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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump shrugs off stock market slump, but economic warning signs loom

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Conor O’Kane, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Bournemouth University

    bodrumsurf / Shutterstock

    During Donald Trump’s first term as US president, he regularly referred to rising stock markets as evidence of the success of his economic policies. “Highest Stock Market EVER”, Trump wrote on social media in 2017 after record gains. “That doesn’t just happen!”

    And after securing a second term in November 2024, some of Trump’s close advisers told the New York Times that the president “sees the market as a barometer of his success and abhors the idea that his actions might drive down stock prices”.

    This, in addition to a broader economic policy agenda committed to lower regulation and significant tax cuts, had Wall Street investors bullish about their prospects under the new Trump administration.

    But fears of an escalating trade war have seen the S&P 500, an index of the leading 500 publicly traded companies in the US, drop more than 10% from its February 2025 high. A decline of this magnitude in a major index is what professional traders refer to as a “correction”. In less than a month, roughly US$5 trillion (£3.9 trillion) has been wiped off the value of US stocks.

    So, what exactly is driving down stock prices? Economists cite the president’s brinkmanship, as well as his start-stop approach to tariffs with Canada and Mexico, as having rattled global investors. Some commentators believe this “chaotic” trade agenda has created huge uncertainty for consumers, investors and businesses.

    In view of such policies, a recent JP Morgan report said that US economic policy was “tilting away from growth”, and put the chances of a US recession at 40%, up from 30% at the start of the year. Moody’s Analytics has upped the odds of a US recession from 15% to 35%, citing tariffs as a key factor driving the downturn in its outlook.

    Any economic downturn would have an adverse impact on the profitability of US corporations, and the declining share prices reflect the negative outlook from investors.

    So far, the Trump administration appears unfazed by the US stock market decline. In an address to Congress on March 4, Trump declared his use of tariffs was all about making America rich again. “There will be a little disturbance, but we’re okay with that,” he said.

    The White House has, since then, announced that some short-term pain may be necessary for Trump to implement his trade agenda successfully, which is designed to bring manufacturing jobs back to the US.

    So, should we read this economic turbulence as a temporary blip? Or is it symptomatic of a more fundamental shift in the US economy?

    Change of strategy

    Stephen Miran, who was recently confirmed as chairman of Trump’s council of economic advisers, wrote a paper in November 2024 titled: A User’s Guide to Restructuring the Global Trading System. The paper gives us an insight into the Trump administration’s wider economic strategy.

    It sets out Trump’s desire “to reform the global trading system and put American industry on fairer ground vis-a-vis the rest of the world”. Miran cites persistent US dollar overvaluation as the root cause of economic imbalances.

    Miran does not believe that tariffs are inflationary, and argues that their use during Trump’s first presidential term had little discernible macroeconomic consequences. He does concede that tariffs may eventually lead to an appreciation – or further overvaluation – of the US dollar. However, Miran sees the extent of that appreciation as “debatable”.

    He sees tariffs as a tool for leverage in trade negotiations. The administration could, for example, agree to a reduction in tariffs in exchange for significant investment is the US by key trading partners. China investing in car manufacturing in the US is specifically mentioned in his analysis.

    Miran also states his belief that tariffs can be used to raise tax revenues from foreigners in order to retain low tax rates on American citizens.

    Some economists agree that the US dollar is overvalued. A combination of its role as the world’s reserve currency, as well as the attractiveness of the US economy as an investment destination, fuels demand for the US dollar and makes it stronger.

    A strong US dollar has made American manufacturing exports less competitive. This has cost American jobs. The “rust belt” states of the north-eastern and mid-western US have experienced a decline in manufacturing employment over the past 40 years, which is evidence of this.

    However, it is worth noting that the many US manufacturers who import manufactured parts or components to make their products do benefit from a stronger dollar. This is because it makes the parts and materials they are importing cheaper. US mortgage holders and investors also benefit from a stronger dollar through lower interest rates on loans.

    Steven Englander, the head of research and strategy at Standard Chartered bank, believes there are some contradictions in the Trump administration’s approach.

    In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Englander said: “The problem for the new administration is that it simultaneously wants a weaker dollar, a reduced trade deficit, capital inflows, and the dollar to remain the key currency in international reserves and payments.”

    Reduced trade deficits and capital inflows would typically strengthen the US dollar, as does its position as the world’s reserve currency.

    As Miran says in his paper: “There is a path by which the Trump administration can reconfigure the global trading and financial systems to America’s benefit. But it is narrow, and will require careful planning, precise execution, and attention to steps to minimise adverse consequences.”

    Only time will tell whether the Trump administration can successfully navigate this “narrow” path. In the meantime, the recent turbulence in US stock prices appears to be acceptable to the Trump administration in their pursuit of reforming the global financial system.

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

    – ref. Trump shrugs off stock market slump, but economic warning signs loom – https://theconversation.com/trump-shrugs-off-stock-market-slump-but-economic-warning-signs-loom-251988

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The women spies who fooled the Nazis with simple tricks

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Josephine Durant des Aulnois, PhD student in Sociology, University of Oxford

    If spy films have taught us anything, it’s that the people chosen for a career in espionage are special. They are the cream of the crop selected because they exhibit unique skills: high levels of intelligence and certain emotional traits that made them perfect for spying.

    During the second world war, the Special Operations Executive (SOE) was a British agency tasked with training spies to conduct espionage, sabotage and reconnaissance in German-occupied Europe and in east Asia. Active from 1940 to 1946, SOE was a pioneering British secret service. This is because it employed civilians, from all backgrounds, including women, which was unusual at a time where most spies were recruited from the army.

    The women hired by the agency were the only ones allowed to take on a combatant role by the British Army during the second world war. However, many have been unjustly forgotten.

    These women were active throughout Nazi-occupied Europe, but most women worked in France. They were not French, but French speakers who tried to pass for local. On paper, this might seem impossible, since being fluent in a language does not make you a spy.

    SOE recruited prospective agents on the basis of their language skills, and trained most of them in England before sending them into the field. Despite their lack of experience, many SOE women successfully duped German soldiers. Here are some of the simple but effective ways they managed such deception.

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    Emotional control

    First, women spies sometimes fooled people simply by appearing calm. Irish agent Maureen Patricia “Paddy” O’Sullivan had grown-up in Belgium and was renowned for her daring personality. In a post-war interview, she described how she avoided a thorough search while carrying compromising documents. O’Sullivan acted confident and friendly to divert the soldier’s attention from her bag:

    As she laughed and joked with the German, he was distracted from making a closer examination.

    The spies’ cool was frequently praised in post-war commendations. Remaining calm was no mean feat, especially since most SOE recruits had never worked undercover. In France, they could be questioned by Nazis at any time and nervousness made them look suspicious.

    Agent Yvonne Cormeau joined SOE after losing her husband during a bombing at the beginning of the war. In a 1989 interview, she summarised the situation perfectly: “We learned to live with fear.”

    Physical appearance

    SOE spies did alter their appearance in order not to be recognised, but for most, this merely involved picking clothes which matched their cover. Yvonne Cormeau was sent to a farm in southern France, where the pro-Allied owners gave her new clothes and an apron. She was supposed to pass as their assistant and needed to look like one.

    A few agents went a step further and dyed their hair. This was the case of Noor Inayat Khan (code name Madeleine), a Sufi Muslim of royal lineage born to Indian and American parents. Betrayed to the Germans, she was executed at Dachau concentration camp in 1944.

    Noor Inayat Khan.
    Imperial War Museums/Wikimedia, CC BY

    Inayat Khan’s contribution to SOE proved invaluable. For several months in 1943, she was the sole radio operator still active in Paris amid the growing Gestapo presence.

    However, her constant hair dyeing was less effective. To try and escape the notice of the Gestapo, she regularly bleached her hair blonde, but this actually brought her to the attention of the Germans.

    They questioned Alfred and Emilie Balachowsky, her contacts who lived near Paris and led a local resistance network, about the presence of a woman “sometimes blonde and sometimes brunette”. The agent was not arrested on that occasion, but her efforts had backfired.

    Everyday habits

    Locals like the Balachowskys provided crucial support for SOE women, who could be given away by any small gesture. Despite having grown up near Paris, Inayat Khan threatened her cover just by pouring tea.

    Shortly after her arrival, Mrs Balachowsky invited neighbours to a tea party, during which the SOE agent poured the milk first into her cup, leading a neighbour to comment that she behaved like a Brit. Emilie Balachowsky quickly corrected Inayat Khan, who was not the only spy to make errors based on cultural differences.

    Yvonne Cormeau.
    Imperial War Museums/Wikimedia, CC BY

    While at the farm, Yvonne Cormeau was asked to watch the owner’s cows. She was about to bring her knitting kit, until her contact explained that this would give her away: “I was forbidden from knitting, as we Englishwomen knit differently.”

    These anecdotes are a testament to the importance of everyday habits and of the agents’ local contacts. For SOE women, espionage in France was very much about teamwork.

    While Inayat Khan was compromised and executed, for the most part the SOE’s civilian programme for women was a success. The SOE paved the way for other agencies which gradually started to recruit civilians of all genders after the second world war.

    Some of its methods are also used by modern secret services, such as the illegals programme, a Russian initiative which involves sending Russian operatives fluent in English undercover in the US.

    Despite this success, the contribution of women like Patricia O’Sullivan, Yvonne Cormeau and Noor Inayat Khan has remained widely overlooked. They deserve to be remembered along with the period’s male spies.

    Josephine Durant des Aulnois receives funding from the Clarendon Fund, managed by Oxford University.

    – ref. The women spies who fooled the Nazis with simple tricks – https://theconversation.com/the-women-spies-who-fooled-the-nazis-with-simple-tricks-251653

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Plans to link electricity bills to where you live are unlikely to bring down prices – and that’s a big problem for net zero

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nicholas Harrington, Research Associate in Electricity Market Reform, University of Glasgow

    Diana Mower/Shutterstock

    A proposed reform to the way electricity is priced in Britain could see households pay a different bill based on their postcode.

    Presently, Britain’s electricity system operates as a single market across England, Wales and Scotland. Around 30% of electricity is traded through half-hourly auctions, known as the spot market, while the remaining 70% is traded in forward markets via contracts covering weeks, months, or even years of demand in advance.

    The price of electricity is, broadly speaking, determined by the spot market, as forward market contracts are hedged on the basis of current and expected future spot market prices.

    “Zonal pricing” would divide the British market into multiple separate zones instead, each with its own spot and forward markets to serve demand within it. In effect, zonal pricing would split one large market into a series of smaller, interconnected markets.

    Whether it is the right approach depends on what you expect it to achieve, and where your interests lie. The UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, tasked with the decision, has three main objectives: decarbonising the country’s power sector, securing the supply of power and lowering the prices consumers pay.

    I’m an academic investigating the factors that influence the UK’s ability to decarbonise the housing sector, in particular, the way people heat their homes. I’m most concerned with the affordability of electricity, since I take the view that the lower the price of electricity, the easier our journey to net zero emissions will be – and vice versa.

    A lower electricity price would make clean heating systems (such as heat pumps, which run on electricity) more attractive to consumers and reduce the scale of insulation and draughtproofing required to make the running cost of these systems competitive with gas boilers. My research suggests that the UK’s high electricity price is behind the country’s comparably low rate of heat pump adoption.

    Zonal pricing, as an electricity market reform, seems unlikely to lower electricity prices and drive decarbonisation on its own. Closer scrutiny of the electricity system and its mechanisms suggests it may only make things more complicated.

    The root cause of high bills

    At €0.321 (£0.27) per kilowatt-hour (kWh), the UK has the second-highest electricity price when compared to European Union countries. The EU average is €0.218 per kWh, meaning UK electricity costs around 47% more than it does for most of our EU neighbours.

    Despite Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (which triggered a spike in energy prices) starting more than three years ago now, electricity prices across the UK remain about 53% higher than pre-crisis levels. If the UK is generating more electricity from renewables each year — and renewable electricity is the cheapest on the market — why do prices keep rising instead of falling, as one might expect?

    The UK’s high electricity prices are the result of system marginal pricing, which lies at the heart of the spot market. At the end of each half-hourly auction, all electricity that is bid into the market is purchased at the price of the last unit required to meet demand.

    Since total demand is rarely met by renewables, the much more expensive gas generators typically set the price. It’s like going to a fruit market to buy ten apples, finding the first nine for £1 each, the last one for £3, and then having to pay £30 for the lot, rather than the expected £13.

    Because forward markets follow the spot market, and the spot market operates under system marginal pricing, UK consumers end up paying gas-generated electricity prices 98% of the time.



    Read more:
    How gas keeps the UK’s electricity bills so high – despite lots of cheap wind power

    Will zonal pricing lower these prices? On its own, no. This is because all zones under the scheme will still have spot markets operating under the marginal pricing model. Zonal pricing doesn’t address the fundamental problem that’s keeping electricity prices in Britain so high.

    Advocates of zonal pricing argue that it will encourage investment in the infrastructure required to lower electricity prices – namely, storage and transmission.

    Grid-scale and home batteries, pumped hydro and thermal energy storage help reduce final electricity prices by storing excess renewable energy for use when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining, so grid operators don’t have to rely on expensive gas-generated electricity to fill supply gaps. Meanwhile, transmission lines and cables ensure that renewable electricity is delivered where it is needed.

    By creating price differences between zones, so the argument goes, the market receives clear signals about where such investments would be most profitable.

    Would zonal pricing help build more of these?
    EOSMan/Shutterstock

    This argument, however, assumes that electricity prices will fall in some zones, and that the market has a strong incentive to invest in high-price areas.

    I’m compelled to ask two questions. What prevents zones that generate a lot of renewable electricity from selling their supply at higher prices in other zones, which could prevent renewables from meeting total demand and lead to the same price distortions currently seen due to marginal pricing?

    And if investments in storage and transmission are underwhelming when electricity prices are high everywhere, why would they suddenly become more likely when prices are only high in specific areas?

    Overall, I think the argument in favour of zonal pricing is unconvincing as it doesn’t address the structural issue underlying the UK’s high electricity prices: spot markets that operate according to system marginal pricing.

    If zonal pricing neither lowers consumer electricity prices nor significantly stimulates investment in storage and transmission on its own — and does not alter the geographic and planning factors that determine wind and solar farm locations — then it is unclear what it would achieve beyond adding complexity to an already complex electricity system.

    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.

    Nicholas Harrington receives funding from the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSCR).

    – ref. Plans to link electricity bills to where you live are unlikely to bring down prices – and that’s a big problem for net zero – https://theconversation.com/plans-to-link-electricity-bills-to-where-you-live-are-unlikely-to-bring-down-prices-and-thats-a-big-problem-for-net-zero-251922

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Trinitarios Gang Member Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant was on probation for armed robbery when he sold fentanyl and methamphetamine to an undercover officer

    BOSTON – A Lynn, Mass. man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for drug offenses relating to an ongoing investigation of fentanyl distribution. 

    Ricardo Bratini-Perez, a/k/a “Rico,” a/k/a “Ricofromthesin,” 26, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 10 years years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In November 2024, Bratini-Perez pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, fentanyl analog and methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Bratini-Perez on Oct. 3, 2024. 

    According to court papers, Bratini-Perez is a member of the Trinitarios gang and was on probation following his release in 2023 from state custody on armed robbery and firearm charges. While on state probation, Bratini-Perez sold fentanyl and methamphetamine to an undercover officer on three occasions in March 2024 and April 2024. On April 8, 2024, Bratini-Perez was arrested following a fourth sale to the undercover officer. A search of Bratini-Perez’s residence resulted in the recovery of over 5,000 grams of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl. 
               
    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why build nuclear power in place of old coal, when you could have pumped hydropower instead?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Weber, Research Officer for School of Engineering, Australian National University

    Phillip Wittke, Shutterstock

    Australia’s energy policy would take a sharp turn if the Coalition wins the upcoming federal election. A Dutton government would seek to build seven nuclear power plants at the sites of old coal-fired power stations.

    The Coalition says its plan makes smart use of the existing transmission network and other infrastructure. But solar and wind power would need to be curtailed to make room in the grid for nuclear energy. This means polluting coal and gas power stations would remain active for longer, releasing an extra 1 billion to 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide.

    So is there another option? Yes: pumped hydro storage plants. This technology is quicker and cheaper to develop than nuclear power, and can store solar and wind rather than curtail it. It’s better suited to Australia’s electricity grid and would ultimately lead to fewer emissions. Drawing on our recent global analysis, we found the technology could be deployed near all but one of the seven sites the Coalition has earmarked for nuclear power.

    The Coalition is likely to spend anywhere from A$116 billion to $600 billion of taxpayers’ money to deliver up to 14 gigawatts of nuclear energy. Experts say the plan will not lower power prices and will take too long to build. Our findings suggest cheap storage of solar and wind, in the form of pumped hydro, is a better way forward.

    This way, we can continue to build renewable energy capacity while stabilising the grid. More than 45GW of solar and wind is already up and running, with a further 23GW being supported by the Capacity Investment Scheme until 2027. Only a handful of the pumped hydro sites we found would be needed to decarbonise the energy system, reaching the 1,046 gigawatt-hours of storage CSIRO estimates Australia needs.

    Building pumped hydro storage systems near old coal-fired power generators has some advantages, such as access to transmission lines – although more will be needed as electricity demand increases. But plenty of other suitable sites exist, too.

    Filling the gaps

    Pumped hydro is a cheap, mature technology that currently provides more than 90% of the world’s electrical energy storage.

    It involves pumping water uphill from one reservoir to another at a higher elevation for storage. Then, when power is needed, water is released to flow downhill through turbines, generating electricity on its way to the lower reservoir.

    Together with battery storage, pumped hydro solves the very real problem of keeping the grid stable and reliable when it is dominated by solar and wind power.

    By 2030, 82% of Australia’s electricity supply is expected to come from renewables, up from about 40% today.

    But solar panels only work during the day and don’t produce as much power when it’s cloudy. And wind turbines don’t generate power when it’s calm. That’s where storage systems come in. They can charge up when electricity is plentiful and then release electricity when it’s needed.

    Grid-connected batteries can fill short-term gaps (from seconds to a few hours). Pumped hydro can store electricity overnight, and longer still. These two technologies can be used together to supply electricity through winter, and other periods of calm or cloudy weather.

    Two types of pumped-storage hydropower, one doesn’t require dams on rivers.
    NREL

    Finding pumped hydro near the Coalitions’s proposed nuclear sites

    Australia has three operating pumped hydro systems: Tumut 3 in the Snowy Mountains, Wivenhoe in Queensland, and Shoalhaven in the Kangaroo Valley of New South Wales.

    Two more are under construction, including Snowy 2.0. Even after all the cost blowouts, Snowy 2.0 comes at a modest construction cost of A$34 per kilowatt-hour of energy storage, which is ten times cheaper than the cost CSIRO estimates for large, new batteries.

    We previously developed a “global atlas” to identify potential locations for pumped hydro facilities around the world.

    More recently, we created a publicly available tool to filter results based on construction cost, system size, distance from transmission lines or roads, and away from environmentally sensitive locations.

    In this new analysis, we used the tool to find pumped hydro options near the sites the Coalition has chosen for nuclear power plants.

    Mapping 300 potential pumped hydro sites

    The proposed nuclear sites are:

    • Liddell Power Station, New South Wales
    • Mount Piper Power Station, New South Wales
    • Loy Yang Power Stations, Victoria
    • Tarong Power Station, Queensland
    • Callide Power Station, Queensland
    • Northern Power Station, South Australia (small modular reactor only)
    • Muja Power Station, Western Australia (small modular reactor only).

    We used our tool to identify which of these seven sites would instead be suitable for a pumped hydro project, using the following criteria:

    • low construction cost (for a pumped hydro project)

    • located within 85km of the proposed nuclear sites.

    We included various reservoir types in our search:

    Exactly 300 sites matched our search criteria. No options emerged near the proposed nuclear site in Western Australia, but suitable sites lie further north in the mining region of the Pilbara.

    One option east of Melbourne, depicted in the image below, has a storage capacity of 500 gigawatt-hours. Compared with Snowy 2.0, this option has a much shorter tunnel, larger energy capacity, and larger height difference between the two reservoirs (increasing the potential energy stored in the water). And unlike Snowy 2.0, it is not located in a national park.

    Of course, shortlisted sites would require detailed assessment to confirm the local geology is suitable for pumped hydro, and to evaluate potential environmental and social impacts.

    More where that came from

    We restricted our search to sites near the Coalition’s proposed nuclear plants. But there are hundreds of potential pumped hydro sites along Australia’s east coast.

    Developers can use our free tool to identify the best sites.

    So far, the Australian electricity transition has mainly been driven by private investment in solar and wind power. With all this renewable energy entering the grid, there’s money to be made in storage, too.

    Large, centralised, baseload electricity generators, such as coal and nuclear plants, are becoming a thing of the past. A smarter energy policy would balance solar and wind with technologies such as pumped hydro, to secure a reliable electricity supply.

    Timothy Weber receives funding from the Australian government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics.

    Andrew Blakers receives funding from the Australian government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and other organisations.

    – ref. Why build nuclear power in place of old coal, when you could have pumped hydropower instead? – https://theconversation.com/why-build-nuclear-power-in-place-of-old-coal-when-you-could-have-pumped-hydropower-instead-252017

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Strengthens Commitment to Biodiversity and Community Development in the Trifinio Region

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    UK Strengthens Commitment to Biodiversity and Community Development in the Trifinio Region

    Senior British officials toured Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador to witness first-hand the impact of the UK’s Biodiverse Landscapes Fund (BLF).

    British Ambassador to Guatemala and designated to Honduras, Juliana Correa, British Ambassador to El Salvador, Ramin Navai, and the British Deputy Head of Mission to El Salvador, Tanya Robinson, met with local authorities, community representatives, and members of the Trinational Commission of the Trifinio Plan (CTPT) to discuss fire prevention strategies, sustainable land management, and community-led conservation efforts. 

    The officials travelled to Chiquimula (Guatemala). Ocotepeque (Honduras), and Metapán (El Salvador), where they engaged with local communities and project implementers working to safeguard natural ecosystems while fostering sustainable livelihoods. 

    A key milestone of the visit was the inauguration of biofactories in Aldea El Rincón (Guatemala) and El Llano (El Salvador). These facilities will produce biofertilizers with mountain microorganisms, promoting sustainable agriculture practices while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. 

    Additionally, fire brigades in Sumpul (Honduras), Metapán (El Salvador), and San Jose la Arada (Guatemala) received firefighting tools and cutting-edge drones for forest monitoring and early fire detection, significantly enhancing regional fire prevention capabilities. 

    The UK’s Biodiverse Landscapes Fund is a global initiative supporting six biodiversity hotspots worldwide. The Trifinio region’s projects are led by Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), in close collaboration from national and local governments. 

    This visit reaffirms the UK’s continued partnership with Central American communities, promoting environmental resilience, sustainable development, and regional cooperation addressing pressing ecological challenges while building a more sustainable future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour is cutting its way to economic chaos

    Source: Scottish Greens

    17 Mar 2025 Economy

    Labour is making the people with the least suffer the most.

    More in Economy

    Labour is spreading cuts and misery to avoid taxing the super wealthy, says Scottish Green MSP Lorna Slater who has warned that the strategy will only make things worse.

    With the Resolution Foundation warning that the UK job market is ‘in recession territory’ it is clear that Labour’s strategy is not working.

    Scottish Greens Co-Leader Lorna Slater MSP said:

    “Labour appears to be willing to sacrifice the wellbeing of older people, disabled people and families with more than two children in order to avoid having to tax the super-rich.

    “They told us that they could be trusted with the economy, but they are failing on all of their own terms and cutting their way into a recession.

    “From cutting Winter Fuel Payments to betraying WASPI women and from keeping the cruel two child cap to lining up £6 billion worth of welfare cuts, this is a Labour government that has shown it cannot be trusted.

    “We know what happens when you copy Tory policies, you end up with the same kind of economic chaos that we saw under the last Tory government, and it will be the people with the least who are made to suffer the most. Scotland deserves so much better than this.

    “You cannot build prosperity by hiking up the cost of living for working class families and punishing pensioners. They promised change, but this isn’t the change that Scotland waited 14 years for.

    “We live in one of the wealthiest societies there has ever been, but that wealth is being hoarded by a small number of very rich people.

    “By taxing that wealth properly and forcing the super rich to finally pay their fair share, we can undo so much of the damage that has been done by the Tories and Labour and build a fairer, greener and better society.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Europe had worst measles outbreak since 1997 – new data

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health, University of Southampton

    SamaraHeisz5/Shutterstock

    Europe has had the highest number of measles cases since 1997, according to a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO). There were 127,350 cases in 2024 – about double the number from 2023.

    “Measles is back, and it’s a wake-up call,” says Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe. “Without high vaccination rates, there is no health security.” Last year, there were 38 deaths from measles.

    Transmission is similar to COVID, with respiratory droplets and aerosols (airborne transmission) spreading the virus between people. The infection produces a rash and fever in mild cases, and encephalitis (brain swelling), pneumonia and blindness in severe cases.

    Hospitalisation and deaths are overwhelmingly in unvaccinated people, with mortality rates in developed countries around one in 1,000 to one in 5,000 measles cases.

    Each person infected with measles will, on average, spread the virus to between 12 and 18 other people. This is more infectious than COVID. For example, someone with the omicron variant would spread the virus to around eight others.

    In 2022 the WHO had described measles as an “imminent threat in every region of the world”. The widespread impact of COVID made it harder for people to access healthcare, reducing the ability of regular health services, like vaccinations, to function properly.

    These new stark figures from WHO Europe are an inevitable consequence of lower vaccination rates. Measles is almost entirely vaccine-preventable, with two doses providing greater than 99% protection against infection. The vaccine has an excellent safety record, with severe harm being extremely rare.

    The proportion of the population that needs to be vaccinated to keep local transmission low and prevent outbreaks (so-called “herd immunity”) is around 95%.

    WHO Europe highlighted some examples of where there are clear gaps in vaccine coverage. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Romania, fewer than 80% of eligible children were vaccinated in 2023, with rates below 50% for the past five or more years. Romania had the highest number of measles cases in Europe in 2024 – an estimated 30,692 cases.

    Misinformation is the driver

    Misinformation is an important factor that reduces vaccine uptake. For example, in the UK, former physician Andrew Wakefield presented falsified data in 2002 claiming the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine caused autism. He somehow got these claims published in The Lancet – although the paper was later retracted.

    This fake scare received sustained media coverage, which resulted in lower uptake in young children at the time and was then a key factor a large measles outbreak among teenagers in England in 2012.

    The claims have spread internationally. In 2020, a US population survey found that “18% of our respondents mistakenly state that it is very or somewhat accurate to say that vaccines cause autism”.

    Sadly, misinformation about health can even be found at the highest levels of government. US President Donald Trump repeatedly made false claims during the COVID pandemic, including the suggestion that injecting disinfectant might cure COVID. In 2025, he appointed Robert F. Kennedy as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Kennedy has long espoused anti-vaccine viewpoints, including being required to apologise in 2015 for comparing vaccination programmes to the Holocaust.

    RFK Jr. was made to apologise for comparing vaccination programmes with the Holocaust.
    Maxim Elramsisy/Shutterstock

    In a recent interview with Fox’s Sean Hannity, Kennedy said of the MMR vaccine: “It does cause deaths every year. It causes — it causes all the illnesses that measles itself causes, encephalitis and blindness, et cetera.”

    This is untrue. The Infectious Disease Society of America points out that there have been “no deaths related to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine in healthy individuals”. This is amid two measles deaths in unvaccinated people in the US, the first such deaths since 2003. There are estimates that the measles vaccine prevented 94 million deaths globally between 1974 to 2024.

    The US National Institute for Health, one of the world’s biggest funders of health research, announced on March 10 2025 that it was axing research that aimed to understand and address vaccine hesitancy.

    This goes alongside the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) apparently planning a large study into potential associations between vaccines and autism, despite dozens of studies indicating there being no such link.

    This volatility coming from the US and elsewhere matters for Europe. Trump and the US have political supporters in Europe, so their messaging carries weight and could do harm. Anti-vaccine sentiment promoted on Facebook from within the US resulted in comments on the posts from multiple countries. The use of social media has been observed to spread misinformation internationally, for example, within Europe. Russian trolls are also involved in creating arguments about vaccines.

    There is an urgent need for outbreaks to be brought back under control and for accurate information about vaccines to be the key message in public discussions. As Dr Kluge highlights: “The measles virus never rests – and neither can we.”

    Michael Head has previously received funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Research England and the UK Department for International Development, and currently receives funding from the UK Medical Research Foundation.

    – ref. Europe had worst measles outbreak since 1997 – new data – https://theconversation.com/europe-had-worst-measles-outbreak-since-1997-new-data-252327

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Norwich City Council publishes latest workforce pay gap report

    Source: City of Norwich

    Norwich City Council has reduced its gender pay gap to the lowest level since statutory reporting began, according to the latest Gender, Ethnicity, and Disability Pay Gap Report.

    Using data from 31 March 2024, the report which was presented to Cabinet on Wednesday 5 March highlights positive progress in closing gender pay gaps, while also identifying areas for improvement in ethnicity and disability pay gaps.

    The median gender pay gap is now 0.30%, the lowest since reporting began. On average, women earn 99.7p for every £1 earned by men. Women also make up 57% of the council’s workforce, including key roles in the senior leadership team. This positive trend of women in senior positions continued with appointments including the chief executive and two executive directors.

    For the first time, the council has voluntarily published ethnicity and disability pay gap data, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and workplace inclusion. The findings show that the median pay gap between white employees and those from ethnically diverse backgrounds is 4.55%.

    The report also reveals that employees with disabilities earn, on average, 1.14% less than those without disabilities. These findings highlight the need for ongoing work to support employees from an ethnically diverse heritage and those with disabilities, ensuring any barriers to career progression within the council are fully understood and addressed.

    Councillor Paul Kendrick, cabinet member for an open and modern council, said: “It’s very encouraging to see the gender pay gap at its lowest recorded level yet, but we know there is still work to do to ensure our workforce fully reflects the diversity of the communities the council serves here in Norwich.

    “By voluntarily reporting on ethnicity and disability pay gaps, the council is holding itself accountable and continues to develop policies that support all employees, ensuring equal opportunities are accessible to all.”

    To address pay disparities and improve workplace equality, the council has outlined a series of actions, including: reviewing workforce diversity across directorates, continuing its commitment to anti-racism initiatives and enhancing support for employees with disabilities.

    Read the report in full at: Gender, Ethnicity, and Disability Pay Gap Report.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Europe faces worst measles outbreak since 1997 – new data

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health, University of Southampton

    SamaraHeisz5/Shutterstock

    Europe has had the highest number of measles cases since 1997, according to a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO). There were 127,350 cases in 2024 – about double the number from 2023.

    “Measles is back, and it’s a wake-up call,” says Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe. “Without high vaccination rates, there is no health security.” Last year, there were 38 deaths from measles.

    Transmission is similar to COVID, with respiratory droplets and aerosols (airborne transmission) spreading the virus between people. The infection produces a rash and fever in mild cases, and encephalitis (brain swelling), pneumonia and blindness in severe cases.

    Hospitalisation and deaths are overwhelmingly in unvaccinated people, with mortality rates in developed countries around one in 1,000 to one in 5,000 measles cases.

    Each person infected with measles will, on average, spread the virus to between 12 and 18 other people. This is more infectious than COVID. For example, someone with the omicron variant would spread the virus to around eight others.

    In 2022 the WHO had described measles as an “imminent threat in every region of the world”. The widespread impact of COVID made it harder for people to access healthcare, reducing the ability of regular health services, like vaccinations, to function properly.

    These new stark figures from WHO Europe are an inevitable consequence of lower vaccination rates. Measles is almost entirely vaccine-preventable, with two doses providing greater than 99% protection against infection. The vaccine has an excellent safety record, with severe harm being extremely rare.

    The proportion of the population that needs to be vaccinated to keep local transmission low and prevent outbreaks (so-called “herd immunity”) is around 95%.

    WHO Europe highlighted some examples of where there are clear gaps in vaccine coverage. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Romania, fewer than 80% of eligible children were vaccinated in 2023, with rates below 50% for the past five or more years. Romania had the highest number of measles cases in Europe in 2024 – an estimated 30,692 cases.

    Misinformation is the driver

    Misinformation is an important factor that reduces vaccine uptake. For example, in the UK, former physician Andrew Wakefield presented falsified data in 2002 claiming the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine caused autism. He somehow got these claims published in The Lancet – although the paper was later retracted.

    This fake scare received sustained media coverage, which resulted in lower uptake in young children at the time and was then a key factor a large measles outbreak among teenagers in England in 2012.

    The claims have spread internationally. In 2020, a US population survey found that “18% of our respondents mistakenly state that it is very or somewhat accurate to say that vaccines cause autism”.

    Sadly, misinformation about health can even be found at the highest levels of government. US President Donald Trump repeatedly made false claims during the COVID pandemic, including the suggestion that injecting disinfectant might cure COVID. In 2025, he appointed Robert F. Kennedy as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Kennedy has long espoused anti-vaccine viewpoints, including being required to apologise in 2015 for comparing vaccination programmes to the Holocaust.

    RFK Jr. was made to apologise for comparing vaccination programmes with the Holocaust.
    Maxim Elramsisy/Shutterstock

    In a recent interview with Fox’s Sean Hannity, Kennedy said of the MMR vaccine: “It does cause deaths every year. It causes — it causes all the illnesses that measles itself causes, encephalitis and blindness, et cetera.”

    This is untrue. The Infectious Disease Society of America points out that there have been “no deaths related to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine in healthy individuals”. This is amid two measles deaths in unvaccinated people in the US, the first such deaths since 2003. There are estimates that the measles vaccine prevented 94 million deaths globally between 1974 to 2024.

    The US National Institute for Health, one of the world’s biggest funders of health research, announced on March 10 2025 that it was axing research that aimed to understand and address vaccine hesitancy.

    This goes alongside the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) apparently planning a large study into potential associations between vaccines and autism, despite dozens of studies indicating there being no such link.

    This volatility coming from the US and elsewhere matters for Europe. Trump and the US have political supporters in Europe, so their messaging carries weight and could do harm. Anti-vaccine sentiment promoted on Facebook from within the US resulted in comments on the posts from multiple countries. The use of social media has been observed to spread misinformation internationally, for example, within Europe. Russian trolls are also involved in creating arguments about vaccines.

    There is an urgent need for outbreaks to be brought back under control and for accurate information about vaccines to be the key message in public discussions. As Dr Kluge highlights: “The measles virus never rests – and neither can we.”

    Michael Head has previously received funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Research England and the UK Department for International Development, and currently receives funding from the UK Medical Research Foundation.

    – ref. Europe faces worst measles outbreak since 1997 – new data – https://theconversation.com/europe-faces-worst-measles-outbreak-since-1997-new-data-252327

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: This is why physical affection can boost your health

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    By Viren Swami, Anglia Ruskin University

    In the opening scene of Love, Actually, Hugh Grant’s character says how, whenever he gets gloomy with the state of the world, he thinks about the arrivals gate at Heathrow airport. The reason is on screen: we see couples kissing, old friends embracing, children smiling and laughing as they jump into the arms of their parents.

    Airports are great places to really understand the importance of physical affection – hugging, kissing, cuddling, holding hands, or even just touching. But physical affection is ubiquitous in everyday life, too – and with good reason. Science shows that non-sexual physical affection produces more than just moments of joy – it also benefits our mental and physical health.

    Physical affection is one of the most direct and important ways that people communicate intimacy in their romantic relationships. And it seems to occur in romantic relationships all over the world, despite cross-cultural differences in ideas of love and romance.

    People in romantic relationships report more intimate physical affection than singletons. They’re also more comfortable allowing their partners to touch more of their bodies than strangers or friends. For example, most people are comfortable being touched on their thighs and abdomen by their partner, but not by other people.

    Even how we touch our partners is different to how we touch other people. When participants in one study were asked to stroke their partner, a friend, a stranger, or an artificial arm, they did so more slowly with their partner. Slower strokes may be experienced as more pleasant and erotic than quicker strokes. Even just thinking about physical affection from a partner evokes pleasant and erotic sensations.

    There is now strong evidence showing that physical contact is associated with better physical and mental health. One review of “touch interventions” – think massage – in 212 studies involving more than 13,000 participants found that physical touch benefited everything from sleep patterns to blood pressure to fatigue. Touch interventions were especially helpful in reducing pain, depression and anxiety.

    Couple’s therapy

    Before you rush off to book yourself a massage, you should know that much of the evidence suggests the strongest benefits come from physical affection with romantic partners. Several studies have found that, in couples, physical affection is associated with a range of physiological effects, including lower blood pressure and better immune responses.

    In couples, physical affection is also associated with better psychological wellbeing. One study found that couples who sleep-touched – cuddling shortly before or after sleep – felt happier and calmer in the morning, which meant they were more likely to enjoy the company of their partners.

    Physical affection – including kissing and affection after sex – is also associated with greater relationship and sexual satisfaction, and better ratings of one’s relationship overall, which in turn contribute to better psychological wellbeing. And even when conflicts do occur, hugging seems to reduce levels of negative mood in couples.

    Cuddle up, because there’s more. Receiving physical affection from a partner makes us feel psychologically stronger. One study found that women showed less activation in parts of the brain that respond to threat when holding their husband’s hand. Even just imagining touch from a partner can increase one’s willingness to take on challenging tasks.

    Another way to look at this is to examine what happens when we lose physical affection. Studies have shown that “touch deprivation” – the absence of touch – is associated with greater symptoms of depression and anxiety. Indeed, the loss of affection from others during the pandemic hit many people hard. Among couples, a lack of physical affection is associated with lower relationship satisfaction, stress, and feelings of loneliness.

    There are several ways in which physical affection provides these benefits. Affectionate touch is known to activate reward centres of the brain, which boosts our mood and promotes feelings of wellbeing. Touch also stimulates the release of oxytocin, which can strengthen social bonds and increase feelings of trust between individuals. It’s for these reasons that oxytocin is sometimes called the “cuddle chemical”.

    Physical affection also reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol and reduces perceived pain, which suppress physiological stress systems. One study found that a 10-minute neck-and-shoulder massage from one’s partner helped lower cortisol responses, helping to regulate levels of stress.

    Psychologically, physical affection in romantic relationships is an important way to keep our emotions under control. Touching one’s partner in a caring manner helps to improve their mood and makes them feel loved, secure, and safe. As feelings of connection, trust, and belonging are strengthened through non-sexual physical signs of affection, negative effect is reduced and psychological well-being is improved.

    However, not everyone likes to be touched, even if it is by their romantic partners. Some people are “touch avoidant” – and some people may actually be apprehensive about being touched. For instance, people with avoidant attachment styles – characterised by a discomfort with emotional closeness – often have very negative views about cuddling and are more hesitant to touch their partners. Conversely, people with anxious attachment styles – characterised by a fear of abandonment – may desire more touch than they receive.

    But when couples have similar touch preferences, it can lead to greater attraction, closeness, and commitment to one another. And if you’re looking for a fun way to incorporate non-sexual physical affection into your relationships, consider home massage. One study found that couples who took turns massaging each other at home felt a deeper connection with each other, and felt more relaxed and less stressed.

    Viren Swami, Professor of Social Psychology, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A new vision for Fort Regent17 March 2025 The Government will be launching a new, exciting vision for the future of Fort Regent together with a public consultation that will start on 2 April. The aim is to reopen the Fort at the end of 2028.… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    17 March 2025

    The Government will be launching a new, exciting vision for the future of Fort Regent together with a public consultation that will start on 2 April. The aim is to reopen the Fort at the end of 2028. 

    Fort Regent needs to close at the end of the year for significant essential maintenance and upgrades that cannot be carried out while the public have access to the building. 

    The infrastructure of the 1970s complex, including power, lighting and water, is out of date and many issues need to be addressed, including the presence of asbestos. It is not possible to keep the building open while these improvements and repairs to the roof are undertaken. 

    The following steps will be taken to ensure the first phase of the project can happen: 

    1. Support existing users to relocate 

    All public sports services will be moved out of the outdated facilities and into modern, purpose-built sports venues or existing facilities across the Island. Many clubs have already relocated over the past three years. 

    La Petite Ecole nursery will continue operating at Fort Regent until new facilities are found for them. 

    2. Relocate soft play facilities 

    To ensure families still have access to a high-quality play area while the Fort is being redeveloped, a brand-new, fun and accessible soft play facility will be opening at the Waterfront this Summer. 

    3. Make the facilities safe and address existing risks 

    The basic infrastructure of Fort Regent is outdated, including the power supply, lighting and water systems. The building also contains asbestos so Fort Regent will have to close to protect the public while work takes place to safely regenerate the site. 

    4. Consult the public 

    On 2 April this year the States of Jersey Development Company, our delivery partner, will start a public consultation on the new vision for the Fort on behalf of the Government and will gather feedback from Islanders. This process will be similar to the recent Waterfront consultation and will enable the public to give their views on the new proposals. At the same time, plans are being prepared for the restoration of the iconic roof structure. 

    5. Deliver a regenerated Fort Regent 

    Once the Fort is fully vacated, work will start on the main structure, focusing on removing the asbestos, with works beginning in January. 

    Once a detailed design is agreed, a completely regenerated Fort Regent will reopen at the end of 2028. 

    The Minister for Infrastructure, Connétable Andy Jehan, said: 

    “Many sports clubs and services have already left the Fort as this programme has been under way for some time. We will support all remaining sports based at Fort Regent to relocate to new or existing facilities across the Island, including Springfield, Oakfield, Les Quennevais, and facilities in our Island schools. We are also committed to supporting private clubs where possible. 

    “Maintaining the Fort in its current condition incurs considerable ongoing costs. We need a new vision for the Fort, and a plan to create an exciting, modern facility for the Island. Having a clear site will enable us to update and improve Fort Regent making it a safer, quicker and more cost-​efficient process. The work will be significant and regrettably, this cannot be done whilst businesses and services are operating on the site.”​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Revised Council Tax Support Scheme introduced

    Source: City of Liverpool

    A simplified Council Tax Support Scheme for working age people is coming into operation in Liverpool next month.

    Council Tax Support is a discount which helps households on low incomes with their annual bill.

    Around a third of households in Liverpool are in receipt of the benefit.

    The changes, which begin in April, have been designed to support people on the lowest incomes, ensure they are easy to understand and provides incentives for people moving into work.

    Households will get a 12-month award so they know how much their Council Tax bill will be reduced by over a year, enabling them to budget.

    The changes also align with Universal Credit and provide some certainty for people moving into or out of work, whilst continuing to provide support to those that need it most.

    The new-look scheme is designed to be financially sustainable but is still one of the most generous among the UK’s big ‘core’ cities and in the Liverpool City Region.

    The upper and lower limits in net earning bands have been extended by £50 per week for couples, while for households with children they are increased by £25 per child per week.

    The maximum percentage of Council Tax discounted has changed from 91.5 per cent to 84 per cent, and awards are capped at the level of a Band B property, which has an annual bill of £1,980.57.

    More information is available at https://liverpool.gov.uk/counciltaxsupport.

    The new changes do not affect the Council Tax Support Scheme for pensioner households, the rules for which are controlled by central Government.

    Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources and Transformation, Cllr Ruth Bennett, said: “We are hugely proud of the range of support we offer to the most vulnerable residents in Liverpool and take our responsibility extremely seriously.

    “However, we need to make sure that the Council Tax Support Scheme is affordable and sustainable in the long-term.

    “The changes make the scheme simpler to understand, and also provide households with a level of certainty by enabling them to know how much they will receive over a 12-month period, and is focused on providing support for those who need it most.

    “Our Council Tax Support Scheme remains one of the most generous among the big cities and within the Liverpool City Region.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New rule for driving test changes and cancellations to reduce waiting times

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New rule for driving test changes and cancellations to reduce waiting times

    Learner drivers will need to give more notice when changing or cancelling their car driving test to avoid losing the test fee from 8 April 2025.

    From 8 April 2025, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will require learner drivers to give 10 full working days’ notice to change or cancel their car driving test without losing the test fee.

    Currently, you must give 3 full working days of notice to avoid losing the test fee.

    Monday to Saturday count as working days but Sundays and public holidays do not.

    No change for other types of driving tests or theory tests

    This new rule only applies to car driving tests.

    Learner drivers will continue to need to give 3 full working days’ notice to change or cancel:

    • theory tests
    • motorcycle tests, lorry and bus driving tests, driving instructor qualification tests and other specialist vehicle driving tests

    Why the rule is changing

    Lots of people who are not ready to take their driving test leave it until the last moment to change or cancel it.

    That appointment then becomes available to other learner drivers. But as it’s so close to the test date, it can be hard for people who are ready to pass to make all the necessary arrangements to use the appointment.

    This can lead to appointments going unused.

    By asking learner drivers to give more notice, it should give other people more chance to use the appointment. This will help to reduce driving test waiting times.

    The change to the rule is one of 7 actions DVSA is taking to reduce driving test waiting times.

    New deadlines to change or cancel without losing the test fee

    DVSA is emailing all learner drivers to tell them the new deadline to change or cancel their test without losing the fee.

    From 8 April 2025, the new deadline will show on the booking details when you check your driving test appointment details.

    To help learner drivers and driving instructors through this change of rule, DVSA has published a list of old and new deadlines to change or cancel a car driving test up to the end of June 2025.

    If you have to change or cancel your test due to special circumstances

    You will still be able to apply for a refund if you have to change or cancel your test at short notice if you have:

    • an illness or injury that means you cannot take your test  
    • suffered a bereavement  
    • to take an exam at a school or college  
    • had your driving licence stolen

    If DVSA cancels your driving test at short notice

    DVSA will continue to pay out-of-pocket expenses for any car driving tests it cancels with fewer than 3 full working days’ notice while it conducts a review of its out-of-pocket expenses process.

    Learner drivers urged to cancel tests if they cannot attend

    DVSA is urging learner drivers to cancel their driving test if they cannot attend, rather than just not turning up.

    During 2024, about 60,000 appointments were wasted because people did not turn up for their test. That’s the same number of tests that 45 full-time driving examiners can do in a year.

    Later this year, DVSA will consult on proposals reduce the number of wasted tests. For those who fail to attend, this includes:

    • increasing the amount of time they have to wait before they’re allowed to book another test
    • considering charging them a penalty fee

    Learner drivers currently have to wait 10 working days before being able to book another test. The consultation will set out the full details of the potential options.

    This is another of the 7 actions that DVSA has set out to reduce driving test waiting times.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Three Hundreds of Chiltern: Michael Lee Amesbury

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Three Hundreds of Chiltern: Michael Lee Amesbury

    The Chancellor of the Exchequer has this day appointed Michael Lee Amesbury to be Steward and Bailiff of the Three Hundreds of Chiltern.

    The Chancellor of the Exchequer has this day appointed Michael Lee Amesbury to be Steward and Bailiff of the Three Hundreds of Chiltern.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister Thomas-Symonds speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Minister Thomas-Symonds speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

    Minister Thomas-Symonds speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

    It really is a pleasure to be here with you all today.

    But I do want to just begin, by joining Maros in wishing all our Irish friends a very happy St Patricks Day. 

    I’d also like to thank the Assembly…

    …especially the Chairs, Sandro and Marsha…

    …for giving Maros and I this opportunity to speak to you all today.

    And it is that idea of opportunity that I want to talk about…

    …because we have a chance to strengthen the strategic alliance between the UK and the EU…

    …and I want to talk about how – by being ruthlessly pragmatic – we can harness this opportunity, for the benefit of the people that we are all elected to serve.  

    Now this is the very first meeting of the reconstituted Assembly…

    … and I know that you are welcoming members, both new and old.

    Since this Government came into power, we have worked tirelessly to change the UK’s approach. 

     In the recent past, we have been too focused on what divides us…

    …and it’s those differences that have too often defined the agenda.

    But I believe these groups and these meetings must be used for our collective good.

    This Assembly was set up under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement…

    …to ensure the voices of parliamentarians – and, in turn, our citizens – can be heard. 

    You’re all serving the interests of the people who voted for you…

    …and we must use every opportunity available to us to build trust…

    …and improve cooperation.

    And all of you here today – through your membership in the Assembly – are essential to that work.

    Now, I have already met members of both delegations – and I am committed to maintaining that engagement.

    The UK and EU’s future will be defined by how we both tackle our shared challenges together.

    We are living through a period of generational challenge…

    …and I know as political leaders – we all feel the scale of this moment. 

    War in Ukraine…

    …people smuggled in treacherous conditions by treacherous criminals…

    …the price of energy and the cost of inflation…

    …achieving growth and prosperity to boost living standards for our citizens… 

    …all of these challenges are exacerbated by a mindset of division.

    They are problems across our continent…

    …and they require a coordinated response.

    Just look at the actions of our Prime Minister this year.

    He was delighted to be a part of the European Leaders retreat last month…

     …where he made the case for greater cooperation between the EU and the UK.

    On 2 March, he hosted European leaders, as well as the NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the EU Commission, EU Council and indeed welcomed Canada… 

    …for a summit focused on Ukraine.

    The importance of these meetings cannot be overstated.

    They are emblematic of how seriously this Government takes European security.

    And there is no greater imperative to this than supporting Ukraine.

    In the face of Russia’s illegal and barbaric invasion, we must be resilient.

    It is why we recently announced an increase in UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP.

    We are stepping up, and we know that the EU is stepping up, too.

    It was heartening to see – on the anniversary of the invasion – that the EU reaffirmed its unwavering support.

    And at the European Council meeting earlier this month, where EU leaders agreed a significant increase in defence spending. 

    I know that, together, we are determined to help Ukraine prevail…

    …and rebuild.

    We must keep pushing – together – to find new ways to achieve this.

    At a time of such intense global change, I believe it is vital to recognise what unites the UK and the EU…

    …and understand how our mutual priorities can be realised through teamwork.

    We saw that in action this January…

    …where, on the same day, the UK Chancellor and the President of the European Commission gave speeches about the challenges facing them.

    Both spoke about their desire for growth…

    …both spoke about how their potential had been held back…

    …and both spoke too about the importance of trade openness.

    In fact, both our Prime Minister’s ‘Plan for Change’ and the President’s ‘Competitiveness Compass’ focused on the same priorities…

    …like reducing red tape, improving skills and a more resilient economy.

    The UK government was elected on a mandate to increase our security, keep our citizens safe and to encourage growth.

    Europe is a crucial partner in these priorities…

    …and, indeed, Europe shares those concerns.

    That is why we are living up to the obligations we have in existing Agreements and Frameworks…

    …that is how trust is earned. 

    No more threats to break international law in ‘limited and specific ways’… 

    …and no more undermining of the ECHR.

    So we are respectful of the TCA and the Windsor Framework… 

    …and we want to build on that structure to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

    The Prime Minister has tasked me with leading these discussions with Maros…

    …supported by our new EU Sherpa Micheal Ellam. 

    And I want to thank Maros – not only for the way he has been so constructive in his relationship with me…

    …but for the many years – and no doubt late nights – that he has dedicated to the EU – UK relationship…

    …but also the pragmatism he is known and respected for.  

    And in our discussions I have always been clear about our desire to strengthen our alliance – and I focus on the three priorities I mentioned…

    …on security, safety and prosperity…

    …where I believe there is much benefit to be gained.

    And it’s these priorities I would like to focus on.

    First, security.

    Now, I’ve already spoken about how seriously we’re taking this…

    …and I know that it is a topic you will be discussing later today.

    But it bears repeating: to keep Europe secure, we need to support allies like Ukraine…

    …and work with NATO on security and defence.

    As the Prime Minister said in the UK Parliament recently, we have: 

    “A recognition of the fact that once again, we live in an era where peace in Europe depends upon strength and deterrence.”

    So, we are seeking a broad UK-EU cooperation on security and defence matters…

    …and we’re ready to negotiate a Security and Defence Partnership.

    This has been central to the Prime Minister’s approach with European leaders.

    When he visited the informal European Leaders’ Summit, he discussed what this partnership could include…

    …and what it could address.

    He suggested a focus on R&D…

    …improved military mobility across Europe …

    …greater co-operation on missions and operations…

    …and building on our industrial collaboration.

    Building on that commitment, let me turn to the next pillar: safety.

    I am clear that if we want to protect our respective borders…

    …and keep our citizens safe…

    …then we need to work together.

    The criminals that we all try and combat pay no respect to our borders…

    …whether they’re taking part in the vile global trade in human trafficking…

    …or planning a terrorist attack to push their agenda and terrify our citizens.

    These challenges plague us all…

    …and I believe that it is only through greater cooperation that we can remain safe.

    It’s why we have already increased the UK’s presence at Europol…

    …but I believe we should be going further.

    We need to think of new ways to coordinate our security…

    …and ensure we have the intelligence and skills to combat cross-Europe criminal enterprises.

    And finally, prosperity.

    The European Union is the UK’s biggest trading partner…

    …with trade totalling over £800bn in 2023.

    And while that figure is still impressive, we know it is not as good as it could be.

    A study published last year by Aston University Business School showed that between 2021 and 2023, the goods EU businesses export to the UK were down by 32%…

    …while UK goods exports to the EU were down by 27%.

    What I’m hearing from businesses that I speak to is that this drop is down to them facing more barriers and more costs.

    They’re frustrated, and I can understand why.

    As ‘Businesseurope’ set out in a report this Autumn, and I quote: “There remain many unnecessary barriers to trade and investment. Following the elections of new governments in the EU and UK, there is a clear opportunity to upgrade the relationship to deliver for businesses and citizens.”

    And that is why we want to build on the structures we have – the TCA and the Windsor Framework…

    …to tear down trade barriers and make Brexit work better for the British and European people.

    We have already said that we will seek to negotiate a sanitary and phytosanitary agreement…

    …to help boost trade… 

    and deliver benefits to businesses and consumers in both the UK and the EU. 

    Now, all these issues have been at the forefront of our Government’s discussions with the EU.

    In fact, since the UK election, there have been over 70 direct engagements between UK ministers and their EU Counterparts.

    We have agreed to hold regular UK-EU Summits…

    …with the very first one, as Maros has said, being hosted in London on 19th May…

    …which will be a great opportunity to strengthen this work further.

    But ultimately, this is all about building trust…

    …and this Government wants to keep its word…

    …and become a trusted and stable partner.

    Our discussions continue on the full implementation of the TCA and the Withdrawal Agreement …

    …with almost all of our Specialised Committees meeting last year…

    …and there are plans in place to meet again in the coming months.

    The co-chairs continually update each other on their progress…

    …whilst monitoring and reporting on their passage to full and faithful implementation.

    We fully believe in these structures…

    …but we also fully believe in the opportunities to improve the status quo.

    So, ladies and gentlemen, the time for ideologies is over.

    The time for ruthless pragmatism is now.

    And it is the only way we can seek a closer, more cooperative relationship.

    After all, a stronger UK-EU relationship means a stronger Europe.

    This Assembly will be a vital part of that journey…

    …where that mutual interest will be demonstrated and discussed.

    I also know that many of you have deep expertise, insights and passion for this agenda…

    … and I am sure that this forum will be a fantastic way to bring these to bear. 

    I want to thank you for the time you have given me to discuss my work. To say how much that I am looking forward together. 

    This forum, this Assembly is such an important part of hat shared future and what a pleasure it is to discuss this with you today. 

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TRA to investigate HVO biodiesel imports from the USA

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    TRA to investigate HVO biodiesel imports from the USA

    The TRA has initiated an anti-dumping investigation and a countervailing investigation into imports of HVO biodiesel from the United States of America.

    The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has today, 17 March 2025, initiated an anti-dumping investigation and a countervailing investigation into imports of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) biodiesel from the United States of America.

    The investigations follow an application from UK biodiesel producers concerned that the market has changed since a previous review in 2022. Recent evidence suggests that the price gap has narrowed and HVO may now be competing directly with UK-produced biodiesel.

    The investigations will determine whether imports of HVO are being sold at unfairly low prices or being subsidised, and causing harm to UK industry.

    To contribute to this investigation, please visit the TRA public file.

    Notes to Editors:

    • The period of investigation for these cases will be between April 2023 and March 2024.
    • The Trade Remedies Authority is the UK body that investigates whether new trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair import practices and unforeseen surges of imports.
    • The TRA is an arm’s length body of the Department for Business and Trade.
    • UK industries concerned about imports have been able to submit applications for a new trade remedy measure since January 2021. These applications are considered by the TRA to see if there are grounds for an investigation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Alizin 30 mg/ml Solution for Injection – SPC change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Alizin 30 mg/ml Solution for Injection – SPC change

    Change to the information provided on adverse events in the Summary of Product Characteristics for Alizin 30 mg/ml Solution for Injection.

    Following monitoring of pharmacovigilance data, sections 4.5 and 4.6 of the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) for Alizin 30 mg/ml Solution for Injection have been updated:

    Bitches that remain pregnant despite treatment (experiencing lack of efficacy) should be monitored, as viability of the puppies may be compromised. In rare cases of abortion failure (frequency > 1/10000 and

    Any veterinary medicinal product which is authorised for marketing in the United Kingdom will have its Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) available on our Product Information Database. 

    No medicine is 100% risk free, the SPC includes information on what adverse events have been known to occur following administration of a particular product, these can be found in either section Adverse events (3.6) or Adverse reactions (4.6).  

    All updates to SPCs other than template changes, are published in the medicine updates section of VMD Connect.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Reveals World’s First 25-hour Skatepark, Powered by the Galaxy S25 series

    Source: Samsung

     
    London, UK – 17th March 2025 – Building off the success of the ‘Drop in with Samsung’ Flip Park, Samsung, in collaboration with Skateboard GB and supported by EE, launches the groundbreaking ‘Drop in with Samsung 25-hour Skate Park’ Supported by EE. This unique immersive event, taking place at London’s iconic BAYSIXTY6 Skatepark in West London, celebrates skate culture while showcasing the revolutionary capabilities of the new Galaxy S25 series.
     
    This pop-up celebrates Samsung and EE’s commitment to facilitating enhanced accessibility and connectivity within UK skateparks, empowering more individuals to embrace the sport.
     
    Event Details:
    Dates: Wednesday 19th – Thursday 20th March, 2025
    Location: BAYSIXTY6 Skate Park, 66 Acklam Road, London, W10 5YU
    Opening Hours: 6PM on 19th March – 7PM on 20th March
     
    The world’s first 25-hour skatepark is a vibrant homage to all elements of skateboarding culture, featuring 25 hours of music performances, entertainment and content creation experiences, all powered by the Galaxy S25 series. Samsung invites everyone to ‘Drop in with Samsung’ Supported by EE and participate in a dynamic range of activities on offer, all whilst experiencing the exceptional camera capabilities of the latest Galaxy S25 series.
     
    BAYSIXTY6 will undergo a dramatic transformation, with enhanced lighting and design, creating the ultimate backdrop for capturing stunning content with the Galaxy S25’s advanced features, including Nightography Video and Ultra-Wide camera. Whether day or night, attendees can witness firsthand how the device delivers stunning shots in any lighting condition.
     
    Experience the 25-hour immersion:
     
    The 25-Hour Street: A free skate zone for all skill levels, with Samsung product experts on hand to assist with capturing incredible content on the Galaxy S25 series.
    The Ultra-Wide Bowl: A dedicated drop-in area for skaters to showcase their skills, utilising the Ultra-Wide camera to capture expansive angles during the day and stunning night shots with Night mode, or video content with Nightography Video.
    The 25-Hour Zone: Home of the ‘Now Bar’ – a space to learn about Samsung’s latest Galaxy AI innovations and why the Galaxy S25 series is the ultimate true AI companion. The Now Bar is a space to break for some food, grab a drink, and learn how the latest tech can offer ‘New ways to get things done’, with updates on the 25-hour Skatepark schedule and some exclusive product giveaways for most impressive Galaxy S25 skate footage.
    The 25-Hour Shop: Celebrity meet-and-greets with Team Galaxy Skate ambassadors, an immersive mobile gaming station, offering visitors the chance to beat the top score on mobile skateboarding game True Skate, and opportunities to try out the wider Samsung Galaxy product ecosystem.
     
    Event highlights:
    A launch moment to remember with Sky Brown and Team Galaxy Skate talent dropping in, and James Threlfall DJing to set the vibe.
    An exclusive sunrise skate session and shoot curated in partnership with Dazed Media
    Invigorating skate yoga session led by Shankos Skate School
    Design your own board with Big Aye Skateboards – a closed session for under 18s
    Exclusive meet-and-greets with professional skaters, including Olympic medalist Sky Brown
    Social media workshop with skate influencer Stef Nurding and Samsung UK, giving insights on maximising skate content for visibility
    Dedicated skate photography sessions with renowned photographer Garry Jones
    Perfect your trick with pro-skaters in Team Galaxy Skate offering one-on-one lessons
    A panel discussion with leaders from Skateboard GB, who will be talking about what a career in skate looks like and how to get more skateparks in your local community.
     
    Driven by the shared belief to ‘Never Stop Growing,’ Samsung, Skateboard GB and EE are also investing in extended opening hours at ten skateparks across the UK. This initiative, which includes funding for events, product experiences, and skate jams, will empower the personal growth of the next generation of skaters with greater park access, enhanced connectivity, and the tools to capture and share their progress.
     
    Join the ‘Drop in with Samsung 25-hour Skate Park’ Supported by EE. experience from 19th to 20th March, located at BAYSIXTY6. Drop in be part of this interactive experience – check out the full schedule here:
     
    Full 25-hour Skatepark event schedule:
     
    Time:
    Activity:
    Attendance:
    18:00 – 20:00
    Opening skate jam:
    Featuring demos from Team Galaxy Skate, hosted by Marc Churchill and accompanied by tunes from DJ James Threlfall, plus exclusive meet and greet with two-times Olympic Medallist Sky Brown
    Sign-up needed
    (Via Dazed website here)
    20:00 – 22:00
    Skate with Team Galaxy Skate:
    Skate drop-ins accompanied by DJ James Threlfall on the decks
    Drop in on the day
    22:00 – 00:00
    Skate film session:
    Hosted in partnership with City Mill Skate
    Sign-up needed
    (Via Skateboard GB website here)
    00:00 – 04:00
    Artist creation session:
    Hosted by artist Billy Colours – mural creation at BAYSIXTY6, with time-lapse capture
    Invite only
    04:00 – 06:30
    Sunrise skate session and shoot:
    Hosted in partnership with Dazed Club
    Sign-up needed (via Dazed here)
    06:30 – 07:30
    Skate yoga session:
    Hosted in partnership with Shankos Skate School
    Sign-up needed
    (Via Skateboard GB website here)
    07:30 – 10:00
    Pre-school skate breakfast club
    Invite only
    10:00 – 11:00
    Skate Photography Session:
    Hosted by photographer Garry Jones
    Sign-up needed
    (Via Skateboard GB website here)
    11:00 – 12:00
    Social media workshop:
    Hosted by Team Galaxy Skate’s Stef Nurding, Samsung UK and creative agency Iris
    Drop in on the day
    12:00 – 14:00
    Skate activators:
    Hosted in partnership with Skateboard GB and Team Galaxy Skate
    Drop in on the day
    14:00 – 16:00
    How to get skateparks built in your local community:
    Led by Skateboard GB
    Drop in on the day
    16:00 – 17:30
    Lessons with a pro:
    Hosted by Team Galaxy Skate’s Jordan Thackeray and Alex DeCunha
    Sign up needed
    (Via Skateboard GB website here)
    17:30 – 19:00
    Game of S.K.A.T.E
    Hosted by Team Galaxy Skate’s Ashley Mercer
    Drop in on the day
     
    About Skateboard GB
    Skateboard GB is the National Governing Body for skateboarding in England and the home of Olympic skateboarding in Great Britain. The organisation exists to give skateboarders the opportunity to “Skate More, Skate Better” ensuring they are skater-focused in everything that they do; aiming to lead, support, empower and facilitate.
     
    Skateboard GB celebrate and champion everything that is positive about skateboarding’s heritage and culture and work with the skateboarding community to develop more opportunities and better environments to skate, inspiring future generations of skateboarders as a result of success on the world stage.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kabaddi World Cup: City hosts opening of international spectacle

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    WV Active Aldersley staged the opening ceremony and first games of the tournament today (Monday 17 March, 2025).

    The opening ceremony featured live music by students from Wolverhampton Music Service, local dance acts and a parade of athlete from across the world who are taking part.

    The host nation England men’s team then got the live action underway with the first group stage game against Hungary. A number of other men’s and women’s games then took place featuring teams including India, Poland, China and the USA.

    It’s the first time that the Kabaddi World Cup has been hosted outside of Asia and Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said it was a very proud moment for the city of Wolverhampton to host the festivities.

    He said: “The ceremony and opening games were spectacular to witness. It’s a real honour to have the Kabaddi World Cup taking place on our doorstep and we can’t wait to host the semi-finals and finals this weekend.

    “It’s exciting to welcome fans not just from Wolverhampton but from far and wide to our city, as well as the millions tuning in online to watch the action. This is a global celebration of sport and cultures and we’re proud to be the home for it.”

    Wolverhampton is also hosting day two of the tournament tomorrow (Tuesday) before the action takes to the road with games being hosted in Coventry, Birmingham and Walsall. The tournament then returns to Wolverhampton on Saturday for the semi-finals and Sunday for the finals, third place play-off and closing ceremony.

    Councillor Gakhal added: “Events of this scale help support the local economy and help put the city on the map, so I encourage everyone to snap up the final remaining tickets while they can.”

    Tickets are still available for this week and information on how to purchase can be found at Kabaddi World Cup England 2025. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IBCA Community Update, 17 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    IBCA Community Update, 17 March 2025

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 17 March 2025

    Documents

    IBCA Community Update, 17 March 2025

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    Details

    Infected Blood Compensation Authority’s update that was circulated on 17 March 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council’s digital helper Darcie gets an upgrade

    Source: City of Derby

    Residents are now able to interact with an improved and more inclusive online resource as Derby City Council launches an upgraded version of its digital helper, Darcie this week [17 March].

    Introduced to answer citizens’ queries more efficiently, Darcie has undergone significant behind-the-scenes improvements.

    The latest generative AI capabilities mean the digital helper now understands more complex questions and can respond with more detailed answers on a range of Council services, including Council Tax, bins, fostering and registration services.

    Darcie can also now answer queries about adult social care in more detail for the first time.

    In 2023, Derby City Council introduced two digital helpers, Darcie for the council’s customer service centre, and Ali for Derby Homes’ housing enquiries on their respective websites.

    Since their launch, Darcie and Ali have handled more than 1.8m million routine enquiries, resolving 44% of enquiries without input from staff – freeing them to focus on more complex cases.

    Darcie is like a super-smart robot that is trained in the Council’s services, information and advice, and continues to learn from experience. The more Darcie learns, the better they get at understanding and generating answers to queries that feel natural and helpful.

    Darcie now supports the 9 most common languages after English that are spoken by residents, based on Council data. These are:

    • Arabic
    • Czech
    • Pashto
    • Polish
    • Punjabi
    • Romanian
    • Slovak
    • Somali
    • Urdu

    A more advanced version of phone Darcie is set to follow in the coming weeks, and residents are encouraged to visit the Council’s website, try out Darcie, and provide feedback on their experiences, to help guide future improvements.

    Giving feedback is simple. Darcie has Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down buttons for residents to rate a translation or how well the digital helper answered a question. Pressing the Thumbs Down button will open up a text box for more detailed comments.

    The Council is also planning focused sessions with representatives from community, language, and disability groups to ensure Darcie meets diverse needs.

    Councillor Hardyal Dhindsa, Cabinet Member for Digital and Organisational Transformation at Derby City Council said:

    We want to use technology to make a positive difference, and our goal is to make things as easy and user-friendly as possible for residents. The feedback from the testing phase has been good, and now we want to hear more from residents about their experiences before we move forward with the next phase.

    Derby is at the forefront of this technology and, given the lack of precedents, we don’t expect perfection right away. It’s important that we take the time to learn and refine our approach.

    Darcie is an important part in helping us make sure all residents can easily get the information and support they need.   Remember, Darcie is available 24/7 on web and phone and can answer queries at evenings, weekends and holidays. There is always the option to talk to a human advisor if needed during normal office hours.

    I urge all citizens to try Darcie and let us know how we can improve this tool further.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK pledges up to £160 million to support Syria’s recovery and stability in post-Assad era

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    UK pledges up to £160 million to support Syria’s recovery and stability in post-Assad era

    The UK government has pledged up to £160 million in aid to help stabilise Syria following the fall of the Assad regime.

    • The UK will pledge up to £160 million in critical aid at humanitarian Syria conference in Brussels.
    • UK aid, delivered through trusted UN and NGO partners, will provide life-saving support to millions of Syrians, including refugees across the region, to help them to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.
    • Ensuring long-term stability in Syria is essential for regional and UK security – the foundation of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The UK government has committed today to play a leading role in Syria’s post-Assad recovery. Millions of Syrians are set to benefit from lifesaving aid from the UK and international partners, supporting them to rebuild their lives and stabilise the country following the fall of the brutal Assad regime late last year. 

    Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer, will today pledge up to £160 million of UK funding – delivered by trusted UN and NGO partners on the ground – to help provide Syrians with critical water, food, healthcare and education in 2025 at the Annual Syria Pledging Conference, hosted by the EU in Brussels.

    Ensuring stability in Syria and the wider region is critical for UK national security, which is the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change.

    In his speech at the conference, which will be attended by members of the international community and the Syrian interim authorities, the Minister will urge the Syrian authorities to ensure the recent violence witnessed in Syria never happens again, reiterating the importance of a properly representative and inclusive political transition. 

    Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer said:

    A stable Syria is vital for ensuring our security at home and abroad, which is critical for delivering our Plan for Change. Today’s pledge of up to £160m underlines our commitment to helping Syrians stabilise and rebuild their country, as well as provide lifesaving aid for Syrians hosted generously in partner countries.  

    This is a critical moment for Syria. The violence in coastal areas earlier this month was horrific. The interim authorities must demonstrate their intent to promote stability, protect minorities and govern in the interests of all Syrians. We welcome the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the interim authorities as an important step in this direction.

    At the conference, the Minister will welcome last week’s ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the interim authorities, as well as the authorities’ commitment to destroy Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile.

    Notes to Editors: 

    • The UK’s pledge covers support to Syria and the wider region for 2025. 

    • Today’s visit follows the recent decision to lift asset freezes on 24 Syrian entities. These entities were previously used by the Assad regime to fund the oppression of the Syrian people, including the Central Bank of Syria, Syrian Arab Airlines, and energy companies. This reaffirms UK support to the Syrian people in re-building their country and promote security and stability.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New measure to cut driving test waiting times

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New measure to cut driving test waiting times

    Latest measure tackles driving test backlog and helps to ensure learners can take their tests without unnecessary delays.

    Fewer driving test slots will be wasted as the government announces an extension to the window for test cancellations to prevent last minute changes.

    From 8 April 2025, learner drivers will need to give more notice when changing or cancelling their car driving test to avoid losing their fee. Currently, customers can cancel up to 3 days ahead of their test without losing their test fee.

    Under the new rules, learners must give 10 full working days’ notice to change or cancel their test without losing the fee.

    This is the latest action in the government’s 7-point plan to reduce waiting times and will allow more slots to be made available.

    Extending the window will also encourage customers to be better prepared and ready to pass when they book their test – as well as encourage learners to change or cancel their test sooner if they’re not ready and so give more chance for appointments to be used by someone else.

    Minister for the Future of Roads, Lilian Greenwood, said:

    Driving is more than just a means of transport; it is a lifeline for many, opening doors to jobs, opportunities and ultimately contributing to the growth of our economy. The measures announced today are another vital step in tackling the driving test backlog and ensuring that more learners who are ready to take their test can do so without unnecessary delays.

    These new measures will ensure that driving test appointments are used efficiently, encouraging learners to make adjustments to their schedules sooner, should they not be fully prepared.

    The change announced today (17 March 2025) is part of the government’s 7-point plan to help reduce driving test waiting times.

    Announced in December 2024, the plan includes:

    • recruiting and training 450 driving examiners
    • reviewing and improving the rules for booking driving tests
    • introducing tougher terms and conditions for the service driving instructors use to book and manage car driving tests for their pupils

    Loveday Ryder, DVSA’s Chief Executive, said:

    Extending the short notice cancellation period for driving tests forms part of our 7-point plan to reduce driving test waiting times.

    This will encourage learners to change or cancel their test sooner so we can offer up those slots to other customers.

    We remain committed to reducing driving test waiting times and supporting learners in getting on the road when they are truly ready and safe to do so.

    To further protect motorists given continued cost-of-living pressures and potential fuel price volatility amid global uncertainty, the government has also frozen fuel duty at current levels for another year to support hardworking families and businesses, saving the average car driver £59.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent commits to building a greener and fairer future for all

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Monday, 17th March 2025

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council has signed a charter committing to building a sustainable and fair future for the city and county as it looks to take further steps to combat climate change.

    The charter – signed at Lichfield Cathedral on Friday 14 March – was produced by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Celebration of the Possible (COP) – an alliance that brings together communities, councils, academics and other partners around a shared vision of a happier, healthier future based on better stewardship of the environment.

    Earlier this year, COP announced its commitment to a decade-long action plan, which will drive collaboration and chart a clear path forward. By signing the charter, the city will commit to proactive measures to combat climate change and consider nature and sustainability in its decision-making. The charter is based on so-called “doughnut economics”, which suggest that humanity should exist in a space where needs are met but where economic activity does not go beyond the planet’s natural limits.

    Stoke-on-Trent has committed to playing its part in the government’s target of being ‘net zero’ -. taking out more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere than it puts in – by 2050.

    The city’s dedication to a greener future is already underway with its new Economic Strategy, which focuses on community wealth-building and supporting sustainable, green industries. These initiatives align closely with the city’s environmental goals, aiming to make Stoke-on-Trent a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous place for all residents.

    Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Signing the COP Charter is a natural next step for us. It fits perfectly with our goal to create a sustainable, thriving city.

    “We’re already taking action, including early development of a District Heat Network, promoting sustainable travel through our Transforming Cities programme and Bus Service Improvement Protocol, and we will be supporting tree planting in celebration of our Centenary.

    “We’re also focused on ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed. By making Stoke-on-Trent a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive city, we can help everyone enjoy the benefits of a greener future.”

    The signing of the COP Charter is an important milestone in Stoke-on-Trent’s journey to becoming a cleaner, fairer, and more resilient city. To learn more about the city’s strategy for 2024-2028 – Our City, Our Wellbeing – residents can visit:  https://www.stoke.gov.uk/ourcityourwellbeing.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investigation with National Trading Standards find ‘nicotine free’ vapes are falsely advertised

    Source: City of Salford

    • A Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) initiative tracked the sale of illicit vapes and underage sales, working with Salford City Council
    • Tests carried out on ‘nicotine free’ vapes find one in every eight products were found to contain nicotine 
    • Consumers exposed to nicotine in significant quantities, equal to the amount in a packet of 20 cigarettes

    Led by National Trading Standards (NTS), Salford City Council’s Trading Standards team alongside Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service and the Trading Standards team in Berkshire, have worked collaboratively to test ‘nicotine free’ vapes on sale to UK consumers and track the sale of illicit vapes and underage sales.

    As part of Operation Joseph, the DHSC government funded initiative was set up to tackle specific aspects of enforcement and compliance around the sale of vaping products. The project includes collating national data on enforcement, helping to support local authorities and increase enforcement activity as well as targeted testing and port seizure work. 

    According to data released from NTS at the end of 2024, the sale of illicit vapes and underage sales found:

    • 1.19 million illegal vapes seized by Trading Standards in 2023-24, a 59% increase
    • 299,224 vapes confiscated in Quarter 4 2023-24
    • 24% of 775 test purchases in Quarter 4 2023-24 resulted in illegal sales of vapes to under 18s

    Consumers who expect to buy nicotine free products have been warned, as a result of the investigation, that they are being unknowingly exposed to nicotine and its addictive effects in significant quantities.

    The key findings of 76 products sold and tested as nicotine free vapes showed that:

    • More than one in every eight (13.2%) of products tested contained nicotine in amounts ranging from 0.06 mg/ml to 27.02 mg/ml, the amount equivalent to a packet of 20 cigarettes
    • Of the products found to contain nicotine, they also exceeded the limit on the amount of e-liquid permitted in vapes
    • Consumers have unknowingly taken high levels of nicotine in significant quantities, with eight of ten samples failing at part of tests

    Councillor Barbara Bentham Lead, Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment and Community Safety at Salford City Council said: “As a key priority in our Corporate Plan, it’s pivotal that we make sure that everyone in Salford has the opportunity to live longer, healthier and happier lives. That means protecting the health of our residents and in particular, safeguarding children from the flood of dangerous, illegal products that are being sold in our city and across the UK.

    “As a growing national concern, we are committed to working with partners like National Trading Standards to remove illegal vapes from our communities and urge businesses to ensure that vaping products are not sold to children. Those who choose to ignore legal regulations will face thorough investigations to enforce compliance so that we continue to ensure the highest standards of safety are met.”
     
    Suspected cases can be reported to the Citizens Advice consumer service by calling 0808 223 1133.

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    Date published
    Monday 17 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Popular rapid EV chargers increase usage by 139% in Winchester City Council car parks.

    Source: City of Winchester

    In 2024, Winchester City Council installed three new rapid EV chargers and upgraded four fast chargers to rapid in its car parks across the district. Between October and December, the seven car parks with new rapid chargers showed a 139% increase in usage, compared to the same period in 2023. The busiest car park for EV charging is Basingwell car park in Bishops Waltham, where the EV chargers were used 267 times in January alone.

    The addition of the new chargers has brought the total number across the district to 39, the vast majority of which have two charging points. There are therefore now over 70 dedicated EV charging parking bays available in City Council car parks.

    The total power consumed at Winchester City Council car parks during the same 3-month period (October to December 2024) is 131,625kWh. This is an increase of 42% over the same period in 2023 – the equivalent of 18 trips around the world in an average sized electric vehicle.

    Fast EV chargers, providing between 7 and 22kW of power, should provide a full charge in just a few hours. The same level of charge can be achieved in under an hour with a rapid (50/60 kW) charger.

    Councillor Kelsie Learney, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, said:

    “I’m really pleased to see this increase in usage – it shows that there is a growing commitment to greener travel across the district and that our initiatives are helping people to make this shift. We’ll continue to work with partners to increase this capacity, not only for electric vehicles but other forms of low carbon travel too.”

    Winchester’s new rapid chargers can be found at Colebrook, Middle Brook St, Worthy Lane, St Peter’s and Harestock car parks, at Basingwell Street car park in Bishops Waltham and Winchester Sport and Leisure Park.

    The full list of charge point locations can be found on the website at www.winchester.gov.uk/parking/other-parking-facilities.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Philippines upgrade trade relationship through inaugural talks

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK and Philippines upgrade trade relationship through inaugural talks

    UK and the Philippines today hold first Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) in London.

    • UK and the Philippines today held inaugural Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) talks in London aimed at boosting trade and investment
    • JETCO aims to realise potential for UK businesses to sell more to the Philippines, one of the fastest growing economies in Asia
    • News follows recent win for UK beef industry after Philippine ban on UK beef was lifted in addition to the lifting of a poultry ban with both worth a combined £80m over five years.

    Ministers from the UK and the Philippines met in London today [Monday 17 March] for trade talks under the first Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting.

    The Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia and has the second largest population in Southeast Asia, presenting huge opportunities for British businesses. The JETCO aims to upgrade our bilateral trade relationship, currently worth £2.8 billion annually.

    At today’s meeting, Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander and Philippine Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty of the Department of Trade and Industry agreed to pursue closer cooperation and increased trade across sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture and technology.

    They also committed to progressing work towards a government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership that will unlock up to £5 billion of potential financing from UK Export Finance (UKEF) to support the delivery of sustainable public infrastructure and improve access to UK expertise and technology in the Philippines.

    Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander MP said:

    Today’s talks signify an important new chapter in our trading relationship with the Philippines, one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

    Deepening our trade with partners like the Philippines and showing that the UK is open for business in Asia is vital for this Government’s mission to deliver economic growth.

    I look forward to working with the Philippines and to deliver trading opportunities that will benefit both our economies.

    Agriculture is an important area for bilateral trade – the Philippines is the fourth largest export market for UK pork after the EU, US, and China.

    Ministers highlighted investment opportunities in the Philippines for UK agricultural companies and promoted imports of UK meat in light of the recent removal of bans on beef and poultry exports from the UK, worth £80 million over five years.

    The talks are part of the government’s mission to deliver economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

    The International Meat Trade Association (MTA) said:

    MTA welcomes the inaugural JETCO between the UK & the Philippines which will deepen our trading relationship with an important partner.

    We were delighted that last year the Philippines lifted the ban on UK poultry meat, as well as lifting the temporary ban on UK beef.

    We hope the trade partnership between our countries can continue to grow from strength to strength.

    Opportunities in offshore renewable energy featured heavily in discussions. In 2024, the UK was the largest single investor in the Philippines, driven mainly by investments in renewables.

    Such opportunities for UK companies were enhanced in 2022 with the removal of foreign equity restrictions for renewable energy companies.

    The JETCO also celebrated growing digital and tech trade and emphasised the UK’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its economic development, including through the upcoming launch of an Export Handbook for Philippine businesses in the processed agrifood and fish sectors.

    Background

    • The methodology for the valuation of market access barriers is published in a DBT analytical working paper. In some cases, estimates may have been sourced externally from industry.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nature-inspired bench art revealed ahead of Front Street celebration event

    Source: City of York

    Art of Protest has installed the first phase of new artwork in Acomb ahead of the mural reveal and celebration event later this month.

    Each of the 8 wooden benches have been transformed with a unique design to reflect links to nature. Each bench is painted with a leaf design from the local woodland.

    This follows an extensive programme of engagement events and workshops where Art of Protest gathered the views and ideas of the local community and gained an understanding of what people would like to see.

    Alongside the benches, Art of Protest is also working on a new mural which aims to capture the spirit and sense of community in Acomb. This final piece of artwork is set to be unveiled at the celebration event later this month.

    The event will take place on Front Street on Saturday 22 March from 4pm, with a chance to see the new mural, meet the artists and join in with some creative spray paint activities. The event will continue from 6pm at Rise Bluebird Bakery café, where there will be a DJ set and community art exhibition.

    This art project is part of the wider scheme to improve Front Street and create a more accessible, vibrant, people-friendly space. The council received £570,000 of UK Shared Prosperity Funding to deliver these phase 2 improvements, which include new seating and planters, improved Blue Badge parking, wide and level pedestrian crossings, wayfinding signs and upgraded public toilets.

    Cllr Katie Lomas, Executive Member with responsibility for Finance and Major Projects, said:

    “This is an incredibly exciting part of the project and it is great to see even more improvements take shape on Front Street.

    “This scheme is funded through the government’s UK shared prosperity fund and is helping to create a more accessible and attractive space for people to live, work, shop or visit.

    “The newly painted benches are a very welcome addition and do a fantastic job of brightening up the area. The designs for both the artwork and wider phase 2 improvements are based on significant engagement with the local community, so it will be great to be able to celebrate the progress with local people this weekend.

    “I am very much looking forward to seeing the finished mural and would encourage those who live or spend time in Acomb to come along and get involved.”

    Jeff Clark, Creative Director at Art of Protest said:

    “It was great to see the evolution of the project, taking the community on the journey and developing local talent through the Street Art Academy and a local artist.

    “The feedback was inspirational and there is so much love and pride in the community.

    “We are celebrating the return of local trees and a wonderful idea of each bench having a local leaf emblem, so visitors to the area can say ‘see you at the oak bench’.

    “Each bench also has a carved out leaf emblem so they are accessible and engaging. The return of the oaks is then incorporated into the mural design.

    “We are so grateful to the local community, the support and great ideas. Please come and celebrate as this is your hard work.”

    Find more information about the Front Street improvement scheme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dundee’s traditional Christmas offering announced

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Dundee City Council has announced its plans for the city’s 2025 festive period including the return of a Christmas tree to City Square, a Christmas lights switch-on event and the continuation of the popular Dundee Hooley

    The announcement follows on from feedback received from the public through the Council’s recent Budget consultation process and the budget decision taken by the Council to provide an additional investment in city events.

    Council Leader Cllr Mark Flynn said of the announcement: “We’ve listened carefully to the people of Dundee and what they would like to see most.

    “Christmas is a very important time of the year for many, and it brings people together. As a city, we want to provide the best opportunities possible for people to do just that.

    “Through the Budget consultation process for 2025/26 and from feedback in general, we’ve heard from a lot of people that they really value a traditional Christmas in Dundee with elements such as a tree placed in City Square.

    “We want to make that happen, and bring families, friends and visitors together to celebrate during this year’s festive period and these activities will be free to attend at a time when the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis continue to be felt by all.

    “By taking this approach to the festive period, it will provide taxpayers with best value for money as well as provide what so many people in the city have asked for from Christmas.

    “We also recognise the success of the Dundee Hooley in its previous three years and due to its popularity, we will keep this as part of our Dundee Christmas offering for 2025.

    The city’s Christmas tree will be placed in City Square for the duration of the festive season, with a lights switch-on event to take place to mark the official start of the Christmas period.

    The return of the Dundee Hooley will also provide an opportunity for members of the public to come together around St. Andrew’s Day to mark the occasion.

    Further details on the Christmas programme will be announced in the coming months ahead of residents and visitors being welcomed to the city centre for the festive period.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –