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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NWS appoints Seth Kybird as Interim CEO

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    NWS appoints Seth Kybird as Interim CEO

    Seth joins NWS from Nuclear Transport Solutions

    Seth Kybird

    Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) has announced that Seth Kybird has been appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NWS. He succeeds Corhyn Parr who has led NWS as CEO since its formation in 2022.

    Read the full story on the NWS website: NWS appoints Seth Kybird as Interim CEO

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NRS seeks up to 40 apprentices

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    NRS seeks up to 40 apprentices

    Applications are now open for the 2025 apprenticeship scheme at Nuclear Restoration Services sites across the UK.

    Stan Smith, apprentice maintenance and operations engineering technician at Oldbury site

    Apprenticeships are available to anyone aged 18 or over as level 2 health physics monitors, level 3 mechanical and electrical engineering technicians or level 6 nuclear engineering degrees.

    These opportunities provide hands-on learning with some of the most experienced nuclear professionals in the world, alongside first-class training providers to support college-based study.

    NRS is committed to supporting the nuclear skills agenda and helping its apprentices to grow and succeed in a diverse and inclusive workplace, while taking forward its nationally important mission to reduce hazards and decommission nuclear sites in all parts of the UK.

    Britney Nembaware, project management apprentice at Harwell site

    Aged 18, Britney Nembaware is one of the youngest currently on the NRS apprentice programme and was particularly drawn to the scheme for the chance to gain real-world project management experience while pursuing her degree. She said:

    I was particularly attracted by the opportunity to make a tangible impact on sustainability, which is something that resonates with me personally.

    The support from my team at Harwell site has been incredible. They’ve helped me grow so quickly, giving me the chance to collaborate on project deliverables, which has been invaluable to my development.

    Every day brings an opportunity to develop. Project management isn’t something you master overnight. It takes time and experience, and this apprenticeship is giving me the tools to keep improving.

    Britney’s journey is only just beginning, with NRS supporting her to see where the apprenticeship opportunity can take her career.

    John Vickerman, Chief People Officer, said:

    We are delighted to offer up to 40 nuclear skills opportunities to help support the UK’s clean energy mission and widen our talent pool even further.

    I am very proud of the success of the NRS apprentice programme. Continued investment in our early careers skills pipeline supports the national nuclear skills goal to double the number of apprentices and graduates every year.

    These opportunities are in addition to 23 apprenticeship positions already advertised in Caithness and North Sutherland supporting NRS Dounreay.

    NDA group graduates and apprentices on a tour of Parliament

    The full list of vacancies and information about how to apply is available on the Energus website here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gaza airstrikes must be “wake-up call” for genocide complicity

    Source: Scottish Greens

    18 Mar 2025 External Affairs

    UK arms sales are causing death and destruction in Gaza.

    More in External Affairs

    The UK government must end its complicity in genocide and finally halt arms sales to Israel, says Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie following news that over 330 Palestinians were killed in airstrikes on Gaza last night.

    With warnings from the United Nations that the majority of people killed in the war in Gaza are women and children, the Scottish Greens have renewed calls for the UK government to terminate arms sales to Israel.

    Mr Harvie said:

    “Under the terms of the ceasefire deal, Israel should have been withdrawing from Gaza by now, but instead they have violated the ceasefire by carrying out nothing less than a massacre.

    “The scale of horror that Israel is inflicting must serve as a wake-up call to our governments to end their role in genocide, and hold the Israeli Government to account for its war crimes.

    “Continuing to arm and support Israel can only lead to further destruction and even more lost lives. It is civilians who are paying the devastating cost of collective punishment, mass displacement and the destruction of schools, hospitals and homes.

    “With a Trump administration that doesn’t even pretend to care about Palestinian rights, the Israeli Government is clearly feeling empowered and knows that they will face no consequences.

    “We cannot allow this to continue any longer. There is a moral obligation on all governments to stop arming Israel and instead hold them accountable for their actions.”

    Mr Harvie also called for the Scottish Government to stop all financial support for companies who are profiting from the war, after reports that Scottish Enterprise has given over £1 million to organizations that arm Israel since the start of the war.

    Mr Harvie added:

    “The Scottish Government has rightly condemned UK complicity, but time and again it has refused to end support for the companies who are enabling and profiting from the killing. It is time for them to put their money where their mouth is and end their hypocrisy.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Choose loose fruit and veg to reduce food waste

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    ABC Borough Council is thrilled to support Food Waste Action Week, running from March 17- 23 which will focus on buying loose fruit and vegetables.

    The campaign, which is the flagship annual event delivered by WRAP’s (Waste and Resources Action Programme) Love Food Hate Waste, helps households develop the tools they need to cut food waste at home.

    This year, Food Waste Action Week will continue to raise awareness of the benefits of buying loose fruit and veg. With food waste costing on average £1,000 for a household of four every year, Food Waste Action Week will help shoppers to save money and waste less food by shopping for loose produce.

    WRAP’s research has identified the potential to reduce household food waste by removing the packaging on uncut fresh fruit and veg, enabling us to buy closer to our needs as well as the ‘bonus’ benefit of eliminating a significant amount of unnecessary packaging.

    Recently, WRAP has called for a packaging ban on 21 fruit and veg items, to be developed via a formal consultation process. This recommendation has been created in consultation with industry stakeholders from across the supply chain. Selling these 21 items loose has the potential to save in the region of 100,000 tonnes of edible fruit and vegetables from being wasted annually in people’s homes as well as saving 13,000 tonnes of plastic film.

    Jackie Bailey, Senior Campaign Manager Love Food Hate Waste, said: “We know buying loose fruit and veg has the potential to significantly cut the amount of food ending up in the bin – now is the time for retailers and shoppers to make that a reality. Increasing loose fruit and veg offerings in store will not only reduce hard to recycle plastics, it will also enable shoppers to buy closer to their needs, slashing waste and stopping tens of thousands of tonnes of CO2 emissions.”

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Cllr Sarah Duffy said simple choices can make big impacts.

    She said: “As a council, we want to support this campaign by encouraging local shops and residents to switch to loose fruit and vegetables as this can make a huge impact on reducing food waste and plastic as well as reducing costs.”

    To find out how you can play your part please visit – www.wrap.ngo/take-action/love-food-hate-waste

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council cash boost welcomed for Health and Social Care partnership

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Aberdeen City Council’s budget approval of an additional £9.536 million in funding for the city’s Health and Social Care partnership was welcomed at today’s (Tuesday 18 March) meeting of the Integration Joint Board (IJB),

    The additional funding agreed at the Council’s Budget meeting on 5 March brings the local authority’s investment in the IJB to £140m for the coming 12 months and helps the Partnership balance its 2025/26 budget, deliver frontline services and transform its operations.  

    Councillor Alex McLellan, the Council’s Finance and Resources Convener, said: “Aberdeen City Council’s 2025/26 budget allocated a record £140 million, including an additional £9.5 million to protect services, to the Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership to deliver health and social care services on behalf of the Council.”

    “These additional funds have ensured vital services, which are provided to some of the most vulnerable people in Aberdeen, by the Aberdeen City Health and Social Partnership are protected.   

    “There is clearly a need for the Integration Joint Board to go through a period of transformation, to reduce spend, embrace digital technology and find efficiencies but this approach needs to be a compassionate one and through a period of transition.” 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby Market Hall unveils first wave of traders, setting stage for grand reopening

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council is excited to announce the first lineup of traders set to move into the revitalised Derby Market Hall, marking another milestone in the transformation of the historic Grade II-listed building. 

    Following a £35.1m restoration, the Market Hall will reopen its doors to the public on Saturday 24 May, marking a new era for Derby’s independent shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. 

    A curated mix of traditional and contemporary traders will be in place when the Market Hall reopens its doors, creating a vibrant hub in the heart of the city and blending the Market Hall’s rich history with a modern experience. 

    A legacy continues:

    • Amongst the first confirmed traders is one that has traded throughout the refurbishment works – Bailey’s Fishmongers. Derby’s last remaining fishmonger has been a trader in the Market Hall for 65 years and will continue to operate in their current location in the lock-up yard area. As a family-run business with over 100 years of experience, Bailey’s Fishmongers was originally founded by Stuart Bailey’s father, with Stuart working in the trade for more than 64 years. Fresh fish and seafood products will be on offer for customers and businesses alike.

    A world of local and international flavours:

    • Bringing a taste of Italy to Derby Market Hall, Caffé Prosecco is set to offer an elegant and modern take on Italian hospitality. Born out of a collection of award-winning bars, including venues that have claimed the Derby Food & Drink Award three years in a row, Caffé Prosecco is renowned for its service and premium selection of drinks. Offering a wide range of Proseccos and fine wines, the independent café promises a refined yet relaxed experience where customers can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, freshly baked croissants, indulgent cakes, and a selection of Pinchos and Cicchettis (traditionally enjoyed in Spanish and Italian bars). Gluten-free and alcohol-free options will also be available. 
    • Locally sourced produce will be at the heart of the revitalised Market Hall, with Derbyshire’s Own, run by Derby Uncovered CIC, set to champion the best of Derby and Derbyshire’s history and heritage. With a sole mission to provide residents and visitors with a wide and varied selection of groceries sourced exclusively from suppliers in Derby and Derbyshire, Derbyshire’s Own will support the local economy whilst promoting sustainability. Customers will also enjoy a wide range of locally produced food and drink.
    • Bold international flavours will be offered by Colombo Street, a multi-award-winning street food vendor offering visitors an authentic taste of Sri Lankan cuisine. Holding prestigious awards such as Sri Lankan Restaurant of the Year at the Nation’s Curry Awards 2024, the National Asian Food Awards 2023, and more, they are set to offer their signature Kottu dishes alongside a selection of flavourful Sri Lankan specialities.
    • Nico’s Gelato & Coffee is set to bring a taste of Italy to Derby. The Derby-based business will offer artisan gelato, hot drinks, and Italian pastries to residents and visitors. The business was founded by Nico, who began making gelato after moving from Italy to Derby, inspired by his memories of Italian summers. After over a decade of creating the perfect gelato recipes, Nico now sells gelato across the city. 

    Sustainably fashion forward:

    • With over 10 years of experience, vintage fashion trader Mardy Ducks will offer a selection of handpicked, on-trend, and affordable vintage clothing, including brands such as Carhartt, Ralph Lauren, Patagonia, and The North Face. At the heart of the brand’s mission is to extend the life cycle of clothing, reduce waste, and promote sustainability.
    • Also joining the fashion offer will be The Oddities Store (TOS), an award-winning luxury fashion brand. TOS specialise in made-to-order collections and deconstructed fashion pieces, transforming second-hand luxury materials into one-of-a-kind designs. As a Black-owned business, TOS uses its Afrocentric influences to blend timeless elegance with contemporary design, carefully handcrafting each individual garment. 

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said:

    I am incredibly excited to announce the first traders who will be moving into Derby Market Hall when it reopens its doors on Saturday 24 May. From international street food to sustainable fashion, the new –and old- traders each have something truly special to offer to every resident and visitor.

    I am particularly excited to welcome the public into the revitalised Market Hall at a time when we are entering a new era for Derby’s independent shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. I am certain that the carefully curated set of traders will be met with much anticipation and will be a massive success for the Market Hall’s incredible offer.

    Located at the heart of the city centre, linking Derbion and St Peter’s Quarter with the Cathedral Quarter and Becketwell, the redeveloped Market Hall will play a key role in widening the diversity of the city centre and is expected to generate £3.64m for the local economy every year. 

    More traders are set to be announced in the coming weeks.

    Follow Derby Market Hall on Facebook and Instagram, or visit the website, to find out more. 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coventry food business sentenced for filthy conditions

    Source: City of Coventry

    A Coventry food business operator has been given a 12-month conditional discharge after pleading guilty to food hygiene offences.

    Mrs Liang Zheng, the former Food Business Operator of Chef Wang, 4 Torrington Avenue, Coventry pleaded guilty to 3 hygiene offences at Coventry Magistrates Court on 12 March 2025.  

    Mrs Zheng was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay costs of £3,377.58 as well as a victim surcharge of £26.

    Food & Safety Officers visited the business to undertake an unannounced food hygiene inspection on 7 June 2023. During this visit, filthy conditions were found throughout the kitchen. The standard of cleaning was well below standard – both day to day cleaning such as touch points, as well as deeper cleaning.

    Officers found:

    • Wash hand basins were not in use, either being obstructed or not provided with soap and hygienic hand drying facilities.
    • Dirty and deteriorated cloths were in use for cleaning.
    • Staff not wearing clean protective clothing.
    • Flies throughout the food preparation and handling areas.

    Officers worked with the food business to ensure conditions were improved and it was safe to operate.

    On 27 July 2023 following a paid for request for a re-rating revisit, a rating of 3 (hygiene standards are generally satisfactory) was achieved.

    When questioned about the poor conditions found in June 2023, Mrs Zheng did not appear to understand the gravity of the situation and did not think the conditions found by officers were poor, thus demonstrating that Mrs Zheng’s baseline cleaning standards do not match those of food hygiene law.

    Mrs Zheng pleaded guilty to three offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations in respect of the following identified issues:

    •         Failure to keep the premises clean.

    •         Failure to protect food from contamination.

    •         Failure to implement and maintain a permanent procedure or procedures based on the HACCP (Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points) principles.

    The business has been subject to several inspections since the poor conditions were found in 2023.

    In June 2024, an unannounced food hygiene inspection led to a rating of 1 (major improvement is necessary) being issued and following payment for a rating revisit, a further unannounced inspection was carried out in August 2024 which resulted in a food hygiene rating of 4 (hygiene standards are good).

    Councillor Khan, Cabinet Member for Policing and Equalities said:

    “It is vital that people running food businesses in Coventry are running clean and safe establishments all of the time to ensure the safety of the food they sell to customers.”

    “This is a reminder to all Food Business Operators to ensure they have a clean kitchen with suitably trained staff undertaking regular and thorough cleaning every day to prevent a problem like this occurring and putting customers at a risk to their health”

    Davina Blackburn, Strategic Lead for Regulation and Communities in the city, said:

    “We take a staged approach to enforcement and prosecution is a matter of last resort. Wherever possible officers will always try to work with businesses offering advice and guidance but will take the necessary actions if they feel there is a risk to health.”

    We would encourage all residents to report unsatisfactory food hygiene conditions found in food businesses in Coventry to ehcommercial@coventry.gov.uk or call 08085834333.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sellafield Ltd and AtkinsRéalis reach new robotics milestone

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Sellafield Ltd and AtkinsRéalis reach new robotics milestone

    A team of remote technology specialists have achieved an industry first at Sellafield by successfully operating a robot remotely from an off-site location.

    SPOT the quadrupedal robot dog was controlled remotely at a safe location at Sellafield

    Operators working from an immersive room at the Westlakes Science Park in Whitehaven, West Cumbria have proven they can remotely operate a robot on the Sellafield site safely and securely, with huge potential for the future of our clean-up mission.

    The immersive room at Westlakes enables remote operations via secure virtual access

    Sellafield Ltd is part of the NDA group, which is responsible for decommissioning 17 of the earliest nuclear sites across the UK. For the last 2 years we’ve embraced the use of quadrupedal robots through the RAICo programme and our supply chain. 

    More recently we’ve worked with AtkinsRéalis on the integrated remote monitoring project to deploy a customised Boston Dynamics Spot Quadrupedal Robotic ‘dog’ for a range of tasks including remote inspections, data gathering and clean-up work.

    The latest trial takes remote operations a step further by removing the operator from the nuclear site all together, thanks to a highly secure virtual access network and live-streamed footage.

    Deon Bulman, ROV equipment programme lead at Sellafield Ltd said:

    This successful trial marks a significant milestone in our journey towards integrating advanced robotics into our operations at Sellafield.

    The ability to remotely operate robotic systems like Spot demonstrates how digital innovation can enhance safety, efficiency, and decision-making on nuclear-licensed sites.

    By collaborating with AtkinsRéalis, we are exploring cutting-edge solutions that not only support our decommissioning mission but also pave the way for future advancements in remote operations.

    This kind of virtual site access is already deployed by AtkinsRéalis for major construction projects around the world, but it’s the first time it’s been trialled on a nuclear licensed site.

    Richard Brook, technology solutions lead for decommissioning at AtkinsRéalis, said:

    Sellafield Ltd has pioneered the adoption of technology across its operations, and this latest milestone is another step forward for the role of robotics in decommissioning.

    Virtual site access is already being used in the delivery of major infrastructure programmes: this trial is a big step towards unlocking its benefits for nuclear licensed sites without compromising safety or security.

    The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) Group are utilising technology and innovation to transform how nuclear decommissioning is delivered and this approach could be applied across other nuclear licensed sites to deliver benefits across the wider NDA group.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor to slash ‘duplicative and burdensome rules’

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Chancellor to slash ‘duplicative and burdensome rules’

    Chancellor hosts Fintech CEOs in No. 11 as the Treasury streamlines regulation to boost growth as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    • Chancellor and CEOs discussed the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy, following the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter.

    • The Chancellor also delivers on her Mansion House commitment to reform capital markets regulations and boost the attractiveness of the UK’s capital markets.

    This morning (18 March), the Chancellor hosted senior representatives from the Fintech sector in No. 11 Downing Street to discuss the biggest growth opportunities for Fintechs and new draft legislation to streamline regulation and boost the attractiveness of our capital markets.

    This new legislation will deliver reforms to the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) rules, which were inherited from the European Union, and will enable the FCA to scrap any rules which are duplicative and unnecessarily hold UK firms back by designing a new regulatory framework that supports economic growth, this government’s number one mission.

    The Chancellor committed to reforming these rules at her Mansion House speech in November to ensure that they work better for UK companies and they deliver for investors, firms, and support growth across the UK.

    This will mark the next milestone in delivering the government’s wholesale market reforms and will boost the attractiveness of the UK’s capital markets.

    This forms part of the Chancellor’s radical action plan to cut red tape, boost growth, and create a more effective regulatory system, delivering on the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter.

    The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    We are taking action to make our rulebook more competitive to support growth, the number one mission for our Plan for Change, and have asked the FCA to reform the regulatory structure around capital markets to make it work better for UK firms. This will ensure they can grow and invest across the economy, kickstarting growth and getting more money in people’s pockets.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Energy Secretary visits China to launch climate dialogue

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Energy Secretary visits China to launch climate dialogue

    Ed Miliband resumes formal energy and climate talks with China

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband met his Chinese counterparts in Beijing this week to re-start formal energy and climate discussions and demonstrate global climate leadership.

    On Saturday (15 March) the Secretary of State met Chinese Minister Huang at the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. They discussed strengthening cooperation on climate issues such as nationally-determined contributions (NDCs) looking ahead to COP30.

    He then travelled to Tsinghua University where he spoke to students about UK action and global cooperation on climate change as part of the university’s climate lecture series.

    On Sunday (16 March), the Energy Secretary visited Carbon Capture and Storage (CCUS) and hydrogen power projects in Energy Valley, an area which drives the development of clean energy technologies in the country. 

    He then met with British business representatives based in Beijing, to hear about the opportunities and challenges for business and how the UK can support in increasing UK clean energy exports to drive growth and create jobs.

    On Monday (17 March), the Secretary of State visited China’s National Energy Administration to engage in a formal UK-China Energy Dialogue. Along with Administrator Wang, he led discussions focused on clean energy technologies, pathways to the energy transition including phasing out coal, energy security and international energy governance.

    At the end of the meeting, Ed Miliband signed the Clean Energy Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Administrator Wang, which agrees to enhance cooperation on renewables, grid modernisation and clean technologies, while protecting the UK’s national security.  

    The visit concluded with a visit to the Great Hall of the People, where the Energy Secretary met Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang to agree to continue cooperation on energy and climate. The Secretary of State also took the opportunity to raise the UK government’s concerns on issues including Russia, forced labour and Jimmy Lai.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    We can only keep future generations safe from climate change if all major emitters act. It is simply an act of negligence to today’s and future generations not to engage China on how it can play its part in taking action on climate. 

    That is why I met Chinese ministers for frank conversations about how both countries can fulfil the aims of the Paris Climate Agreement, to which both countries are signed up.  

    Our Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission is about energy security, lower bills, good jobs and growth for the British people. It is with this mission that we can also influence climate action on a global stage, fight for our way of life and keep our planet safe for our children and grandchildren.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: OPSS launches new baby sleeping products resources

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    OPSS launches new baby sleeping products resources

    New resources launched to raise awareness about unsafe baby sleeping products.

    The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has launched new resources to raise awareness about unsafe baby sleeping products.

    To tie in with The Lullaby Trust’s ‘Safer Sleep Week’ in March, OPSS has linked up with the Trust and Netmums to reach those purchasing products for children under 12 months old and professionals who work with families. The resources cover a range of baby sleeping products and warn that products sold online may be unsafe.

    OPSS has produced a checklist for parents and carers that includes key messages on shopping for baby sleeping bags, checking the safety labels and considering where best to purchase.

    View the baby sleeping products resources.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Members of the Committee on Fuel Poverty reappointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Members of the Committee on Fuel Poverty reappointed

    Caroline Flint (chair), Gordon McGregor, Belinda Littleton and Anthony Pygram have been reappointed to the Committee on Fuel Poverty (CFP).

    Caroline Flint has been reappointed to the Committee on Fuel Poverty (CFP) in the role of Chair. This reappointment took effect from 31 January 2025 and will last for 3 years.

    Belinda Littleton, Anthony Pygram and Gordon McGregor have also been reappointed to the Committee. Gordon McGregor’s reappointment takes effect from 17 May 2025 for 2 years. Belinda and Anthony’s reappointments each take effect from 3 May 2025 for 3 years.

    The Committee on Fuel Poverty advises on the effectiveness of policies aimed at reducing fuel poverty and encourages greater co-ordination across the organisations working to reduce fuel poverty.

    Biographies

    Caroline Flint

    Caroline has a wealth of experience in politics as a Labour MP for Don Valley, from 1997-2019. She was the first woman MP for Don Valley and a Minister in 5 government departments, developing legislation and leading major policy initiatives, before serving in Her Majesty’s Opposition Shadow Cabinet from 2010 to 2015. During her significant political career, she led the Smoke Free England legislation, led Opposition strategy on energy market reform and climate change, has contributed to multiple All-Party Parliamentary Groups and committees, including the Commons Public Accounts Committee and Intelligence and Security Committee.

    Caroline was appointed chair of Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust in 2021 and has been re-appointed for a second term. She was a member of the UK Commission on COVID Commemoration which reported to the government on how our collective experience of the pandemic should be remembered. Caroline is an Advisory Board member for the thinktank Reform, works with Dods delivering training on how government and Parliament works and is a broadcaster and commentator on news and current affairs. She won Celebrity Mastermind in 2021 with her specialist subject the movie ‘Alien’ raising money for the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACOA). She lives in Doncaster.

    Belinda Littleton

    Belinda Littleton works for National Grid and is currently Head of Asset Engineering Assurance, Electricity Transmission. She is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology. Belinda’s work at National Grid has included:

    • leading a team of specialists to deliver appropriate system upgrades that provide value to the consumer during the clean energy transition
    • focusing on enabling a net zero future that doesn’t leave anyone behind
    • setting out National Grid’s strategic perspective on the decarbonisation of transport

    Previously working as an economist at Ofgem, Belinda looked at the impact of the smart meter rollout on vulnerable customers.

    Belinda has also previously worked at PwC. During this time she worked with the former Department of Energy and Climate Change to develop their Household Energy Efficiency Strategy considering the carbon reduction contribution that could be made by households.

    Belinda is passionate about designing inclusivity into future policy that delivers against net zero commitments within the UK.

    Anthony Pygram

    Anthony Pygram is a regulatory expert. He was the Director of Conduct and Enforcement at Ofgem (where, amongst other things, he oversaw the development of Ofgem’s Consumer Vulnerability Strategy). He was subsequently a specialist adviser to the House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee for its Ofgem and net zero inquiry, and more recently a Senior Manager at the Payment Systems Regulator.

    Anthony is Lay Vice President and a member of the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, a Lay Member of the Regulatory Board of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales, and the independent Chair of the Code Change Committee for the non-household water market.

    Gordon McGregor

    Gordon has worked for over 3 decades in the energy and utilities sector. He has a depth of experience working in retail, distribution, generation and corporate management. Most recently, he has helped lead a number of highly innovative companies that have a strong focus on energy efficiency, renewables and clean technology.

    Gordon was a founding member of the Electricity Association Taskforce on Fuel Poverty, working on how energy regulation and industry structures could improve energy efficiency and affordability. Throughout his career, he has helped design energy efficiency programmes, developed affordable payment approaches, created social action initiatives and has helped design tariffs that help priority and vulnerable customers. He has also been involved in market design and managed the implementation of regulations to support new renewable targets. As a director of a vertically integrated utility, he helped lead the transition from a largely fossil fuel based portfolio towards a lower carbon alternative.

    Gordon is Chief Sustainability and Digital Officer for Sweco UK & Ireland, a leading European engineering and architecture consultancy. Gordon also sits on the Natural Environmental Research Council and is a member of the UKRI Advisory Board for Building a Green Future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community engagement on details to follow if outline plan for Neachells Lane open space approved

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    If approved the details of the plan, such as the design of public footpaths, layout, appearance, landscaping, lighting and noise mitigation measures, will be subject to extensive community engagement by the developer and scrutinised by planners under reserved matters, before any works start on site.

    The land was formally a coal mine and was later used as a landfill site before becoming a public open space in the 1990s.

    The indicative masterplan, submitted by Goold Estates, would see 14.5 acres retained as public open space, and a distribution warehouse, new offices, 270 parking spaces (including 14 disabled bays and 42 electric vehicle charging bays), 60 lorry parking bays, and vehicular access off Neachells Lane developed on the eastern 16.5 acres of the site near industrial land comprising the Travis Perkins builders’ yard and other commercial units.

    The developer would be required to maximise the hundreds of job opportunities and apprenticeships for East Park residents, as well as make a Section 106 contribution of £150,000 for a children’s play area in the vicinity and £550,000 for improvements and facilities in East Park to compensate for the loss of nature conservation habitat and of Millennium Forest planting.

    Access to the site has been considered in line with the current highways layout and the proposed gyratory improvement scheme to address congestion and safety, which was in the pipeline before the Goold Estates scheme came forward – and remains under consideration as a separate planning application.

    City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “The proposal going to Planning Committee next week is only an outline plan, with the finer details to be determined later if it is approved.

    “If the scheme gets the green light, it will deliver significant financial investment and hundreds of jobs for local people. The loss of open space and the environmental impact would also be mitigated by other gains for the East Park community.

    “But make no mistake, should this outline planning application be approved by Planning Committee, there will need to be extensive community engagement by the developer to ensure the detailed plan addresses people’s concerns appropriately.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SNP has two weeks to save vital renter protections

    Source: Scottish Greens

    18 Mar 2025 Housing

    We need to fix the broken housing market.

    More in Housing

    The Scottish Government must act to extend vital renter protections that are set to expire on April 1st, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.

    In March 2024 the then Green Minister, Patrick Harvie, introduced a temporary rent adjudication system which followed a freeze on most in-tenancy rents. This potentially allows rent increases to be limited to no higher than 12% if a tenant applies to a rent officer for a decision.

    At the time, the Scottish Government said the rent adjudication system would support the transition away from the rent cap and to the forthcoming system of Rent Control Areas, protecting renters from excessively large increases which could be experienced with a sudden move to open market rent levels.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “At a time when living costs are soaring, it is vital that we control the ridiculous rent hikes that far too many people are experiencing.

    “These protections have played an important role in guarding renters from rogue landlords who have shown they cannot be trusted. If they are lifted it will mean even higher costs that will plunge some people and families into totally avoidable poverty.

    “Everyone deserves a stable and affordable roof over their heads – a place to call home. By removing protections we are leaving tenants at the mercy of a broken housing market. Do SNP Ministers really want to do that to their constituents?

    “With two weeks to go, I hope that they will reconsider and that they will extend these protections to give peace of mind to renters who are already having their finances stretched from all directions.”

    Ms Chapman added:

    “Homes are for living in and not for profiteering. The forthcoming Housing Bill could be a milestone for renters rights, but we need to ensure that we are protecting people here and now and stopping the kind of hikes that have caused so much misery for so long.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government announces Race Equality Engagement Group to break down barriers to racial equality

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government announces Race Equality Engagement Group to break down barriers to racial equality

    The views of ethnic minority people are being placed at the heart of government decision making following the establishment of the Race Equality Engagement Group (REEG).

    • New Race Equality Engagement Group (REEG) to help government’s plans to seize opportunities and remove barriers to racial equality
    • Group to be chaired by Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon OBE, who will lead partnerships with communities, stakeholders, and delivery partners
    • The REEG will aim to better understand the lived experience of ethnic minority people and ensure their views are represented in government decision making

    Chaired by Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon OBE, the group will work with equalities ministers to better understand ethnic minority people’s lived experience and make sure it is represented in government’s 5 missions.

    The group will also partner with ethnic minority communities, stakeholders and delivery partners. This collaborative approach will ensure that the government’s Plan for Change is informed by people from a diverse range of backgrounds, and works for everyone across the country.

    Minister for Equalities, responsible for race and ethnicity policy, Seema Malhotra MP, said:

    People across the UK still experience barriers to opportunity at work and in society because of their race. We are determined to change this so that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

    The Race Equality Engagement Group will play a vital role in understanding everyday barriers to opportunity and hear voices from across the country so that together we can more actively address racial inequality and enable everyone to be supported in achieving their aspirations.

    Chair of the Race Equality Engagement Group, Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon OBE, said:

    It’s an honour to chair the newly-established Race Equality Engagement Group, which will ensure government decision-making is informed by the lived experience of ethnic minority people. 

    I look forward to leading the group and working with a diverse range of communities to create a more inclusive society, with increased opportunity for all.

    The government is committed to ensuring equality is at the heart of every mission. Through the 5 missions, everyone will be able to achieve their ambitions in work and beyond, no matter their background.

    [END]

    Notes to editors:

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor and fintech bosses to slash ‘duplicative and burdensome rules’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Chancellor and fintech bosses to slash ‘duplicative and burdensome rules’

    Chancellor hosts Fintech CEOs in No. 11 as the Treasury streamlines regulation to boost growth as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    • Chancellor and CEOs discussed the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy, following the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter.

    • The Chancellor also delivers on her Mansion House commitment to reform capital markets regulations and boost the attractiveness of the UK’s capital markets.

    This morning (18 March), the Chancellor hosted senior representatives from the Fintech sector in No. 11 Downing Street to discuss the biggest growth opportunities for Fintechs and new draft legislation to streamline regulation and boost the attractiveness of our capital markets.

    This new legislation will deliver reforms to the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) rules, which were inherited from the European Union, and will enable the FCA to scrap any rules which are duplicative and unnecessarily hold UK firms back by designing a new regulatory framework that supports economic growth, this government’s number one mission.

    The Chancellor committed to reforming these rules at her Mansion House speech in November to ensure that they work better for UK companies and they deliver for investors, firms, and support growth across the UK.

    This will mark the next milestone in delivering the government’s wholesale market reforms and will boost the attractiveness of the UK’s capital markets.

    This forms part of the Chancellor’s radical action plan to cut red tape, boost growth, and create a more effective regulatory system, delivering on the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter.

    The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    We are taking action to make our rulebook more competitive to support growth, the number one mission for our Plan for Change, and have asked the FCA to reform the regulatory structure around capital markets to make it work better for UK firms. This will ensure they can grow and invest across the economy, kickstarting growth and getting more money in people’s pockets.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor to press on with DIGIT to boost investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Chancellor to press on with DIGIT to boost investment

    This morning (18 March), the Chancellor hosted top Fintech CEOs in No. 11 and confirmed the next steps to test distributed ledger technology (DLT) in the UK gilt market.

    • The Chancellor confirmed the start of the procurement process for Digital Gilt Instrument (DIGIT), which will test the demand for and use of DLT – which has the potential to modernise financial markets by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing security.
    • The financial services sector is being invited to help shape DIGIT to support continued innovation and growth of this important sector.
    • This will help cement the UK as a global financial centre by boosting investment and supporting innovation in this cutting-edge technology.

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves said:

    The UK is leading the way on digital innovation, and the creation of DIGIT will help to transform our world-leading capital markets sector and drive economic growth.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) Regulations 2025: impact assessment – RPC statement of lateness

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    The Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) Regulations 2025: impact assessment – RPC statement of lateness

    RPC statement about the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ (DEFRA) late submission of the impact assessment relating to the regulations

    The Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC) produces opinions of impact assessments (IAs) to help departments ensure that the evidence and analysis in them is sufficiently robust. We provide an independent opinion to assist ministerial decision making and parliamentary scrutiny of regulatory proposals. We publish these to assist parliamentarians and to ensure that they are available to external stakeholders. Government departments are expected to submit IAs to the RPC in time for the RPC to issue an opinion before the relevant legislation is laid before Parliament.

    The Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) Regulations 2025 were laid before Parliament on 11 March 2025. The same day, DEFRA submitted an IA for RPC scrutiny. The RPC is currently reviewing the IA and will produce an opinion when its scrutiny has been completed. This will be made available to the Government and Parliament and published on the RPC’s website, when this statement will be updated.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New non-executive directors join Defra board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New non-executive directors join Defra board

    Sachin Jogia and Indro Mukerjee appointed to the departmental board

    The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has today (18 March 2025) announced the appointment of two new non-executive board members – Sachin Jogia and Indro Mukerjee. 

    Non-executive board members are senior figures from outside government, appointed to provide challenge to government departments. All non-executive board member appointments are made in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments. 

    Sachin and Indro begin their appointments today, with their terms lasting for three years. 

    The Defra board provides strategic, corporate leadership to the department and has particular responsibility for monitoring performance and delivery. 

    Biographies

    Sachin Jogia

    Sachin Jogia has a technology and product leadership background across global organisations, most recently as Group Director of Technology Strategy and Transformation at Sky.

    Previously, he was Chief Technology Officer at Ofcom, overseeing innovation across the areas they regulate including online safety, broadcasting and telecoms. Before that, he spent nine years at Amazon in the UK and USA, most recently as General Manager for Alexa Smart Home International.

    Sachin was the founding Chairman of the British Heart Foundation’s Technology Advisory Group and has championed initiatives supporting disadvantaged communities, including Amazon Future Engineer. He is a Trustee and non-executive director at City Year UK, a founding member of the Corporate Advisory Board at Save The Children UK and has mentored Imperial College students and senior leaders with BeTheBusiness.

    Indro Mukerjee

    Indro was CEO of Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, for three and half years until September 2024.

    He is a highly experienced business leader, with CEO experience across technology and industrial businesses from multinationals to startups and private equity-backed ventures.

    With a global career spanning Asia, the US, and Europe, Indro has led innovation, fast growth, spinouts, M&A, and business transformation across many different business situations. He has been strongly committed to supporting skills development, including co-founding and chairing the UK Electronics Skills Foundation.

    He has an engineering degree from Oxford University, a graduate of the Wharton Advanced Management Program, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and an elected Honorary Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Academy of Medical Sciences.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mass cancellation of government credit cards in crackdown on wasteful spend

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Mass cancellation of government credit cards in crackdown on wasteful spend

    The Cabinet Office instructs departments and their agencies to freeze almost all of around 20,000 Government Procurement Cards as part of plans to cut spending

    • Thousands of government credit cards will be cancelled, cracking down on wasteful spending in government in favour of delivering the Plan for Change. 

    • Departments and their agencies will be instructed to freeze all cards this week, with a tough new application process to cut the numbers in circulation by at least 50%.

    • Spending on the cards has quadrupled in four years. 

    • Move follows PM’s intervention last week to go further and faster to reshape the state and make it deliver for working people.

    Thousands of government credit cards will be cancelled under plans to cut spending and ensure every pound of taxpayer money is targeted at delivering for the public. 

    The Cabinet Office will instruct departments and their agencies to freeze almost all of the around 20,000 Government Procurement Cards in circulation this week, with Civil Service cardholders forced to reapply and justify that they really need them – if they don’t the cards will be cancelled by the end of the month. 

    Only a minority of cards, used for specific operational purposes such as by diplomatic staff working in unstable environments, will be exempt from the mass freeze. 

    A strict new application process will be introduced, with departments told to approve the minimum number of new cards possible. It is expected the number of cards will be reduced  by at least 50%. 

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat Mcfadden said:

    We must ensure taxpayers’ money is spent on improving the lives of working people. 

    It’s not right that hundreds of millions of pounds are spent on government credit cards each year, without high levels of scrutiny or challenge. Only officials for whom it is absolutely essential should have a card.

    Our clampdown on government credit cards will deliver savings that can be used to drive our Plan for Change – securing our borders, getting the NHS back on its feet and rebuilding Britain.

    This follows the Prime Minister’s intervention last week where he said the Government must go further and faster to reshape the state and make it work for working people.

    The move is part of a civil service wide efficiency drive to cut down on wasteful spending across government, which includes making it quicker and easier to remove poor performers from post. 

    It will ensure resources are targeted at delivering the Government’s Plan for Change – ending hospital backlogs, putting police back on the beat and securing the country’s borders. 

    While some credit cards are operationally necessary to deliver services, the amount spent on them has more than quadrupled in the past four years with spending in the last financial year reaching over £600 million in central departments and core agencies.

    The move aims to reduce the money spent on Government cards, redirecting business critical spend into more appropriate procurement routes that deliver better value for money. 

    Tighter new spending controls will also be introduced, with the maximum spend for hospitality – often needed for officials working in trade or diplomatic roles –  slashed from £2500 to £500, and any spend over £500 requiring Director General approval. 

    Civil servants will also be banned from using cards where there is either a departmental or cross-Government procurement route. These procurement routes deliver better value for money by procuring at scale for common goods and services, like booking official travel, training, or office supplies.

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden ordered a review of the cards after examples of unnecessary spending were highlighted. 

    Departments have been asked to review spending on Government Procurement Cards by their officials. Where they identify examples of spending on cards found to be incompatible with guidance they have been told to take action, including disciplinary action and the revocation of the card in question.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Lay Members on the Security Vetting Appeals Panel

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Update on Lay Members on the Security Vetting Appeals Panel

    An update on the term of four Lay Members who sit on the Security Vetting Appeals Panel.

    Four Lay Members on the Security Vetting Appeals Panel (SVAP) have had their terms extended until 31st March 2027.

    The Lay Members are Claire Stokes, James Barron, Nicholas Griffin and Sally Berlin, whose terms were due to finish on 31st March 2025. Their terms have been extended for continuity of board expertise.

    The Security Vetting Appeals Panel reviews decisions to refuse or withdraw National Security Vetting and the process involved. You can find out more about what the Panel does here.

    The Panel currently has 15 sitting members: a Chair, a Deputy Chair and 13 Lay Members. 

    There are no statutory limits on the number of terms a Lay Member can serve. However, the Governance Code for Public Appointments sets out that no individual should serve in a single role for more than two terms or ten years.

    Claire Stokes was Risk Management Lead Partner for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and is currently an Independent Contractor with PwC Global. 

    James Barron is a former senior civil servant and prior to retirement was Chief Executive of the Office of Parliamentary Counsel.

    Nicholas Griffin QC founded the QEB Hollis Whiteman Public Law Group and is the head of Chambers’ Business and Human Rights Group. He is Trustee of Anti-Slavery International; UK Anti-Doping board member and Former Assistant Commissioner for the Boundary Commission for England. 

    Sally Berlin is Director of Casework Operations at the Criminal Cases Review Commission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reappointment of Ex-Officio Member to the Senior Salaries Review Body

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Reappointment of Ex-Officio Member to the Senior Salaries Review Body

    Zoë Billingham CBE has been reappointed as Ex-Officio Member.

    Zoë Billingham CBE has been reappointed as Ex-Officio Member of the Senior Salaries Review Body following the end of her term on 31 January 2025. 

    She has been reappointed to the role for another term of 3 years, starting on 1 February 2025. She will serve as Ex-Officio Member until 31st January 2028.

    The Senior Salaries Review Body is an independent body which provides advice to the Prime Minister, the Lord Chancellor, the Secretary of State for Defence, the Secretary of State for Health and the Home Secretary on the pay of Senior Civil Servants, the judiciary, senior officers of the armed forces, certain senior managers in the NHS, Police and Crime Commissioners and chief police officers.

    Read more about the Senior Salaries Review Body here.

    The board currently has 8 members. The Governance Code for Public Appointments sets out that no individual should serve in a single role for more than two terms or ten years.

    Zoë was appointed as a Non-Executive Director of the Security Industry Authority in December 2021, and Chair of the Police Remuneration Review Body and the National Crime Agency Remuneration Review Body in January 2022. 

    She was appointed temporary ex-officio member of the Senior Salaries Review Body in March 2024. 

    Zoë brings years of experience of working in policing, having previously served as HM Inspector of Constabulary.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reappointment of Non-Executive Director to the Crown Commercial Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Reappointment of Non-Executive Director to the Crown Commercial Service

    Dr Manuela Gazzard has been reappointed as Non-Executive Director.

    Dr Manuela Gazzard has been reappointed as Non-Executive Director of the Crown Commercial Service following the end of her term on 31st January 2025.

    She has been reappointed for another term of 3 years, starting on 1st February 2025. She will serve as Non-Executive Director until 31st August 2027. 

    The Crown Commercial Service is an Executive Agency and Trading Fund of the Cabinet Office. 

    It is responsible for managing the procurement of common goods and services, increasing  savings for the taxpayer by centralising buying requirements, and leading on procurement policy on behalf of the government.

    You can read more about the Crown Commercial Service here.

    Dr Manuela Gazzard is currently Group Director of Regulatory Services at BSI. She has over 20 years of leadership experience in the global life sciences sector including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biotech, and other related fields. 

    She has held positions as Managing Director, NovaPrep and Lab Services at Novacyt; Group Commercial Director, Johnson Matthey/Macfarlan Smith; and Director positions at Johnson & Johnson/Janssen and Boehringer Ingelheim.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Awaab’s Law to come to Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    Further enhancing protections for social housing tenants.

    Social housing residents in Scotland will be given greater protection against issues of disrepair in their homes such as damp and mould through the introduction of Awaab’s Law.

    Awaab’s Law is named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak who died in 2020 after being exposed to mould in his home in Rochdale.

    The Scottish Government intends to introduce amendments to the Housing (Scotland) Bill that will broaden Ministers’ powers to impose timeframes on social landlords to investigate disrepair and start repairs, through regulation, following engagement with the sector.

    The regulations will build on provisions already in the Bill on strengthening tenants’ rights and Scotland’s existing legal protections for social tenants such as the Scottish Housing Quality Standard and the Right to Repair Scheme.

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “Introducing timescales and expectations for repairs aims to make sure this never happens to a child or their family ever again.

    “Everyone in Scotland deserves the right to live in a warm, safe and secure home, free from disrepair. We already have a strong set of rights and standards that have been improving in Scotland.

    “However, these measures will go even further and give power and confidence to tenants that any issues identified and repairs started in a timely manner, so any issues do not have a detrimental impact on their health.

    “Our Housing Bill already contains proposals to improve tenants’ rights, and these measures will strengthen those even further to make sure their home is safe for them and their families.”

    Background

    Housing (Scotland) Bill | Scottish Parliament Website

    Registered social landlords are required to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) which requires housing to be free from rising or penetrating damp, to have satisfactory ventilation and meet minimum energy efficiency standards.

    Just like the social rented sector, the Scottish Government is committed to and will consider how to implement Awaab’s Law for private tenants, using existing powers, after engagement with the private rented sector.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Expansion of Disease Reporting Requirements

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Expansion of Disease Reporting Requirements

    From April 6, 2025, UKHSA requires medical professionals to report 8 more diseases, while labs must report 10 new pathogens to boost surveillance.

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has expanded the list of notifiable diseases and pathogens that registered medical professionals and diagnostic laboratories in England must report.

    The updated Health Protection Notification Regulations (HPNR) requirements, which come into effect from 6 April 2025, will strengthen local and national surveillance and improve outbreak response capabilities for infectious diseases.

    Medical professionals will now be required to report 8 additional conditions, including Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and zoonotic influenza strains. Likewise, laboratories processing human samples in England must report ten new causative agents.

    These changes are the result of a public consultation and assessment conducted jointly by UKHSA and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to enhance surveillance capabilities for current and emerging infectious diseases.

    Aside from existing infections, registered medical professionals will be required to report suspected cases of:

    • Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)
    • Influenza of zoonotic origin
    • Chickenpox (varicella)
    • Congenital syphilis
    • Neonatal herpes
    • Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) or acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)
    • Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI)
    • Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)

    Diagnostic laboratories testing human samples in England will also be required to report an additional 10 pathogens, including:

    • Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV)
    • Non-human influenza A subtypes
    • Norovirus
    • Echinococcus spp
    • Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV)
    • Toxoplasma (congenital toxoplasmosis)
    • Trichinella spp
    • Yersinia spp
    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
    • Candidozyma auris

    Dr William Welfare, UKHSA Director of Health Protection Operations said:

    These expanded reporting requirements will strengthen our ability to detect and respond to infectious disease outbreaks quickly and effectively. Robust disease surveillance is vital for effective public health response and the data gathered through this system is crucial for developing and implementing timely public health interventions and protecting communities across England.

    When registered medical practitioners report certain diseases, UKHSA’s Health Protection Teams will take action. This might include giving antibiotics to people who’ve been in contact with patients, offering vaccines, or advising people to self-isolate. For other diseases, the reports help UKHSA track how illnesses spread and how effective interventions are.

    UKHSA recently introduced an electronic NOIDs system, allowing medical professionals to submit notifications online. This digital system is faster than the old paper-based method, helping UKHSA respond more quickly to health threats and reducing the burden of reporting for healthcare professionals.

    All shared information is confidential and protected under the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). UKHSA only uses this information to track and prevent the spread of diseases.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran

    Statement for the Joint Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO & UN, Simon Manley.

    Special Rapporteur,

    Your report and presentation this morning are clear: the human rights situation in Iran remains appalling.

    Iran has bolstered its surveillance practices to target women and girls. The temporary suspension of the hijab and chastity bill is simply not enough. Iran must repeal mandatory veiling laws and permanently cease plans for mandatory citizen surveillance.

    Religious minorities continue to face systemic targeting and repression. The past year has seen an escalation in the arrest and detention of Baha’i women as authorities seek to suppress their religious identity and autonomy as women.

    Executions have reached a critical level – over 900 people put to death last year – with an increasing number of them women. Many of those were put to death following unfair trials and for offences that simply do not meet the most serious crimes threshold. Only 10 per cent of these executions were publicly announced.

    Mr President,

    It has been more than 2 years since the Iranian people took to the streets to call for Woman Life Freedom. More than 2 years since the brutal crackdown on these nationwide protests. More than 2 years and accountability, sadly, remains a distant hope. The Fact Finding Mission has clearly stated – investigations must continue. This Council must not let impunity prevail. The Iranian people deserve justice.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fundamental changes to Armed Forces processes to better support Women in UK Defence

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Fundamental changes to Armed Forces processes to better support Women in UK Defence

    As part of a series of changes to eradicate unacceptable behaviours in the military a new Tri-Service complaints unit for the Armed Forces has been announced.

    • New initiatives to tackle unacceptable behaviours in the military to be introduced at pace.

    • Changes include a new specialist Tri-Service team for taking the most serious complaints, such as bullying, discrimination and harassment, outside the single Service chain of command.

    • MOD creates a central Violence Against Women and Girls Taskforce, to drive cultural improvements 

    • Progress comes as Armed Forces Commissioner Bill continues through Parliament as part of the Government’s Plan for Change 

    As part of a series of changes to eradicate unacceptable behaviours in the military, and step-up support for women across UK Defence, a new Tri-Service complaints unit for the Armed Forces has been announced.  

    The new team will be independent of the single Service chain of command to provide individuals with greater confidence and help ensure that the most serious complaints are dealt with quickly, fairly and in a standardised way across the Armed Forces. Building on the change in 2022 when complaints were taken out of the direct chain of command, providing greater independence and confidence. 

    The change will see Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination related service complaints dealt with by a team outside the commands of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.  

    This builds on the successes of the tri-service approach to sexual offending, within the Defence Serious Crime Command which was set up in 2022.

    In addition, the Ministry of Defence will set up a Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce, led centrally by Minister Carns to cohere and drive the work to change culture from the heart of the department. Minister Carns will be supported by a network of regional champions who will help raise awareness of and tackle violence against women and girls across the military, and a Defence Voices Panel – a challenge group made up of service personnel and civil servants to provide honest feedback and lived experiences. 

    The Minister for Defence People and Veterans Al Carns will set out these new measures before the House of Commons Defence Select Committee later today. He will give evidence alongside Service chiefs.  

    Minister for Veterans and People Alistair Carns said:

    This government was elected on a manifesto of change, and we are delivering for Defence. I am personally committed to ensuring that we do everything within our power to root out unacceptable behaviour and ensure that the Armed Forces is a place where everyone can thrive. 

    Women in the armed forces play a vital role in our keeping our nation safe. This is not just a matter of basic justice and equality, it is essential to military effectiveness.   

    Our people have spoken, and we have listened. We are moving at pace to create a new Tri-Service Complaints team to take the most serious complaints out of the chain of single Service command for the first time and to launch a central taskforce to give this issue the attention and focus it deserves.

    The MOD’s VAWG Taskforce will include regional support network, trained on topics including domestic violence and sexual offending. These roles will use a network of multidisciplinary experts to support Armed Forces personnel, including healthcare providers, social workers, and HR advisors and will link into the Victim Witness Care Unit.   These measures are part of the government’s commitment to improving Service life and renewing the contract with those who serve and have served and support this government’s foundation of strong national security.  

    The government introduced the Armed Forces Commissioner Bill in November – the first ever independent champion for serving personnel and their families. The Bill has passed through the House of Commons and is now in Committee Stage in the Lords. The Commissioner will be a direct point of contact for serving personnel and their families to raise issues which impact Service life. They are expected to be appointed by the end of 2025.  With powers to visit Defence sites unannounced and commission reports, the Commissioner will hold Defence to account and drive improvements to Service life.  

    The government is committed to standing up for those who serve the nation. At the end of July, the Armed Forces received the largest pay rise in over 20 years, and in December the MOD struck a landmark deal to bring the military housing estate back into public ownership to enable additional investment into homes for military families and deliver savings for taxpayers.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Charter committing to openness, transparency and accountability

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Charter committing to openness, transparency and accountability

    Welsh public organisations pledge new approach focused on the bereaved and survivors of public tragedies.

    Organisations across Wales have signed a charter which commits them to responding to public tragedies with openness, transparency and accountability.

    The Charter for Families Bereaved by Public Tragedy calls for a cultural shift in public bodies’ engagement with bereaved families, ensuring the lessons of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster and its aftermath are learned to prevent those who are affected by public tragedy in the future from having the same experience.

    Organisations across Wales – including Welsh Government, local authorities, police forces, Welsh Ambulance Service, fire and rescue services, and the Mining Remediation Authority – have all signed up to support bereaved families and the community in the aftermath of a major incident, with a clear commitment to people and to providing services that meet their needs before, during and after an event.

    A launch event will be held in Merthyr Tydfil today (Tuesday 18 March 2025), attended by Bishop James Jones KBE, who wrote the charter as part of his report on lessons from the Hillsborough tragedy.

    He will be joined by the bereaved and survivors of public tragedies, including Hillsborough, Grenfell Tower, Manchester Arena and Aberfan, which stands only a few miles from the launch.

    Bishop Jones said:

    Today the nation of Wales is leading the way with more than 50 of its public bodies signing the charter. In doing so the culture of the organisations has begun to change and there is a renewed commitment to public service and to respecting the humanity of those we are called to serve.

    The charter represents a promise that after any future tragedy no one will be left to navigate their grief and survival alone. That no one will endure again the ‘patronising disposition of unaccountable power’.

    This is a pivotal moment in the life of the nation as we embrace the principles of the charter and pledge to respect the humanity of all its citizens which should be at the heart of all public service.

    North Wales Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Dawn Docx, chair of the Joint Emergency Services Group in Wales, said:

    We recognise that co-operation when supporting families affected by public tragedy is vital for ensuring the wellbeing and resilience of our communities.

    By working together we can use our collective expertise and resources to provide meaningful support to those in need during times of crisis and beyond.

    South Wales Police Deputy Chief Constable Mark Travis added:

    By signing the charter, each and every organisation is making a public statement to learn the lessons of the Hillsborough disaster and other tragedies to ensure that we never lose sight of the perspective of bereaved families and ensure that they are treated with care and compassion, not only at the time of emergency and tragedy but in the weeks, months and years after.

    While today is a landmark, the real challenge is to embed the charter into our training and culture to ensure it becomes an integral part of our response to any public tragedy.

    The involvement of the bereaved and survivors of public tragedy has been a driving force in bringing about today’s momentous step forward.

    Julia Draycon, Environment Director at the Mining Remediation Authority, said:

    As a 24/7 emergency response organisation, with staff across Great Britain ready to respond to incidents, we are proud to sign up to the charter For Families Bereaved Through Public Tragedy and we’re committed to upholding the principles within it.

    We act with integrity, respect and empathy; we take pride in the way we are dedicated to delivering for the communities we serve.

    For media enquiries contact the community response team

    Email communityresponse@miningremediation.gov.uk

    Telephone 0800 288 4211

    For emergency media enquiries (out of hours) call: 0800 288 4242.
    Only urgent media calls will be attended to.

    Updates to this page

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK aviation flying high with new tech funding for security

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK aviation flying high with new tech funding for security

    Funding will strengthen UK’s security standards and ensure passengers can continue to fly with ease of mind.

    • new funding to develop smart airport technology will enable the UK to stay ahead of potential security threats and reduce delays at airports
    • pioneering projects will solve complex aviation security challenges and will support jobs and skills across the country
    • with the aerospace and air transport sector worth £20 billion to the UK economy, investment will bolster economic growth and deliver on the government’s Plan for Change

    Passengers are set to benefit from smoother journeys thanks to funding for smart airport technology, announced today (18 March 2025) by the Department for Transport (DfT).

    Six successful British tech companies will receive a share of £450,000 to develop the smart screening technology of the future, enhancing UK security and reducing delays at airports.

    Based across the country – from Tewkesbury to Cambridge and Nottingham – each of the companies will develop scanning equipment to improve threat detection and reduce the number of false alarms and manual checks, speeding up screening processes and reducing inconvenience to passengers.

    With the sector worth £20 billion to the UK economy, continued investment will ensure the long-term future of aviation, keeping the UK competitive internationally.

    The programme will also build local jobs and skills that will kickstart economic growth across the country and break down barriers to opportunity.

    Alongside grant funding, the programme will provide tailored business support workshops delivered by experts at the Connected Places Catapult in collaboration with the department. These workshops will provide advice and mentoring on issues ranging from technical matters, corporate finance, regulation, trial design, customer needs and more.

    Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, said: 

    Safety is our top priority and this funding will strengthen the UK’s already rigorous security standards, bolster our competitiveness internationally and ensure that passengers can continue to fly with ease of mind.

    As part of our Plan for Change, we are turbocharging investment in the aviation sector and going further and faster with expansion plans to kickstart economic growth and deliver high-skilled jobs across the country.

    Connected Places Catapult is the delivery partner for the programme and has already successfully led a number of schemes for the department, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme, which aims to drive scientific and technological progress across UK transport.

    Erika Lewis, Chief Executive Officer at Connected Places Catapult, said:

    Making transport efficient, inclusive and safe is a key priority for Connected Places Catapult. By supporting innovators with ideas to further strengthen security at airports, not only are we helping to improve the passenger experience, but we are also supporting companies to develop and scale here in the UK.

    Sam Pollock, Iconal Director, said: 

    DfT’s HADeS innovation grant funding is a great example of government working with SMEs such as ourselves to accelerate the development of cutting edge technologies, supporting the UK’s world class aviation security industry.

    Aviation, Europe and technology media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ambitions are high as UK celebrates a year in Horizon Europe

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Ambitions are high as UK celebrates a year in Horizon Europe

    Hundreds of researchers, business leaders and academics gather at the Oval in London to mark a year of UK success in Horizon – and plan for much more.

    • Hundreds of researchers, business leaders and academics gather at the Oval in London to mark a year of UK success in Horizon – and plan for much more
    • £80 billion Horizon Europe programme is the world’s largest international research endeavour, and an important part of the UK’s relationship with Europe
    • International research collaboration is a key driver of economic growth, and the government’s Plan for Change

    More than 500 of the UK’s leading researchers, businesspeople and scientists will gather at London’s Oval today (Tuesday 18 March) to celebrate the successes that have already been delivered since the UK associated to the Horizon Europe programme, last year. They’ll also hear advice from industry experts, European diplomats, and leading academics on how to seize the opportunities for funding and collaboration that Horizon offers, with £80 billion up for grabs through the programme.

    Initial signs suggest UK association is trending in the right direction. Recent ERC Synergy Grants saw awards made to 18 UK-hosted projects, the second highest number. Horizon is giving British researchers and innovators access to funding, so they can tackle some of the biggest issues facing society, from breakthroughs in healthcare, to putting AI to work across the economy. All of this stands to unleash growth and create jobs in high-potential new industries, all of which supports the growth goals at the heart of the government’s Plan for Change.

    In 2025, the government is doubling down on its efforts to help the UK’s brightest minds access the opportunities on offer through Horizon, through a new PR blitz, networking events in Italy, Germany and Spain for British businesspeople and researchers, and grants to help cover the businesses cover the cost of attending R&D events across Europe.

    Science Minister Lord Vallance, who will speak at today’s Showcase, said:

    Science is stronger when we work together with others, and as new technologies like AI develop rapidly international collaboration on research is more important than ever before.

    Investing in R&D unlocks the door to more productive businesses, highly skilled and paid jobs, economic growth, and innovations that improve our lives and health. We need to go even further to seize the opportunity our association to Horizon represents and then reap the benefits.

    Besides Lord Vallance’s keynote, attendees at the Showcase will also hear from UKRI’s International Champion Professor Christopher Smith, DSIT’s Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Chris Johnson, and Cyril Robin-Champigneul from the EU’s delegation to the UK. That will be supplemented by sessions with experts from the UKRI on how to build the best bids for Horizon grants, and networking opportunities.

    DSIT Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Chris Johnson said:

    Over the last year we’ve seen some initial green shoots of recovery when it comes to UK participation in Horizon Europe. Events like today are an important chance to build on that positive momentum, and learn from the experience of those who’ve already been successful in building bids for funding.

    In 2025 and beyond, we want more researchers and businesses to seize the benefits of Horizon, to accelerate the discoveries that will boost our economy, and deliver new technologies that will improve all our lives.

    UKRI International Champion Professor Christopher Smith said:

    Today’s gathering at the Oval is a testament to the extraordinary progress we’ve made since associating to the Horizon Europe programme. The collaboration and innovation fostered through Horizon Europe are driving breakthroughs that will shape our future, from healthcare advancements, to climate monitoring, to AI integration across industries.

    As we look ahead, it’s crucial that we continue to leverage these opportunities to work collaboratively with our international partners, advancing research, fostering innovation, and supporting our vibrant research community.

    Businesses up and down the country are already carrying out cutting-edge R&D thanks to Horizon backing, as well as building consortia with partners in countries ranging from Canada to South Korea, and beyond.

    We know from recent history that the UK can be a leader in this area. We have 4 of the top 10 universities in the world, and the second-highest number of Nobel prize winners globally. A quarter of projects in which the UK participated, funded through Horizon Europe’s predecessor, were UK-led. 

    Further information, including practical support on how to apply, is available on the Horizon Hub – found on Innovate UK and UK Research and Innovation websites. UKRI also host regular events that help guide businesses and researchers through the opportunities on offer and the application process. 

    Potential applicants can find Horizon Europe calls (funding opportunities) open to UK-based applicants using the European Commission’s funding and tender opportunities portal. They can apply for Horizon Europe funding through the European Commission’s funding and tenders portal, where the original funding call is found. More information on how to submit applications are available on the European Commission’s website.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

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