other spaces to remove “chametz,” or leavened products. An Office of the Attorney General (OAG) investigation found that in the weeks leading up to the holiday, Super 4 Seasons advertised a “Passover Special” cleaning promotion, targeting Jewish customers, that cost more than three times the standard price for the same service. Attorney General James is requiring Super 4 Seasons to immediately stop promoting or offering any discriminatory car wash special and, if the company fails to do so, pay a $75,000 penalty.

    “Targeting Jewish New Yorkers with deceptive pricing around Passover is a clear act of religious discrimination and will not be tolerated,” said Attorney General James. “Every New Yorker, regardless of their faith, deserves to be treated fairly and equally. My office will not hesitate to hold businesses accountable when they exploit families’ religious observance.”

    The OAG opened an investigation into Super 4 Seasons in April 2024 after receiving several complaints that the car wash company was knowingly charging Jewish customers $169 for a service that was otherwise available for just $47. As part of the investigation, OAG conducted undercover testing, interviewed complainants, and reviewed thousands of the company’s sales entries. The OAG found that Super 4 Seasons had promoted similar Passover-specific services dating back to at least 2018 and that in the weeks leading up to Passover, Jewish customers had been routinely denied access to standard pricing and were falsely told that only the high-priced “Passover Packages” were available.

    The OAG investigation also found that Super 4 Seasons persistently posted promotional signs advertising that only “Passover Packages & Up” were available, falsely claiming that standard services were not offered ahead of Passover. When an OAG investigator dressed in traditional Orthodox Jewish clothing inquired about standard pricing, he was told the car wash is “not doing anything except shampoos and Passover cleanings right now.” The car wash employee even told the investigator, “We are doing this just for you guys.”

    However, when another OAG investigator who was not wearing Orthodox Jewish clothing asked Super 4 Seasons for the standard services, he was offered and sold standard-priced services. When he inquired about the promotion, an employee responded that it was “for Jews,” adding that they needed to pay more “because their cars are so dirty.” The OAG recovered sales records for this same period, confirming that regular services had in fact been provided throughout the holiday.

    As a result of the OAG’s investigation, Super 4 Seasons will immediately stop these discriminatory practices, and is barred from promoting or advertising car wash services that allude to special pricing for religious holidays. Super 4 Seasons is also prohibited from charging Jewish customers more than other customers for the same car wash services and is not allowed to change its pricing or limit available services in the two months leading up to and during Passover. If Super 4 Seasons fails to adhere to these terms, it will be required to pay a penalty of up to $75,000.

    Attorney General James recently issued a consumer alert urging Jewish communities to be cautious of illegal and discriminatory practices ahead of Passover. Attorney General James reminds New Yorkers to be vigilant against scams on essential Passover goods and services, including car washes, essential food items, matzah and kosher-for-Passover products, cleaning services, travel, and accommodations. Under New York law, it is illegal to discriminate against someone based on religion. Anyone who is aware of businesses using discriminatory practices or believes that they were charged more for services because of their religion, race, or background is encouraged to file a complaint online or call 1-800-771-7755.

    This matter was handled by Hate Crimes and Bias Prevention Section Chief Rick Sawyer, Assistant Attorney General Rachel Finn, and Assistant Attorney General in Charge of the Westchester Regional Office Andy Aujla, with assistance from Research Analyst Heather-Destiny Konan, under the supervision of Civil Rights Bureau Chief Sandra Park and Deputy Bureau Chief Travis England. The investigation was led by Investigators Liam Cassidy and Andy Rodriguez under the supervision of Supervising Investigator Cynthia Kane. The Investigations Bureau is led by Chief Oliver Pu-Folkes, the Civil Rights Bureau is part of the Division for Social Justice led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux, and the Westchester Regional Office is a part of the Division of Regional Affairs led by Deputy Attorney General Jill Faber. All are overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests Ecuadoran alien charged with aggravated child rape in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BROCKTON, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Jose Oswaldo Castro-Castro, 31, an illegally present Ecuadoran national charged with aggravated rape of a child, ten-year age difference and indecent assault and battery on a child under 14. Officers with ICE Boston arrested Castro in Brockton, Feb. 25.

    “Jose Oswaldo Castro-Castro illegally crossed our borders and appallingly victimized a child in Massachusetts,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Castro has done unspeakable damage to our community that we cannot tolerate. Arrests like this only fortify our commitment to our mission of prioritizing the safety of our public by arresting and removing criminal alien offenders from our New England neighborhoods.”

    Castro illegally entered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location and without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    The Plymouth County Superior Court in Brockton indicted Castro April 20, 2023, for aggravated rape of a child, ten-year age difference and indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 years of age.

    Officers with ICE Boston arrested Castro in Brockton Feb. 25. Castro remains in ICE custody.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Declaration by the Foreign Ministers of the Weimar +

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Joint Declaration by the Foreign Ministers of the Weimar +

    Joint Declaration by the Foreign Ministers of United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Spain as well as the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in Madrid (31st March 2025)

    30/03/2025. Madrid, Spain. Foreign Secretary David Lammy poses for family photo ahead of Weimar+ meeting. Picture by Ben Dance / FCDO

    Three days after the anniversary of the Bucha massacre, we reiterate our unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, building on our Warsaw Declaration of 19 November, our Berlin Declaration of 12 December and our Paris Declaration of 12 February.

    Ukraine has shown its strong commitment to peace, also by agreeing to a full ceasefire without preconditions. However, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has not ceased. Instead of imposing new conditions and launching continued attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure that cause more and more victims, Russia must now show it is serious about ending its war.  We call on Russia to stop its delaying tactics and reciprocate by agreeing without delay, as Ukraine has done, to an immediate unconditional ceasefire on equal terms and implementing it fully. We need to see progress within a clear timeframe.

    Building on the recent meetings in Paris and London, we took forward the discussion on how best to support a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, which is vital for Ukraine, for Europe and for the whole international community.

    We remain committed to further political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, together with our international partners. To this end, we will strengthen Ukraine through significant short and long-term military support, also in the framework of Capability Coalitions and the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, which will hold its next meeting on 11 April. Many European partners, including the members of this group, have made substantive additional pledges to support Ukraine militarily and are planning similar commitments in the future.

    We also stand ready to apply further pressure on Russia using all tools available, including by adopting new sanctions, to hinder its ability to wage its war of aggression and to ensure Ukraine is placed in the best position possible to secure a just and lasting peace. We reiterate that Russia’s assets should remain immobilized until Russia ceases its war of aggression against Ukraine and compensates it for the damage caused.

    We are also strongly committed to ensuring full accountability for war crimes and the other most serious crimes committed in connection with Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The progress made on establishing a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, within the framework of the Council of Europe, is an important step.

    A credible pathway to peace must include humanitarian relief efforts, notably the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilians and the return of all Ukrainian children and other civilians unlawfully deported and transferred to Russia and Belarus.

    We support efforts for a ceasefire that can lead to the establishment of a just and lasting peace. We welcome recent progress to define the essential elements for a viable and sustainable ceasefire, including a clear framework of monitoring and verification.

    Peace must be sustainable, backed by effective guarantees to prevent further acts of aggression. Real, robust and credible security guarantees for Ukraine are an indispensable element of a just and lasting peace, based on Ukraine’s sovereign right to determine its security relationships with its partners, and on the duty of the international community to prevent future Russian aggression. We stand ready to play a leading role in this regard.

    Peace must be just, and Russia’s war of aggression cannot end with a reward to the aggressor. There can be no agreement that compromises on Euro-Atlantic security and the independence, sovereignty territorial integrity of Ukraine. We will not accept any agreement that restricts Ukraine’s military and defence industry or the military presence of partner countries in Ukraine.

    We stand ready to do our share in order to achieve this peace. Europe now provides almost two thirds of all support to Ukraine, and 60% of military aid. We reiterate our ironclad commitment to NATO as the bedrock of Euro-Atlantic security and commit to take on greater responsibility for the future of the security and defense of the European continent, aiming at a significant result at the summit in The Hague.

    We reiterate the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny and to defend its democracy. Ukraine’s future is in Europe and in the European Union, and Ukraine’s future is crucial for the security of Europe. Europe must be fully involved in the negotiations and will make its own decisions.  

    We remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s repair, recovery and reconstruction, in coordination with international partners.

    We reaffirm our commitment to our democratic values, and to further engage with our global partners in order to promote together a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on the universal principles of the United Nations Charter.

    We reaffirm that Europe must assume more responsibility for its own security and become better equipped and deal with immediate and future challenges.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Downing Street opens doors to Adolescence creators for vital discussion on protecting our children

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Downing Street opens doors to Adolescence creators for vital discussion on protecting our children

    The Prime Minister met with Adolescence creators, charities and young people to discuss the issues raised in the series during a meeting focused on rethinking adolescent safety today.

    • Prime Minister convenes conversation on rethinking adolescent safety and how to prevent young boys being dragged into “whirlpool of hatred and misogyny”
    • Downing Street welcomes Adolescence creators, charities and young people to listen to experiences of children today
    • Backed by the Prime Minister, students to watch Netflix drama Adolescence for free in secondary schools across the country

    Today the Prime Minister met with Adolescence creators, charities and young people to discuss the issues raised in the series during a meeting focused on rethinking adolescent safety.

    Joined by Adolescence co-writer Jack Thorne and producer Jo Johnson, the group met to discuss the challenges facing children and parents today. It also looked at how the Government can work in collaboration to ensure young people have the right tools, support and environment to learn about healthy relationships.

    The meeting comes as Netflix makes the drama free to all secondary schools across the country through the Into Film+ schools streaming service and backed by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons. The series will help students better understand the impact of misogyny, dangers of online radicalisation and the importance of healthy relationships.

    Giving children the best start in life, making our communities safer and preventing young people falling into crime are central to this government’s Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    As a father, watching this show with my teenage son and daughter, I can tell you – it hit home hard.  

    It’s an important initiative to encourage as many pupils as possible to watch the show. As I see from my own children, openly talking about changes in how they communicate, the content they’re seeing, and exploring the conversations they’re having with their peers is vital if we are to properly support them in navigating contemporary challenges, and deal with malign influences.

    This isn’t a challenge politicians can simply legislate for. Believe me, if I could pull a lever to solve it, I would. Only by listening and learning from the experiences of young people and charities can we tackle the issues this groundbreaking show raises.

    At the meeting, the Prime Minister set out how this issue is personal to him. After years spent working as the Director of Public Prosecutions, he has seen the devastation that misogyny and violence leaves behind, and how it tears through families and communities.   

    Charities invited to Downing Street include the NSPCC, Movember, Beyond Quality, Children’s Society as well as a young person who shared their own experience of becoming immersed in similar online content.

    The Prime Minister was also joined by Netflix and Tender charity who have provided resources and guides for parents, carers and teachers on the issues explored in Adolescence, as well as Into Film, the charity enabling the free viewing in schools via its Into Film+ schools streaming service.

    Jack Thorne, Adolescence Co-Writer, said: 

    We made this show to provoke a conversation. We wanted to pose the question – how do we help stop this growing crisis. So to have the opportunity to take this into schools is beyond our expectations. We hope it’ll lead to teachers talking to the students, but what we really hope is it’ll lead to students talking amongst themselves.

    Anne Mensah, Netflix VP UK Content, said:

    Adolescence has captured the national mood, sparking important conversations and helping articulate the pressures young people and parents face in today’s society.

    We’re incredibly proud of the impact the show has made, and are delighted to be able to offer it to all schools across the UK through Into Film+. As part of this, healthy relationships charity Tender will create resources for teachers and parents to help them navigate the important topics the show explores.

    The Government has taken action to ensure it is protecting children from the issues raised in the series.

    The Online Safety Act’s illegal content duties have come into force targeting the most harmful material including extreme pornography.

    From the summer, platforms will also have to ensure children have an age-appropriate experience online preventing them from seeing dangerous content which includes abusive and hateful misogyny and violence.  

    The Online Safety Act is not the end of the conversation but the foundation. As the Prime Minister has done so today, the Government is committed to listening and will not hesitate to strengthen the law further where necessary.  

    The Government is also reviewing the relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) statutory guidance, following a consultation that closed last summer. It is closely looking at the consultation responses, engaging with stakeholders and considering the relevant evidence before setting out next steps to take the guidance forward. 

    Maria Neophytou, NSPCC Director of Strategy & Knowledge said:

    The debates around the Netflix series Adolescence, and the themes within it, are both disturbing and important. Today’s meeting with the Prime Minister was a critical milestone for young people and for the NSPCC; a chance to come together and discuss what we can do to ensure young people are growing up in healthy, happy and safe environments.

    The online world is being polluted by harmful and misogynistic content which is having a direct impact on the development of young people’s thinking and behaviours. This cannot be allowed to continue.

    It is vital young people have access to high-quality, age-appropriate lessons in school about healthy relationships and understand why misogyny is so harmful and has no place in our society. And that parents have guidance and support around how to keep their children safe online. But we can’t expect teachers and parents to do all the heavy lifting.

    Tech companies must now put the wellbeing of children first, as demanded by the Online Safety Act. They have a responsibility to ensure their platforms and sites are safe by design for young users: that age limits are enforced, that children’s privacy is respected, that algorithms are not targeting and bombarding them with harmful content, and that there are clear and simple ways for young users to complain about what they are experiencing online and seek support.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work begins on new affordable homes at former Cowan’s Close depot site

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Construction has begun on a new residential development in Newington which will provide 19 modern, fully wheelchair-accessible homes available for social rent.

    Work commenced today (Monday 31 March), with the project expected to be completed by summer 2026.

    Upon completion, the homes will provide much-needed wheelchair accommodation in a city centre location whilst incorporating innovative, energy efficient design features. A fabric first approach with high levels of insulation will ensure that the homes stay warm, reducing the level of heating needed and helping to prevent fuel poverty.

    The development will also include renewable heating and energy generation with the use of Air Source Heat Pumps and Photovoltaic (solar) panels which will produce low-cost, sustainable energy and significantly reduce carbon emission from the development.

    Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said:

    Edinburgh is in urgent need of new affordable and accessible homes to address the shortage of suitable accommodation options for residents who have disabilities and residents who are wheelchair users.

    I am therefore delighted that the new Cowan’s Close development in Newington is now underway to provide 19 new, modern, fully wheelchair accessible homes for social rent.

    CCG Managing Director, David Wylie, said:

    We are delighted to have commenced construction at Cowan’s Close. The project is another great example of how The City of Edinburgh Council and CCG are working collaboratively to address the demand for new, affordable homes in the city, and it will be a much welcome addition to the Newington community upon completion next year.

    Published: March 31st 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham City Council declares major incident

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Monday, 31st March 2025

    Birmingham City Council has today declared a major incident to address the impact of the waste service industrial action.

    The council has a contingency plan using our limited resources to collect from all properties in the city once a week, but actions on the picket line have prevented us from doing this.

    The daily blocking of our depots by pickets has meant that we cannot get our vehicles out to collect waste from residents. Often, we can only get one vehicle out per hour.

    This has meant that to date around 17,000 tonnes of waste remains uncollected across the city.

    This has led to rising concerns of risks to public health and damage to our environment.

    The council is already working to an emergency plan; declaring a major incident will initially allow the council to:

    • Quickly increase the availability of street cleansing and fly-tip removal with an additional 35 vehicles and crews around the city.
    • Work with partners to better manage the risks the city is facing, including health and fire risks and allow for increased data and intelligence sharing. Initially this will be focussed upon support to allow our vehicles to safely exists and enter our depots on time.
    • Allow the council to explore what further support is available from neighbouring authorities and government to assist us in managing the situation.

    Councillor John Cotton, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “It’s regrettable that we have had to take this step, but we cannot tolerate a situation that is causing harm and distress to communities across Birmingham.

    “I respect the right to strike and protest, however actions on the picket line must be lawful and sadly the behaviour of some now means we are seeing a significant impact on residents and the city’s environment.

    “Unless we declare a major incident and deploy the waste service’s contingency plan, then we would be unable to clear the backlog of waste on the streets or improve the frequency of collections.

    “I want to thank residents for their continued patience under difficult circumstances and the community groups who have been working hard within their communities to help with clear-up.

    “I would reiterate that we have made a fair and reasonable offer to our workers which means none of them have to lose any money and I would urge Unite to reconsider their position.”

    The council usually deploys around 200 vehicles over 8-hour daily shifts. Our contingency allows 90 vehicles per day but because of pickets blocking depots they are deployed much later and therefore for shorter working periods.

    Normally we would make well over 500,000 collections per week. Our strike contingency would mean 360,000 but due to the blockade of depots we are doing far below this.

    • Our waste collection rate against our reduced service plan (one single collection per property / week) has declined from 87% in the week of 10th March, to 64% in the week of 17th March, to 17% in the week of 24th March. 
    • The daily rate of accumulation of uncollected waste in the city has increased from 483 tonnes per day in the week of 10th March, to 655 tonnes per day in the week of 17th March, to almost 900 tonnes per day in the week of 24th March. 
    • We estimate there are now over 17,000 tons of uncollected rubbish in the city.

    Notes to editors –

    Our contingency arrangements include:

    • We are now running a significantly reduced service to maintain a single weekly collection to each property in the city to maintain public health and safety.
    • We have suspended recycling, green waste, bulky waste and paused the introduction of food waste collection.
    • We have increased the opening hours of our household waste recycling centres. We will now look to increase these hours further to increase capacity.
    • We have increased the availability of our Mobile Household Waste collection vehicles from five to seven days a week.
    • We are increasing caretaking capacity for BCC tower blocks to avoid the build-up of refuse and improve fire safety.
    • We have established a multi-agency response with key partners including police to share information and ensure we can deploy our vehicles on time from our depots
    • We have increased the opening hours of our household waste recycling centres. We will now look to increase these hours further to increase capacity.
    • We have increased the availability of our Mobile Household Waste collection vehicles from five to seven days a week.
    • We are increasing caretaking capacity for BCC tower blocks to avoid the build-up of refuse and improve fire safety

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Announces Intention to Appoint Nursing Provider for Two Liverpool Care Homes

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council has completed a competitive tender process to appoint a new nursing care provider for Millvina nursing home in Anfield and Brushwood nursing home in Speke. 

    The tender, launched in February 2025, invited qualified providers to submit proposals for delivering high-quality nursing care across both homes. 

    The Council, which owns both buildings, took over the management of the homes last year, with Mersey Care delivering nursing care. This was because the previous provider had decided to withdraw. Mersey Care subsequently informed the Council it did not wish to continue providing nursing care after May 2025, triggering the tender process.

    Following a thorough evaluation of all submissions, the Council can announce that it intends to award the contract for nursing provision to Primary Care 24 Merseyside Ltd (PC24).

    In line with procurement regulations, an 8 working day standstill period is now in place allowing bidders to review the outcome and raise any questions before the contract is formally awarded.  

    Liverpool City Council reaffirms its commitment to residents, families, and staff by making clear assurances that health, safety, and wellbeing remains the highest priority and there will be no disruption to care services during the transition to the new provider.

    Engagement with care home residents and staff has already begun and will continue throughout the standstill period and beyond, to ensure everyone is fully informed and supported. 

    Cllr Angela Coleman, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services, said:“As we move forward, our priority remains the same, to ensure that residents continue to receive the highest-quality, compassionate care, and that everyone feels supported every step of the way.

    “Our care homes are of the utmost importance to us, and we know how much they mean to the people who live and work there. We are committed to ensuring this transition is as smooth, respectful, reassuring with everyone involved.”

    Corporate Director for Adult Social Care, Health and Homelessness, Anne Marie Lubanski said: “The health and wellbeing of our residents and their families is at the heart of everything we do. We understand how important it is that people feel supported and reassured during this time of change. 

    “That’s why we’re committed to working together to ensure the best possible care is in place, both now and in the future. 

    “This decision follows a thorough and careful process, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the organisations who submitted applications to support the care of our residents.”

    “In particular, I want to thank Mersey Care for their commitment and compassion in supporting Millvina and Brushwood. Their contribution has been deeply valued, and we are truly grateful for the care they have provided.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study on association between postpartum hormonal contraceptive use and risk of depression

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at postpartum hormonal contraceptive use and depression risk. 

    Dr John Reynolds-Wright, NES/CSO Clinical Lecturer in Sexual & Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, said:

    “This retrospective registry study indicates an association between use of hormonal contraception in the first year post-partum with either being prescribed an anti-depressant or being labelled with a discharge diagnosis of depression in the Danish national healthcare electronic records.

    “It does not demonstrate causation of depression by hormonal contraception.

    “When examining the absolute risk of being prescribed an anti-depressant (or receiving the discharge diagnosis of depression), these risks are small and comparable for users (1.54%) and non-users (1.36%) of hormonal contraception in the twelve months following a first live birth in this cohort.

    “The study excluded women who had given birth previously and did not consider previous history of depression (or anti-depressant prescription) longer than 2 years ago. Considering both of these aspects may have altered the findings of the study.

     “The authors conclude that “the incidence of depression post partum may be inflated by routine HC initiation, which is important information to convey at postpartum contraceptive counseling” however this study has not convincingly shown that incidence of depression is higher – anti-depressants may be prescribed for a range of indications, not only depression – and so changing advice about postpartum contraception is not supported.

     “Further, any small increased risk (0.18% higher of being prescribed an anti-depressant or being diagnosed with depression), needs to be balanced against the benefits brought by post-partum contraception to allow women to space births, which improves their and their baby’s health in multiple ways, and gives them reproductive freedom in their lives.

     “We must cautiously interpret the recommendations and findings of this study, particularly given the current global political climate, where reproductive rights are continually under threat.”

    ‘Postpartum Hormonal Contraceptive Use and Risk of Depression’ by Søren Vinther Larsen et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time Monday 31 March 2025.

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.2474

    Declared interests

    Dr John Reynolds-Wright:

    –              Associate Editor, BMJ Sexual and Reproductive Health

    –              Evidence Advisor, British Society of Abortion Care Providers

    –              I have received research funding from HRA Pharma (Perrigo) and Exelgyn (Nordic Pharma)

    –              I have received support to attend international conferences from Gedeon Richter (travel, hotel, conference registration)

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Have your say on bus stop improvements for faster, more reliable and more accessible bus travel in Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth residents are being invited to share their views on plans to improve bus stops across the city.

    These proposals follow Portsmouth City Council’s 2024 bus stop accessibility survey, where members of the public were asked what changes they would like to see to make bus stops more accessible for everyone. Bus drivers were also asked to contribute and share their thoughts on where improvements could be made. This is part of efforts to speed up bus journey’s and make taking the bus better for all.

    This project is funded by the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan, £52 million of government investment designed to improve bus services in Portsmouth.

    Improvements have been suggested at bus stops across the city, including, Oakwood Road, Doyle Avenue, Knox Road, Angerstein Road, Kings Theatre, College Park, Hayling Avenue, St Luke’s Church, Milton Road, Copythorn Road and Charles Dickens Birthplace.

    Proposals at these stops include making changes which will speed up bus journey times and help buses to get out of stops easily, as well as changes to pathways and stops to make bus stops easier for people to get on and off with a pram or in a wheelchair.

    Encouraging more people to choose the bus not only reduces traffic congestion, but it also contributes to better air quality, creating a healthier environment for everyone. This is one of the many initiatives the council is implementing to support bus travel including: a new bus bus ticket range, fare free days, and improvements to bus services such as more frequent buses, and 24-hour bus routes.

    Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Making bus travel accessible for everyone is a key part of our efforts to improve transport in Portsmouth. These proposed bus stop upgrades will help ensure that everyone can access buses with ease and comfort, while also reducing congestion and improving our city’s air quality.”

    How to get involved

    Residents are encouraged to provide their feedback by 5pm on Friday 11 April. To have your say, email citytravel@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or write to BSIP Team, Floor 2, Portsmouth City Council, Civic Offices Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 2AL

    Once the feedback has been collected, the council will review all views before making a decision. If the improvements move forward work is expected to begin later this year.

    More information about the proposed improvements can be found on the council website travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip-schemes/bus-stop-improvements/

    More information about the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan

    The Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is Portsmouth’s visionary delivery scheme aligned with the government’s National Bus Strategy and aims to dramatically improve bus services in Portsmouth and to encourage passengers back to the bus.

    This programme is managed by an enhanced partnership between local bus companies Stagecoach South, First Solent and Portsmouth City Council. With a £52 million grant from the Department for Transport (DfT) the Portsmouth BSIP aims to increase bus usage in Portsmouth by engaging with the local community and transforming the bus network in the city so that it is faster, more reliable, and more affordable.

    The Portsmouth BSIP has already funded early morning travel, and later night services, tap on tap off technology, fare free weekends to encourage residents to try the bus, Christmas Day bus services and much more, with even more exciting developments planned for 2025.

    According to the latest Department for Transport (DfT) figures, Portsmouth has seen a 20% rise in bus passengers in 2024 and is recognised as the top city for bringing people back to bus travel, with over 12 million bus journeys taken. These achievements were recognised at the UK Bus Awards in 2024, with Portsmouth winning gold in the Partnership for Excellence category.

    More information can be found on our website: https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: ONDCP Recognizes Law Enforcement’s Work to Stop Drug Traffickers

    Source: The White House

    class=”wp-block-heading has-text-align-center”>National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Awards Ceremony Recognizes Excellence Across 14 Key Categories

    Washington, D.C.—Last night, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) recognized individuals and initiatives of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program at the 2025 National HIDTA Awards Ceremony for their critical work to combat the national security threat posed by drug traffickers, including those who traffic deadly illicit fentanyl in the United States, killing tens of thousands of Americans each year.  

    The Trump Administration is taking the fight to the cartels and drug traffickers in order to save American lives. The HIDTA Program plays a key role in disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations and provides assistance to federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug trafficking regions across all 50 states. Last year, the 33 HIDTAs seized 4.1 million pounds of fentanyl and other drugs and denied drug traffickers $17.7 billion in illicit profits. For every dollar invested in the HIDTA Program, the American people get $68.07 in benefits, making HIDTA an effective and efficient use of taxpayers’ money, and an important tool in the nation’s effort to stop drug traffickers and save American lives.  

    The following awards were presented March 27 to individuals and initiatives of the HIDTA Program for their efforts to reduce the supply and trafficking of dangerous drugs in communities across the country: 

    INVESTIGATIVE COLLABORATION

    Chicago HIDTA, Chicago HIDTA Counternarcotics and Cryptocurrency Task Force

    Created to identify, disrupt, and dismantle transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), the Chicago HIDTA Counternarcotics and Cryptocurrency Task Force (CNCTF) targeted one of the largest, fastest-growing dark net markets in the world – Nemesis Market. This marketplace facilitated drug trafficking, fraud, hacking, and other illicit activities responsible for more than $20 million in illicit transactions to more than 150,000 registered users around the world. Led by DEA and comprising an array of federal and local partners, CNCTF undertook Operation Keyboard Warrior, which received designation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). In March 2024, CNCTF, working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the German Bundescriminalamt, disrupted Nemesis Market by executing simultaneous, multinational search and seizure warrants on critical technological infrastructure. The warrants resulted in nearly $1 million in frozen and seized cryptocurrency-related assets, twelve computer servers, various electronic devices, and terabytes of data containing financial records and personal information of more than 1,000 vendors trafficking in drugs and engaging in fraud, hacking, and forgeries on the marketplace. CNCTF leveraged this information to effect arrests and warrants in eight U.S. federal districts, and provided investigative leads to foreign law enforcement counterparts in multiple countries using international treaty-based disclosure agreements that were novel to cyber cases.

    PROSECUTION

    South Florida HIDTA, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Gerarde and Sean McLaughlin

    With the support of the South Florida HIDTA and assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Kevin Gerarde and Sean McLaughlin secured a jury verdict against the Premier of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) for drug trafficking. Andrew Fahie, who was elected as the Premier in 2019, was accused of assisting the Sinaloa Cartel in transporting loads of cocaine weighing three metric tons from the coast of Colombia through the BVI en route to the United States for distribution. In exchange for his assistance, Fahie allegedly received a 12 percent cut of the proceeds when the cocaine was sold in the United States. After an extensive undercover operation conducted with the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, DEA arrested Fahie. In prosecuting Fahie, AUSAs Gerarde and McLaughlin overcame a variety of evidentiary challenges, including United Kingdom and BVI foreign law determinations regarding the applicability of U.S. money laundering statutes. On February 8, 2024, the jury returned a verdict finding Fahie guilty on all counts, and he was subsequently sentenced to 135 months imprisonment.

    PUBLIC HEALTH/PUBLIC SAFETY COLLABORATION

    Texoma HIDTA, Caprock Drug Initiative

    The Texoma HIDTA’s Caprock Initiative launched a program at the behest of local officials to address alarming increases in fentanyl overdoses in and around Lubbock, Texas. Since its inception, the program has reached nearly 26 thousand individuals from all walks of life. Undertaken with substantial support from the United States Attorney’s Office, the Texas Anti-Gang Center, and the Lubbock County District Attorney’s Office, the program has become the most requested fentanyl awareness presentation in the South Plains region. It has been presented to numerous local schools, including to the Texas Tech football team. The program provides candid, factual information from people in recovery, overdose survivors, and families of overdose victims. It is credited with raising public awareness and contributing to a reduction in overdoses in the region.

    HIDTA SUPPORT

    Atlanta Carolinas HIDTA, Lydia Sheffield

    Lydia Sheffield has served the Atlanta Carolinas HIDTA for two decades, providing continuity with her outstanding support to three executive directors. In addition to her myriad duties as the Executive Assistant, Ms. Sheffield is the primary Performance Management Process (PMP) Coordinator for the HIDTA, and has established herself as an expert user of PMP. In that role, she has generously provided training to PMP users from multiple other regional HIDTAs at the behest of the National HIDTA Assistance Center and to National HIDTA Program staff. Ms. Sheffield has drawn upon her own background and experience as a skilled trainer to develop curriculum materials to support trainings to both peer PMP coordinators and initiative commanders across the United States.

    INVESTIGATION INVOLVING INNOVATIVE APPROACHES

    Gulf Coast HIDTA, Mobile Baldwin Major Investigations Team

    In 2023, the Mobile Baldwin Major Investigations Team (MBMIT) began investigating a deactivated DEA confidential source who was coordinating large shipments of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine from Texas and Georgia into the Mobile, Alabama area. Because the former source was familiar with law enforcement communication and investigative techniques and was still being used by local law enforcement agencies, the source was emboldened to conduct illicit drug-related transactions via an end-to-end encrypted phone app. MBMIT agents successfully executed a search warrant to clone the source’s phone and initiated real-time Title III intercepts of the encrypted app. This was the first time an end-to-end encryption application was successfully intercepted in the New Orleans Division and only the third time this type of intercept had been conducted worldwide within DEA. The success of this investigative technique enabled 120 electronic and voice Title III intercepts resulting in 24 state and federal arrests, the seizure of 19 kilograms of cocaine and 20 kilograms of methamphetamine, and the seizure of over $500,000 in cash, jewelry, and vehicles. Additionally, these intercepts lead to the identification and follow-on investigation of regional drug traffickers in the United States with links to multiple Mexican TCOs.

    INTELLIGENCE AND INFORMATION SHARING

    Nevada HIDTA, Investigative Research Assistant Phillip Scichilone

    In early 2024, the Nevada Highway Patrol received a tip regarding a suspicious trucking company suspected of transporting illicit drugs from northern Nevada across the county, and subsequently passed the tip to Investigative Research Assistant Phillip Scichilone. Mr. Scichilone provided Northern Nevada Interdiction Task Force members with key intelligence related to the travel patterns of the vehicle involved, suspicious financial activity of the trucking company, and identification of the suspected owner and driver of the vehicle. The task force used this information to interdict the vehicle involved, resulting in the seizure of approximately $1 million and the identification of the driver and passenger, who were suspected of being linked to a known terrorist organization. After conducting follow-up analysis linking the suspects to out-of-state DEA and FBI investigations, Mr. Scichilone connected representatives of both agencies to deconflict and share information and then worked with both agencies to pass on key intelligence information.

    INTERDICTION

    New England HIDTA, Greater Boston HIDTA Task Force

    The Greater Boston HIDTA Task Force, co-led by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), initiated an investigation targeting a California-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) involved in large-scale illicit drug smuggling, distribution, and transportation from the Southwest Border to destinations throughout the United States and Canada. The initial phase of this ongoing investigation resulted in the disruption of a large-scale criminal enterprise with two arrests and the interdiction of 32 kilograms of methamphetamine and 490 kilograms of cocaine from a tractor trailer that traveled cross country to meet with undercover law enforcement agents in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts State Police have claimed this to be the largest seizure of narcotics from a tractor trailer in New England history, and the ongoing investigation has wide-ranging impact on DTO operations in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

    INVESTIGATION INVOLVING A VIOLENT ORGANIZATION

    Texoma HIDTA, ATF Oklahoma City Violent Crime Initiative

    The ATF Oklahoma City Violent Crime Initiative led interagency Operation Sonic Boom that used information from the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to overlay maps of Oklahoma City with shooting incidents to identify critical, high gun violence areas to deploy additional resources. In a 60-day operation, ATF Confidential Sources and Undercover Agents conducted 117 undercover firearm purchases that led to the indictment of 64 defendants and the seizure of 110 firearms, 83 machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), 53 kilograms of methamphetamine, 5 kilograms of cocaine, and more than 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl tablets. Highlighting the critical links between the undercover operations in this case and the ongoing violent crime investigations in Oklahoma City, twelve of the firearms purchased by undercover agents had confirmed links in NIBIN to open shooting and homicide cases by violent criminal gangs in the greater Oklahoma City area. From a HIDTA perspective, the case was also a statistical success, with investigators identifying eight separate Drug Trafficking or Money Laundering Organizations and disrupting six of them during the course of the operation. 

    COMMUNITY IMPACT INVESTIGATION

    Northwest HIDTA, DEA Bellingham Regional HIDTA Task Force

    Over the past year, the DEA Bellingham Regional HIDTA Task Force (BRHTF) initiated an investigation that resulted in a substantial impact concerning public safety and health on the greater Lummi Nation Tribal Lands. Over a one-year period, BRHTF, along with partner agencies, seized over 850,000 fentanyl pills, seven kilograms of fentanyl powder, seven kilograms of cocaine, 29 illicit firearms, over $120,000 in U.S. currency, and disrupted a centralized DTO responsible for trafficking and distributing fentanyl and other drugs in the Lummi Nation within Whatcom County, WA. This investigation resulted in a notable decrease in both fentanyl availability and overdose deaths on Lummi Tribal Lands.

    OVERDOSE REDUCTION

    South Texas HIDTA, Laredo DEA HIDTA Task Force

    In 2023, the DEA Laredo District Office created a HIDTA Overdose Task Force initiative to address the dramatic rise in overdose deaths in Laredo, Texas, and its surrounding communities. The City of Laredo experienced 21 overdose deaths in 2021, rose to 41 overdose deaths in 2022, and was on pace to experience nearly 100 overdose deaths in 2023, when the task force was launched. Formed with multiple local and federal agencies and comprising six task force officers, the task force proved to be effective, with Laredo reporting 73 deaths in 2023, well short of the expected numbers. Throughout 2024, Laredo and its surrounding communities experienced 40 overdose deaths, and preliminary data indicate the city is on pace for a remarkable 45 percent decrease.

    INVESTIGATION

    Arizona HIDTA, Metro Intelligence Support and Technical Investigative Center (MISTIC)

    Throughout 2024, the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) Drug Enforcement Bureau’s (DEB) Conspiracy Squad and the DEA Phoenix Field Division’s Financial Investigations Group (FIG) conducted a long-term, complex investigation that targeted a TCO responsible for the trafficking and distribution of bulk quantities of illicit drugs, as well as for money laundering. Investigators conducted 2,000 hours of surveillance, utilized 225 court orders and search warrants, and initiated 35 wire intercepts targeting TCO members. Through the course of this investigation, detectives identified, disrupted, and dismantled the international drug trafficking activities of both foreign and United States-based sources of supply, load coordinators, couriers, stash house operators, and distribution coordinators, while also dismantling metropolitan Phoenix-based DTO operations.

    TASK FORCE OF THE YEAR

    Appalachia HIDTA, Appalachia HIDTA Diversion Task Force

    In response to an influx of counterfeit pharmaceuticals flooding southeastern Kentucky that were contributing to a rise in drug poisoning deaths, investigators with the Appalachia HIDTA Diversion Drug Task Force initiated an investigation into a dark net market distributor operating under the name GreenBeansUSA. This investigation was conducted jointly with the Appalachia HIDTA DEA London Task Force in coordination with the FBI, Internal Revenue Service, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service under the OCDETF Operation “Loyal Business.” Investigators identified GreenBeansUSA as a global supplier responsible for the sale and distribution of over 16 million counterfeit pharmaceutical pills, and the receipt of over $11 million in drug proceeds in the form of illicit cryptocurrency. In the course of the operation, investigators issued more than 200 grand jury subpoenas, 47 pen registers, 8 ping orders, Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) requests, IP analysis, blockchain and cluster analysis, 2703(d) orders, undercover purchases, undercover money laundering operations, pole cameras, and electronic search warrants to multiple telecommunications and technological entities. Their efforts resulted in federal indictments of six key members of the organization, the seizure of 11 kilograms of controlled pharmaceuticals (nitazene, benzodiazepine, and ketamine), six pill press machines, and approximately $1.2 million in assets.

    HIDTA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

    Ohio HIDTA, Sergeant Breck Williamson, Ohio State Highway Patrol

    Sergeant Breck Williamson has distinguished himself as both a prolific and successful interdictor of illicit drugs transiting the nation’s highways, and as an expert instructor and mentor to other officers conducting highway interdictions. Since October 2023, Sergeant Williamson has personally seized over 405 pounds of methamphetamines, 11 pounds of fentanyl, 141 pounds of cocaine, 3,203 pounds of marijuana, and $135,000 in U.S. currency. He also serves as an instructor for both the El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC) and the Drug Interdiction Awareness Program (DIAP), sharing his expertise with hundreds of students throughout the past year. In addition to his day-to-day supervisory and highway interdiction duties, Sergeant Williamson is a DEA task force officer and is regularly called upon by DEA offices nationwide to advise on interdiction tactics and techniques.

    HIDTA OF THE YEAR

    SOUTH FLORIDA HIDTA

    The South Florida HIDTA has demonstrated an exemplary capacity for multidimensional vision and leadership. Through its Executive Director and Executive Board, it has targeted emerging threats, such as synthetic drugs, while remaining steadfastly committed to the interdiction of metric tons of cocaine destined for the United States from South America. It has inspired national efforts, like the launch of Crime Gun Intelligence Centers in HIDTA regions across the United States, without losing focus of the core HIDTA mission to disrupt and dismantle DTOs and while maintaining deep and sustaining partnerships at the local level. It has launched enterprising collaborations with law enforcement partners, such as partnering with the Federal Aviation Administration to access radar interdiction operability and records of straw registration of aircraft, while embracing public health initiatives focused on overdose reduction and drug use prevention.

    Among its many accomplishments, in 2023 South Florida HIDTA initiatives dismantled or disrupted 54 DTOs, of which 19 were international in scope and nearly 20 percent were OCDETF-designated or linked to consolidated or regional priority organization targets. Task forces seized illicit drugs with a total estimated value of $748 million, including 23 metric tons of cocaine, 248 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 224 kilograms of fentanyl. South Florida HIDTA initiatives also seized more than $105 million in cash and other assets, delivering a return on investment of $56.22 for every dollar financed by the National HIDTA Program. Finally, in pursuit of one of its most vital functions – ensuring officer safety – the South Florida HIDTA provided deconfliction services to all its partners, preventing more than 400 “blue on blue” incidents.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK statement in the Kimberley Process: March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK statement in the Kimberley Process: March 2025

    The UK’s Explanation of Position during the adoption of the Kimberley Process Resolution (A/RES/79/275) General Assembly.

    The United Kingdom thanks the United Arab Emirates for bringing this important proposed resolution forward,

    The United Kingdom is a proud founding member of the Kimberley Process, and we are committed to its values and principles of accountability, transparency and collaboration.  

    As a tripartite body, we value the Civil Society Coalition, African Diamond Producers’ Association and World Diamond Council’s roles in the Kimberley Process because they all bring expertise that strengthens the body.

    The Civil Society Coalition elevates the voices of marginalised people, including in the extractives industry, and it is crucial for the Coalition’s voice to be engaged in the Kimberley Process’ decision making.

    Colleagues, the current definition of conflict diamonds is solely focused on rebel movements using revenue from rough diamonds to overthrow legitimate governments. This is not enough.

    Although the Kimberley Process has succeeded in many areas – we regret that to date, the Kimberley Process has not reached consensus in agreeing a broadened definition of conflict diamonds despite in 2012 agreeing that there is urgent need to agree a definition that captures the evolving nature of conflicts and realities on the ground.

    We reiterate the need for members of the Kimberley Process to work collaboratively and are pleased that it is in that spirit the resolution reiterates the pressing need for the Ad-Hoc Committee on Review and Reform to achieve consensus on a broadened definition of conflict diamonds.

    We look forward to continuing this dialogue.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pub-owning businesses agree minimum standards for tenants on short agreements

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Pub-owning businesses agree minimum standards for tenants on short agreements

    The 6 regulated pub-owning businesses have worked together with the PCA to agree minimum standards in dealing with tied tenants on short agreements over and above what the Pubs Code requires.

    A tenancy at will or short agreement is often used by pub companies to enable a tenant to begin operating a pub while a longer-term agreement is finalised. Such an agreement can provide an opportunity for both parties to understand whether the business relationship will work, and it can be a good introduction to the trade for a new operator.

    If the business relationship is going to develop well, it is vital that the operator on a short agreement gets off to the right start. These transparent minimum standards for dealing fairly with tenants on short agreements can support them in their businesses.

    Most rights in the Pubs Code do not apply to tenants on short agreements. However, those entering into such an agreement do have the right to certain information from their pub company and must be advised to complete pubs entry training unless they have certain business experience. A short agreement under the Pubs Code is a tied agreement which is either a tenancy at will or a tied tenancy which (when considered together with any other agreements) entitles the tenant to occupy the pub for under 12 months.

    Using the relevant Pubs Code rights of tenants on substantive agreements as a guide, the pub companies regulated under the Pubs Code have worked together with the PCA to agree minimum standards. While largely reflecting existing business practices, these standards provide clarity to those entering into a short agreement on what they can expect from their pub company in addition to what the Pubs Code requires.

    Fiona Dickie said:

    “Everyone wants tied tenants to do well, and getting off to a strong start is essential. Those on tenancies at will and other short agreements are entitled to be treated fairly. It is particularly important that they should be advised not to invest their own money in the pub when on agreements which can be terminated at short notice. I’m pleased that the regulated pub companies have agreed to a consistent set of minimum standards to reflect their business practices over and above what the Pubs Code requires them to do. This should help tied tenants to understand what they can expect from their relationship with them”.

    The short agreements minimum standards document can be found here: Short agreements – minimum standards (March 2025) – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –