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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Last minute tinkering does little to ease pressure of Councils – Plaid Cymru Council leaders

    Source: Party of Wales

    Councils are “in an impossible position”, forced to cut services and increase Council tax, as a result of the Labour Welsh Government’s budget, Plaid Cymru Council leaders have warned.

    Responding to the final budget, the Leaders of Carmarthenshire, Gwynedd, Ynys Môn and Ceredigion councils said that “last minute tinkering” will do little to ease pressures on already fragile services.

    After learning of the Labour government’s final plans, Darren Price, Nia Jeffreys, Gary Pritchard and Bryan Davies said:

    “It has been clear for some time that Councils would be put in an impossible position, forced to cut services, and increase Council tax.

    “Regrettably, that remains the case and this last-minute tinkering from the Labour Welsh Government does little to ease the pressure on already fragile services.

    “Plaid Cymru council leaders warned in December of the perilous financial outlook for local services.

    “We cautioned Ministers that the average 4.3% increase for councils announced for next year clearly falls short of meeting the pressure on council budgets.

    “Despite an additional £30m being made available for social care, the fact that it isn’t included in the base line doesn’t afford councils the opportunity to mitigate the upcoming increases in Council Tax.

    “The increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions announced by the UK Government last year is also a huge cause of concern for councils. The Welsh Local Government Association has estimated that the cost to local authorities stands at £109m, and this cost will not be fully met. That represents yet another cost pressure to councils’ already squeezed budgets.

    “If the Labour Welsh Government’s “partnership in power” with their counterparts in Westminster is to mean anything, then the Spring Statement at the end of March will give Wales a cash injection we so desperately need to make up for decades of unfair funding.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Department of Health’s Core Grant scheme “exploitative” – Cllr Kendall

    Source: The Green Party in Northern Ireland

    The Department of Health’s Core Grant scheme highlights a stark disconnect between government priorities and community needs.
    Only 25 of 259 applicants secured £1.8m for 2025/26, a drastic cut from £3.6m pre-2024. This reduction reflects the government’s limited value on wellbeing services provided by the community and voluntary sector.
    Green Party NI Councillor Lauren Kendall described the situation as “exploitative,” noting the government relies heavily on voluntary groups yet slashes their funding. “This is an abusive relationship, taking advantage of goodwill in a mental health and homelessness crisis,” she stated.
    The lack of support for essential services is particularly concerning given the sector’s role in alleviating state pressures. The Green Party NI demands immediate funding restoration to properly resource community providers.
    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding to help build homes in Plymouth

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Nearly £8 million of new funding is set to be invested in accelerating house building across Plymouth.

    The funding will bolster the latest version of the Plan for Homes, which to date has helped deliver more than 7,500 new homes city-wide.

    The plan details the Council’s priorities for ensuring that the city has the housing to tackle the local effects of the national housing crisis as well as cater for the city’s growth agenda.

    By supporting a variety of new and affordable housing to tackle housing needs and homelessness, it sets out a strategy for the future for housing in the city to support the delivery of the Joint Local Plan.

    This new capital investment, added to legacy funding of just over £3.5million, gives the Plan for Homes a total budget of around £11.5million.

    The timing is perfect with the need for new housing across Plymouth has never been higher. A combination of economic factors has exacerbated the housing crisis, played out nationally, which has resulted in record numbers of people approaching the Council for housing support.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Communities and Cooperative Development, said: “I’m really pleased to bolster the power of the Plan for Homes with this funding.

    “I’ve said it before and I’ll keep saying it – we are in the middle of a housing crisis and we must come up with ways we can make things better for families who need somewhere to call home in our city.

    “These families are not just statistics. They are people who want what should be, in 2025, a basic human right; somewhere to call home and we will keep bringing forward innovative ways of tackling the worst of the crisis here in Plymouth.” 

    The new Plan for Homes 4 Programme budget £7,977,853.09 comes from a variety of sources, but a significant £4 million is forecast to be generated from receipts from the sale of Broadland Gardens.

    Broadland Gardens is a development of 10 energy-efficient, sustainable two, three and four bedroomed homes in Plymstock. All 10 homes are being sold on the open market with, as promised at the start of the project, surplus generated invested back into affordable housing elsewhere in the city.

    Other sources include monies from new and unspent Section 106 funding, recycled Right to Buy receipts, repayment of empty homes loans, sales of Council land and Brownfield Land Release funding.

    More details on the Plan for Homes and its achievements to date can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/PlanforHomes

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston, law enforcement partners arrest illegal Brazilian gang member convicted of assault, battery in Massachusetts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BELLINGHAM, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and law enforcement partners from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives apprehended an illegally present Brazilian national and validated gang member convicted of assault and battery against a Massachusetts resident with the arrest of Caio Vitor Guimaraes-Silva, 21, during an immigration enforcement operation in Bellingham, Feb. 3.

    “Caio Vitor Guimaraes-Silva has not only shown a blatant disregard for U.S. immigration laws, but he also presented a significant danger to the residents of Massachusetts,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “As a documented member of a violent street gang and an alien convicted of a violent crime, we could no longer abide Mr. Guimaraes’ presence in our community. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our New England neighborhoods.”

    Guimaraes lawfully entered the United States September 3, 2017, and later violated the terms of his lawful admission.

    ICE lodged an immigration detainer against Guimaraes with the Middlesex County House of Corrections Feb. 16, 2024, following his arrest by local authorities.

    The Milford District Court found Guimaraes guilty of two counts of assault and battery against a Massachusetts resident Sept. 9, 2024. The court sentenced Guimaraes to one year in prison but suspended all but 90 days of time served. The court then released Guimaraes from state custody, ignoring the ICE immigration detainer.

    Guimaraes is in ICE custody following his arrest.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Membership of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Membership of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board

    Announcements made about members appointed to the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    New member of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board appointed: February 2025

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    New member of the offensive weapons homicide review oversight board appointed: April 2024

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    Chair and first member of the offensive weapons homicide reviews oversight board appointed: June 2023

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    Details

    The Home Secretary has approved these appointments to the offensive weapons homicide review board.

    The oversight board has been established to monitor and oversee the local implementation of the reviews, to consider whether lessons learned are being acted upon, and to draw together thematic learning at a national level.

    The oversight board is a non-statutory committee which will be composed of experts in safeguarding, preventing homicide and serious violence and public protection.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor welcomes Urban Villages funding to progress Derry “The Realm” project

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor welcomes Urban Villages funding to progress Derry “The Realm” project

    21 February 2025

    News that a £9m extension to funding for the Urban Villages Capital Plan, announced by the First Minister and deputy First Minister this week, has been welcomed by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr. Among the projects to benefit from the funding is the Council led “The Realm” placemaking scheme.

    Mayor Barr said the funding extension announcement was great news for local communities who will significantly benefit from the investment.

    She said: “I welcome the decision by The Executive Office to extend Urban Villages funding, including the crucial support for Derry’s public realm project. This investment is a significant boost for our city, demonstrating a continued commitment to regeneration and creating a vibrant, attractive space for residents and visitors alike. It will allow us to build on the positive momentum already underway and deliver real, lasting benefits for our community.”

    Derry’s The Realm project will be delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council and encompasses the development of a network of high-quality public realm and green infrastructure improvements across the Fountain, the Bogside and Bishop Street areas of the city that will totally transform and revitalise the local environment by creating high quality public space and improved landscapes.

    The project aims to revitalise these areas of the city to create a more welcoming and attractive environment for the communities there to enjoy. The project will also work to create improvements such as enhanced paving lighting and landscapes and the creation of innovative public spaces that are accessible and support local businesses to create a more vibrant and inviting environment. 

    This is an £11m project and the funding announcement by the First and Deputy First Ministers of £3.4m will enable the first part of the project to proceed. Council will engage with community stakeholders and the urban villages team to deliver on this.

    The Urban Villages Capital Plan – a total investment of more than £124m – builds and transforms community facilities, creating shared spaces and beacons for good relations. It delivers social and physical infrastructure across the Urban Villages areas in Belfast and Derry~Londonderry, promoting good relations, regeneration and wider social, economic and environmental improvements.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategic Growth Partnership holds first meeting of 2025

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Strategic Growth Partnership holds first meeting of 2025

    21 February 2025

    Members of Derry and Strabane’s Strategic Growth Partnership met today at St Columb’s Park House for the first quarterly meeting of 2025.

    The partnership is a grouping of representatives from community, statutory and voluntary organisations leading on the implementation of the Strategic Growth Plan for Derry and Strabane, a shared, long-term vision to improve the social, economic, and environmental wellbeing of the Council area.

    Mayor Barr began the meeting by paying tribute to the late Kenny McFarland, who had served as Co-Chair of the partnership for a number of years, and actively represented the Faughan DEA as Chair of the Local Growth Partnership for the area. Cllr Barr acknowledged the many years that Kenny had dedicated to promoting good relations and celebrating culture within the local community, and said his loss would be widely felt.

    The Mayor also took the opportunity to thank Pauline Campbell, Director with the Department for Communities, who steps away from her role as Co-Chair. Pauline has played a key role in the partnership since it was first formed in 2017, and her significant contribution over the years was acknowledged today.

    During the meeting partners received a presentation from the President and Chief Executive of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Fleming and Anna Doherty, on the Value Proposition of the North West, and future plans to promote investment and growth. They also heard more about the Housing Investment Plan for N. Ireland, including a breakdown of local progress and future strategic priorities taking into account public finance challenges, with a report from Louise Clarke, Head of Place Shaping North at the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

    Health was also a key focus, with a concerning report on tackling obesity from David Tumilty with the Public Health Agency. Partners heard that a whole system approach to diet and healthy weight is needed to bring about real changes with buy in from local organisations to ensure it remains a priority for Derry and Strabane.

    An update was provided on approaching milestones in the delivery of the Strategic Growth Plan, with work ongoing to deliver a Statement of Progress during 2025, and a Review of the Plan by the end of 2026, in line with the legislative framework set out by the Department for Communities.

    Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Barr said: “Today’s meeting provided an opportunity to acknowledge the significant work to date and the dedication and insight of all our partners to this important process.

    “We are seeing much positive progress, and that is taking into account some significant challenges, particularly over the past five years. With our City Deal plans progressing at pace, and continued commitment from all our partners, I look forward to the next phase of delivery and more positive results in line with our strategic objectives.”

    You can find reports from today’s meeting and more information about the Strategic Growth Plan at growderrystrabane.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ending the Universal Credit two-child cap

    Source: Scottish Government

    Views sought on flagship policy.

    The Scottish Government is launching a consultation on its plans to end the two-child cap on benefits.

    Eradicating child poverty is the government’s top priority and ministers have committed to ending the limit by April 2026, or sooner if possible. The Child Poverty Action Group estimate that scrapping the two-child cap in Scotland could lift 15,000 children out of poverty. 

    The consultation is seeking views from the public and stakeholders about the most effective ways to put systems in place to mitigate the effects of the two-child cap. It asks for views on questions such as whether Social Security Scotland should administer top-up payments.

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “The UK Government has failed to scrap the two child cap despite it being a key driver of child poverty. In the face of such inaction the Scottish Government is determined to end the impact in Scotland.  If we can safely get the systems up and running earlier than April 2026, then we will make our first payments earlier – helping to lift thousands more children out of poverty.

    “We have launched a consultation calling for people to respond as we look to put the necessary systems in place to achieve our goal. We have made clear to the UK Government what is needed for us to end the impact of this policy and I would urge people and organisations across Scotland to contribute to make their views known.

    “The draft 2025-26 budget continues to invest more than £3 billion to policies which tackle poverty and the cost of living for households – and I would hope that would command widespread support across Parliament.

    “There is irrefutable evidence that the two child limit is increasing poverty and hardship across the UK. We have repeatedly called on the UK Government to end the two-child cap, and we have been just one of many voices saying the same thing. Until they do so, the Scottish Government will do everything in its power to mitigate the policy, which helps create child poverty.”

    Background

    The consultation closes on April 18th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National roles for senior ARU Peterborough staff

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    ARU Peterborough’s impact is being recognised on the national stage, with senior staff being appointed to the Boards of leading education organisations.

    Professor Ross Renton, Principal of ARU Peterborough, has joined the Executive Board of GuildHE, while Vice Principal Dr Lucy Jones is now a Board member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), in addition to her position at ARU Peterborough.

    The QAA is an independent UK charity with an international footprint and has a leading role in maintaining the standards and quality of Higher Education.

    GuildHE is an organisation that represents the interests of 67 member institutions across the country, including universities, colleges and specialist institutions, all with a focus on delivering vocational and technical Higher Education qualifications.

    “I am delighted that Ross has been appointed to the GuildHE Executive Board. He brings a wealth of experience from different sector and external organisations including significant experience at the University of Hertfordshire, the University of Worcester, and now as Founding Principal at ARU Peterborough.

    “Ross’ energy will be invaluable to our efforts to evolve GuildHE in line with member and sector needs, as will his commitment to inclusion and social justice.  As well as joining the GuildHE Board, he has been nominated and agreed to be the Board member lead for equality, diversity, and inclusion. We look forward to his contribution.”

    Professor Ken Sloan, the Chair of GuildHE

     “ARU Peterborough has been a member of GuildHE since launching in 2022 and I have seen first-hand what a powerful voice it has, helping to promote the interests of universities like ours that specialise in courses with a vocational element; courses that are crucial for delivering key skills and enabling social mobility across the country. It’s an honour to be joining its Board.

    “I’m thrilled that Dr Lucy Jones will be sharing her knowledge with the QAA. As Vice Principal for Academic Development here at ARU Peterborough, Lucy has an instrumental role in the development of the wide range of employment-focused courses we offer, and I know that the QAA will also benefit enormously from her experience and expertise.”

    Professor Ross Renton

    ARU Peterborough is a partnership between Anglia Ruskin University, Peterborough City Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

    Photo by Richard Fraser Photography

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Alexis Mac Allister Announces as Jeton’s Latest Brand Ambassador

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, UK, Feb. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jeton, global payment services provider, announces a three-year partnership with global football icon Alexis Mac Allister. The 25-year-old Argentine football player is a midfielder for Premier League Club Liverpool and represents Argentina’s national team. The agreement between the global payment services provider and the footballer will appoint Mac Allister to serve as Jeton’s brand ambassador and represent the brand in various marketing campaigns. Jeton will be authorised to use Mac Allister’s professional name, image, likeness, and biography as part of the partnership.

    “I’m pleased to be Jeton’s brand ambassador,” stated Alexis Mac Allister. ‘I look forward to representing the brand and sharing its values with my fanbase and football lovers worldwide.”

    ‘We are very happy and excited to work closely with Mac Allister. We have strategized these partnerships based on what our customers expect from Jeton and how we can exceed their expectations. We hope to build stronger relations among the football community and reach out to football lovers all around the world through partnerships they desire. As exemplified by our recent partnership with Japanese football player Kou Itakura, we believe we are one step closer to achieving our objectives. We can’t wait to embark on this journey alongside Alexis Mac Allister.’ said Executive Director of Jeton.

    Jeton is known for its ongoing partnerships, marketing activities and close relations with football clubs and the community. The global payment services brand has a long-lasting relationship with West Ham United FC as their official e-Wallet partner and have previously partnered with other notable football clubs such as Aston Villa FC and Hull City AFC. Jeton has recently expanded its reach into the Asian market by partnering with Japanese football player Kou Itakura.

    About Jeton

    LA Orange CY Limited, trading as Jeton, is authorised by the Central Bank of Cyprus under the Electronic Money Law of 2012 and 2018 (Law 81(I)/2012) for distributing or redeeming electronic money (e-money), with Licence No: 115.1.3.66. LA Orange CY Limited has been incorporated in the Republic of Cyprus under the provisions of the Companies Law (Cap 113) with registration number HE 424807, with its registered office address at 116 Gladstonos, M. Kyprianou House, 3rd and 4th Floor, 3032, Limassol, Cyprus.

    © 2024 | LA Orange Limited, trading as Jeton, is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 for distributing or redeeming electronic money (e-money) and providing certain payment services on behalf of an e-money institution, with FCA registration number 902088. LA Orange Limited is registered in England and Wales, Company Number 11535714, with its registered office address at The Shard Floor 24/25, 32 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9SG, United Kingdom.

    Jeton Bank Limited is licensed and authorised by the Financial Services Unit, Ministry of Finance of the Commonwealth of Dominica, licensed as a banking institution under the international Banking Act, fully authorised to provide services to clients worldwide, under the prudential supervision of the Financial Services Unit. Jeton Bank Limited is registered in the Commonwealth of Dominica, Company Number 2022/C0175, with its registered address at 1st Floor, 43 Great George Street, Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica, Post Code: 00109-8000. – LEI Code: 894500XGIX3R4HCIOC29.

    Social Links

    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jetonpayments/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jetonpayments

    X:  https://x.com/jetonpayments

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JetonPayments

    Media contact

    Brand: Jeton

    Contact: Media team

    Email: marketing@jeton.com

    Website: https://www.jeton.com/

    SOURCE: Jeton

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost for Stoke-on-Trent’s bus revolution

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    New bus routes being introduced in Stoke-on-Trent will make it easier for people to get to shops, hospitals, visitor attractions and key employment sites.

    The changes affect 14 services, being phased in from Sunday 23 February, and will help to meet the ongoing demand from passengers for more evening and weekend services.

    They are being introduced as part of Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) which is transforming the local transport network.

    The new journeys include brand-new services 500 and 501 which link Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station, Hanley Bus Station, Festival Park, Etruria Valley and Wolstanton Retail Park.

    Another brand-new service, service 27A, links Bentilee, Anchor Road and Longton to Trentham Lakes and Radial Park in Stoke, while service 40 has been extended on Saturdays to include the World of Wedgwood in Barlaston.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We’re bringing buses back. We’re making them work for working people, getting them to and from work, connecting them to family and friends and making everyday life easier.

    “Local people have told us they need better connections to jobs, shops, and hospitals – and we’ve listened. That’s why we’re introducing new and improved routes linking places like Etruria Valley, Trentham Lakes, Festival Park, Wolstanton Retail Park, Haywood Hospital and the World of Wedgwood.

    “Here in Stoke-on-Trent, we are leading the nation in the bus revolution. In just 12 months, we’ve improved 28 services across all six towns, providing more evening and weekend buses, creating new routes where they’re needed most and making sure no community is left behind. And people are seeing the difference. They’re telling us they’re noticing more buses on the roads, running later than they have in years.

    “This is about getting the basics right – buses that turn up on time, go where people need them while supporting jobs, families and our local economy. We are determined that everyone – from students to pensioners – feels the benefits of our Bus Service Improvement Programme.”

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan is being funded by £31.6 million of funding from the Department for Transport (DfT).

    In December, following extensive lobbying efforts by councillors and local MPs, the city council was awarded additional government funding of almost £10 million to continue with its efforts to improve the local bus network and build on the success of the scheme in the coming years.

    The new routes, which will operate until at least March 2026, are:

    • Service 2 (Hanley – Birches Head) – new evening services Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 5 (Hanley – Abbey Hulton) – new early morning buses from Abbey Hulton into Hanley, Monday to Saturday, along with new evening services, all operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 7A (Hanley – High Lane – Fegg Hayes) – new evening service along High Lane, serving Haywood Hospital, Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 8 (Hanley – Norton – Ball Green) – new late evening services to Ball Green, Monday to Friday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 9 (Fegg Hayes – Bradeley – Hanley – Newcastle) – new evening service along Chell Heath Road, Monday to Saturday, and a new Sunday daytime service along Chell Heath Road, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 23 (Hanley – Blurton – Newstead) – new late evening services to Blurton, Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 27A (Bentilee – Longton – Trentham Lakes) – new service running at shift-change times, every day of the week, operated by D&G Bus.

    • Service 36 / 36A (Meir – Longton – Hanley – Tunstall – Kidsgrove) – new Sunday evening service, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 38 / 39 (Hanley – Festival Park – Newcastle) – new late evening service every day, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 40 (Hanley – Mount Pleasant – Longton – Wedgwood) – new Saturday daytime service for Mount Pleasant, also providing a new link to World of Wedgwood, operated by First Potteries.

    • Service 501– new link to Wolstanton Retail Park and the Etruria Valley development site from Stoke and Hanley, Monday to Saturday, operated by First Potteries.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering warmer homes and lower energy bills to tenants

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    From today, tenants in nine homes in Edinburgh will benefit from major energy upgrades to improve living standards and lower energy bills.

    The homes, located in the southeast of the city, boast an Energy Performance Certificate ‘B’ rating after a series of improvements including External Wall Insulation (EWI) and window upgrades.

    They are now undergoing monitoring to assess energy consumption, tenant comfort, and overall performance. Data gathered from the homes will provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of these measures and help determine the feasibility of rolling out similar upgrades across other Council housing stock.

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

    I warmly welcome what’s been achieved in collaboration with our partners, AtkinsRéalis and Anderson Bell + Christie, on this transformative retrofit project. The energy improvements are already delivering real benefits for tenants – lower energy bills, increased comfort, and more sustainable homes.

    The data we’re collecting will be instrumental in scaling up this work to happen across other Council homes in Edinburgh, contributing towards our Net Zero 2030 target. While the work involved is complex, the long-term benefits – for our tenants, communities, and our city’s environment – are undeniable.

    Anderson Bell + Christie Director Jonathan McQuillan said:

    This project signals a real shift change in how Scottish social housing landlords are approaching their obligations to improve the energy and quality of homes ahead of the Scottish Government deadline – taking a co-ordinated, architectural viewpoint to ensure the measures put in place and undertaken are tailed to each and every building to ensure its effectiveness for many generations to come.

    The City of Edinburgh Council have been pioneering in their thinking and as a result of the pilot, on which we spent two years investigating and garnering the right data, the majority of their stock can now be retrofitted with confidence. The improvement works support future measures such as district heating systems, making them ‘net zero-ready’.

    The project adopted a ‘whole house approach’ to implement advanced retrofit standards for the nine pilot homes. The properties were selected following an in-depth review of 52 building types which involved comprehensive surveys, including asbestos checks, air-tightness testing, and extensive energy modelling.

    Published: February 21st 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council to buy former student flats to help meet temporary housing need

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE city council is to buy a block of former student flats to provide much-needed temporary accommodation for single people and couples who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

    The purchase of the building on York Street will bring 134 self-contained units into the council’s ownership, and will save the council £2.6m a year on the rent it currently pays to other landlords in the city.

    The building will help to accommodate many of the single people in the city who are classed as having priority need, and are currently in bed and breakfast or hotel accommodation.

    Built in 2019, the seven-storey building comprises of 132 self-contained, ensuite bedsits, and two one- bedroomed flats which are wheelchair accessible with large wet rooms.  All of the units have fitted kitchens with integral appliances and fitted furniture. The building also has onsite laundry facilities and bike storage.

    Chris Burgin, the council’s director of housing said: “We don’t want people to be in unsuitable B&B accommodation for any length of time, but with increasing numbers of people facing homelessness we have few options available to us.

    “This building will provide good quality units with cooking and washing facilities which are not available in hotels and B&Bs, and will house people for between three and 18 months before they move on to permanent accommodation.”

    The council has set aside £45m to increase the supply of good quality council accommodation including family housing in the city.

    Deputy city mayor Cllr Elly Cutkelvin said: “The purchase of the Yoho building is a small part of our plans to ensure that no-one has to stay in unsuitable temporary accommodation without access to the facilities they need.

    “It is also part of our wider plan to provide 1,500 new affordable homes for the city by 2027, and deliver more than 1,600 new properties. All of these properties will go to those most in need.”

    The cost of the purchase will be made public once the commercial deal has been finalised.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fairer Aberdeen Fund marks anniversary with showcase event

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    The Fairer Aberdeen Fund marked 10 years of supporting organisations to tackle poverty and deprivation across the city in a showcase event today (Friday 21 February).

    Those attending the showcase event were able to hear from projects which have benefited from funding on how they have supported individuals and communities, and watch a selection of short films on the work that they have been carrying out. 

    Councillor Alex McLellan, Convener of Finance and Resources Committee, who is also Chair of the Fairer Aberdeen Board, said: “There is so much positive work being done by the Fairer Aberdeen Funded organisations across Aberdeen to support people and families.

    “Our Fairer Aberdeen funded partners are dealing are helping people struggling wtih the cost-of-living crisis 10 years on from the start of the fund, highlighting that poverty remains a huge issue in our city.” 

    Over the last year, 38 initiatives were delivered across the city by 26 voluntary and third sector organisations, that have supported over 50,000 people to access support for employability, financial inclusion, family support, youth work, mental health, learning and volunteering. 

    The keynote speaker for the event was Ruth Boyle, Policy and Campaign Manager at The Poverty Alliance, and featured talks from Cameron McCready, CEO of Homestart Aberdeen and Graeme Kinghorn, CEO of Mental Health Aberdeen, who highlighted their work tackling social isolation and improving mental health across the city.

    Cameron McCready, CEO of Homestart Aberdeen said: “Poverty in Aberdeen affects families in many ways, from financial insecurity to social isolation. With the support of FAF, we’ve been able to provide early intervention services that strengthen family wellbeing and build stronger, more connected communities.”

    Graham Kinghorn, CEO of Mental Health Aberdeen said: “The Fairer Aberdeen Fund is vital in tackling poverty and inequality, supporting essential services from mental health to financial advice and employability. Continued investment is crucial to strengthening communities and improving lives.”

    Organisations supported by the Fund have included Station House Media Unit (SHMU), Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) and Pathways. 

    The Fairer Aberdeen Fund is allocated by Aberdeen City Council and is dispersed by the Fairer Aberdeen Board to third sector organisations, charities and voluntary groups.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: An explosion of colour and the downfall of an Instagram darling: what to see and watch this week

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jane Wright, Commissioning Editor, Arts & Culture, The Conversation UK

    Anyone familiar with Scotland will know the weather is at best mercurial, and at worst wet, grey and what we call “dreich” – a good Scottish word meaning drab. For an artist in the early 20th century suffering not just miserable weather but a cultural landscape of joyless, soul-sucking Presbyterianism, escaping to the sunlit uplands of the Parisian avant garde, where artists were experimenting wildly with new ideas and techniques, would have been deeply attractive.

    Into this vivid world of colour and possibility stepped four Scottish artists who embraced everything this exciting new art scene had to offer, and in doing so, changed Scotland’s art forever. Inspired by the post-impressionist works of Van Gogh, Matisse, Cezanne and Derain, they often painted outdoors, revelling in nature, creating exceptional artworks that explored light, shape and colour.

    Samuel John Peploe experimented with Cezanne-like geometric forms, while John Duncan Fergusson took on fauvist influences. George Leslie Hunter focused on blocks of colour, and Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell explored bold shapes and impressionistic compositions.

    Together they became known as the “Scottish colourists”, and their work is being celebrated at a new exhibition at the Dovecot in Edinburgh. As our reviewer Blane Savage points out, each brought back to Scotland new approaches to art that were reflected in their subsequent work. Take Peploe’s Green Sea, Iona from 1925, which perfectly captures the mesmerising colours of a Hebridean shoreline. Radiant and vibrant, here was art to lift even the dreichest Presbyterian Scot’s heart.

    The Scottish Colourists: Radical Perspectives is on at the Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh until June 28.



    Read more:
    Scottish colourists exhibition: the painters who stood shoulder to shoulder with Matisse and Cezanne

    Flowers, grief and reconciliation

    Just as the Scottish colourists loved a nice vase of voluptuous blooms, the new Saatchi Gallery exhibition on the subject, named simply Flowers, explores the place of flora in contemporary art, as well as its wider cultural influence.

    Reviewer Judith Brocklehurst describes the show as resembling a “supersized florist”, filled with bunches of blooms and hanging arrangements of dried flowers. The exhibition offers a wide perspective: from sculpture finding inspiration in Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, to William Morris’s much-loved floral designs, to the digital recreation of 17th-century Dutch paintings, and contemporary photography and video installations too.

    This richly imaginative and engaging exhibition celebrating the importance of flora in our lives is well worth an hour of your time if you’re in London.

    Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art and Culture is on display at London’s Saatchi Gallery until May 5 2025.



    Read more:
    Flowers at London’s Saatchi Gallery: this exploration of flora in history and contemporary culture smells as good as it looks

    Highly recommended cinema this week is the Japanese film Cottontail, a gentle and touching story about a middle-aged man grieving the loss of his wife after a long illness. Honouring her dying wish, he takes her ashes to be scattered in the Lake District in the north of England – a place that had special significance for her.

    Woven through the tale is the man’s complicated relationship with his son, whom he has neglected for his career. Struggling to connect, they embark on the journey together, each dealing with their own grief and sense of loss. Chao Fang, an expert in ageing, death and dying, found this delicate film’s portrayal of grief realistic and relatable, and the journey to find peace by reconciling the past and present both absorbing and affecting.

    Cottontail is in select cinemas now.



    Read more:
    Cottontail review: how a man’s journey through grief mirrors our search for peace – by an expert in death and grieving

    The Oscar-nominated I’m Still Here, released today, sees director Walter Salles adapt Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s autobiographical novel of the same name. The film follows the grief of a family whose husband and father is disappeared by the regime of Brazilian dictator Emílio Garrastazu Médici in the early 1970s. The film is carried by a memorable performance from actress Fernanda Torres who plays Eunice, the wife of missing left-wing politician Rubens.

    Relating the story from Eunice’s perspective as she desperately searches for her husband, the film details the breakdown of her relationship with her eldest daughters as they all seek to deal with their devastating loss and uncertain future. Professor of film Belén Vidal describes the film as a “clear-cut tribute to the ‘feminine’ politics of resistance”. Sad, moving and bittersweet in its conclusion, I’m Still Here, appropriately, lingers long after the credits have rolled.

    I’m Still Here is in cinemas now.



    Read more:
    I’m Still Here: a vibrant testament to female resilience that mourns Brazil’s dark past

    Downfall of an Instagram darling

    Often real life is stranger than anything created for our screens. Based on the true story of Australian wellness influencer Belle Gibson, Apple Cider Vinegar follows the story of a social media darling documenting her “journey” as she rejects conventional medicine for alternative therapies to treat a rare form of brain cancer. But in 2015, Gibson was exposed as a financial fraud – and worse, was revealed as never having had cancer. The internet, understandably, went wild. But how was she able to perpetrate such an audacious and complex deception?

    Apple Cider Vinegar dramatises Gibson’s story, documenting her meteoric rise to fame and her dramatic downfall, detailing some of the psychological issues that influenced her deceit. But, as sociology professor Stephanie Baker indicates, this shocking story also illustrates a wider point about the conditions that enable frauds like Gibson to gain credibility and influence online. Truly fascinating stuff, it once again reveals how the virtual nature of the internet deludes people when it comes to online behaviour, accountability and getting away with it.

    Apple Cider Vinegar is now streaming on Netflix.



    Read more:
    Apple Cider Vinegar: how social media gave rise to fraudulent wellness influencers like Belle Gibson

    – ref. An explosion of colour and the downfall of an Instagram darling: what to see and watch this week – https://theconversation.com/an-explosion-of-colour-and-the-downfall-of-an-instagram-darling-what-to-see-and-watch-this-week-250437

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City food business and director ordered to pay more than £11,000 following rat infestation

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Environmental health officers investigated Sweet Elohim Afro Market in Lichfield Street after a member of the public contacted them with concerns.

    Officers discovered rat droppings throughout the store, which was selling fruit and vegetables in open boxes as well as other food in packets, tins and jars.

    Evidence of the significant infestation was also found where the open food was handled and ready to eat packaged food was stored.

    Officers immediately closed the premises, and it was only allowed to re-open once it was determined that the immediate risk to health had been removed.

    Georgina Konadu, director of Sweet Elohim Afro Market, pleaded guilty to 2 breaches of The Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 at Dudley Magistrates Court on Wednesday 12 February, 2025.

    The same charges were brought against the business, and guilty pleas were also entered. The offences took place in November, 2023.

    The business was fined £2,680, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £1,072 and £4,584 in costs. Konadu was fined £1,000, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £400 and £1,500 in costs.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Our residents should be able to trust that the places where they buy food have the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness.

    “In this thoroughly unpleasant case, evidence of the rat infestation was found throughout the premises. This caused a risk of significant illness in customers, and we had no choice but to close the premises until it was deemed safe.

    “We do not take the decision to prosecute or close a business lightly. It is however necessary when public safety has been compromised and I hope it serves as a strong reminder to other businesses that these issues are taken seriously.

    “We are grateful to the member of the public who contacted us and enabled our environmental health officers to swiftly close the premises. If any residents have concerns about food businesses in the city, please report details to us at environmental.health@wolverhampton.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stop notice served to prevent further unauthorised works at Earlsdon property

    Source: City of Coventry

    The Council has taken the action to serve a Stop Notice and Enforcement Notice to prohibit further works being undertaken on the site of a former Natwest Bank in Earlsdon.

    The Council’s Planning Enforcement Team served a Temporary Stop Notice (TSN) following unauthorised demolition of 34-36 Earlsdon Street at the beginning of January.

    Since then, the Local Authority has been listening to the concerns of local residents and working hard with ward cllrs to find a solution.

    The existing TSN required all unauthorised works of construction / development and / or demolition to cease immediately. The legislation only permits a TSN to have effect for a maximum period of 56 days and consequently the Notice expires at midnight on Tuesday 25 February 2025.

    Unfortunately, to date no valid planning application has been received for the rebuilding of 34-36 Earlsdon Street and so the Council considers it necessary to take the further action to ensure that no further unauthorised works happen on site until planning permission has been the granted.

    This is the first time in around 20 years that the Council has served a Stop Notice.  

    Legislation does not permit a further TSN to be served which is why the Council has therefore served a Stop Notice and Enforcement Notice to prohibit further works being undertaken on site.

    Andrew Walster, Director of City Services at the Council, said: “We have been listening to the concerns of residents and working with ward councillors to find a solution, but so far, we have not received any future plans from the property owners.

    “This is frustrating for everyone concerned and we are determined to find a way forward. That’s why we have taken the step of servicing a Stop Notice.

    “The Earlsdon area was designated a conservation area, and the demolition work carried out so far has had a serious impact on the character of the neighbourhood.”

    Friday, 21st February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Speed limit changes21 February 2025 Starting the week of Monday 24 February, several speed limit reductions will be implemented across the Island. This work has been part of the Island Speed Limit Review for St Mary and in partnership… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    21 February 2025

    Starting the week of Monday 24 February, several speed limit reductions will be implemented across the Island. This work has been part of the Island Speed Limit Review for St Mary and in partnership with the Roads Committees of St Mary, St Peter, and St Lawrence. 

    Reduced from 40mph to 30mph 

    La Grande Rue, La Rue Rondin and leads into Le Mont de Ste Marie, La Rue de la Frontière which leads into St Lawrence’s Les Chanolles des Six Rues. 

    Reduced from 40mph to 20mph

    The estate known as St Mary’s Village which includes Le Clos de I’Arsenal.

    Roads given Green Lane status 

    • La Chève Rue 
    • The northern end of La Grande Rue by The Priory
    • La Rue à Georges
    • La Rue Bechervaise
    • La Rue du Douet 
    • La Rue ès Boeufs
    • La Rue ès Viberts (in both St Mary & St Peter)
    • La Rue du Couvent (in both St Mary & St Lawrence) 
    • Le Jardin du Couvent 
    • Le Clos des Buis 
    • Le Mont Remon (St Peter) 
    • La Verte Rue (St Lawrence).

    These adjustments aim to improve safety and reflect the Island’s commitment to responsible traffic management. ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Solar power set to boost energy levels at city’s leisure centre

    Source: City of Norwich

    Work to install more than 600 solar panels over the car park and on the roof of Riverside Leisure Centre will begin on Monday 24 February, thanks to a project backed by Sport England.

    The initiative, which received planning permission last year, will enhance the centre’s long-term sustainability while minimising its environmental impact.

    By producing renewable energy on-site, the project is set to reduce the electricity bills of the building by 33 percent and cut 75 tonnes of carbon emissions a year. These financial and carbon savings will help secure the future of this venue, as well as supporting Norwich City Council’s efforts to reach net zero. New trees will also be planted in the carpark area to further boost these eco credentials.

    The venue, which has been run by Places Leisure on behalf of the city council since 2013, received 350,000 visits last year.

    As part of the project, the centre’s car park will be closed for six weeks to facilitate essential construction. While there will be some short-term disruption, these efforts are aimed at future-proofing the centre and significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Blue-badge spaces will be made available from Tuesday 25 February, so only unavailable for one day. Places Leisure have contacted members and customers directly.

    The new energy system is expected to start producing power from April, with full project completion anticipated by this summer. From April onwards, disruption should be minimal, ensuring that visitors and members can continue enjoying the facilities with ease.

    Funding of £520,000 has been secured from the government and Sport England’s £60m Swimming Pool Support Fund, while the remaining £375,000 is being paid for by the city council.

    At the time funding was awarded, Councillor Emma Hampton, cabinet member for climate change, said:

    “I’m delighted that we have been able to secure funding to install such a large solar array at Riverside Leisure Centre, future proofing the venue by reducing emissions and ensuring that we can continue to provide these much-loved community facilities for years to come.

    “By placing solar panels on the roof and in the car park, we’re putting that empty space to good use – something we should aim to do more and more across the city as we work towards a net zero Norwich by 2045.”

    This project underscores the city council’s dedication to sustainability, ensuring a more energy-efficient future. We appreciate the patience and support of both users of the centre and residents living nearby during this time.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Expands Collaboration with UK in Key Areas of Telecom, AI, and Emerging Technologies

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India Expands Collaboration with UK in Key Areas of Telecom, AI, and Emerging Technologies

    C-DOT and SONIC Labs Join Hands to Drive Open RAN Innovation

    Roundtable on Telecoms & AI: Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary T highlights India’s leadership in the telecommunications sector and its rapid advancements in next-generation network technologies

    Posted On: 21 FEB 2025 1:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The Secretary (Telecom) of India visited the United Kingdom to engage with the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), UK and explore opportunities for collaboration in next-generation telecommunications, artificial intelligence, and space technology, further strengthening Indo-UK ties in these critical areas.

    The Secretary (Telecom) met with Mr. Chris Johnson, National Scientific Adviser, and Mr. Dave Smith, National Technology Adviser of DSIT. The discussions centred on emerging technologies and their applications in 5G, 6G, digital infrastructure security.

    The Secretary also met with Mr. Geoff Huggins, Director, Digital Directorate, Govt of Scotland, to discuss collaborative efforts in digital transformation through telecom, telecom security, and emerging telecom technologies.

    Secretary (Telecom) held a field visit at one of the six Federated Telecom Hubs (FTH) in the UK, specializing in Cloud and Distributed Computing (CHEDDAR). This hub leads cutting-edge research in 6G distributed cloud, AI for 6G, green 6G, and advanced sensing technologies.
    Furthermore, the Secretary met with Ms. Jean Innes, CEO of the Alan Turing Institute, for discussions on potential collaboration in digital twins, AI for telecom security, ethical AI, and fostering an AI innovation and startup ecosystem.

    Additionally, the Secretary visited Scotland’s 5G Centre at the University of Strathclyde and the 6G Research Centre at the University of Glasgow’s James Watt School of Engineering. These visits facilitated discussions on collaboration in 6G innovation, future sensing technologies, the exchange of technology such as the 5G stack, and student exchange programs to foster academic and industrial partnerships.

    Scotland  5G Center                                                                    Demonstration of remote dental surgery at 6G research Center

    UK-India Telecom Roundtable & MoU Signing

    Building on the strong foundation of the UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI), where telecom remains a key priority, a roundtable discussion was convened with key UK stakeholders from DSIT, leading business entities such as BT and Ericsson, and innovation hubs and centres, including SONIC Labs, UK Telecom Labs, TITAN, JOINER. Representatives from the UK Space Agency, European Space Agency, Innovate UK, and the UK Technology Innovation Network (UKTIN) also participated, exploring avenues for mutual cooperation. The roundtable was organized by the High Commission of India (HCI) in partnership with UKTIN. Dr. Neeraj Mittal highlighted India’s leadership in the telecom sector and its rapid advancements in next-generation network technologies.

    Following the roundtable, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between SONIC Labs and the Centre for Development of Telematics (CDOT). The agreement focuses on Open RAN-related policy and technical matters, including 5G Open RAN and Artificial Intelligence in 4G/5G

    Other key areas of collaboration which have been identified during the deliberations with various stakeholders on the telecom ecosystem of UK :

    • Establishment of a Joint Centres of Excellence focusing on telecom cybersecurity, AI in telecom, and digital twins.
    • Collaborative initiatives with British telcos to leverage mobile phone data for infrastructure planning, building upon India’s success in using such data for metro route planning.
    • Joint contributions to ITU for the development of 6G standards (IMT 2030).
    • Mutual recognition of testing labs and the establishment of new testing facilities.
    • Collaboration on Digital Twins, including standardization frameworks, privacy-enhancing technologies, and cross-sectoral data applications.
    • Advancing quantum communication solutions and submarine sea cable security.
    • Promoting the Indigenous 4G/5G telecom stack developed by CDOT.
    • Collaboration on space technology communication (TN-NTN) between the UK and India’s Bharat 6G Alliance.

    This visit underscored the shared commitment of India and the UK to drive innovation in telecom and digital infrastructure, paving the way for enhanced collaboration in next-generation connectivity solutions. It also reflects India’s proactive approach to shaping global telecom policies, fostering AI-driven innovations, and strengthening international partnerships for a digitally inclusive future.

    About C-DOT

    C-DOT is the premier research and development centre of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. It is dedicated to developing indigenous telecom technologies, including 4G/5G solutions, AI-driven network management, and cybersecurity frameworks, to enhance India’s telecom ecosystem and contribute to global standardization efforts.

    About SONIC Labs

    SONIC Labs (SmartRAN Open Network Interoperability Centre) is a world-leading innovation programme and R&D facility based in London, funded by the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). Co-delivered by Digital Catapult and Ofcom, SONIC Labs drives global technology development in Open RAN, aiming to create a diverse and competitive telecom supply chain.

    About The Alan Turing Institute, UK

    The Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science and AI, drives world-class research, fosters AI innovation, and collaborates with academia, industry, and policymakers to address global challenges. With a network of 13 partner universities and an open collaboration model, it plays a pivotal role in advancing AI-driven solutions, shaping public policy, and developing future skills. The Institute supports global AI initiatives, where AI is a key driver of economic growth and societal transformation.

    About CHEDDAR

    The Communications Hub for Empowering Distributed Cloud Computing Applications and Research (CHEDDAR) is a pioneering research hub advancing next-generation computing, Edge Computing, and AI-driven systems. Funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) – UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) via the Technology Missions Fund (TMF), CHEDDAR serves as a critical platform for collaboration across academia, industry, and the global community. Led by Imperial College London, with core partners including Cranfield, Durham, Glasgow, Leeds, and York universities, CHEDDAR focuses on integrating future communication systems with cloud and AI technologies. With 6G standards on the horizon, CHEDDAR aims to drive research in secure, sustainable, and intelligent communication infrastructures, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of technological innovation.

    ****

    Samrat/Dheeraj/Allen

    (Release ID: 2105225) Visitor Counter : 87

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fatal traffic accident in Ma On Shan

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Fatal traffic accident in Ma On Shan
    Fatal traffic accident in Ma On Shan
    ************************************

         Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident happened in Ma On Shan this morning (February 21) in which a man died.     At 6.45am, a school bus driven by a 78-year-old man was travelling along Kam Ying Road towards Wu Kai Sha. When the school bus was approaching near 9 Kam Ying Road, it reportedly went out of control and rammed into the railings.     Sustaining no superficial injury, the driver was rushed to Prince of Wales Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 7.31am.     Investigation by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, New Territories South is under way.     Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 1346.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 21, 2025Issued at HKT 10:54

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Woman attempts to import £13,000 of cocaine21 February 2025 A 39-year-old woman has been sentenced to four years and six months imprisonment for attempting to import cocaine into the Island, with a street value of £13,000. ​Emma Louise LLEWELLYN (born 20/11/1985),… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    21 February 2025

    A 39-year-old woman has been sentenced to four years and six months imprisonment for attempting to import cocaine into the Island, with a street value of £13,000.

    ​Emma Louise LLEWELLYN (born 20/11/1985), from Stoke-on-Trent, appeared before Jersey’s Royal Court yesterday afternoon (Thursday 20 February 2025). LLEWELLYN arrived in the Island on a flight ​from Liverpool on Friday 8 November 2024 and when questioned by Jersey Customs and Immigration Officers stated that she was visiting the Island for the weekend, to see a friend.

    A search of her baggage was conducted during which several swabs were taken, which proved positive for cocaine.​

    LLEWELLYN initially denied drug use but later admitted to using cocaine the previous week.

    Following a search of LLEWELLYN’s person she was found to have concealed a wrapped package containing 52 grams of cocaine.

    When interviewed she admitted attempting to import the drugs for which she would have received £1,000 in payment. She also stated that she owed £350 to the individual who had given her the drugs to import.

    ​Paul Le Monnier, Senior Manager at Jersey Customs and Immigration Service, said: “Individuals will be offered payment or the ability to clear debts by attempting to import drugs, on behalf of others, but the huge risks involved, and the sentencing handed out by the Courts should be a clear deterrent”.

    Anyone with information on drug smuggling can report it anonymously via 0800 735 5555. 

    ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: January 2025 Transaction Data

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    January 2025 Transaction Data

    This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in January 2025.

    NicoElNino/Shutterstock.com

    Please note this data shows what HM Land Registry has been able to process during the time period covered and is not necessarily a reflection of market activity.

    In January:

    • HM Land Registry completed more than 1,886,710 applications to change or query the Land Register 
    • the South East topped the table of regional applications with 422,822

    HM Land Registry completed 1,886,714 applications in January compared with 1,511,662 in December 2024 and 1,883,137 last January 2024, of which: 

    • 301,500 were applications for register updates compared with 272,715 in December
    • 1,083,311 were applications for an official copy of a register compared with 803,687 in December
    • 194,671 were search and hold queries (official searches) compared with 184,798 in December
    • 86,227 were transactions for value compared with 59,822 in December
    • 15,425 were postal applications from non-account holders compared with 13,961 in December

    Applications by region and country 

    Region/country November applications December applications January applications
    South East 435,883 340,271 422,822
    Greater London 365,053 288,481 358,032
    North West 216,160 172,475 216,304
    South West 185,863 145,843 182,912
    West Midlands 168,918 125,505 161,218
    Yorkshire and the Humber 155,460 120,797 148,308
    East Midlands 146,092 114,380 137,568
    North 95,129 73,201 94,663
    East Anglia 87,995 63,919 79,465
    Isles of Scilly 103 57 78
    Wales 86,328 66,654 85,239
    England and Wales (not assigned) 117 79 105
    Total 1,943,101 1,511,662 1,886,714

    Top 5 local authority areas 

    January 2024 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas January applications
    Birmingham 29,125
    City of Westminster 25,842
    North Yorkshire 21,453
    Leeds 21,149
    Buckinghamshire 19,779

    December 2024 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas December applications
    Birmingham 22,940
    City of Westminster 20,436
    Leeds 17,616
    North Yorkshire 16,263
    Manchester 15,723

    Top 5 customers 

    January 2024 applications

    Top 5 customers January applications
    Infotrack Limited 182,999
    Enact 34,670
    O’Neill Patient 30,717
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 27,624
    Orbital Witness Limited 24,259

    December 2024 applications

    Top 5 customers December applications
    Infotrack Limited 153,623
    Enact 28,823
    O’Neill Patient 25,493
    Orbital Witness Limited 25,485
    Avail AI Ltd 18,924

    Access the full dataset on our Use land and property data service.

    Next publication 

    Transaction Data is published on the 15th working day of each month. The February 2025 data will be published at 11am on Friday 21 March 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Essential reforms to pave the way for clean power by 2030

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Essential reforms to pave the way for clean power by 2030

    Ambitious reforms to the government’s flagship renewables scheme will pave way for more projects to come online for clean power 2030 – helping to build an energy system that can bring down bills for households and businesses for good.

    • Government sets out proposals that pave the way for more homegrown, clean energy projects in the UK
    • consultation on flagship Contracts for Difference scheme includes proposals to remove planning barriers, bringing clean power online faster  
    • changes ensure auction remains fit for purpose and drives investment and growth, enabling government’s mission for clean power 2030 as part of Plan for Change 

    Building on the success of last year’s AR6 round, which delivered a record-breaking 128 projects with 9.6GW of capacity – enough to power around 11 million homes – the government is today (Friday 21 February) consulting on proposals to provide greater certainty to investors and a better deal for consumers, including:  

    • relaxing the eligibility criteria on planning consent for fixed-bottom offshore wind, helping to speed up new offshore wind farms coming
    • changing how offshore wind budgets are set and published, enabling funding to be invested more efficiently
    • increasing the Contracts for Difference contract term beyond the current 15 years, making renewables contracts more cost effective

    The UK is already home to the three largest operational offshore wind farm projects in the world, but the UK must secure even more to deliver clean power by 2030. Today’s reforms set out plans to secure the additional offshore wind the UK needs at a good price, delivering value for money to UK bill-payers. 

    Electricity generated by renewables will be the backbone of the clean power system by 2030, and the Contracts for Difference scheme is vital to deploying enough renewables that will deliver the capacity targets set out in the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan. This will get the UK off the rollercoaster of global fossil fuel markets while creating good jobs and driving economic growth. 

    The UK already has 30.7GW of offshore wind either installed or committed, with a further 7.2GW of capacity consented, against a target capacity range of 43-50GW needed for clean power by 2030. These reforms will enable the UK to go further and faster to secure its position as a clean energy superpower. 

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    Last year, we celebrated delivering the most successful auction round in history – now we want to go even further.  

    British families and businesses are bearing the cost of the reliance on petrostates and dictators who set the price of gas on the global market. 

    Our bold new reforms will give developers the certainty they need to build clean energy in the UK, supporting our mission to become a clean energy superpower and bring down bills for good.

    These proposals are the latest actions taken by the government to deliver clean power by 2030 and support growth. The government announced the launch of the Clean Industry Bonus, incentivising offshore wind developers to invest in cleaner supply chains and create jobs in industrial communities.  

    The consultation on reforms to the Contracts for Difference scheme is open for four weeks until 21 March, with a government response expected ahead of the AR7 round. 

    Notes to editors  

    Full list of proposed reforms being consulted on include: 

    • relaxation of eligibility criteria on planning consent for fixed-bottom offshore wind
    • changes to the way budgets for offshore wind are set and published, including allowing the government to view bid information in anonymised form
    • increasing the CfD contract term beyond the current 15 years
    • enabling CfD support for repowered onshore wind projects
    • extending phasing to floating offshore wind (FLOW) projects
    • increase the Target Commissioning Window (TCW) for solar projects from 3 to 6 months
    • removing the ability of existing CfD generators to apply surrendered capacity from previous allocations rounds into AR7

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CSPL – local government standards roundtable

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    CSPL – local government standards roundtable

    The Committee hosted a roundtable on 20 February with local government experts, practitioners and academics.

    The Committee hosted a roundtable on 20 February with local government experts, practitioners and academics to inform its submission to the government’s consultation on strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England.

    The Committee has a long-standing interest in local government and made recommendations in its 2019 report for more robust safeguards to strengthen a locally determined system. The report’s recommendations were widely supported by the sector.

    The Committee’s submission to government will be informed by evidence and views heard at the roundtable.

    A non-attributed note of the session will be published shortly.

    We would like to thank all those who participated in our roundtable.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Global Geopolitical Situation: Foreign Secretary’s speech at the G20 in South Africa

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    The Global Geopolitical Situation: Foreign Secretary’s speech at the G20 in South Africa

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s intervention on Discussions on the Global Geopolitical Situation at the G20 Foreign Ministerial Meeting in South Africa.

    Thank you very much Ronald [Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa] and let me say, my dear brother, what a joy is to see the G20 in Africa at long last. And we thank Brazil for its stewardship last year.

    The challenges that we face are truly global. We will not begin to tackle them unless we harness the potential of this continent, bursting with growth and opportunities and with so many young people, talented young people at its heart.

    The starkest challenge we face is escalating conflict, both between and within nations, driving vicious cycles of grievance, displacement and low growth.

    Your presidency, Ronald, calls for solidarity, and solidarity starts by recognising and naming the victims of war and injustice:

    • innocent Ukrainians enduring bombardment night after night from Odessa to Zaphorizhya
    • the hostages still cruelly held underground by Hamas, 16 months on from the trauma of October the 7th
    • the Palestinian civilians driven from their homes in Gaza and the West Bank
    • the Sudanese refugees flee their burning villages to escape across the border to Chad, the overwhelming majority of them, women and children having endured the most unimaginable and indiscriminate violence

    As I said when I visited Chad, there can be no geopolitical stability, whilst there remains a hierarchy of conflicts, with those on this continent finding themselves at the bottom of the global pile.

    And that’s why, since starting this job, I’ve made a reset with the so called Global South, a central plank of the UK foreign policy, and it’s why I doubled British aid for Sudan, and I prepared a conference in London to push for a political process which will end the fighting and protect civilians.

    And that’s why I’ve called out the Rwandan Defence Force operations in the eastern DRC as a blatant breach of the UN Charter which risks spiralling into a regional conflict, and that’s why I will again make clear to President Kagame, that further breaches of DRC’s sovereignty will have consequences.

    Because at the heart of my government’s approach to foreign policy lies the belief that regional and geopolitical stability can only be delivered through respect for international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

    And as my Canadian, Australian, Japanese colleagues have said, respect for international law must underwrite a free and open Indo Pacific, just as it must underwrite the Euro Atlantic, with the security of those 2 regions ever more closely linked.

    And as we turn to the Middle East, the ceasefire in Gaza is painfully fragile, I’m grateful that so many of us here today are working together to ensure that it holds we must continue to work together tirelessly to secure the release of the remaining hostages, to bolster the Palestinian Authority, and to boost aid into Gaza and to develop a long term plan for governance and security on the strip so that we can advance towards, a two-state solution, which remains the only long-term viable pathway to peace.

    And finally, in Ukraine, the only just and lasting peace will be a peace that is consistent with the UN Charter, and we want that as soon as possible.

    You know, mature countries learn from their colonial failures and their wars, and Europeans have had much to learn over the generations and the centuries.

    But I’m afraid to say that Russia has learned nothing. I listened carefully to Minister Lavrov intervention just now he’s, of course, left his seat, hoping to hear some readiness to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty.

    I was hoping to hear some sympathy for the innocent victims of the aggression. I was hoping to hear some readiness to seek a durable peace.

    What I heard was the logic of imperialism dressed up as a realpolitik, and I say to you all, we should not be surprised, but neither should we be fooled.

    We are at a crucial juncture in this conflict, and Russia faces a test. If Putin is serious about a lasting peace, it means finding a way forward which respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and the UN Charter which provides credible security guarantees, and which rejects Tsarist imperialism, and Britain is ready to listen.

    But we expect to hear more than the Russian gentleman’s tired fabrications.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby champions care-experienced children on Care Day

    Source: City of Derby

    Today is Care Day, the world’s biggest celebration of children and young people with care experience. 

    These are children and young people who are or have been cared for by foster carers, or other family members, and those who live in children’s homes. They deserve to be celebrated, on Care Day, and every day. 

    One of the Council’s most important jobs is keeping our children and young people safe. When we can’t keep children and young people living safely with their families, we may have to apply to become their legal guardians. If this happens, they become ‘looked after’ and the Council becomes the Corporate Parent. 

    The term ‘Corporate Parent’ means the collective responsibility of the Council, elected members, employees, and partner agencies, for providing the best possible care and safeguarding for the children who are looked after by us. 

    It’s our job as Corporate Parents to make sure they get the best possible start in life and we take this responsibility very seriously. Recently, Full Council unanimously voted to award care-experienced people in Derby ‘protected characteristic’ status.

    This means those who are in care, who are care leavers, or who have had a past experience of care, will have the same protection from discrimination as other characteristics under the Equality Act in Derby. The motion recognises that many care leavers nationally face ongoing stigma, challenges and discrimination across housing, health, education, employment and in the criminal justice system.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Young People and Skills, said:

    Our Children’s Social Care teams listened to children in care and care-experienced young people, who described the stigma and negative labels they face and the impact it has on their lives. This motion is a positive step towards supporting them in overcoming these barriers.

    We’re asking our councillors and staff to champion these children and challenge the negative attitudes and prejudice they experience.  On Care Day, we’re reaffirming our commitment to giving every looked after child the best possible start in life, helping them reach their full potential, and providing them with a safe and positive experience as their Corporate Parent.

    Our goal is for these children and young people to be happy and healthy, both physically and emotionally, to be safe from harm and exploitation, and to receive support as they transition to successful independent lives.

    The Corporate Parenting Strategy outlines the Council’s priorities for children in care and care leavers over the next three years. It aims to make sure that we deliver the best outcomes for our children and young people in care. Our looked after children come to us for numerous reasons and at every age; this strategy is for all of them.

    It prioritises five key areas where we want to make a difference for our children in care and care leavers:

    •    Listening to our children and young people in care
    •    Making sure that they have good, safe places to live
    •    Working with our children and young people so they achieve the best educational outcomes for them
    •    Making sure our children in care are happy and healthy
    •    Supporting our children in care into their adulthood life

    You can learn more about our work with children in care on our website, including our Care Leavers Local Offer, the Children’s Rights Service and the Our Voice, Our Success group for young people. 

    If you’re interested in making a difference to the lives of children who need care, and helping them stay in their local communities, take a look at the Foster For East Midlands website or speak to one of our friendly advisers on 03033 132 950. You can also email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly w/c 24 February 2025

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLICATIONS

    Monday 24 February

    Night-time Economy Report

    Economy, Culture and Skills Committee

    The Economy, Culture and Skills Committee will publish its report – London’s Night-Time Economy.  The report follows an in-depth investigation by the Committee, which saw industry experts, professionals and local authorities provide evidence on London’s night-time economy, what work is currently being done, and any barriers preventing further growth in the sector.

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251 727 / [email protected]

    SITE VISIT

    Thursday 27 February

    Defibrillator training

    Health Committee – Liverpool St Station 10:30am – 12:00pm

    Members of the Health Committee will visit Liverpool Street Station, where they will observe a pop-up London lifesaver defibrillator training. 

    The meeting will include representatives from the London Ambulance Service, Transport for London and people whose lives have been saved by defibrillators.

    MEDIA ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THIS FILMING/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    PUBLIC MEETINGS

    Tuesday 25 February

    Mayor’s Question Time – Final Budget

    All Assembly meeting – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan will present his Final Draft Consolidated Budget for 2025-26 to the London Assembly for a final vote on the financial plans.

    After questioning the Mayor, the London Assembly will consider his Final Draft Consolidated Budget and decide whether to approve it, with or without amendment.  The guests are:

    • Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
    • David Bellamy, Mayor’s Chief of Staff
    • Fay Hammond, Chief Financial Officer, GLA

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    Wednesday 26 February

    Violence against women and girls (VAWG)

    Police and Crime Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Police and Crime Committee will begin an investigation into VAWG, focussing on the impact on young people. The Committee will question guests on the experiences of young people, and how the Mayor can ensure that prevention-based education programmes and initiatives are reaching boys and young men in London.  The guests are:

    Panel 1 (10:00am – 11:15am)

    • Janaya Walker, Head of Public Affairs, End Violence Against Women
    • Guest TBC, Southall Black Sisters

    Panel 2 (11:20am – approx. 12:30pm)

    • Kate Lexén, Director of Services, Tender
    • Ellie Softley, Head of Education, Everyone’s Invited
    • Professor Jessica Ringrose, Faculty of Education and Society, University College London

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251 727 / [email protected]

    Wednesday 26 February

    Leasehold Charges

    Housing Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm

    The Housing Committee will ask what extent service charges make ‘affordable’ home ownership tenures funded by the Mayor unaffordable, what more the Mayor can do to help leaseholders, and the extent to which freeholders and managing agents are working to improve transparency in service charges in London.  The guests are:

    • Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development
    • Kate Webb, Head of Housing Strategy, Greater London Authority
    • Charmaine McQueen-Prince, Chair of the Residential Freehold Association’s Leasehold Reform Subcommittee
    • Fiona Fletcher-Smith, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), L&Q and Chair, G15
    • Andrew Bulmer, CEO, The Property Institute

    MEDIA CONTACT:  Josh Hunt on 07763 252310 /[email protected]

    Thursday 27 February

    Mayor’s Transport Strategy

    Transport Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Transport Committee will ask the Deputy Mayor for Transport and the Transport for London (TfL) Commissioner about progress towards meeting the Mayor’s Transport Strategy ambitions, the Vision Zero target for no deaths or serious injuries on London’s transport network, bus services, and more.  The guests are:

    • Andy Lord, TfL Commissioner
    • Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor for Transport

    MEDIA CONTACT:  Josh Hunt on 07763 252310 /[email protected]

    Thursday 27 February

    Mayor’s Fund for London

    GLA Oversight Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm

    The GLA Oversight Committee will question the Mayor’s Fund for London about its work. The guests are:

    • Jim Minton, Chief Executive Officer, Mayor’s Fund for London
    • Basma Elhayani, Youth Board Member, Mayor’s Fund for London

    The Committee will also ask questions on new proposals for the format of People’s Question Time between 2025 and 2028.

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Lord-Lieutenant for Moray: 21 February 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment of Lord-Lieutenant for Moray: 21 February 2025

    The King has been pleased to appoint Air Commodore Alistair Monkman CBE as His Lord-Lieutenant for Moray.

    The King has been pleased to appoint Air Commodore Alistair Monkman CBE as His Lord-Lieutenant for Moray, to succeed Major General Seymour Monro CBE LVO following his retirement on 7th May 2025.

    Background

    Alistair gained his private pilots’ licence aged 17 and joined the Royal Air Force as a Tornado pilot in 1985. During 27 years of service, Alistair flew over 500 hours of combat operations over Iraq, Serbia and Afghanistan, including with the United States Air Force, and was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal and the Legion of Merit by the USA. Alistair moved to Moray in 2003 and served at RAF Lossiemouth as Officer Commanding 617 Squadron and then Station Commander, during which time he was an ADC to Her Majesty the Queen.  He was awarded a CBE in the 2010 New Year’s Honours list.

    Alistair supports a number of charities and chairs the Moray Emergency Relief Fund. He is also an Assessor for the Moray Community Foundation. His interests include cycling and endurance hill walking and has undertaken annual long distance walks every year since 2012. His passion, however, is the management of wild deer and he is a Trustee Director of the British Deer Society, chairing the BDS’ Scottish Council.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Lord-Lieutenant for Midlothian: 21 February 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment of Lord-Lieutenant for Midlothian: 21 February 2025

    The King has been pleased to appoint Mrs Sarah Barron DL as His Lord-Lieutenant for Midlothian.

    The King has been pleased to appoint Mrs Sarah Barron DL as His Lord-Lieutenant for Midlothian, to succeed Lieutenant Colonel Richard Callander LVO OBE TD following his retirement on 2nd April 2025.

    Background

    Sarah was brought up in Edinburgh and moved to Lasswade, Midlothian, in 1998. She studied Town and Country Planning and Landscape Architecture at Edinburgh University and is a Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute. Working in collaboration with an Edinburgh architectural practice, she specialises in large scale housing developments, landscape planning and conservation, urban regeneration, and masterplanning projects and has worked for a number of high-profile clients in both the public and private sectors.

    Sarah has served as a Deputy Lieutenant since 2013 and has been instrumental in the establishment of the Midlothian’s Young People Awards, which recognise the achievements of young people across the County. She is Chair of The Mavisbank Trust, set up to restore one of Scotland’s most important early Palladian style villas and is currently working with the Landmark Trust to secure a sustainable future for this derelict Midlothian house and its grounds.

    Sarah is a Trustee and founding member of Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage, which promotes and protects Scotland’s historic gardens and designed landscapes. She was a Trustee of Scotland’s Gardens Scheme for fourteen years, organising garden openings across Midlothian, to raise funds for numerous national and local charities. She has also been the Vice Chair of The Friends of Saltersgate School in Dalkeith, raising funds for school equipment to help pupils with special educational needs. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys gardening, archery, beekeeping and skiing and is an enthusiastic member of a number of horticultural and arts societies.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 February 2025

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