NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improving lives through AI

    Source: Scottish Government

    Funding for artificial intelligence projects.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is to be harnessed to develop technologies to address issues such as cancer risk amongst rescue workers.

    The latest round of the Scottish Government’s CivTech programme has awarded up to £9 million to 14 companies developing AI products to tackle challenges faced by charities and public sector organisations. CivTech 10 is the first round of the programme to focus on AI.

    Products being developed include:

    • a software to help identify toxic contaminants to address the risk of cancer for firefighters.
    • an AI system which can help teachers with administrative tasks.  
    • using drones and an automated mapping system to monitor puffin populations in a less invasive way.
    • an AI support system to enable entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

    Previous rounds of CivTech have seen £20 million invested into 90 companies and entrepreneurs since 2016. These include software company Volunteero which developed a mobile app to help charities manage administrative tasks.

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:

    “Scotland is well-placed to harness the advantages of artificial intelligence with its rich history of innovation and high concentration of world-leading universities and colleges.

    “The rapidly growing AI sector offers opportunities for Scotland, from helping to detect health issues such as lung cancer earlier, to enabling businesses to work more efficiently.

    “Through CivTech, we are revolutionising how public sector organisations work by collaborating with businesses to develop products which improve lives.”

    Rebekah MacLeod, Lead Project Liaison Officer at White Ribbon Scotland, a charity tackling violence against women which uses Volunteero’s app, said:

    “Working with Volunteero through the CivTech programme has completely changed how we work as a charity.

    “The app means we spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time working with men and boys to directly address violence against women and girls.

    “This includes encouraging more men and boys to speak out about violence against women and girls.”

    Background

    CivTech companies have created more than 400 jobs and attracted more than £126 million of private sector investment. Nearly 80% of products developed in past rounds of CivTech are still in use.

    Products being developed in CivTech 10 are:

    • Technology developed by Rowden to help firefighters improve their situational awareness in emergency situations.
    • A system to detect and monitor firefighters’ exposure to toxins created by FireHazResearch.
    • Drones and an automated mapping system from EOLAS and The University of Edinburgh to monitor puffin colonies in a less invasive way.
    • Sensors developed by Arctech Innovation to monitor breeding success, seasonal changes and harmful disease in puffins.
    • Technology for public sector organisations to use data securely, developed by Verifoxx.
    • A platform for citizens and policy makers to understand how AI and other emerging technologies could be used in the public sector, developed by CrownShy.
    • A programme created by Talent Engine to provide detailed labour market insights to target skills and development training in Glasgow.
    • An AI tool from Rethink Carbon to document woodland and peatland projects.
    • A new approach to monitoring carbon balances from woodland and peatland projects from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.
    • Sylvera are developing advanced remote-sensing capabilities to enhance monitoring of carbon projects.
    • An AI programme to forecast pharmaceutical demand by postcode area to help reduce waste, developed by PharmovoAI.
    • A planning tool created by Looper to help NHS Scotland reduce waste and emissions.
    • An AI system to support teachers with administrative tasks, developed by SupportEd.
    • A software from BobbAI to help entrepreneurs to access business growth resources and support services. 

    CivTech 10 Challenges and details of the CivTech process are available online.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government fires starting gun on AI Growth Zones to turbocharge Plan for Change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Thousands of new jobs are set to be created as bidding opens for AI Growth Zones.

    Local authorities can submit proposals to become the next AI Growth Zone.

    • UK government ramps up its Plan for Change as new AI Growth Zone bidding opens
    • Development hotbeds for AI set to revitalise local communities, attract fresh investment and deliver new opportunities
    • Interest is already building for high-potential sites in Scotland, Wales, the North East and North West – with others now poised to come forward

    Thousands of new jobs are set to be created as the government opens bidding for its AI Growth Zones in a major drive to revitalise local communities as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    Local and regional authorities across the UK are being encouraged to put their communities forward to become dedicated hotbeds for AI infrastructure development and attracting millions in private investment.

    The UK government will put particular focus on deindustrialised areas of the country to become the next AI Growth Zones as local and regional authorities submit their proposals, including sites with existing access to power or which would be suitable to establish major energy infrastructure.

    This closely follows the AI Opportunities Action Plan, which has put the UK on course to revolutionise public services and become an AI superpower – already attracting over £14 billion in investment since launching just last month. 

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

    We set out our new blueprint for AI less than a month ago, and we’re already delivering on that vision by harnessing technology to supercharge our Plan for Change.

    These new AI Growth Zones will deliver untold opportunities – sparking new jobs, fresh investment and ensuring every corner of the country has a real stake in our AI-powered future. 

    We’re leaving no stone unturned in how we can harness expertise from all over the UK to deliver new opportunities, fresh growth, better public services and cement our position as an AI pioneer, and that’s the message I will be sending to international partners and AI companies at the AI Action Summit.

    As part of the talks, he will also bang the drum for more inward investment to deliver the AI Opportunities Action Plan, including to build the infrastructure needed across AI Growth Zones.

    Industry – including energy companies and data centre developers – are also being called upon to help drive forward government plans to rollout AI Growth Zones. Their proposals will help to inform the final selection of sites and broader policy decisions later this year, meaning the government will be able to move swiftly to secure investment and drive growth in regions across the country. 

    Interest is already building for promising sites in Scotland, Wales, the North East, and North West, with further exploratory work now set to begin on additional locations across the UK.

    Scotland Office Minister, Kirsty McNeill, said:

    Scotland has always been a leader in innovation, with our rich history of pioneering advancements in fields such as engineering, medicine, and technology, which continues today.

    The UK government’s Plan for Change looks to harness AI’s potential in these industries and unlock new opportunities for innovation and economic growth.

    Scotland is already at the centre of these plans, with our world-leading universities at the forefront of AI development and our industrial heritage providing a range of possible sites.  I would encourage our Local Authorities to explore becoming an AI Growth Zone, which will help attract further investment.

    These areas will speed up planning permission to rapidly build AI infrastructure including data centres and give them the energy connections needed to power AI innovations in areas like healthcare. As part of this, the government will work with network operators to rapidly scale each zone to 500MW+, enough to power roughly two million homes.

    This will attract significant private investment, create local jobs and strengthen the UK’s global AI leadership – delivering opportunities for working people across the country as part of the AI Opportunities Action Plan announced less than two weeks ago. The ideal ingredients and key criteria for communities looking to host AI Growth Zones include: 

    • sites with large existing power connections (with a current capacity of 500+ MW) or a clear vision on how energy capacity can be increased. 
    • deindustrialised areas with land and infrastructure standing ready for redevelopment. 
    • locations close to suitable sites for major energy infrastructure such as nuclear reactors, solar stations and wind farms, or battery storage. 

    This expression of interest also extends to AI data centre companies and energy firms who are looking to tap into the potential of AI Growth Zones to deliver on the government’s AI blueprint.  

    Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said:

    It was great to be invited to visit 10 Downing Street last week to talk about the massive potential AI has to bring a huge leap forward in industries across our nation.

    Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool has always been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology – from the friction match to the railways and the chemical industry.

    My job above everything is to bring good, well-paid, long-term jobs to local people. We have everything we need to host an AI Growth Zone in our region. We have the land, we have the power and we have shown in our efforts at Teesworks how we can get huge projects moving forward at pace.

    As part of these industry proposals, data centre developers and energy firms are being called on to set out: timelines and development milestones which detail how they will plan to ramp up energy capacity; partnership opportunities with local authorities and a plan for how their proposals will support the UK’s AI ambitions, as well as what additional support is needed from government to help drive forward their proposals. 

    Announcing its response to the AI Opportunities Action Plan, the government confirmed the first of these AI Growth Zones will be based in Culham, Oxfordshire – home of the UK’s Atomic Energy Authority. This site will also serve as a testing ground to drive forward research on how sustainable energy like fusion technology can power the UK’s AI ambitions. The creation of a new AI Energy Council chaired by the Science and Energy Secretaries will also help to ensure responsible energy sources are being used to drive forward the UK’s AI blueprint, directly supporting the government’s mission to become a clean energy superpower.

    The AI Opportunities Action Plan announced last month is also at the heart of the government’s Industrial Strategy and the first plank of the upcoming Digital and Technology Sector Plan, to be published in the coming months. Following the opening of the expression of interest, the government will open the formal selection process in the spring, with the first AI Growth Zones then due to be announced in the summer.

    Further information

    Information on the AI Growth Zones: expression of interest.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-wide blitz on illegal working to strengthen border security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Most successful January in over half a decade for Home Office Immigration Enforcement teams tackling illegal working.

    A record-breaking January for illegal working enforcement activity has been revealed by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper as the government’s landmark Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill returns to Parliament for its second reading, today (Monday 10 February).     

    Tackling illegal working plays a vital part in the Home Office’s system-wide approach to ending the promise of false jobs used by smuggling gangs to sell spaces on boats and taking down their business models as we restore order to the immigration system. 

    Following a drive from this government to have more deployable enforcement staff, a renewed crackdown on those attempting to undermine the UK’s borders last month saw the highest January in over half a decade for enforcement activity.   

    Throughout January alone, Immigration Enforcement teams descended on 828 premises, including nail bars, convenience stores, restaurants and car washes, marking a 48% rise compared to the previous January. Arrests also surged to 609, demonstrating a 73% increase from just 352 the previous year.    

    More broadly, between 5 July last year and 31 January, both illegal working visits and arrests have soared by around 38% compared to the same 12 months prior. During the same period, the Home Office issued a total of 1,090 civil penalty notices. Employers could face a fine of up to £60,000 per worker if found liable.   

    In many cases, those who come to the UK and end up working illegally are sold false promises about their ability to live and work in the UK, creating a dangerous draw for people to risk their lives by crossing the Channel on a small boat.  

    In reality, illegal working is inextricably linked to squalid living conditions, little to no pay and inhumane working hours. By paying so little, rogue employers often attempt to avoid paying their fair share in taxes to contribute to the economy and undercut honest competitors who follow the law.   

    Under its Plan for Change, the government is delivering steadfast action to restore order to the UK immigration system and the surge in enforcement activity to crack down on illegal working is a vital cog in the government’s wider machine to identify, disrupt and tackle irregular migration across the country.    

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:     

    The immigration rules must be respected and enforced. For far too long, employers have been able to take on and exploit illegal migrants and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken.

    Not only does this create a dangerous draw for people to risk their lives by crossing the Channel in a small boat, but it results in the abuse of vulnerable people, the immigration system and our economy.   

    That’s why, as part of our Plan for Change, we are boosting enforcement to record levels alongside tough new legislation to smash the criminal gangs that undermine our border security and who have been getting away with it for far too long.

    While enforcement teams respond to illegal working intelligence in all sectors, a significant proportion of last month’s activity took place at restaurants, takeaways and cafes as well as in the food, drink and tobacco industry.  

    An operation in Cheshire to vape shops led to 10 immigration arrests and 2 criminal arrests for counterfeit documents, with civil penalty referral notices being made to employers, and a visit to an Indian restaurant in Humberside led to 7 arrests and 4 detentions. Elsewhere, in South London, a visit to a grocery warehouse resulted in 6 arrests and 4 people being detained.  

    As part of this activity, Immigrant Enforcement play a critical safeguarding role, working closely with the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority and other organisations to allow employees to report labour exploitation.    

    Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime, said:     

    These figures demonstrate the commitment of my teams to crack down on those who think they can flout our immigration system.   

    I hope it sends a strong signal that there is no hiding place from the law, and we will continue to ramp up our activity to ensure those involved face the full consequences.   

    We also know that many people who end up working illegally are often subjected to extremely poor conditions, so we will continue to do all we can to safeguard and protect the most vulnerable.

    Border Security is central to the government’s Plan for Change and, alongside enforcement activity, the Home Office is ramping up returns of individuals with no right to be in the UK. Just last month, the department smashed its target to drive the removal of foreign criminals and immigration offenders to the highest level since 2018, with 16,400 people removed since the election. This figure is expected to go up later today when the Home Office publishes updated figures running to the end of January.  

    Since July, bespoke charter flights have also removed immigration offenders to countries around the world, including 4 of the biggest returns flights in the UK’s history carrying more than 800 people. Individuals removed since the election include criminals convicted of drug offences, theft, rape and murder.   

    We’re also working upstream to deter people from entering the UK illegally by launching a new international campaign to debunk people smugglers’ lies.  

    Social media adverts went live in Vietnam in December and Albania in January, highlighting real stories from migrants who entered the UK illegally, only to face debt, exploitation, and a life far from what they were promised. The campaign also warns prospective migrants about the realities of illegal working, as the government continues to crack down on employers who break the law and exploit people for profit. 

    In the months ahead, we will go further than ever by introducing new counter terror-style powers to identify, disrupt and smash people smuggling gangs as part of new, robust legislation to protect UK borders, set to be discussed in Parliament today.    

    The Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill will grant law enforcement additional powers to take earlier and more effective action against organised crime gangs, including seizing mobile phones from people who come to the UK illegally before the point of arrest. 

    Next month, the government will go further by hosting a landmark Border Security Summit at the historic Lancaster House in London.   

    A watershed moment in the UK’s fight against Organised Immigration Crime, the summit will bring together delegates from over 40 countries, as well as guest participants from a range of international institutions, including the European Union.   

    The summit will be held on Monday 31 March and Tuesday 1 April, and will facilitate a range of discussions on the best ways to tackle criminal networks facilitating organised immigration crime and migrant smuggling.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street.

    • Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week – UK Government backed drive offering free, quick and easy HIV self and home testing kits. 
    • First Serving Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public HIV test.  
    • HIV Testing Week to drive efforts to reach estimated 4,700 undiagnosed people living in England to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street. 

    By taking part in the campaign, he will be the first serving British Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public test on camera. 

    Joined by Terrence Higgins Trust Patron Beverley Knight, the Prime Minister took a rapid home test to raise awareness that during National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a free and confidential HIV test from www.freetesting.hiv to do at home. 

    The campaign which sees up to 20,000 funded kits being available to the public – centres on regular home or self-testing – one way to meet the Government’s ambition to end new HIV cases in England by 2030 committed to by the Prime Minister in December. 

    After undertaking a test, the Prime Minister said:

    It is really important to do it, and I am pleased to have taken part too. It’s easy, it is quick. And during testing week you can get a test free – so it is a great time to also take part.

    If people test, they will know their status, it is better that people know, and that is a good thing because you can then get access to treatment, and that will also help meet our collective target to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    It comes as polling by YouGov, on behalf of leading HIV Charity the Terrence Higgins Trust, has found that more than 80% of adults in England are unaware it is possible to test for HIV at home.  

    However, when prompted as an option, at-home testing was the most popular way to know your HIV status, with 44% of people saying it would be their preference.  

    The Prime Minister has committed to ending new HIV cases in England by 2030, with a new HIV Action Plan to be published in summer 2025.  

    Once diagnosed, people living with HIV can access free, effective treatment which means they can have a normal life expectancy and can’t pass on the virus.   

    Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said: 

    The Prime Minister has made history by becoming the first G7 leader to publicly take an HIV test while in office and has led by example.  

    This free, quick and simple test sends a powerful message to the country and to the public. During National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a test to their home, whether that’s to Downing Street, to Penzance or to Berwick-up-Tweed. 

    England can be the first country in the world to end new HIV transmissions, but we are not on track to do so by 2030. Scaling up HIV testing will be crucial to our shared goal. We are delighted that Keir Starmer is leading from the front in this mission.

    Beverley Knight MBE said: 

    Living with HIV today is a world away from the experience that my late best friend Tyrone endured in the early 2000s. People living with HIV can now easily know their status, can access effective treatment and live a long, healthy life. I wish this was case for Ty. In his memory, I’m using my voice alongside the Prime Minister to make everyone aware of how easy it is to test. People need to hear the crucial message that thanks to effective medication people living with HIV can’t pass it on, so we can end this epidemic once and for all.

    Rebecca Mbewe, an author and speaker, who is living with HIV said: 

    Testing for HIV is the only way to know your status, and it helps you stay in control of your health. If you do have a positive result, you won’t be on your own. I have been living with HIV for close to 30 years, I am still able to do anything and everything that I like. I still have my glass of gin and tonic. I can still go out and dance. Thanks to free, effective medication, I have a full life, I can’t pass HIV on and I have a normal life expectancy. Every time I have a birthday I love telling people my age. It’s a statement. It’s a celebration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week

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

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street.

    • Prime Minister takes part in National HIV Testing Week – UK Government backed drive offering free, quick and easy HIV self and home testing kits. 
    • First Serving Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public HIV test.  
    • HIV Testing Week to drive efforts to reach estimated 4,700 undiagnosed people living in England to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    In support of National HIV Testing Week, the Prime Minister undertook a public rapid HIV home test, available for free, in No10 Downing Street. 

    By taking part in the campaign, he will be the first serving British Prime Minister and serving G7 leader to take a public test on camera. 

    Joined by Terrence Higgins Trust Patron Beverley Knight, the Prime Minister took a rapid home test to raise awareness that during National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a free and confidential HIV test from www.freetesting.hiv to do at home. 

    The campaign which sees up to 20,000 funded kits being available to the public – centres on regular home or self-testing – one way to meet the Government’s ambition to end new HIV cases in England by 2030 committed to by the Prime Minister in December. 

    After undertaking a test, the Prime Minister said:

    It is really important to do it, and I am pleased to have taken part too. It’s easy, it is quick. And during testing week you can get a test free – so it is a great time to also take part.

    If people test, they will know their status, it is better that people know, and that is a good thing because you can then get access to treatment, and that will also help meet our collective target to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.

    It comes as polling by YouGov, on behalf of leading HIV Charity the Terrence Higgins Trust, has found that more than 80% of adults in England are unaware it is possible to test for HIV at home.  

    However, when prompted as an option, at-home testing was the most popular way to know your HIV status, with 44% of people saying it would be their preference.  

    The Prime Minister has committed to ending new HIV cases in England by 2030, with a new HIV Action Plan to be published in summer 2025.  

    Once diagnosed, people living with HIV can access free, effective treatment which means they can have a normal life expectancy and can’t pass on the virus.   

    Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said: 

    The Prime Minister has made history by becoming the first G7 leader to publicly take an HIV test while in office and has led by example.  

    This free, quick and simple test sends a powerful message to the country and to the public. During National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a test to their home, whether that’s to Downing Street, to Penzance or to Berwick-up-Tweed. 

    England can be the first country in the world to end new HIV transmissions, but we are not on track to do so by 2030. Scaling up HIV testing will be crucial to our shared goal. We are delighted that Keir Starmer is leading from the front in this mission.

    Beverley Knight MBE said: 

    Living with HIV today is a world away from the experience that my late best friend Tyrone endured in the early 2000s. People living with HIV can now easily know their status, can access effective treatment and live a long, healthy life. I wish this was case for Ty. In his memory, I’m using my voice alongside the Prime Minister to make everyone aware of how easy it is to test. People need to hear the crucial message that thanks to effective medication people living with HIV can’t pass it on, so we can end this epidemic once and for all.

    Rebecca Mbewe, an author and speaker, who is living with HIV said: 

    Testing for HIV is the only way to know your status, and it helps you stay in control of your health. If you do have a positive result, you won’t be on your own. I have been living with HIV for close to 30 years, I am still able to do anything and everything that I like. I still have my glass of gin and tonic. I can still go out and dance. Thanks to free, effective medication, I have a full life, I can’t pass HIV on and I have a normal life expectancy. Every time I have a birthday I love telling people my age. It’s a statement. It’s a celebration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Build to rent homes for essential workers in Sydney take off

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Housing, Minister for Lands and Property, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    New homes for rent at a subsidised rate are on the way for essential workers in Sydney with the Minns Labor Government today announcing the first site of it’s essential worker Build-to-Rent plan.

    Funded through the Minns Labor Government’s $450 million investment to deliver housing for essential workers, the Government’s developer Landcom will transform the former WestConnex dive site in Camperdown to deliver:

    • at least 200 build-to-rent units offered to essential workers like health workers, paramedics, teachers, police officers and firefighters at a discount to market rent, through a separate subsidy
    • approximately 300 additional units, including private units and a proportion of affordable rental housing
    • ground-floor retail or commercial, landscaped outdoor spaces and new pedestrian links, enhancing the neighbourhood’s amenity and vibrancy.

    The site was identified under the NSW Government’s Land Audit, which set out to find surplus government land that had been sitting unused and could be used to develop more homes.

    Landcom and Homes NSW were given first pick of the land audit sites, with this being the first site to be developed by Landcom.

    The site is well-located, close to transport, public spaces, amenities and education and health centres including one of Sydney’s largest hospitals, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

    Community and stakeholders will have the opportunity to help shape the design of the mixed-use development as the applications progresses through consultation.

    Construction is expected to begin in 2026, pending approvals, with the first essential workers moving in around 2028.

    The Camperdown site is the first secured by Landcom as part of the NSW Government’s build-to-rent essential worker housing program, with Landcom investigating additional sites.

    Landcom is also expected to start construction this year on 110 build-to-rent units in NSW’s Northern Rivers and South Coast, boosting rental supply in regions feeling the combined stresses of rising rents and lack of housing availability.

    The Government will retain ownership of the build-to-rent housing. Details about eligibility criteria, how to apply and the rental subsidy will be available closer to project completion.

    This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to rebuild our essential services while delivering critical new housing for those who need it across NSW.

    Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

    “Essential workers are feeling the impact of the immense cost of housing and many can’t afford to live near their jobs. That’s why our plan is delivering this well-located, secure and accessible rental housing for the essential workers who keep Sydney running.

    “The former WestConnex dive site in Sydney’s Inner West has sat unused for years and thanks to our plan to identify vacant land, it will now to deliver housing for essential workers close to their jobs.

    “Every single day essential workers turn up to work keep our state running, the very least we can do is make sure that they have access to the housing they need, near their jobs at an affordable price.”

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The Camperdown site is the first secured by Landcom as part of the NSW Government’s $450 million investment to deliver more than 400 build-to-rent homes for essential workers in metropolitan Sydney, closer to their jobs and services.

    “The new rental homes in Sydney’s Inner West will ease the pressure on essential workers employed nearby, providing greater housing choice, security and affordability, improving quality of life.

    “The development will transform unused Government-owned land with new homes for renters and buyers, while rejuvenating a key part of the Parramatta Road corridor.”

    Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

    “The land audit is delivering and this site is proof. Instead of collecting dust, this site will help deliver much needed housing as part of approximately 7,000 new homes identified by the land audit.

    “The Minns Government is focused on building better communities and this large site will support our number one priority of delivering more housing for the people of NSW.”

    Minister for Housing Rose Jackson said:

    ”This is about providing much-needed affordable housing for the next generation of Sydneysiders so they can continue to live and work in their local areas.

    “Key workers are being priced out of their own communities, making it harder to build a future where they live and work. This investment is about backing them in—giving nurses, teachers and first responders more affordable rental options close to their jobs so they can keep doing the work that keeps our city running.”

    Mayor of Inner West Council Darcy Bryne said:

    ”We desperately need more affordable housing for essential workers in the Inner West and this project will make a real dent in the problem.”

    “For years people have talked about the Parramatta Road corridor as being an ideal location for higher density housing, this project will actually make that happen.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Women of the Year 2025 finalists announced

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Women

    Thirty of the most inspirational women and girls across NSW were today announced as finalists for Women of the Year Awards 2025.

    The awards program, now in its 13th year, aims to recognise and celebrate revolutionary thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates and innovative role models.

    Award categories include:

    • NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence
    • NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year
    • NSW Regional Woman of the Year
    • NSW Community Hero
    • NSW Young Woman of the Year (ages 16-30 years)
    • Ones to Watch (ages 7-15 years)

    The Women of the Year Awards ceremony is the centrepiece event of NSW Women’s Week 2025, a week-long celebration from Sunday 2 March until Saturday 8 March. The Awards are the NSW Government’s way of shining the light on the incredible talent and extraordinary women and girls from across our state.

    Women of the Year award recipients will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards 2025 ceremony on Thursday, 6 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney. The Award ceremony will be livestreamed for everyone to celebrate these inspirational women and girls.

    For more information about the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2025, go to https://www.nsw.gov.au/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards.

    Premier Chris Minns said:

    “The incredible group of 2025 finalists reflect how exceptional the women of New South Wales truly are.

    “From doctors, academics and scientists to community leaders and advocates – each and every one of our finalists have gone above and beyond in their respective fields.

    “On behalf of the NSW Government and our community, I congratulate each of the finalists, for you are all deserving of this recognition.”

    Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison said:

    “We’ve had a phenomenal response to the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2025 program, with over 500 nominations across NSW. This is a record high, and we can absolutely confirm our 2025 finalists are some of the State’s most impressive women and girls.

    “This year’s group come from all walks of life, from scientists and researchers to entrepreneurs and strong advocates to stop domestic and family violence. They come from all across New South Wales – from Sydney to Walgett.

    “The NSW Women of the Year Awards is truly a leading recognition program, inspiring everyday women to reach their highest potential.”

    The Women of the Year 2025 finalists are (by Local Government Area):

    NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence

    • Professor Annette Cowie (Armidale)
    • Mariam Mohammed (Newcastle)
    • Dr Vanessa Pirotta (Canada Bay)
    • Karen Iles (Sydney)

    NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year

    • Marjorie Anderson (George’s River)
    • Aunty Fay Green (Walgett)
    • Lisa Sarago (Bayside)
    • Robyn Taylor (Penrith)
    • Aunty Rhonda Towney (Parkes)

    NSW Regional Woman of the Year

    • Kate Cleary (Hilltops)
    • Kirsty Evans (Orange)
    • Jan Frikken (Eurobodalla)
    • Penny Lamaro (Armidale)

    NSW Community Hero

    • Ennia Jones (Newcastle)
    • Kelly Lamb (Port Macquarie-Hastings)
    • Mona Mahamed (Canterbury-Bankstown)
    • Sandy Rogers (Tweed)

    NSW Young Woman of the Year (ages 16-30 years)

    • Yeon Jae Kim (Hornsby)
    • Zara Seidler (Woollahra)
    • Jessica Luyue Teoh (Hornsby)

    Ones to Watch (ages 7-15 years)

    • Chloe Croker (Goulburn Mulwaree)
    • Jiayi Fang (Ku-ring-gai)
    • Aurora Iler (Campbelltown)
    • Ashleen Khela (The Hills Shire)
    • Aish Khurram (Hornsby)
    • Kat Mulcair (Yass Valley)
    • Hayley Paterson (The Hills Shire)
    • Waniya Syed (Camden)
    • Lydia Tofaeono (Strathfield)
    • Emilia Trustum (Richmond Valley)

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Planning in process for John Renshaw Drive

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Australian and New South Wales governments are investing $15 million to progress planning work that will help cut congestion, reduce travel times and improve road safety at a major Hunter traffic bottleneck. 

    Currently, motorists face major travel time delays when navigating the junction of the M1 Pacific Motorway, John Renshaw Drive, Weakleys Drive and New England Highway at Beresfield.

    These delays are driven by high traffic volumes, multiple traffic signals and a lack of road capacity.

    The John Renshaw Drive project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, with the Australian Government providing $12 million and the NSW Government providing $3 million.

    The NSW Government will investigate upgrades to John Renshaw Drive including improvement options for the intersection of the M1 Motorway and Weakleys Drive; lane duplication of Weakleys Drive between Enterprise Drive and Canavan Drive; and access from Weakleys Drive to the New England Highway.

    Once designed and delivered, the upgrades will reduce travel times for motorists and make movement of freight more efficient along a key part of the regional freight network which connects to the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport.

    Further traffic and economic modelling is being conducted to confirm what the proposed upgrades will include and the final design. 

    Timelines for construction will be dependent on further funding and planning approvals.

    More information about the project is available here: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/jrdup

    Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “These upgrades to John Renshaw Drive will improve safety and traffic flow for better travel times and more reliable trips, especially during peak periods.

    “It will help meet current and future traffic demands in the area, as well as support the development of the proposed industrial areas and broader regional economy.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

    “John Renshaw Drive is a key connector between Maitland, Newcastle, Cessnock, Wallsend and the Upper Hunter.

    “Upgrades to John Renshaw Drive will support the development of proposed industrial areas as well as the broader regional economy by providing more efficient access for commuters and heavy freight between the Lower and Upper Hunter and to key regional employment areas such as the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport.

    “This incredibly important planning is one of several projects, including M1 to Raymond Terrace and Hexham Straight Widening, we are undertaking to address current and predicted traffic growth at the critical strategic junction of the M1 Motorway, Pacific and New England highways.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson:

    “The Australian and NSW governments are proud to be getting the ball rolling on upgrading John Renshaw Drive & Weakleys Drive which will improve connectivity, road transport efficiency and safety for many motorists.

    “We are planning for a more reliable, less congested road network in one of the fastest growing areas of NSW. This is essential for local residents in and across Maitland, Thornton and Beresfield.  We need better infrastructure and to build greater capacity in the network where it links to the M1 Pacific Motorway”

    Quotes attributable to State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery:

    “This area of the Hunter is growing rapidly which is why we need to ensure our infrastructure is up to shape.

    “I’m looking forward to seeing solutions which will ensure the best possible road network for our regional travellers while also minimising traffic delays for our local commuters.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship tour applications open

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 10 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Veterans

    Up to 20 students from across NSW will be selected to participate in the annual Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship (PAMS) study tour that will visit historic sites relating to Australia’s military history in the Republic of Korea and Singapore in 2025.

    Tour locations in the Republic of Korea include the site of the Battle of Kapyong, the Demilitarised Zone and the UN First Battle Memorial in the. In Singapore, the tour will take in sites such as the Kranji War Memorial, Changi Prison Chapel and Museum and the Fort Siloso and Surrender Chambers.

    PAMS is a wonderful opportunity for high school history students to further develop their skills and understanding of Australians at war.

    Zygmunt Gray from Finigan School of Distance Education in Queanbeyan was PAMS 2024 recipient that toured Japan, describing the trip as a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of Australians in wartime.

    Fellow PAMS 2024 tourist Celine Chandrasegaran from Saint Mary Mackillop College in Albury said the tour was a transformative experience and plans to continue to share the invaluable insights she gained.

    The 2025 tour will take place in the Term 3 school holidays departing on Monday 29 September and returning to Sydney on Friday 10 October.

    Eligible students can apply online by submitting a personal essay, a letter of recommendation from their school and a parent consent form.

    Applications close on Sunday, 9 March 2025.  More information and details on how to apply is available at https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/education/premiers-anzac-memorial-scholarship/.

    Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

    “This year’s Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship presents a unique opportunity to visit South Korea and Singapore.  

    “This is a chance to develop a greater appreciation of the story of our nation, along with the story of these nations. 

    “I really encourage students to apply, to develop their understanding of military history and those who served.”

    Minister for Veterans David Harris said:

    “The PAMS study tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity for students across New South Wales, and I encourage all Year 10 and Year 11 history students to consider applying. 

    “Scholarship recipients will explore Australia’s military history and visit locations that experienced the war’s impact firsthand. Australians fought abroad in Singapore and later became involved in the Korean War, only five years after the end of the Second World War.

    “This tour is an opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding of the service and sacrifice of our soldiers and the impacts war have had on countries around the world.”

    Celine Chandrasegaran fromSaint Mary Mackillop College Albury said:

    “I was honoured to be given the incredible opportunity to partake in the PAMS tour. Learning on-site the impact of our wartime history amid the culture and society of the modern world has helped to re-shape, form, and consolidate my understanding of historical events.

    “I now more fully appreciate all those who sacrificed and contributed to the world I live in today and will continue to share the knowledge I gained for many years to come.”

    Zygmunt Gray from Finigan School of Distance Education Queanbeyan said:

    “The PAMS scholarship really strengthened my idea of just how challenging the conditions were for Pacific War soldiers and helped imprint a strong sense of duty and obligation within me, that I would do the same today, if it were necessary.

    “The tour also opened my eyes to the different values and beliefs of others, and gave me the opportunity to meet many new, like-minded people, some of which will be lifelong mates.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Go big on love, not budget

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 9 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government

    For many couples, planning and paying for a wedding can feel overwhelming, but happily ever after doesn’t always have to break the bank.

    With the typical cost of a wedding rising, more couples are opting to tie the knot with the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages, a simple and stunning alternative, at just a fraction of the cost.

    In 2024 alone, the Registry helped 3,306 newlywed couples turn their dream day a reality, with wedding packages starting at just $479.

    The number choosing to celebrate their love with a Registry wedding each year is steadily rising, with 2024’s figure a 32 per cent increase on the 2500 registry weddings held in 2023.

    With a recent survey conducted by the Department of Customer Service revealing more than 80 per cent of people living in NSW are concerned about the cost of living, it’s no wonder Registry weddings are surging in popularity.

    Couples can say ‘I do’ in some of the most beautiful locations the state has on offer, like the breathtaking Pyrmont Wedding Registry, the historic Old Wollongong Court House, and the iconic Sydney Opera House, available exclusively on Valentine’s Day.

    Registry weddings are easy to plan and customise, with couples able to opt for a simple affair or choose to add all the bells and whistles like photography and flowers.

    From intimate, legal-only ceremonies to vow renewals and premium ceremonies for up to 70 guests, there’s an option to suit every couple’s needs, style, and budget.

    To find out more about getting married with the Registry, visit the BDM website: https://www.nsw.gov.au/family-and-relationships/marriages/get-married-by-registry

    Bookings must be made at least one month prior to the wedding date.

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib said:

    “Getting married is one of life’s most memorable moments, and should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget. Big memories don’t need a big price tag.

    “The NSW Government offers couples the chance to make their dream day a reality, without breaking the bank.

    “With beautiful, unique locations to choose from for a wedding, these Registry options have evolved into a great alternative for those celebrating their special day.”

    Registrar for NSW Births, Deaths, and Marriages, Theresa Fairman said:

    “When the team speaks with brides and grooms, one of the main key concerns is cost. We are always looking at ways to make the perfect day achievable for every budget.

    “Whether it’s an intimate, no-fuss ceremony or something a little more extravagant, we’re here to make your special day memorable without the financial strain.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: BLOG | Making the most of every pound

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, Cllr Ruth Bennett, outlines the Council’s priorities in setting this year’s budget…

    In the next few weeks, we’ll be setting our 2025/26 budget at Liverpool City Council. It’s been many months in preparation, with a lot of detailed work and careful planning.

    We are acutely aware that, whether it is a government grant or money raised locally, it is your money we are spending.

    At the heart of every decision we make is a commitment to ensure we make the most of every pound, and that it is invested in delivering good quality services. Our priority has been to make sure that we are continuing to invest in the things we know you care about.

    Over the last year, we have been spending more in our neighbourhoods, joining-up services by bringing our Streetscene service back in-house, and placing staff on the ground to work with local Councillors and community organisations to direct our resources at specific issues in particular wards, such as fly-tipping, waste or match day parking. It’s already delivering success, with a 5.7 per cent reduction in the reports about fly-tipping and a drop of around 25 per cent in both street cleaning and weeding requests. We’ve also halfway through recruiting 40 new parking enforcement officers to tackle inconsiderate drivers.

    At the same time, our drive to make sure we bring in as much of our owed income continues. Our in-year council tax collection rate is currently much improved and better than other big ‘core’ cities, and we’re on with being far more robust with businesses who owe money to us and you – the residents of Liverpool.

    We’ve reviewed our Council Tax Support Scheme for the first time in a decade to make sure it is fit for purpose, and a review of single person Council Tax discount is bringing in hundreds of thousands of pounds extra a year. We’re getting into an annual cycle of reviewing fees and charges so that it becomes business as usual, because these make an essential contribution to our overall budget.

    We’ll also be rolling out improvements in customer services, including the introduction of a new case management platform. In simple terms, it will enable you to access more services online, over the phone, or in-person, and get real-time updates and information, in the same way as you would expect from your internet or energy provider.

    Along with many other councils up and down the country, we face demand pressures in areas such as social care, homelessness and SEND transport, but we have plans in place to deal with this and, where necessary, mitigate the financial impact.

    This year we have received a greater amount of money from the Government as they changed the funding arrangements to target deprived areas. In the longer term, they are carrying out a Comprehensive Spending Review which will give us more certainty over our finances by letting us know how much we will receive in the coming years. This will help us greatly in planning for the future, helping us build on the progress we have made in the last 18 months.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home buying and selling to become quicker and cheaper

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Major new plans to modernise home buying and selling to save people time and money and further measures to improve the lives of leaseholders

    Millions of people are set to benefit from improvements to the way homes are bought and sold, saving them both time and money by helping stop property transactions from falling through. 

    Under major new plans, the government has announced today [February 9] it will modernise the way the process works to bring down current delays of almost five months. One of the key reasons the buying and selling process can be long and frustrating is a lack of digitalisation and join up in the sector, which is why the government is opening up key property information, ensuring this data can be shared between trusted professionals more easily, and driving forward plans for digital identity services to slash transaction times. 

    These reforms will make home buying fit for the 21st Century and give much-needed certainty to everyone involved in property transactions, with one million taking place in the UK every year. By making information available at people’s fingertips, it will be far less likely for surprises to be encountered later on in the process. This will make it easier for people to get onto the housing ladder, reduce the requirement to share ID in-person in the long-term, and decrease the number of transactions collapsing.  

    Currently, fall throughs – which impact one in three transactions – cost people around £400 million a year, on top of the four million working days lost by conveyancers and estate agents alone which is equivalent to £1 billion. By bringing the process into the digital age, and learning from success stories such as Norway where transactions complete in around one month, the government is putting more money into the pockets of hardworking people and delivering on our Plan for Change to grow the economy. 

    Meanwhile changes to improve the lives of leaseholders – who have already achieved the dream of homeownership but found it falls short of what they were promised – will also be introduced from next week, with secondary legislation for the Right to Manage measures in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 being laid tomorrow – ahead of the schedule the government committed to last year. 

    These changes, which will come into force on 3rd March, will empower more leaseholders to take control of their buildings more easily, giving them power over how their service charges are spent, and removing the requirement for leaseholders to cover the legal fees of their freeholder when making a Right to Manage claim – potentially saving them up to £3,000 for the most costly claims, and reducing the incentive for landlords to obstruct the process. 

    Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook said: 

    “We are streamlining the cumbersome home buying process so that it is fit for the twenty-first century, helping homebuyers save money, gain time and reduce stress while also cutting the number of house sales that fall through.  

    “Our modernisation of the system sits alongside further reforms to improve the lives of leasehold homeowners across the country, allowing them to more easily and cheaply take control of the buildings they live in and clamp down on unreasonable or extortionate charges.

    “These reforms build on the government’s Plan for Change to deliver higher living standards and 1.5 million safe and decent homes in this Parliament, and our ongoing efforts to protect leaseholders suffering from unfair and unreasonable practices as we work to end the feudal leasehold system for good.” 

    Currently, information such as building control and highways information is predominantly paper-based or recorded in non-machine-readable formats. On top of this, where data is available electronically, there are not established protocols for accessing, sharing and verifying that data which leads to more delays.  

    But under a fully digitalised home buying and selling process, the information key parties need – from mortgage companies to surveyors – will be within reach immediately, with the necessary identity checks carried out once. Clear information early on will mean there are no surprises late on in the transaction which might cause it to fall through, so instead the transaction is completed smoothly without unnecessary time, energy or money spent.  

    That’s why the department is working hand-in-hand with the property market, supported by HM Land Registry (HMLR), and is today announcing a 12-week project to identify the design and implementation of agreed rules on data for the sector, so that it can easily be shared between conveyancers, lenders and other parties involved in a transaction. HMLR will also build on its work in digitising property information and lead 10-month pilots with a number of councils to identify the best approach to opening up more of their data and making it digital, whilst the government pushes ahead with plans for digital identity verification services including in the property sector. 

    This will all be carried out in conjunction with the Digital Property Market Steering Group – a collection of industry and government experts committed to digitalising the home buying and selling process and delivering this change.  

    The government has already:   

    • Launched a New Homes Accelerator to unblock thousands of homes stuck in the planning system.     

    • Set up an independent New Towns Taskforce, as part of a long-term vision to create large-scale communities of at least 10,000 new homes each.     

    • Awarded £68 million to 54 local councils to unlock housing on brownfield sites.     

    • Awarded £47 million to seven councils to unlock homes stalled by nutrient neutrality rules.     

    • Announced an additional £3 billion in housing guarantees to help builders apply for more accessible loans from banks and lenders.     

    • Extended the existing Home Building Fund for next year providing up to £700 million of vital support to SME housebuilders, delivering an additional 12,000 new homes.     

    Notes to editors:   

    • More than 300,000 property transactions fall through in the UK every year at a cost to sellers of £400 million, according to a survey commissioned by the HomeOwners Alliance (HOA) and online homebuyer IMMO.co.uk in 2018.   

    • Almost a third of adults surveyed by the Homeowners Alliance in 2024, when asked how the conveyancing process could be improved, said it should be faster.   

    • MHCLG has recently taken over the chairing of the Digital Property Market Steering Group. The group consists of organisations that represent the various professions involved in the buying and selling process and is committed to driving digitalisation of the home buying and selling system.    

    • Right to Manage is the only way for leaseholders to take back control over extortionate fees and mismanagement of their homes, without being forced to buy the freehold.  

    • The Right to Manage Statutory Instrument will be laid in parliament on Monday, and will come in to effect from 3rd March 2025 

    • This marks the next step on government’s timetable for further leasehold and commonhold reform which can be found here: Sweeping reforms to give leaseholders more powers and protections – GOV.UK

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Best Australian beaches for 2025 revealed

    Source: Minister for Trade

    There is no doubt that Australia has the best beaches in the world, and Tourism Australia’s official 2025 Best Australian Beaches list highlights just how extraordinary our coastline is.

    For the first time Tasmania has won the title of Australia’s ‘best beach,’ with the coveted top spot going to a 10-kilometre section of pristine coastline in the Bay of Fires, stretching across a handful of beach bays from The Gardens to Binalong Bay.

    Other notable beaches on the list include Little Lagoon which is an egg-shaped inlet at Shark Bay in Western Australia and Fishery Bay on the Eyre Peninsula which is located about 20 minutes southwest of Port Lincoln.

    The Best Australian Beaches list helps international travellers and local holidaymakers, to discover hidden gems and explore different parts of the country beyond our capital cities.

    Congratulations to all of the communities connected with the top 10 Best Australian Beaches for 2025:

    1. Bay of Fires, Tasmania
    2. Woolgoolga, New South Wales
    3. Emily Bay Lagoon, Norfolk Island
    4. North Kirra Beach, Queensland
    5. Little Lagoon, Western Australia
    6. Fishery Bay, South Australia
    7. 1770, Queensland
    8. Scarborough Beach, Western Australia
    9. Caves Beach, New South Wales
    10. Cowes Beach, Victoria

    Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador, Brad Farmer AM, curates the list each year, which helps to refine the top 10 from the almost 12,000 beaches on Australia’s mainland and islands.

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell:

    “There will be many families, just like mine, that love looking through the “Best Australian Beaches” list every year to pick which ones they want to visit next.

    “It’s a very difficult job choosing just 10 places to highlight from the almost 12,000 beaches on Australia’s mainland and islands – but Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador does an exceptional and thorough job.

    “I was thrilled to see Fishery Bay on the Eyre Peninsula in SA make the top 10 – my great grandfather was the first harbour master at nearby Arno Bay, which is also a stunning spot.

    “This year’s list will highlight to the world what many in Australia know – that Bondi and Brighton are wonderful, but it’s worth the journey to regional SA to see some truly unique beaches.” 

    Images, vision and grabs are available via the Dropbox library.
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Views sought on a parking zone for Everton FC’s new stadium

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council has launched a public consultation on extending the city’s ‘Football Match Parking Zone’ around Everton Football Club’s new stadium, at Bramley-Moore Dock.

    The parking zone already exists for both of the city’s current major football stadiums at Goodison Park and Anfield.

    Given the scale of the events to be hosted at Everton’s brand new 52,888 capacity stadium, the council is asking for views from residents, businesses and other stakeholders on introducing new controls in the area when the venue is hosting events.

    Although not yet complete (scheduled for completion in the 2024/25 season), the stadium has already been named as a potential host venue in the FA’s bid for the UEFA European Championships in 2028 and will also be capable of hosting major non-footballing events.

    The proposals focus on the area within a 30-minute walk of Everton Stadium, which will encompass the surrounding Ten Streets district and into the city centre.

    These include:
    • New resident parking areas
    • New taxi ranks
    • New match day bus stands
    • New parking restrictions
    • New hours of operation for existing parking zones for the Great Homer Street area
    • New hours of operation for existing parking zones for the Ten Streets and Love Lane areas
    • New industrial parking zone south of Boundary Street
    • New industrial parking zone north of Boundary Street

    The overall aim of the controls is to reduce congestion, improve air quality, safety and journey times to and from the stadium. The proposals have also been designed to complement the modernisation of parking across the city centre, the plans for which is also currently the subject of a public consultation.

    Liverpool City Council has already invested more than £20m in the highways infrastructure around Bramley-Moore Dock, including a permanent segregated cycle lane running from the city centre up to Liverpool’s northern border at Bootle in Sefton, which passes right in front of the new stadium.

    Details of the three-week long consultation can be found online at https://liverpool.gov.uk/bramleymoorepermits which includes a survey and an FAQs document explaining the proposed scheme and its implications.

    People can provide additional feedback by email or request the relevant documents in alternative formats, by writing to: liverpooltraffic@amey.co.uk

    As well being able to provide feedback online, the council will also be hosting a hat-trick of consultation events on:
    • Tuesday 6 December, 10am to 6pm – Ten Streets Social, 8 Regent Rd, L3 7BX
    • Tuesday 13 December, 10am to 6pm – Kirkdale Neighbourhood Community Centre, 238A Stanley Road, L5 7QP
    • Thursday 15 December, 10am to 6pm – Vauxhall Neighbourhood Council, Blenheim Street, L5 8UX

    Once the consultation closes at 5pm on Tuesday, 22 December the responses will be collated and fed back to the Divisional Manager for Highways and Transportation toward the end of January 2023.

    A decision will then be made on whether or not to proceed with the proposals or amend them in any way. If the proposals are agreed, a statutory notification process will begin in early Spring, when for a period of 28 days, members of the public can submit their formal objection or support for the proposed scheme.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Everton Stadium is going to be a real game changer for the surrounding Ten Streets district and the wider Kirkdale community.

    “As well as the much anticipated and needed economic benefit, the vast volume of people the stadium will attract – and how they arrive and depart – needs to be carefully managed.

    “The North Docks area has never had to cope with such large numbers of people in such concentrated time periods but fortunately the city has the experience and knowledge thanks to Goodison Park and Anfield. By extending the match day parking zone, we’ll be looking to adopt and incorporate those controls which so effectively move tens of thousands on a weekly basis.

    “Bramley-Moore Dock is also a unique location given its very close proximity to the city centre and the fact the surrounding transport infrastructure is well developed – be it the new cycle lane to the nearby train station at Sandhills. We’ll be looking to encourage as many active travel options as possible for those attending the games or other events there, which is a win-win for everyone in terms of managing congestion and air quality and promoting healthy habits.

    “There’s lots of residents and businesses who will be affected by these proposals and we want as many people as possible to read them and ask questions of them. Only through their feedback can we refine and improve the proposals before we look at the next stage of a formal statutory notification process. Of course we want to hear from Everton fans too and I look forward to the responses to help us make the decisions that best suits the needs of all involved.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mobile Cervical Screening is Coming to Communities Across the City 

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Cervical screening is a vital health check that can save lives, yet many people miss their appointments due to busy schedules or uncertainty. 

    To make screening more accessible, a mobile cervical screening service will be at different areas across Liverpool. 

    Women and anyone with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are encouraged to come along. The test takes just five minutes and can prevent up to 70% of cervical cancer deaths. 

    No appointment is needed, people can simply drop in when the mobile service visits their area. 

    Screenings are conducted with care and sensitivity, and a family member or friend is welcome come for support. 

    Drop-ins are taking place: 

    Date  Time  Location 
    Wednesday 12th February   10:30 – 4:00pm  South Liverpool Homes – Parklands, Conleach Rd, Speke, L24 0TY 
    Friday 7th March   10:30 – 4:00pm  Abdullah Quillam, 8-10 Brougham Terrace, West Derby Road, Liverpool, L6 1AE.  
    Saturday 15th March   10:30 – 4:00pm  Beacon Health Kensington, 157 Edge Lane, L7 3HE 
    Friday 28th March   10:30 – 4:00pm  Chung Wah Supermarket, Hardy Street Liverpool L1 5JN 

    For more information about cervical screening visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/ 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sydney ETO supports Hong Kong String Orchestra’s Chinese New Year tour in Australia (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Sydney ETO supports Hong Kong String Orchestra’s Chinese New Year tour in Australia (with photos)
    Sydney ETO supports Hong Kong String Orchestra’s Chinese New Year tour in Australia (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (Sydney ETO) supported the Hong Kong String Orchestra (HKSO) in staging five music concerts in Adelaide, Sydney, Canberra, with the final performance concluded successfully in Melbourne yesterday (February 7) to celebrate Chinese New Year with local audience, showcasing Hong Kong’s music excellence as well as telling the good stories of Hong Kong. More than 4 000 audiences across Australia have enjoyed the wonderful performances of HKSO.           HKSO’s performances in Australia included an exclusive afternoon concert at the Theatrette of the Parliament of New South Wales (NSW) on February 3. Marking a significant milestone in the cultural exchange between Hong Kong and Australia, this concert was the first-ever collaboration among the Parliament of NSW, the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney and the Sydney ETO, attracting around 160 guests including the President of the NSW Legislative Council, Mr Ben Franklin, the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney, Mr Wang Yu, Members of the Parliament and government officials of NSW, mayors and councillors, as well as Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese community leaders in Sydney.           The Sydney ETO hosted a reception before the concert at the iconic Sydney Opera House on February 2 to welcome the HKSO. About 120 guests including local arts and cultural leaders attended the reception.           The Director of the Sydney ETO, Mr Ricky Chong, said at the reception, “Music has a unique power to connect people across cultures, and the HKSO’s performance is a wonderful testament to the strong and enduring ties between Hong Kong and Australia. Our relationship is built not only on trade and investment, but also on deep cultural and people-to-people connections.”           Mr Chong also introduced to the guests the government’s vision of developing Hong Kong into a premier tourism destination through innovative thinking. He said that the government would highlight the unique elements of Hong Kong’s local cultural characteristics and make good use of its positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, with a view to shaping tourism with cultural activities and promoting culture through tourism.           Led by its Founder and Artistic Director, Professor Yao Jue, the HKSO captivated audience across Australia with a unique programme that blended Western classical works by Vivaldi, alongside pieces that honoured Hong Kong pop songs and traditional Chinese New Year music, including Joseph Koo’s Medley and Spring Festival Overture.           The HKSO started the Australian tour in Adelaide on January 31, followed by performances in Sydney on February 2 and 3, in Canberra on February 5, and in Melbourne yesterday (February 7). The HKSO also showcased their music talent to the guests at the Chinese New Year Reception hosted by the Sydney ETO in Melbourne on February 6.

     
    Ends/Saturday, February 8, 2025Issued at HKT 14:09

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Victorian byelections: Liberals gain Prahran from Greens and Labor ahead in Werribee

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    Byelections occurred on Saturday in the Victorian state seats of Prahran and Werribee. The Liberals gained Prahran from the Greens by a 51.6–48.4 margin, a 13.6% swing to the Liberals since the 2022 state election.

    Primary votes were 36.2% Liberals (up 4.8%), 36.2% Greens (down 0.6%), 12.8% for independent Tony Lupton, the Labor member for Prahran from 2002 to 2010, and 5.3% for another independent. Labor did not contest after winning 26.8% in 2022.

    The primary vote swings between the Greens and Liberals only explain 2.7% of the 13.6% two-candidate swing. In 2022, Labor preferences would have flowed strongly to the Greens, but at the byelection Lupton recommended preferences to the Liberals on his how-to-vote material. The Greens’ share of overall preferences plunged from nearly 80% in 2022 to 44%.

    In Werribee, Labor leads the Liberals by 50.6–49.4, a 10.4% swing to the Liberals since 2022. Primary votes are 29.0% Liberals (up 3.7%), 28.7% Labor (down 16.7%), 14.7% for independent Paul Hopper (up 8.8%), 7.5% Greens (up 0.7%), 7.3% Victorian Socialists (up 3.7%), 5.5% Legalise Cannabis (new) and 4.4% Family First (up 1.9%).

    Labor’s primary vote slumped in Werribee, but the Liberals were not the main beneficiary. There were just enough preferences from left-wing sources (Greens, Socialists and Legalise Cannabis) to put Labor over the line.

    The large majority of outstanding votes at these byelections will be postals. In postals counted so far in Werribee, the Liberals lead by 53–47, and they will need to increase that margin on remaining postals to erase Labor’s current lead. But later postals are usually better for left-wing parties than earlier ones.

    In Prahran, the Liberals lead the Greens on postals counted so far by 65–35. Later postals will probably be better for the Greens, but the Liberals will still win this byelection.

    In Prahran, the Greens should have been able to overcome a shift against them on preferences with an improved primary vote. Losing this seat, which they have held since the 2014 state election, is a dismal result for the Greens.

    Labor is likely to retain Werribee, but the slump in the Labor primary vote validates the recent Victorian Resolve poll that had Labor’s statewide primary vote at just 22% and the Liberals in a clear election-winning position.

    Victorian upper house reform delayed again

    Since winning government at the November 2014 election, Labor has done nothing to reform the upper house electoral system. The upper house still uses group ticket voting (GTV), which is no longer used in any other Australian jurisdiction.

    GTV was scrapped in New South Wales before the 2003 election, federally before 2016, in South Australia before 2018 and in Western Australia before this year’s March election. Other jurisdictions have never used GTV.

    The artificially strong preference flows produced by GTV can allow parties with very low vote share to win seats through preference deals by overtaking parties with a much higher vote. In a system where voters direct their own preferences, this does not occur.

    Analyst Kevin Bonham wrote on Friday that the parliamentary Victorian Electoral Matters Committee had recommended scrapping GTV, but the government has delayed any response until after the Committee publishes its final report in December. By this time, it will be difficult to make changes so that they can be implemented for the November 2026 election.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Victorian byelections: Liberals gain Prahran from Greens and Labor ahead in Werribee – https://theconversation.com/victorian-byelections-liberals-gain-prahran-from-greens-and-labor-ahead-in-werribee-249446

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: PM statement on the release of Eli Sharabi: 8 February 2025

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

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s statement on the release of Eli Sharabi.

    I shared the relief of so many at Eli Sharabi’s release earlier today but was dismayed to see his frail condition and the circumstances of his release. Having met his relatives I appreciate the deep pain they have endured and my thoughts are with them.  

    We must continue to see all the hostages freed – these people were ripped away from their lives in the most brutal circumstances and held in appalling conditions. The ceasefire must hold and all efforts need to focus on full implementation of the remaining phases. This includes the return of further hostages, the continued increase of aid into Gaza and securing lasting peace in the Middle East.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM statement on the release of Eli Sharabi: 8 February 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s statement on the release of Eli Sharabi.

    I shared the relief of so many at Eli Sharabi’s release earlier today but was dismayed to see his frail condition and the circumstances of his release. Having met his relatives I appreciate the deep pain they have endured and my thoughts are with them.  

    We must continue to see all the hostages freed – these people were ripped away from their lives in the most brutal circumstances and held in appalling conditions. The ceasefire must hold and all efforts need to focus on full implementation of the remaining phases. This includes the return of further hostages, the continued increase of aid into Gaza and securing lasting peace in the Middle East.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: High Court right to call out overreach by Police Ombudsman

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:-

    “I greatly welcome today’s High Court judgement in the judicial review by NI Retired Police Officers’ Association against the Police Ombudsman.

    “For too long the Ombudsman has exceeded the remit of the office to make expansive findings of ‘collusion’ etc which are presented as misconduct, or worse.

    “However, in this judgement today we have had an overdue clipping of the Ombudsman’s wings. The language of the judgement is emphatic and clear, “the Ombudsman’s role is investigative and not adjudicative. It is not for the Ombudsman to made determinations (whether express or implied) as to whether criminal conduct or even misconduct has in fact occurred; no more than it is for the police to determine and publicly state that a suspect is guilty of a crime. That is a matter to be determined by others in different processes specifically established for that purpose.”

    “Too often the Ombudsman has played to the anti-police gallery by throwing around findings of “collusion” etc – all of which oversteps the investigative role of the office by bolting on adjudicative and prejudicial findings. 

    “I trust the Ombudsman will take heed of this judgement and not again have to be called into line for overstepping the prescribed functions of the office”.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community Wealth Building Strategy on the agenda

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee will have the opportunity to discuss progress being made for the Community Wealth Building action plan when they meet next week.

    The Council’s Community Wealth Building Strategy 2024 – 2027 provides an alternative approach to economic development and a practical response that aims to keep wealth within a local area. Often described as a ‘people-centred approach to economic development’ it aims to ensure every area and community can participate in, and benefit from, economic activity. 

    At the Council meeting in September 2024, when members approved the CWB Strategy and Action Plan, a commitment was given to provide bi-annual progress reports to the Economy and Infrastructure Committee.

    Chair of Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans, said: “The Council administration’s ‘Our Future Highland’ programme places people at its very heart, and through community wealth building we can bring people together to promote wellbeing, reduce inequalities, and deliver improved outcomes for people in Highland. 

    “I look forward to the Committee having the chance to look at the progress being made to date on the action plan that will allow us to be ambitious in establishing the foundations of a brighter and more sustainable future for our communities.” 

    Last year public opinion was such during a 12 week on a draft strategy previously approved by Councillors in March 2024. Feedback from this engagement has informed a revised version of the strategy and action plan which sets out a 3-year vision for taking forward and embedding the Council’s approach to Community Wealth Building.

    The Council will deliver its vision through five key objectives that align with five pillars of community wealth building. These objectives are headed as: ‘Spending’, ‘Fair Employment’, ‘Land and Property’, ‘Financial Power’, and ‘Inclusive Ownership’.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests illegal Dominican drug dealer charged with assault, battery with dangerous weapon

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Dominican national convicted of heroin distribution crimes, who is currently charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and shoplifting crimes when ICE officers arrested Santor Aibar, 56, in East Boston Jan. 22. 

    “Santos Aibar is exactly the kind of alien offender who needs to be removed from the streets of Massachusetts,” said ICE Boston Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He has already been convicted of peddling poison to our neighborhoods, and he currently stands accused of assaulting a resident with a box cutter. ICE Boston will not tolerate such threats to the people of our New England communities. We stand committed to our mission of arresting and removing such egregious alien threats.”

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

    The West Roxbury District Court in Massachusetts convicted Aibar Sept. 29, 2008, for distribution of of heroin and sentenced him to one year in prison.

    ICE officers arrested Aibar at the Nashua Street Jail in Boston July 2, 2010, and served him with a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge.

    The immigration judge ordered Aibar removed from the U.S. on Sept. 30, 2010, and ICE removed Aibar to the Dominican Republic Nov. 17, 2010.

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

    ICE encountered Aibar Feb. 28, 2023, following his arrest by local authorities, and issued an immigration detainer against Aibar with the Boston Police Department.

    ICE determined that the state of Massachusetts released Aibar on Feb. 25, 2024, without honoring the immigration detainer.

    The South Boston District Court arraigned Aibar Sept. 03, 2024, for the offenses of assault with dangerous weapon and shoplifting. 

    Aibar remains in custody following his apprehension by ICE.

    Members of the public with information can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 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 at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on the Japan – UK Women’s Economic Empowerment Seminar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Japan hosted a virtual seminar for British women entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners seeking to increase trade and investment with Japan

    On 6 February 2025, with the support of the Department for Business and Trade, the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a virtual seminar for UK women entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners seeking to increase trade and investment with Japan.

    This continues an ongoing series of collaborative activities between the UK and Japan to uphold the commitments set out in the Women’s Economic Empowerment chapter of the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). It supports the delivery of the joint commitment to enhancing women’s ability to fully access and benefit from the opportunities created by this Agreement, and to reduce the systemic barriers faced by women seeking to trade internationally.

    During the seminar, participants heard from Japanese government and non-government led organisations about programmes and initiatives that support women in trade. These included the Japanese Cabinet Office, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan External Trade Organization. They shared valuable information on the Japanese market and the support and tools available to British women entrepreneurs, business owners and investors interested in growing their businesses by expanding, exporting to and investing in the Japanese market.

    The audience also heard from the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan on the support it can provide on navigating differences in business customs, as well as from two Japanese venture capital firms: ANRI, focused on seed stage investments, having a track record of supporting female-founded startups in IT and DeepTech, and NEXTBLUE, dedicated to empowering women founders in the field of women’s wellbeing. These venture capital firms offered their support for the expansion of UK female-led companies.   

    The audience also heard directly from two British women business owners and entrepreneurs. The CEOs of Celtic English Academy and Evolve Organic Beauty shared valuable insights on their experiences of entering and successfully trading in the education and retail markets in Japan.

    Increasing women’s participation in the economy not only strengthens gender equality but also holds huge potential in boosting economic growth. Through the effective implementation of the women’s economic empowerment provisions in the UK’s trade agreement with Japan, we seek to uphold gender equality by ensuring that women business owners and entrepreneurs interested in expanding their business by entering new markets have sufficient knowledge of the opportunities and benefits on offer to them.

    The UK has successfully included trade and gender equality provisions in newly negotiated Free Trade Agreements including with Japan, Australia and New Zealand, and will continue working with trading partners to explore and develop the best strategies and practices to break down barriers to trade for women, support the fair and open trade and benefit the wider UK economy.

    In the lead up to the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, the UK will continue a programme of engagement with Japan. Further, the UK will be showcasing its work on diversity and inclusion at the UK Pavilion, including the work we are doing on gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.

    For more information on the first UK-Japan Women’s Economic Empowerment seminar, please follow this link.

    For more information on the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership, please follow this link.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government announces 3% boost to the public health grant for Birmingham in 2025/26

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Friday, 7th February 2025

    Birmingham’s annual settlement to fund public health services has been announced to be £108 million in 2025/26. This confirms an increase to the existing annual public health grant of 3%.

    The government funding, announced today (7th February), will be used to continue driving vital services such as smoking cessation, addiction recovery, health visitors, school nurses, sexual health clinics, and public health support for local NHS services.

    It supports the government’s 10-year plan to shift the focus from treatment to local prevention programmes tailored to communities, which it hopes will reduce pressures on the NHS.

    This, in turn, supports Birmingham City Council’s commitment to reducing health inequalities across the city by ensuring that citizens of all ages and backgrounds have access to the health services and support they need within their communities, helping them to live longer, healthier lives.

    Councillor Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care at Birmingham City Council, said: “This newly announced funding settlement for the delivery of public health services in Birmingham is absolutely fantastic news, and represents a real vote of confidence in the work we have already been doing across the city.

    “This funding will enable us to continue building on the valuable work of Birmingham’s public health division, and we look forward to working in collaboration with our partners across our incredible city to improve the health and wellbeing of all citizens.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests illegal fugitive wanted for armed robbery in Brazil

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    EVERETT, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Brazilian fugitive wanted for armed robbery in his home country when officers arrested the 38-year-old alien in Everett Jan. 22.

    “This Brazilian fugitive is facing significant charges in his home country, so he attempted to flee justice by coming here,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Every day he was hiding out in Massachusetts, he posed a significant threat to our residents. ICE Boston will not allow New England to become a safe haven for the world’s criminal elements. We will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing egregious alien threats.”

    U.S. Border Patrol apprehended the Brazilian alien Oct. 15, 2020, after he illegally entered the United States. The Border Patrol issued him a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge. The Brazilian alien was returned to Mexico Oct. 16, 2020.

    The Border Patrol arrested the Brazilian national after he illegally entered the U.S. a second time April 2, 2021. An immigration judge ordered the alien released on bond Sept. 27, 2021.

    Authorities in Brazil, issued an arrest warrant for the Brazilian fugitive May 20, 2024, for armed robbery, an offense carrying a possible 16-year prison penalty.

    The Brazilian fugitive remains in ICE custody following his arrest.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Future climate scenarios

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    GAD has provided recommendations to help public sector organisations in Scotland use more consistent climate scenarios when planning climate adaptation.

    Credit: Piotr Musiol, Unsplash

    We have supplied advice and recommendations to the Scottish Government, as it looks to develop a climate scenario decision tool for the public sector.

    The tool will provide guidance and support around the implementation of climate scenario analysis. This will enable consistent analysis of future climate-related risks across the public sector in Scotland.

    Research and engagement

    Our report, Using future climate scenarios to support today’s decision making (PDF, 890 KB) forms the basis for the guidance. It was commissioned on behalf of the Scottish Government by ClimateXChange, Scotland’s centre of expertise on climate change.

    After extensive research and stakeholder engagement, GAD’s team of climate risk experts set out recommendations on the:

    • climate change emissions pathways or temperature scenarios
    • time frames
    • climate hazards

    GAD undertook a review of existing policy, guidance, and stakeholder practice on the use of future climate scenarios and hazard data.

    As a result, we spoke to a broad range of stakeholders across Scotland including:

    • Scottish Environmental and Protection Agency (SEPA)
    • Scottish Water
    • Scottish Government
    • Transport Scotland
    • NatureScot

    Credit: v2osk, Unsplash

    Consistent approach

    We developed options for setting national-level guidance to support the consideration of future climate change and help drive a consistent approach to adaptation planning across the public sector in Scotland.

    Among GAD’s main recommendations are that:

    • the scenario analysis should cover both chronic and acute physical climate hazards
    • organisations should consider at least 2 degrees Celsius and 4 degrees Celsius temperature scenarios
    • scenario analysis should be updated every 3 to 5 years

    Knowledge exchange

    ClimateXChange project manager, Kay White, said: “ClimateXChange facilitates knowledge exchange between researchers and the Scottish Government, and this report has addressed a knowledge gap in the importance of scenario analysis in assessing and understanding uncertainty in future climate risk.

    “We hope that the findings from this report further guide the development of a practical scenario analysis tool for the Scottish public sector and enable a more robust understanding of climate change for future decision making.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wellness supplements are no silver bullet for cancer

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    By Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University

    Health supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people turning to them in hopes of improving overall health and reducing risk of diseases like cancer. The allure of these products is understandable – who doesn’t want a simple pill or powder to ward off serious illness?

    As a consultant oncologist and cancer researcher, I’ve researched the effects of health supplements on cancer risk, prevention and treatment. And the relationship between supplements and cancer risk is often misunderstood and far more complex than many people realise.

    Dietary supplements come in a wide variety of forms, including vitamins, minerals, herbs and other substances – and it’s a multi-billion pound industry. Often fuelled by marketing claims and anecdotal evidence from friends, family members and celebrity wellness gurus who swear by certain supplements, many people take them with the belief that they can fill nutritional gaps in their diet or provide additional health benefits.

    Potential harm

    However, when it comes to cancer prevention and treatment, the scientific evidence supporting the use of supplements is mixed and often inconclusive.

    The world of supplement research is vast and complex, with studies often producing conflicting results. Some smaller studies have suggested potential benefits of certain supplements in cancer prevention but large scale, randomised clinical trials – considered the gold standard in medical research – have often failed to show significant benefits of supplement use in cancer prevention. In fact, some studies have even shown potential harm from certain supplements.

    For example, the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial tested whether these supplements could reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Contrary to expectations, the study found that vitamin E supplementation could increase the risk of prostate cancer, especially in healthy, young men.

    Similarly, studies on beta carotene supplements showed an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers. These findings highlight the importance of approaching supplement use with caution – more is not always better when it comes to nutrients.

    Healthy scepticism

    Celebrities and social media influencers often recommend health supplements and make baseless claims about their potential to reduce cancer risk.

    For example, thanks to wellness influencers and Mel Gibson – who’s now as famous for his controversial outburts as he is for his acting – the synthetic dye methylene blue has attracted attention on social media for it’s use as a cancer-fighting supplement. While methylene blue does have legitimate medical uses – and has shown some promise in certain areas of cancer research – it’s crucial to approach these claims with a healthy degree of scepticism.

    In cancer research, methylene blue has shown potential as a “photosensitiser” in treatments using laser light – meaning it makes certain cancer cells more vulnerable to treatment. However, it’s important to stress that these are specific medical applications under controlled conditions, not a general cancer prevention strategy that can be applied broadly through supplement use.

    Claims about methylene blue as a cancer-preventing supplement are not supported by robust scientific evidence. In fact, long-term toxicity studies on methylene blue have shown mixed results, with some animal studies suggesting potential risks at high doses.

    This underscores the importance of not misinterpreting preliminary research or specific medical applications as justification for casual supplement use.

    When considering the role of supplements in cancer prevention, it’s essential to adopt a holistic view of health and wellbeing. This approach considers the whole person – body, mind and spirit – rather than focusing on individual components or symptoms.

    One of the most important elements of this approach is nutrition. Rather than relying on supplements, people should aim to meet their nutritional needs through a varied, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.

    This approach not only provides essential nutrients but also offers the benefits of fibre, phytochemicals and other compounds found in whole foods that may work together to promote health.

    Regular physical activity is another crucial component of a holistic approach to cancer prevention. Numerous, large, well-conducted studies have consistently linked regular exercise to lower cancer risk, as well as improved overall health and wellbeing.

    Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces inflammation and may have direct effects on cancer cell growth and proliferation. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and promote overall wellbeing.

    Personal choice – based on robust evidence

    While the evidence for many supplements in cancer prevention is limited, it’s crucial to respect personal choice in health decisions. However, it’s also important that these decisions are based on accurate information and in consultation with healthcare professionals. Good, medically sound evidence and advice is available.

    Medical professionals can help evaluate the potential benefits and risks of supplement use, taking into account factors such as existing health conditions, medications and overall nutritional status.

    It’s also important to be wary of products claiming to be “miracle cures” for cancer or other serious diseases. These claims are often unfounded and can lead vulnerable people to delay seeking proper medical treatment. Instead, focus on evidence-based strategies for cancer prevention and overall health.

    The most effective approach to reducing cancer risk remains a holistic one, focusing on a balanced diet, regular physical activity, stress management and other lifestyle factors including avoiding tobacco and too much alcohol. While supplements may have a role in specific situations, they should not be seen as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

    In conclusion, while the idea of taking supplements to reduce cancer risk is appealing, the reality is more complex. Current scientific evidence does not support the use of most supplements for cancer prevention, and in some cases, certain high-dose supplementation may even increase risk.

    However, this doesn’t mean all supplements are harmful or useless. For individuals with specific nutritional deficiencies or health conditions, supplements can play an important role when used under the right supervision.

    Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, 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: Fake QR Code Scam at city car park payment machines

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents and visitors to Sunderland are being urged to stay alert after fake QR codes were placed on two City Council car park payment machines.

    One driver has fallen victim to accidentally transferring money to fraudsters instead of paying for parking. Similar scams have been reported by other local authorities and parking providers.

    The scam involves criminals placing fake QR code stickers next to the official ‘pay by phone’ signs found on parking machines. The fake QR codes appear to offer a quick and easy way to pay for parking by scanning instead of the official payment methods.

    However, once scanned, the QR code directs victims to a fraudulent website that mimics a real parking payment portal. Unsuspecting drivers who enter their banking details believe they are paying for parking, but no parking payment is recorded. The scam causes banking information to be stolen and allows criminals to access accounts.

    One driver parking on the seafront had £170 taken from their bank account. Their bank was able to reimburse the stolen money.

    Council staff have removed two other fraudulent QR codes found on ticket pay and display payment machines on Whitburn Road. All machines have been checked and no more reported. However, we are not ruling out the possibility that other car parks may be targeted.

    The council is urging people to be vigilant when parking and only use the official RingGo app.

    Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero, Councillor Lindsey Leonard said: “While we work to investigate this scam and have removed fake QR codes, we want to raise awareness among everyone using a ticket machine. Scammers are targeting unsuspecting drivers, and we don’t want anyone else to lose their hard-earned money to these fraudsters.”

    Residents and visitors are reminded that neither the City Council nor RingGo, the official parking payment provider, use QR codes for payment. Instead, drivers should continue using the official RingGo app, website, or pay-by-phone number to ensure their transactions are secure.

    Suspicious QR codes can be reported to Parking via Parking@sunderland.gov.uk or by calling our City and Neighbourhood Team on 0191 520 5550.

    Anyone who suspects they have fallen victim to one of the scams, is urged to contact their bank or card payment provider. We also ask that you report it independently to the police who are further investigating this scam.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trader hauled into court over illegal sale of knives to children

    Source: City of Manchester

    Efforts to keep knives off the street and out of the hands of children has continued this week as a rogue trader was brought before Magistrates.

    Following a test purchase carried out in April this year Younis Cash and Carry, trading as Sha Superstore Limited, has been fined nearly £1,000 for failing to adhere to laws governing the sale of age restricted items.

    The Council was first made aware of this premises following a complaint made in April 2023 that a knife had been sold to an underage person. Following this written guidance was sent to the store to remind them and their employees what the law was around the sale of knives.

    On April 8, 2024 a test purchase operation was carried out where a 13-year-old volunteer went into the shop and bought a pack of knives for £1.49. They were not challenged over their age or asked to provide any form of ID when completing this purchase.

    Officers then immediately intervened, questioning the sales assistant who demonstrated a total lack of knowledge around age-restricted products.

    An interview took place with the company’s director on May 30, 2024 where it was stated that verbal training was given to staff around the sale of age-restricted products, but was not documented. It was also confirmed that no refresher training took place around these laws.

    He also stated that since the Council’s visit, the shop no longer sells knives.

    On February 6, 2025, the case was heard before Manchester Magistrates’ Court. During the hearing the director pleaded guilty on behalf of Sha Superstore Limited.

    The company was ordered to pay an £800 fine, a victim surcharge of £320 and costs of £607.80.

    A spokesperson for Manchester City Council said: “Laws around the sale of knives are extremely strict for a reason. There is absolutely no excuse to sell a set of knives to a child who is quite clearly underage.

    “Operations like this show that we as a Council are committed to keeping our communities and children safe and we hope this sends a clear message that the sale of restricted products to children will be met with legal action.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint statement: Local government reorganisation in Derbyshire

    Source: City of Derby

    Joint statement from:

    Amber Valley Borough Council

    Bolsover District Council

    Chesterfield Borough Council

    Derby City Council

    Derbyshire Dales District Council

    Erewash Borough Council

    High Peak Borough Council

    North East Derbyshire District Council

    South Derbyshire District Council

    “As Leaders of Councils across Derbyshire, we all received the invitation to submit initial proposals for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) proposals from Jim McMahon OBE MP, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution.

    “The Minister has set a tight deadline of Friday 21st March for us to respond and submit our initial proposals. The deadline has also been set for a final submission by Friday 28th November 2025. As neighbouring and partner Councils, we will come together as soon as possible to review the options for a new unitary model of Local Government that best serves our residents, communities and businesses. We have also reached out to Derbyshire County Council and would welcome them joining these discussions.

    “We are all incredibly proud of the areas we serve, and we want to reassure all residents and businesses across Derbyshire, that the significance of these conversations over the coming weeks and months cannot be underestimated. It is also important to acknowledge that the views of Members and employees will be a key consideration of any proposals made.

    “We will ensure that whatever proposals are put forward, we never lose that ‘local’ connection that our Councils have always had with our communities. While these discussions continue, our main priority is to ensure we deliver the day-to-day services our respective Councils provide, to the high standards we set ourselves, and those expected by our residents.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –