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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government and Transgrid announce support package for Far West residents impacted by electrical outage

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: NSW Government and Transgrid announce support package for Far West residents impacted by electrical outage

    Published: 24 October 2024

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Energy and Climate Change

    The NSW Government is today announcing financial support to residents and small-to-medium sized businesses in the Far West of the state impacted by the major electrical outage in the region.

    The electrical outage community support package is being delivered by the NSW Government with a contribution from Transgrid. This support will be provided as soon as possible through Service NSW.

    This follows the severe storm that destroyed seven Transgrid transmission towers on Thursday 17 October, causing significant disruption to the supply of electricity to the remote communities of Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Wilcannia, Menindee, White Cliffs and other surrounding communities.

    Over 12,000 properties have been without power, many for prolonged periods over the past week causing disruptions to families, businesses and community.

    The electrical outage community support package will be available to impacted households and small to medium-sized local businesses.

    • Payments of $200 will be made available to each of the residential electricity account holders impacted by the outage. These grants will be available via Service NSW.
    • Payments of $400 will be made available to impacted small-to-medium businesses. These grants will also be available via Service NSW.
    • While these grants are being established, the NSW Government will continue to support people’s immediate needs with pantry staples, fresh produce, food hampers and mobile cold rooms being made available in partnership with Foodbank NSW/ACT at key locations in the Far West to support communities where impacts have been greatest.
    • The NSW Government is also bringing together agencies and industry to support longer term recovery needs including working with the insurance sector to provide clear advice to people, charities and mental health support.

    The community support package is being provided by the NSW Government and will total $4 million, including a $1.5 million contribution by Transgrid.

    This package is in addition to a range of actions the NSW Government has already taken in the week since the power outage.

    A Natural Disaster Declaration was swiftly issued, unlocking State-Commonwealth disaster funding for the Broken Hill and Central Darling Shire Local Government Areas, as well as the Far West Unincorporated Area.

    The NSW Government has also declared an Electricity Supply Emergency for the Far West region of NSW under the Electricity Supply Act (1995). This declaration allows the Minister for Energy to give directions considered to be necessary to respond to the electricity supply emergency.

    The situation remains uncertain with work underway to restore mains power to the region. The region is primarily relying on Transgrid’s large-scale back-up generator while the company constructs interim towers which are expected to be in place by 6 November 2024.

    Transgrid and Essential Energy are getting more generators into the region to reduce reliance on the main back-up generator and it’s hoped that will negate the need for rolling blackouts that keep the wider network stable.

    To ensure the existing back-up generator can continue to function and meet community needs, particularly during the evening peak, communities are being asked to reduce energy use where possible between 5.30pm and 10.30pm (Australian Central Daylight Time). Key steps include:

    • Turning off any non-essential appliances.
    • Using lights only in occupied rooms.
    • If you are using air conditioning, consider raising the set point temperature to about 26 degrees and close all blinds, windows and doors.

    Outside these times, the community should continue to use electricity as they normally would.

    Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns said:

    “This support package is a critical way to provide much needed relief to the people of the Far West impacted by the outage as we work to get the lights back on and support to those who need it.

    “The effects of this prolonged outage are having a significant impact on local residents’ daily lives, that’s why I am in the region today meeting with residents and businesses who have been impacted by this outage.”

    Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe said:

    “Electricity is a part of everything we do – at work, at school and at home – and we’re doing everything we can across government to support communities. This will be a challenging time for the next few weeks.

    “The best way to avoid load shedding is for households and small businesses to reduce their use of energy during the evening peak of 5.30 to 10.30pm.

    “This could be as simple as using the dishwasher during the day rather than at night, or turning off lights when rooms aren’t being used.”

    Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said:

    “We have teams on the ground responding to what we know has been a difficult period for the people of Far West NSW, and today’s package is an important addition to the support already announced under the Natural Disaster Declaration.

    “Emergency response personnel from the Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service are providing ongoing support for Far West communities, including generators and emergency connectivity. Thank you to the volunteers who are helping communities during this time.”

    Independent Member for Barwon, Roy Butler said:

    “NSW communities in the Far West region of NSW are experiencing significant hardship across the Far West, and this package will go some way toward addressing the impacts at home and work.

    “I wrote to the Premier on Monday asking for compensation for individuals and businesses, and I thank the NSW Government for such a quick response.

    “The people of Far West NSW deserve a reliable supply of electricity and a robust back-up system, and the Government is taking action to ensure that is the case going forward.”

    CEO Transgrid, Brett Redman said:

    “Transgrid acknowledges the impact of the outage and is working with the NSW Government and Essential Energy to do everything we can to reinstate the permanent power supply as soon as practicable.

    “Our primary focus is on safely restoring supply and working to minimise impacts to the community. We hope that this financial support goes some way to assisting those impacted during the past week and we again thank the community for their patience.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sharing the National Collection: Two works return to their old home in Bowral

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Two works by Australian artists Charles Blackman and Russell Drysdale will adorn the walls of National Trust-listed estate Retford Park in New South Wales’ Southern Highlands, thanks to the Albanese Labor Government’s Sharing the National Collection program.

    The countrywoman (1946) by Drysdale and The anteroom (1963) by Blackman will be on loan from the National Gallery of Australia for two years from the beginning of November.

    Located just outside Bowral, Retford Park was built in 1887 by prominent Sydney architect Albert Bond, with the heritage house and grounds now home to an impressive collection of artworks and sculptures.

    The two paintings were originally housed in Retford Park until their generous donation to the National Gallery’s collection by the late arts patron and philanthropist, James Fairfax AC.

    The loan will bring the artworks out of storage and give visitors to Retford Park the chance to once again view them in the unique setting of their old home.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the loan was an opportunity to highlight exceptional but lesser known works within the National Collection and share them with communities for whom they hold special significance.

    “The National Collection holds over 155,000 artworks of great beauty and cultural value, but at any one time 98 per cent of it is in storage.

    “The Sharing the National Collection initiative gives more Australians the chance to see works by artists whose names they may be familiar with but whose work they perhaps haven’t yet had a chance to see.

    “Thanks to the great legacy of James Fairfax, these two significant artworks belong to the Australian people – and it’s fantastic to see them return home to Retford Park for the next two years.”

    Member for Whitlam, Stephen Jones said the two artworks will draw additional visitors to Retford Park and enrich the estate’s existing collection. 
    “I am pleased these two artworks lent by James Fairfax AC to the National Collection will now return to Retford Park for two years.

    “Mr Fairfax believed Retford Park should be preserved for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations, and I have no doubt these two artworks will attract more locals and visitors to the Portuguese Pink mansion in Bowral.”

    National Gallery Director Dr Nick Mitzevich said, “A generous supporter of the National Gallery, the late James Fairfax AC’s extraordinary cultural leadership, erudition as a collector, and his deep feeling for Australian art, is demonstrated by the works he chose to gift to the national collection.

    “Fairfax donated works by renowned Australian artists Charles Blackman and Russell Drysdale which we now have the great pleasure of lending to the Southern Highlands of NSW through this partnership with Retford Park.”

    Debbie Mills, Chief Executive Officer of the National Trust said, “James Fairfax AC was a great patron of the arts and a passionate supporter of the National Gallery of Australia, so it is fitting that these works will soon hang proudly on the walls of his former home once again.
    “We thank the National Gallery for generously granting this loan through the Sharing the National Collection initiative.

    “We encourage everyone to visit and enjoy these special artworks; two fabulous additions to the incredible collection of 16th, 17th and 18th Century fine art, furniture and textiles already on display at Retford Park.” 

    Sharing the National Collection is part of Revive, Australia’s new national cultural policy, with $11.8m over four years to fund the costs of transporting, installing and insuring works in the national art collection so that they can be seen across the country for extended periods.

    The Drysdale and Blackman works can be viewed via the National Gallery’s website. 

    Regional and suburban galleries can register their expressions of interest via this link.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Building Homes for NSW program delivers sites for another 1,600 homes

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Building Homes for NSW program delivers sites for another 1,600 homes

    Published: 24 October 2024

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

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing to deliver more homes through its Building Homes for NSW program, including through its statewide property audit, announcing a further 30 sites to build around 1,600 homes.

    Land audit sites

    The Government has identified 14 sites through the property audit to provide land to build around another 1,400 homes.

    Today’s announcement includes two sites at Box Hill and Riverstone to be transferred to Homes NSW for potential development of almost 50 social and affordable homes and over 35 market homes.

    A further nine sites across Sydney and three sites in regional NSW have been identified for future housing development by either Landcom or in partnership with the private sector, to allow the estimated delivery of more than 1300 market and affordable homes.

    The Sydney sites include unused government land at three sites at Rouse Hill, and sites at Edmondson Park, Stanmore, Earlwood, North Sydney, Chippendale and Fairfield. The three regional sites are located at Broadmeadow, Morisset and Orange.

    The final approach to delivering housing on these sites, including details on the quantity and types of housing, will be confirmed following further due diligence and subsequent planning and regulatory approvals.

    The announcement of these sites follows the NSW Government’s previous confirmation of 14 other sites across Sydney and regional NSW that will be transferred to housing delivery agencies.

    Homes NSW sites

    In addition to the sites identified through the property audit, the Government will also shortly commence construction of 194 new social homes on 16 further sites across the state owned by Homes NSW.

    These sites are in regions including Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Northern Rivers, and the Riverina, with construction on the first sites due to start before the end of the year.

    The Building Homes for NSW program will deliver up to 30,000 homes on government sites, including 8,400 new public homes, giving priority to women and children fleeing violence. For more information, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/homes-nsw/building-homes-for-nsw

    The property audit is part of the Building Homes for NSW program. For more information about the property audit, visit https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/our-business/advisory-and-transactions/nsw-government-property-audit-for-housing.

    Premier for New South Wales Chris Minns said:

    “We know housing affordability and availability is the single biggest pressure facing the people of NSW and our property audit continues to focus on ensuring unused or surplus government land becomes available to deliver more housing.

    “Today’s announcement of further sites across Sydney and regional NSW is part of our commitment to provide for housing for renters, first home buyers and the most vulnerable members of our community.”

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The Minns Labor Government continues to deliver on its commitment to identify land it owns that could be better used for housing. 

    “The property audit is another part of our plan to deliver more homes and is bolstered by the reforms to the NSW planning system and investment in Landcom that allows it to deliver more homes.”

    Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

    “The property audit has been methodically assessing government land and is now in full swing delivering surplus land for more homes, with 28 sites so far announced and capable of providing more than 3,000 residential dwellings.

    “The ongoing property audit continue to deliver much needed sites to help address the housing crisis currently being faced in NSW.”

    Minister for Housing and Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

    “Delivering more social and affordable homes is critical to rebuilding our housing system,

    the two Sydney sites identified for social housing are well-located close to public transport and services so they can deliver accessible, modern housing with over 250 new homes for those most in need.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA launches programme of work to support growth mission

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The CMA announces a new growth-focused work programme from its Microeconomics Unit alongside publication of its third State of Competition report.

    To support the UK government’s growth mission and Industrial Strategy, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today announced the next programme of work to be conducted by economists in the CMA’s specialist Microeconomics Unit (MU).

    In its recently published Industrial Strategy Green Paper,  the UK government noted the importance of “competitive and innovative business ecosystems, particularly in industries with low market dynamism and high barriers to entry” and the need for “competitive markets to improve efficiency and improve the performance of interconnected value chains, ultimately benefiting consumers through better prices, quality, and choice”.

    The CMA’s new MU Growth Programme will focus on critical drivers and blockers of growth including: how easily or not new technology spreads across the economy; the impact of upstream market power on economic performance and supply chain resilience; and how competition impacts investment.

    This new work programme follows the CMA’s third State of Competition report, also published today.

    Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said:

    At a time of tremendous opportunity for the UK, effective competition has a key role to play in driving economic growth, investment, and innovation. That’s why the CMA is launching the new MU Growth Programme to help inform the government’s growth mission and Industrial Strategy.

    This follows our latest State of Competition Report, which indicates that levels of effective competition in the UK have weakened slightly over time, although by less than in other economies, and that levels of business dynamism have fallen. The report reinforces the important role of effective competition enforcement to drive greater business dynamism and sustained innovation, productivity, and growth across the economy.

    The CMA’s third State of Competition report is the most comprehensive assessment to date of how competition is working in the UK. Today’s report reinforces the importance of continued action by the CMA and wider UK government to keep markets open, competitive, and dynamic.

    Key findings of the CMA’s third State of Competition report include:

    • Indicators suggesting levels of competition across the economy have weakened slightly over time, but at a slower rate than some other advanced economies. Markups – the difference between the selling price of a good or service and the amount it costs to make have risen by around 10% in Great Britain over the past 25 years. And the increase in markups is greater among firms that already have higher markups.

    • Business dynamism has fallen  across all measures, cementing concerns identified in the 2022 State of Competition report – as referenced in the UK government’s Industrial Strategy Green Paper. Competition between firms jostling for market share spurs growth, but firm entry and exit rates have declined across most sectors. At the top of most industries, the largest firms are more likely to keep their position over multiple years , while new entrants are less successful than they used to be in displacing them.

    • Technology plays an important role in markups. Investment in upfront fixed costs (like research and development, software, and branding) have become increasingly important for firms to compete effectively. As a result, markups in firms making these investments are higher, to cover upfront costs. But where investments in technology create barriers to entry, this can also lead to lower levels of effective competition.

    • In an environment where dynamism is falling, and technological change may be benefitting larger firms, effective competition policy – merger control and the enforcement of competition law – is critical to keep market power in check. Competition may be weaker in some ‘upstream’ sectors, where markups tend to be higher and trade contributes positively to competition – markups are lower in sectors exposed to international trade.

    The CMA’s MU Growth Programme will focus analysis across a range of issues including: 

    • barriers to the spread of new technology and knowledge across the economy, recognised in the report as a potential barrier to dynamism and growth
    • the role of competition in driving and directing productive investment
    • the strength of competition along supply chains, and the impact of ‘upstream’ market power on downstream sectors – reflecting the importance of competitive markets for key inputs to UK economic performance and resilience
    • pro-growth industrial policy interventions, and lessons from past experience and other countries, to help inform the UK government’s Invest 2035

    Notes to editors

    1. The previous State of Competition Report was published in 2022.
    2. Recognising the importance of competition, in 2020 the then Chancellor and the Business Secretary asked the CMA to regularly publish a report assessing the state of competition in the UK economy over the last 25 years, which will continue under the new government.
    3. For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK supports rugby development in Solomon Islands through SOS Kit Aid

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Rugby Solomon Islands received donation of training kits from UK charity SOS Kit Aid through partnership with the British High Commission in Solomon Islands.

    A group photo with the SOS Aid kit donated to SIRUF.

    SOS Kit Aid is a charity organisation that distributes both new and second-hand rugby kits to children all over the world, with the support of World Rugby. It was founded back in 2001, by rugby dad, John Broadfoot, who, whilst during a trip to Romania witnessed a smiling 8-year-old boy running with the ball under one arm, whilst he used the other arm to hold up his shorts. John wanted to do something about this.

    John knew that his sons had several pairs of boots and other kit lying around at home, and so, to test out the potential, he collected kit from ten schools, to see how much was available on a wider scale. The test was an outstanding success and so SOS Kit Aid was born.

    Handing over the kits to the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF), High Commissioner His Excellency Thomas Coward said:

    Rugby teaches children values and teamwork. The Solomon Islanders Rugby Union Federation Get into Rugby programme frames this through its approach to Respect, Integrity, Solidarity, Discipline and Fun. Rugby is a great bridge between our two countries and brings us all together.

    Receiving the kits on SIRUF’s behalf was Secretary of the Executive Board, Angikinui Francis Tekatoha who said rugby has a long history and they have been developing the sport in Solomon Islands. He added:

    Our partnership with the British High Commission supports our Get into Rugby programme, Get into Rugby Plus and Rise Rugby. Our most recent rugby development programme is focusing on women, young people and schools so the gifts you are giving us today will be used in those programmes for training. The donation of kit deepens the partnership between the Rugby Federation and the British High Commission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Strengthens Cyber Partnership with Singapore

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and Singapore deepen cyber security collaboration, building on their Strategic Partnership.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    The UK recently welcomed Brigadier Edward Chen, Defence Cyber Chief of the Singapore Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS), in a visit focused on strengthening the UK-Singapore relationship in the cyber domain. During his visit, the Singaporean Defence Cyber Chief attended the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Cyber Power Workshop and participated in bilateral engagements with key UK stakeholders, including the Ministry of Defence, the National Cyber Security Centre, and industry leaders.  

    This visit took place ahead of the Singapore International Cyber Week, reflecting the UK’s commitment to international collaboration in the cyber domain, as emphasised by Deputy Commander Strategic Command, Lt Gen Tom Copinger-Symes:

    External relationships are vital in this domain which spans national and geographic boundaries. 

    MOD Crown Copyright

    The UK and Singapore are global leaders in cyber and electromagnetic capabilities, working closely with international partners to promote a secure and stable digital environment. This visit built on the UK-Singapore Strategic Partnership established last September, highlighting the commitment of both nations to deepen collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including cyber and emerging technologies. The partnership with Singapore is crucial to addressing shared cyber challenges and ensuring a resilient digital future.

    MOD Crown Copyright

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appeal to trace relatives of the late Elizabeth Gwynne

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Elizabeth Gwynne, who was 64, had been living in the Merry Hill area of the city.

    Anyone who is related to Mrs Gwynne, or has any information which may help trace her relatives, is asked to please call Protection and Funerals Officer Donna Hulme on 07971 317893 or email her via donna.hulme3@wolverhampton.gov.uk as soon as possible.
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Maldives WTO Trade Policy Review: UK Statement, October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK’s Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and UN in Geneva, Simon Manley, gave a statement during The Maldives Trade Policy Review.

    Location:
    Geneva
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Chair, let me offer a warm welcome to the delegation from the Maldives led by the Minister of State. Let me also express my gratitude, both to him and his team for their report and to the WTO Secretariat, for their report. I also thank you Chair, for your very good introduction and let me also pay tribute to our Discussant, my very good friend, Ambassador Murdoch, for an intervention. If I may say, for those of us that are of a cricketing bent, Ambassador, combined the elegance and power of your good friend Sir Viv Richards with the intellectual rigour of my own hero Mike Brearley.

    Reports analysis

    1. Chair, the Maldives experience exemplifies the benefits of open trade to sustainable development. You spoke of it as a shining example, I would agree with that. That openness has clearly been a factor in enabling significant infrastructure development, an increasingly diverse tourism sector (in which so many of us aspire to be customers) and a highly sustainable fishing industry – to which both the Minister and Ambassador Murdoch paid tribute.

    2. While the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on the Maldives’ economy, as it did on ours and so many around this organisation, the tourism industry clearly drove forward a strong recovery. A tourism industry which is deeply appreciated by Brits, who come in such droves that the UK consistently features in the top four nationalities visiting your country. You may detect a theme here, Minister.

    3. The reports also demonstrate the continued strength in the Maldives’ trade in services sector, which increased by 47% from 2017 to 2022, driven by a 64% increase in travel service exports. If I may say, yet another example of how trade in services can drive sustainable development in developing countries, which I think is a wider point for this organisation.

    4. Redistribution of that revenue from trade has allowed Maldives, as others have said, to transform from an LDC to an upper middle-income country, classed as a high human development country according to the Human Development Index. So congratulations Minister, congratulations to you, your government and your team here.

    Bilateral trade

    1. Chair, as a fellow Commonwealth member, indeed you, the Maldives, and Ambassador Murdoch, we are coming together in Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (CHOGM), the UK – Maldives relationship is marked by rich, historical and contemporary ties that are woven into every facet of the enduring friendship between our Governments, our businesses and our people.

    2. We collaborate closely on governance, security, counter terrorism, climate change, environmental protection. And if I may venture out of this building for a second, also on Human Rights, where if I may say, Maldives has played such an important role here in Geneva, punching well above its weight, particularly in its support to fellow SIDS and LDCs, through its role as the co-chair of the Contact Group on HRC membership. And, of course, trade are key areas of collaboration between our two nations. And they are areas of partnership which we will both be seeking to strengthen in Samoa this week.

    3. Protecting the Maldives’ thriving marine biodiversity, is a key objective in our relationship – not just for the enjoyment of the British tourists but also for the future and preservation of our planet. We have a shared interest in the entry to force of Fish I and the early conclusion of Fish II.

    4. Our ties extend to our businesses as well. Total trade in goods and services between the UK and Maldives was worth over half a billion pounds in the four quarters to the end of Q1 2024, and we are proud to be the third largest market for the Maldives’ merchandise exports, those fisheries that Ambassador Murdoch referred to.

    5. A British Business Group was launched in May 2024, as an opportunity to promote trade, and foster business and commercial partnerships and other links between our two nations.

    Business environment and women in trade

    1. Chair, let me encourage Maldives to continue its work to promote a business-friendly environment that supports economic diversification. And if I may add, with two hats, both as UK PR and co-chair on the working group on trade and gender we value its efforts in advancing women’s economic empowerment and its engagement on trade and gender equality at the WTO.

    2. Equally, let me highlight the SME Development Financing Corporation, established by the Maldives in 2019 to support financial inclusion for MSMEs, women and youth, again very admirable initiatives.

    UK support programmes [the Maldives Development Partnership]

    1. As I previously alluded to, a key area of partnership between our two nations is through our mutual environmental objectives. Under the Blue Planet Fund, the Ocean Country Partnership Programme focuses extensive work on Marine Pollution and Biodiversity. Meanwhile the Climate Action for a Resilient Asia programme is funding a Climate Finance Network programme on transforming the Blue Economy with Maldives MSME Empowerment and Blended Finance.

    2. This year, in these few weeks ahead of us, when we have the three Rio Convention COPs meeting in quick succession, it is essential that we work together to deliver on our commitments across all issues of environmental sustainability, an issue of such critical importance to the Maldives, as the Minister reminded us at the start.

    WTO and multilateral institutions

    1. The continued commitment Maldives has shown to the Multilateral Trading System, as a founding member of the WTO, and, more recently, Maldives’ engagement with discussions on environmentally sustainable trade practices is welcome. Others have suggested other areas where we could increase that participation here.

    2. We have also been pleased to see the progress that Maldives have made on the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, supported, I might add by the UK’s Accelerate Trade Facilitation programme. Just this month British colleagues were in Maldives for the validation of their National Trade Facilitation roadmap. We look forward to working with the Maldives to implement further measures.

    3. Fisheries, as we’ve reflected, is a huge pillar of the Maldivian economy, and the practice of pole and line fishing is one of the most sustainable methods for fishing. We urge Maldives to ratify Fish I, which will help us to deliver on SDG mandate 14.6. The UK is fully behind Maldives, and others, not least our distinguished permanent representative from Iceland, in securing agreement on the second phase of negotiations on Fisheries Subsidies at the very earliest possible opportunity.

    Conclusion

    1. In conclusion, Chair, let me thank you, the Discussant, and the whole delegation from the Maldives for your work on this Review and the accompanying Reports.

    2. Chair, Maldives is known as a beautiful holiday destination – many newlyweds travel from far and wide to see the rare white sands beaches and diverse sea life. The story these reports tell of the Maldives’ trade and its coupling with the WTO, show a match made in heaven – a true case study for the story of free, fair and open trade that the multilateral system allows us to see.

    Thank you very much indeed.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SMS Text Message Scams across the Island 24 October 2024 fraudulent text messages

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight Council is urging residents to be vigilant of fraudulent SMS messages being circulated.

    There are various messages being sent circulated claiming to be from official bodies, including.

    • Stating you are eligible for £900 from Household Support Fund
    • Cost of Living Payments from the Department of Work and Pensions
    • Winter heating subsidies for the UK Home Office
    • Parking fines

    These messages ask you to click on a link. This is a SCAM. Please DO NOT click any links or provide any personal information and bank details. Remember to be cautious of unsolicited messages offering money

    When in doubt, contact us directly through Trading Standards trading.standards@iow.gov.uk   You can also forward any suspicious texts to 7726. This is a free for UK mobile customers. Your mobile provider will investigate the number and may block it.

    Stay vigilant and report any suspicious messages and please pass on this warning to friends and family. Together we can help protect our community.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Three independent members reappointed to the Judicial Pension Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the reappointment of 3 independent members to the Judicial Pension Board for a second term of 3 years.

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the reappointment of 3 independent members of the Judicial Pension Board. The members are:

    Kim Brown and Josephine Maguire have been reappointed for a second term of 3 years from 1 May 2025 to 30 April 2028.

    Russell Agius has been reappointed for a second term of 3 years from 5 September 2025 to 4 September 2028.

    The Judicial Pension Board is responsible for helping the Lord Chancellor manage and govern the Judicial Pension Schemes by ensuring they comply with the requirements of the Pensions Regulator.

    Appointments and reappointments are made by the Lord Chancellor and are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.  The reappointments have been made in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Biographies

    Kim Brown

    Kim Brown is Head of Mastertrust and Independent Governance Committee at Legal and General and Chairs the industry wide Pensions Equity Group.  Previously she was Head of the Master Trust Authorisation and Supervision department at The Pensions Regulator.

    Josephine Maguire

    Jo Maguire is a Trustee of the DH&S Retirement and Death Benefits Plan and the Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC) Pension Fund. Previously, she was a Pensions Assurance director with PwC and an Executive Director of the Pensions Research Accountants Group.

    Russell Agius

    Russell Agius has been advising on pension schemes for over 30 years. He is a Partner at Aon. He spends most of his time advising trustees but also has various corporate appointments. He has carried out secondments with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Pension Protection Fund and the Pensions Regulator.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Civil Service continues commitment to minimum 60% office attendance

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Heads of Department have agreed that 60% minimum office attendance for most staff continues to be the best balance of working for the Civil Service. Office occupancy data for the period July – September has been published today, with further publications to now happen on a quarterly basis.

    • Guidance on Civil Servant office attendance will not change
    • Requirement of 60% of time in the office given benefits of face-to-face working

    Guidance on office attendance will remain in place, with most civil servants expected to spend at least 60% of their time at a Government building or on official business, such as visiting stakeholders.

    Heads of Departments across government have agreed that the Civil Service is best able to deliver for the people it serves by taking a consistent approach to in office working.

    Heads of Department have agreed that 60% minimum office attendance for most staff continues to be the best balance of working for the Civil Service. Senior managers will continue to be expected to be in the office more than 60% of the time. 

    The approach will allow teams and departments to maximise the benefits of hybrid working and getting the best from being together. The Civil Service approach is comparable to other large private and public sector employers.

    This reflects the view of Civil Service leaders that there remain clear benefits to spending time working together face-to-face as the government delivers on the Missions commitments. 

    Leaders from across departments commit to continue to listen to staff, to adapt to individual needs where specific changes may be required, and ensure the approach continues to meet business needs.

    The office attendance approach comes alongside the publication of quarterly data for office occupancy in departmental headquarters.

    The data for the period July – September has been published today, with further publications to now happen on a quarterly basis. 

    The change to quarterly publication will provide a more cost-effective way to track the use of office space in departmental HQs. This will balance the need for transparency whilst ensuring taxpayer money is used effectively by reducing the burden on departments collecting the data.

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    • Data published on desk occupancy are related to departmental HQ buildings only, and inferences about the wider workforce should not be made based upon them.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with Prime Minister Luxon of New Zealand: 24 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Prime Minister met Christopher Luxon, the Prime Minister of New Zealand in Samoa.

    The Prime Minister met Christopher Luxon, the Prime Minister of New Zealand in Samoa.

    The leaders discussed the importance of the Commonwealth, and the opportunities it presented for all its members.

    The Prime Minister said he believed there was a unique moment to harness the potential of the grouping to drive further growth and support smaller members, such as those in the Pacific.

    Turning to the bilateral relationship between the UK and New Zealand, the Prime Ministers reflected on the close people-to-people links and strong trading partnership.  

    Discussing the situation in Ukraine, the Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Luxon for New Zealand’s strong support for Operation Interflex, which had trained 45,000 Ukrainian troops, and updated him on his discussions with the Quad in Berlin last week.

    On the Middle East, the leaders agreed on the need for de-escalation, regional stability and the increase of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

    The leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government crackdown on single-use vapes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ban on sale and supply of single-use vapes in England to come into force on 1 June 2025

    Single-use vapes in a green space

    New legislation to ban the sale of single-use vapes from 1 June 2025 has been laid in Parliament, Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh confirmed today.

    Single-use vapes are not rechargeable or refillable, and are typically discarded as general waste in a bin or littered, rather than recycled – contributing to a flood of litter on our streets. Even when they are sent to recycling facilities, they usually have to be disassembled by hand – a slow and difficult process which will struggle to keep up with the pace of vape production. Their lithium-ion batteries can also present a fire risk to waste industry workers. 

    Last year, it was estimated that almost five million single-use vapes were either littered or thrown away in general waste every week in the UK, almost four times as much as the previous year and the equivalent of eight being thrown away per second. In 2022, more than 40 tonnes of lithium from single-use vapes was discarded, which is the same amount used to power 5,000 electric vehicles. 

    Making the sale of single-use vapes illegal, delivers on the Government’s commitment to act on this important issue, and kick-starts the push towards a circular economy and helps to curb the rise of young people taking up vaping, while also protecting our natural environment and town streets from a tide of litter.   

    Vape usage in England grew by more than 400% between 2012 and 2023, with 9.1% of the British public now buying and using these products. The long-term health impacts of vaping are unknown, and the nicotine contained within them can be highly addictive, with withdrawal sometimes causing anxiety, trouble concentrating and headaches.

    Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said:

    Single-use vapes are extremely wasteful and blight our towns and cities. 

    That is why we are banning single use vapes as we end this nation’s throwaway culture.  

    This is the first step on the road to a circular economy, where we use resources for longer, reduce waste, accelerate the path to net-zero and create thousands of jobs across the country.

    Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, said:

    It’s deeply worrying that a quarter of 11-15-year-olds used a vape last year and we know disposables are the product of choice for the majority of kids vaping today.

    Banning disposable vapes will not only protect the environment, but importantly reduce the appeal of vapes to children and keep them out of the hands of vulnerable young people.

    The government will also introduce the Tobacco and Vapes Bill – the biggest public health intervention in a generation – which will protect young people from becoming hooked on nicotine and pave the way for a smoke-free UK.

    The public is in favour of restricting the sale and supply of single-use vapes, with 69% of consultation respondents supporting these proposals in February 2024. 

    Banning these vapes will stop them from being thrown into bins with general waste, where they typically end up in landfill or being incinerated, posing a fire risk due to their lithium-ion batteries and can cause poor air quality. Furthermore, it will stop plastic, lead, and mercury from leaching into the environment, which can cause waterways to be contaminated and poison our wildlife.  

    The Government has laid legislation to introduce the ban and, subject to parliamentary approval, businesses will have until 1 June 2025 to sell any remaining stock they hold and prepare for the ban coming into force. The UK Government and Devolved Governments have worked closely and will align coming into force dates.

    Libby Peake, head of resources at Green Alliance, said:

    Disposable vapes are the last thing our children and the planet need, and for too long the market for them has been allowed to grow unchecked. Every single one wastes resources that are critical to a more sustainable economy – like lithium, needed for the batteries that power electric cars.

    When they’re littered, the nicotine, plastic and batteries they contain are all extremely harmful. Even when they’re put in a bin, their batteries can catch fire. The government is right to ban these harmful devices – it’s a welcome step in the journey towards an economy where waste is reduced by design.

    Climate activist and environmental scientist, Less Waste Laura said:

    Disposable vapes exploded on to the market, becoming perhaps the first mainstream disposable electronic device to litter our streets, and reflecting the relentless evolution of the tobacco industry. 

    The UK Government’s action to ban these single-use products in 2025 is a welcome, and crucial, step. The ban isn’t just about cutting littered vapes; it challenges the broader rise in disposable technology driving a concerning larger increase in electronic waste, with its associated fire risk, and use of scarce materials.

    I welcome the ban from a health angle too, and see it as crucial to breaking the grip of vaping on our youth, alongside challenging the throwaway culture threatening to suffocate our planet.

    Recent government figures show that recycling rates for waste from households has fallen to 44.1% in 2022.  

    This ban is part of the government’s commitment to end the nation’s throwaway culture and stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our high streets, countryside and oceans.   

    The Environment Secretary has made it one of his five core priorities to move to a future where we keep our resources in use for longer, accelerate the path to net zero and increase investment in critical infrastructure and green jobs.

    Please see here for further information on the environmental cost of single-use vapes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Call for Data: Safety of Cosmetic Ingredients

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    OPSS would like to invite any interested parties to submit any scientific information relevant to the safety assessment of cosmetic ingredients.

    The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) would like to invite any interested parties, including academia, manufacturers of cosmetic products, producers of the substances concerned and consumer associations to submit any scientific information relevant to the safety assessment of the following cosmetic ingredients.

    Any scientific data submitted for the safety assessment must include all relevant elements as prescribed in the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety Notes of Guidance for the Testing of Cosmetic Ingredients and Their Safety Evaluation.

    Note: The Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety (SAG-CS) will use 70 kg as their default bodyweight assumption for adults in new safety assessments. This aligns with other UK groups, such as the UK Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment, who carry out chemical risk assessments across a range of sectors and have agreed that a default adult bodyweight of 70 kg is representative for the UK adult population. For more information, see SAG-CS.

    Please submit original study reports and literature in full for all data relied upon in the safety assessment. This is particularly important for the pivotal studies, those which support the critical No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) and point of departure and the dermal absorption value.

    How to submit data 

    Please submit relevant data by email to: opss.safetyassessment@businessandtrade.gov.uk.

    Deadline for Submission: 30 April 2025

    Note:  The data submitted may be subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000.  Any confidential and commercially sensitive data should ONLY be submitted if it is relevant to the safety assessment. Any confidential and commercially sensitive data must be very clearly marked in a submission. Any data that is not marked as confidential and /or commercially sensitive may be liable for release under an appropriate request.   

    Prostaglandins and prostaglandin analogues

    Prostaglandins and prostaglandin analogues are used in cosmetic products with the function of promoting eyelash growth. These types of eyelash growth products are increasingly available on the UK market and contain prostaglandin analogues such as:

    • Isopropyl closprostenate (CAS 157283-66-4)
    • Bimatoprost (CAS 155206-00-1)
    • Ethyl tafluprostamide (CAS 209860-87-7)
    • Norbimatoprost
    • Methylamido dihydro noralfaprostal

    Due to their potency, intended use in the proximity of the eye and concerns raised by other scientific bodies / regulators over their safety, OPSS would like to evaluate the safety of these ingredients in cosmetic products.

    Note: This call for data is not limited to prostaglandin analogues mentioned in the list above. OPSS is seeking data on all relevant prostaglandin analogues used in cosmetic products.

    Alpha and beta-arbutin

    Alpha-arbutin (CAS 84380-01-8) and beta-arbutin (CAS 497-76-7) are used as antioxidants, skin bleaching and skin conditioning agents in cosmetic products. OPSS has concerns regarding the risks associated with the use of these ingredients in cosmetic products due to their degradation to hydroquinone under common storage conditions. Hydroquinone is a known carcinogen, mutagen and a strong skin sensitiser which is prohibited from use in cosmetic products (except for entry 14 in Annex III of the UK cosmetics Regulation). As a result OPSS would like to evaluate the safety of these ingredients in cosmetic products.

    Vitamin A

    Vitamin A derivatives such as retinol (CAS 68-26-8), retinyl acetate (CAS 127-47-9) and retinyl palmitate (CAS 79-81-2) are used in cosmetic products for their anti-aging and antioxidant properties. The major source of vitamin A exposure in the population is food and food supplements. As a result, any additional source of exposure, including cosmetic products, may exceed tolerable upper intake levels.  Therefore, there is a potential risk to human health arising from the use of vitamin A in cosmetic products when its concentration exceeds certain levels. As a result OPSS would like to evaluate the safety of these ingredients in cosmetic products.

    Data protection   

    OPSS is committed to processing information in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018).  The personal data collected on this form will be held securely and will only be used for administrative purposes. If you would like to understand what personal information OPSS collects about you, how OPSS uses this personal information, and what rights you have regarding your personal information, then please refer to our Privacy Notice.

    Updates to this page

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Positive response to homelessness

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    ALMOST 1000 people either homeless or facing the prospect of losing their home were rehoused by Dundee City Council last year according to a new report.
    The figures, which show that the council met its statutory duty in 100% of cases are revealed in a review of year five of the Scottish Government -funded Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP).
    Mark Flynn convener of the council’s neighbourhood regeneration, housing and estate management committee said: “While there was a 3% reduction in people presenting as homeless last year there was a full duty to rehouse in 993 applications. Of those we found permanent accommodation for 721.
    “But positive as this is, we know that there is still more to be done in the coming year to tackle things like the length of time people spend in temporary accommodation and the number of people who are still waiting for an offer of a permanent house.”
    The RRTP notes that during year five (2023/2024) temporary accommodation capacity increased in Dundee by 38% from the previous year but B&B accommodation continued to be used to meet demand.
    To tackle the ongoing challenges posed by homelessness in the coming year the plan outlines a number of activities. These include:
    reducing the use of B&Bs by bringing void properties back into use through the void recovery improvement plan;
    matching homeless applicants to suitable void properties at an earlier stage of the allocation process;
    exploring a procurement strategy to source temporary accommodation in the private sector;
    using the private rented sector where it is suitable to do so for applicants who wish to be housed in specific areas or house types; and
    increasing preventative measures through a strategic working group.
    The neighbourhood regeneration, housing and estate management committee meets on Monday (October 28).

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA priorities in 2024 to 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Letter from Health Minister Andrew Gwynne MP confirming the UK Health Security Agency’s role and priorities for the financial year 2024 to 2025.

    Documents

    Letter from Andrew Gwynne MP to Professor Dame Jenny Harries, UKHSA Chief Executive

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    Details

    This is a letter from Minister Andrew Gwynne MP to Professor Dame Jenny Harries confirming the UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA’s) priorities for 2024 to 2025.

    The letter provides an overview of UKHSA’s strategic remit, priorities, core capabilities and key deliverables for the financial year.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Nolan Principles – keeping the public front of mind

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Reflecting on 30 years since the formation of the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

    To mark 30 years of the Committee’s work, Prof. Mark Philp, Chair of CSPL’s Research Advisory Board, blogs on the continuing importance of the Nolan Principles in setting out the understanding between those in public office and the public. This blog is based on a longer academic paper (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/30th-anniversary-of-the-nolan-principles).

    Marking 30 years since the creation of the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

    PDF, 75 KB, 2 pages

    This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email accessible.formats@cabinetoffice.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning Inspectorate Performance update – October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Performance and other updates following the publication of our latest official monthly statistics.

    On a regular basis, we publish the latest official statistics on appeals performance), which represent the greatest volume (in terms of number of cases) of the work of the Planning Inspectorate. 

    We also update the appeals handling times data to give customers the latest information on the average time it takes to receive a decision and provide an update on our other main casework areas. 

    Appeals 

    Our appeal cases are dealt with in one of three ways: written representations, hearings, or inquiries. Ministerial performance measures include an expectation to reduce average decision times over time and make our decision speeds more consistent. All our decision times are measured from the day we receive a valid appeal through to the day we issue a decision. This is the same approach as Local Planning Authorities. 

    We have made 18,176 appeal decisions in the last 12 months, an average of 1,515 per month. We now have 13,214 open cases. 

    We remain committed to removing our casework backlog so that all our casework is decided in consistent timeframes, whilst maintaining high standards in our decisions. We are currently focusing on reducing the number of older planning appeals by written representations appeals and enforcement appeals by hearing. 

    Following a consultation the frequency of the publication of these statistics will move from monthly to quarterly. We believe quarterly publications provide a better indicator of performance, less affected by temporary fluctuations than monthly releases. The next quarterly update will be on January 23, 2025. 

    Median decision times 

    The median decision time for cases decided in September was 27 weeks. The average over the past 12 months was 28 weeks. 

    Median decision times vary a little month to month, but decisions after hearings and inquiries continue to be made quicker, on average, compared to a year ago. This is most noticeable in relation to enforcement appeals by inquiry, where decisions are taking less than half the time, on average.

    12 months to September 2024 median decision time September 2024 median decision time
    Planning appeals by written representations 27 weeks 26 weeks
    Planning appeals by hearing 24 weeks 22 weeks
    Planning appeals by inquiry 30 weeks 33 weeks
    Enforcement appeals by written representations 51 weeks 40 weeks
    Enforcement appeals by hearing 63 weeks 102 weeks
    Enforcement appeals by inquiry 54 weeks 22 weeks
    All appeals 28 weeks 27 weeks

    National Infrastructure 

    We have a high number of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)  at various stages, but we continue to meet all statutory deadlines: 

    •  62 where we are providing advice before submission. 
    •  18 submitted and at acceptance, pre-examination, or examination. 
    •  4 where we are preparing our recommendation. 
    •  9 where the relevant Secretary of State is considering our recommendation. 

    Earlier this month development consent was granted by the Secretary of State for Transport for the Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal. 

    Local Plans 

    There are currently 45 live Local Plan examinations in progress. 

    We encourage Local Planning Authorities (LPA) to use our advisory visits to help them get their plans in good shape and deal with challenges well before submission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government opens applications for £100,000 interim payment to the estates of victims of Infected Blood Scandal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Estates of people who died as a result of the Infected Blood Scandal can now apply to receive an interim payment of £100,000, in advance of a comprehensive compensation scheme.

    Infected Blood Compensation Scheme: UK Government Update – 24 October 2024

    The estates of people who died as a result of the Infected Blood Scandal can now apply to receive an interim payment of £100,000 from today. This is the first time this group has ever received compensation. 

    Personal representatives of a deceased person’s estate, including partners, parents, siblings and children, are urged to apply by completing a form on gov.uk. 

    Applications will be processed by the Infected Blood Support Schemes, which will administer the payments.

    This interim payment comes in advance of a comprehensive, government-funded compensation scheme for infected and affected victims of infected blood.

    The compensation scheme is UK-wide and will be delivered by the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA), an independent arm’s length body led by Sir Robert Francis KC. The scheme was established in law in August and expects to make payments by the end of this year.

    Today’s announcement marks the first time that this group of the infected blood community has ever received compensation.

    It also fulfils the commitment placed on government by the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 and helps deliver on Recommendation 12 of the Infected Blood Inquiry’s Second Interim Report, which recommended that “an interim payment of £100,000 should be paid to recognise the deaths of people who, to date, hadn’t been recognised.” 

    Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office, the Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, said:

    “I hope that today is seen as another important milestone for victims and campaigners who have waited far too long for justice.

    “We are committed to acting on the recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry and these payments are an important step forward in providing substantial compensation to the families of victims of infected blood.

    “No amount of compensation can fully address the suffering as a result of this scandal, but we are doing everything possible to deliver life-changing sums to people infected and affected.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ocean Maid report and flyer published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Grounding and subsequent loss of a stern trawler on Cairnbulg Point, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

    Image courtesy of Alex Young and www.marinetraffic.com

    Today, we have published our accident investigation report into the grounding of the stern trawler Ocean Maid (BA 55) on Cairnbulg Point near the port of Fraserburgh, Scotland on 24 October 2022. The vessel later broke up and sank.

    The report, available via this link, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations.

    A safety flyer to the fishing industry has also been produced with this report.

    Media enquiries (telephone only)

    Media enquiries during office hours 01932 440015

    Media enquiries out of hours 0300 7777878

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World Polio Day: MHRA trains worldwide laboratories in early detection of polio using breakthrough advanced technology

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is highlighting our work training multiple World Health Organisation (WHO) polio laboratories around the world.

    Today, World Polio Day, 24 October 2024, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is highlighting our work training multiple World Health Organisation (WHO) polio laboratories around the world using an advanced molecular direct detection method that can halve detection times – supporting the global effort to eradicate polio and helping save lives.

    In collaboration with Imperial College London, the University of Edinburgh, Biosurv International and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, we have trained 25 countries in just over one year on the use of a technique called Direct Detection by Nanopore Sequencing (DDNS). This method can speed up the detection of polio outbreaks, saving public health authorities crucial time and money. This includes training laboratories in Pakistan, one of the last two countries where polio remains endemic, with the number of cases increasing this year.

    It is vitally important to detect polio early, as the infection moves rapidly within a population. By the time the first signs of polio appear in a country, many hundreds of people are typically already infected and can unknowingly pass on the virus to others who may not be fully vaccinated and protected. The virus – most commonly transmitted through contact with infected faeces via contaminated food and water – multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and cause paralysis.

    Training worldwide in-country laboratories in rapid detection – using the DDNS method –enables samples to be tested in the country where the outbreak originated, rather than being sent to specialist laboratories abroad. This means the costs and delays of transport and testing can be reduced from an average of 42 days to an average of 19 days – a time saving that saves lives.

    A study published in Nature Microbiology last year, showed that our research, jointly conducted with partners, using the DDNS method to detect polio outbreaks can halve the detection time. This research indicated that DDNS tests done locally, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, over a six-month period were an average of 23 days faster than the standard method, with over 99% accuracy.

    Training laboratories in the DDNS method takes one to two weeks and is carried out by scientists from the MHRA, as well as colleagues from Imperial College London. It involves a combination of theoretical and practical sessions covering all aspects of the DDNS method from sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing, analysis and interpretation of results.

    The training also encompasses methodological troubleshooting and utility of the detailed quality assurance programme associated with the method. The University of Edinburgh provides the bioinformatics expertise and have created purpose-designed analytical software to process the sequencing data produced by the method. Biosurv International support supply chains and participate in training and quality control review of data. 

    Javier Martin, Principal Scientist in Virology at the MHRA said:

    This worldwide training in the DDNS method for rapid detection of polio is a key strand in the global fight to eradicate polio, alongside vaccination programmes.

    Carrying out this work with our partners, which is the result of years of research, plays an essential part in managing outbreaks that threaten the global eradication effort and will help make polio a disease of the past.

    We are already initiating collaboration with laboratories in Africa training them to monitor different virus threats, such as Hepatitis E. The potential use of this faster detection technique has almost limitless possibilities for the protection of global health.

    Dr Alex Shaw, Research Fellow in the School of Public Health at Imperial College London talked about the potential that this DDNS method has for use with other diseases:

    The WHO has identified delays in detection as one of the major challenges facing their Polio eradication strategy 2022–2026. Training 25 countries in the past year to detect polio faster allows us to identify where outbreaks are and which polio strain is present much more quickly, allowing us to act at the earliest opportunity.

    This advanced sequencing technology is not only being used to strengthen poliovirus surveillance but is also easily adapted for the detection of other organisms. The worldwide training programme will, therefore, provide a foundation of skills and experience that can be redirected to the genomic surveillance of other pathogens, as needed.

    The most recent laboratory training programme was conducted in Angola and Tanzania and included scientists from Angola, Mozambique, Tanzania, Eritrea, Malawi and Rwanda. We conducted training at the MHRA South Mimms site for European laboratories in June 2024 (Germany, France, Finland, Netherlands, Italy and Ukraine).

    Scientists at the MHRA and their partners will continue to support the testing and validation of DDNS as a polio detection technique and to train WHO laboratories around the world in how to use it. We will travel to Thailand in mid-November 2024 to train scientists from Thailand, India and Indonesia. Additional training activities and implementation visits are planned for 2025 onwards.

    Notes to editors 

    1. The ‘Sensitive poliovirus detection using nested PCR and nanopore sequencing: a prospective validation study’ was published in August 2023 in Nature Microbiology. The research was jointly conducted by researchers at the Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale in Kinshasa who implemented DDNS in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the detection of polio outbreaks in collaboration with the MHRA, Imperial College London, the University of Edinburgh and various laboratories of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Polio Laboratory Network (GPLN), with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
    2. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 
    3. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 

    For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AAIB Report: Boeing 737-8K5, G-TAWD, 20 October 2023

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Lateral runway excursion, Leeds Bradford Airport, 20 October 2023

    Aircraft final position

    After touching down at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in stormy weather, the aircraft began to yaw left of the runway centreline. When the pilot flying increased the right rudder input to correct the deviation, both pilots reported feeling a significant judder from the nose gear. This prompted the pilot flying to reduce the right rudder input and, although there were repeated brief right pedal inputs, the aircraft continued to deviate from the centreline and left the runway. The aircraft sustained minor damage and there were no injuries.

    The investigation found that one of the aircraft’s nosewheel bearings had suffered a catastrophic failure, likely during the rollout at LBA. The resultant juddering was unexpected, and the crew were uncertain as to its impact. However, the investigation found that there was in fact no mechanical impediment to the use of additional rudder and braking to prevent the runway excursion.

    Read the report.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Agricultural Census Statistics, June 2024

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication

    The June Agricultural Census 2024 shows a drop in the numbers of livestock in Scotland with the long-term trend in declining cattle numbers continuing.

    In 2024, there were 1.67 million cattle, a decrease of 2.4% when compared with the five year average (2019-2023) and a decrease of 0.9% when compared with 2023. Other livestock results show that the total number of sheep decreased by 3.8% to 6.47 million and the total number of pigs decreased by 6.5% to 315,500 pigs.

    The area of land used for growing cereals (wheat, barley, oats and other cereals) decreased by 0.8% compared with the five year average following a mixed year in 2024. The area used to grow winter crops (wheat, winter barley and winter oats) decreased. Spring planted crops (spring barley and spring oats) increased when compared with the five year average due to an increase in the area used to grow spring barley.

    The agricultural census also showed that the total workforce on agricultural holdings in Scotland increased by 0.5% to 67,400 people in 2024 when compared with the five year average.

    Background

    The June Agricultural Census provides an annual update on trends in agricultural activity across the country. It covers all main types of farming and the number of people working on agricultural holdings in Scotland. The agricultural census in 2024 also included questions on slurry destination and agricultural machinery.

    The full statistical publication is available on the Scottish Government website. 

    Official statistics are produced in accordance with the Code of Practice for Statistics.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British High Commission celebrates King’s birthday, 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The British High Commission will today (23 October) host the King’s Birthday Party, its annual celebration to mark the British Monarch’s birthday.

    British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron with P Kumaran, Secretary of Economic Relations and Development Partnership Administration, Ministry of External Affairs

    The gala event pays tribute to His Majesty King Charles III as the UK’s Head of State.

    In addition to his official and ceremonial duties in the UK and overseas, His Majesty has championed a wide range of causes relating to the environment and sustainable development, the arts, healthcare and education for decades.

    A wide range of dignitaries from the Government of India, representatives from Commonwealth nations, business leaders, and eminent personalities from the fields of diplomacy, arts, education, research, business, and sports are expected to attend. The celebration will also highlight the vibrant business links that exist between our countries.

    The event reflects the modern partnership between the UK and India with a specially designed food menu of British Indian cuisine from Ambassador for the GREAT Britain & Northern Ireland campaign Chef Vineet Bhatia MBE, music by DJ Lush Lata, and interactive displays from some of the UK’s leading businesses operating in India.

    Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said:

    His Majesty The King has an enduring interest in promoting a modern partnership with India and its people. It is such a privilege to celebrate His Majesty’s birthday with friends in India who have been so generous to me since I arrived. I can think of no more interesting country to live in, no better time to be here.

    I also extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone joining the celebration in Delhi; it is the people that make the UK-India partnership come to life, and the deep economic connections through companies like HSBC India that make it thrive.”   

    This year’s King’s Birthday Party celebrations in Delhi were made possible by the gracious support of HSBC India, Reliance Industries Ltd, OMA living – A Hero Motors Company, The Body Shop, bp, Airbus, BAE Systems, Shell India, British Airways, UK India Business Council, Aston Martin New Delhi, Truefitt & Hill, Diageo India, William Grant and Sons, Beam Suntory, Colliers Cheese and Fortune Gourmet Specialities, Nimkish Enterprises.

    Further information

    • free-to-use high resolution images from the event will be uploaded to Flickr
    • the King’s Birthday Party is celebrated by British Embassies and High Commissions around the world
    • the King’s Birthday falls on 14 November, but his official Birthday in 2024 was marked on 15 June, when The King’s Birthday Parade (also known as Trooping the Colour) was held in London
    • His Majesty has undertaken 10 official visits to India, most recently in November 2019 when he visited New Delhi and Mumbai to celebrate British-India connections with a focus on sustainable markets, climate change and social finance
    • His Majesty King Charles III was born in 1948 and became heir apparent on the accession of Queen Elizabeth II in 1952

    Media

    For media queries, contact:

    David Russell, Head of Communications
    Press and Communications, British High Commission,
    Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021. Tel: 24192100

    Media queries: BHCMediaDelhi@fcdo.gov.uk

    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, Youtube and LinkedIn

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations mark official opening of new Winchester 3G pitch

    Source: City of Winchester

    The installation of a new community 3G pitch in Winchester has been celebrated at an official opening event.   

    The high-quality pitch, which has replaced the current grass pitch at Hillier Way football ground, is a surface which can be used all year round.

    The Hillier Way ground is the home venue of Winchester City FC, a committee-run members club which has a history dating back to 1884. The club’s first game on the new surface was an FA Cup qualifying game against Weymouth.

    The facility is also used by Winchester City Flyers girls’ and ladies’ teams, and Winchester Youth FC.

    The official opening on 23 October 2024 

    The new pitch has been funded by: a grant from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation of £1,132,214; Winchester City Council Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding of £300,000; and £16,000 from Winchester City FC.

    It is also available for wider local community activity sessions and private hire, including use by schools, colleges and other clubs.

    Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of The Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to transform the quality of grassroots facilities in England by delivering projects like this across the country. 

    “Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities. 

    “We’re delighted that the local community in Winchester will now be able to enjoy all these benefits thanks to the new 3G pitch at The Hillier Way Football Ground.”

    Winchester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Engagement Cllr Kathleen Becker said: “We’re very pleased to celebrate the official opening of this fantastic new surface which cements existing opportunities for community sport. It opens up exciting new ones too, including increased opportunities for female coaches and players in the district.

    “Already being well used by the local community, we also look forward to seeing this pitch benefit schools and other clubs for sessions, holiday activity and private hire.”

    Winchester City FC Chairman Ken Raisbeck said: “The completion of the stadium development represents a significant moment in the history of the football club but also an opportunity for the community of Winchester.

    “Football is a great vehicle to bring people together as well as encourage health and wellbeing. This facility creates a home for the club and from five-year-olds through to the first team, we now have an asset that can be used by everyone.

    “I am delighted that the council supported the vision and through the football club we were able to bring investment to the city to provide this fantastic facility; it’s an exciting moment in the development of the club and our community partners.” 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement from Constable Simon Crowcroft, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure24 October 2024 Following productive discussions with Deputy David Warr, we have reached an agreement regarding the situation at the Lido. We can confirm that the current occupier will be able to remain on-site until… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    24 October 2024

    Following productive discussions with Deputy David Warr, we have reached an agreement regarding the situation at the Lido. We can confirm that the current occupier will be able to remain on-site until the end of 2025. 

    As part of this arrangement, the occupier will be required to sign a formal contract and cover rent and a portion of utility bills from the end of October. A tender process for the future operation of the Lido will proceed as planned.

    We have always recognised the significant community value of the Lido and we are committed to its future rejuvenation. The Government will continue with its planned maintenance works, which include vital improvements to the pool and surrounding facilities.​

    We want to extend our gratitude to the public for their constructive engagement throughout this process. Together, we are finding a positive way forward for this cherished public landmark, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for generations to come.

    ​

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cook up a Witches Brew Stew just in time for Halloween

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Cook up a Witches Brew Stew just in time for Halloween

    24 October 2024

    Strabane Health Improvement Project (SHIP) in the Ballycolman Estate is cooking up a Halloween experience that is sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

    Running on Tuesday, 29th October from 10am-12pm SHIP is hosting the Witches Stew Brew, this is an afternoon cookery session which aims to show locals how to make a tasty meal using vegetables which can be grown locally.

    Jarlath McNulty, SHIP project manager explained: “We were approached by Acorn Farm and Council to look at delivering a project based around cooking from local produce. When we had a think about it, we thought the Witches Brew Stew would be a great way to do it in the run up to Halloween.

    “The event is due to run for about two hours and is all about encouraging people to think about eating healthier and using items they could ultimately grow themselves. Harvest is the perfect time of year to hold an event like this and we are really looking forward to it.”

    Encouraging people to take part in the Witches Brew Stew, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council said: “The event hosted by Strabane Health Improvement Project is the perfect opportunity to learn how to introduce more vegetables into your diet in a fun and practical way. If you’re able to attend please do so, I’m sure you will pick up lots of useful cookery tips and of course come away with the recipe for a perfect Witches Brew Stew.”

    Anyone interested should turn up at 10am on Tuesday, 29 October at Strabane Health Improvement Project in the Ballycolman Estate. Contact: 02871 383557 if you need further information.

    For more information about any of the events taking place in the Strabane District this Halloween, go to www.strabanehalloween.com.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RYANAIR EXTENDS BIRMINGHAM ROUTE FOR WINTER 2024 & CELEBRATES OVER 5 MILLION PASSENGERS THROUGH CIT

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    RYANAIR EXTENDS BIRMINGHAM ROUTE FOR WINTER 2024 & CELEBRATES OVER 5 MILLION PASSENGERS THROUGH CIT

    24 October 2024

    Ryanair, Europe’s No.1 airline, today (23 Oct) launched its Winter 2024 schedule for City of Derry Airport with 2 exciting routes – Birmingham & Manchester – giving Northern Irish citizens/visitors more choice and regular connections at the lowest fares in Europe this Winter.

    Ryanair relaunched its Birmingham route from City of Derry Airport in Summer 2024, which the airline will now extend it into the Winter season. Ryanair has also added an extra return service on its popular Manchester route, which will now operate 6 weekly flights to/from City of Derry Airport for Winter 2024 (Mon, Fri, Sun).

    Today’s launch comes as Ryanair carries 5 million passengers through City of Derry Airport. Ryanair has operated to/from City of Derry Airport for the past 24 years, supporting important regional development and growth, including the airline’s support of over 65 local jobs, and driving of year-round connectivity and tourism.

    To celebrate the launch of Ryanair’s Winter 2024 schedule for City of Derry Airport, the airline has launched a limited-time seat sale with fares available from just £19.99 available only at www.ryanair.com.

     

    Ryanair’s Head of Communications, Jade Kirwan, said:

    “As Europe’s No.1 airline, Ryanair is pleased to announce our Winter 2024 schedule for City of Derry Airport with 2 routes – Birmingham & Manchester. As well as extending our new Birmingham route for the Winter season, we’re also adding extra flights on our popular Manchester route, providing Northern Ireland citizens/visitors with even more choice at the lowest fares in Europe.

    Today’s announcement comes as Ryanair carries our 5 millionth passenger through City of Derry Airport – a significant milestone and reflection of our 24 years of operating to/from City of Derry Airport. This year, Ryanair’s City of Derry Airport traffic will grow +66%, demonstrating Ryanair’s long-term commitment to boost Northern Ireland’s air traffic, tourism, jobs, and economy.”

     

    City of Derry Airport’s Managing Director, Steve Frazer said:

    “We are thrilled to have Ryanair providing much needed air connectivity from the ‘Gateway of the Northwest’ and Birmingham and Manchester for travellers across the region this Winter.

    Passengers will benefit from a new Ryanair Birmingham service on a Monday, in addition to the existing Saturday service. This will be ideal for business travellers departing at the start of the week and returning at the weekend, as well as students who regularly commute, whilst offering leisure passengers a convenient weekend break.

    Ryanair’s Manchester will continue to operate on a Monday, Friday and Sunday, again ideal for both business and leisure travel, with additional services available across the Christmas holiday period to meet the needs of our local catchment area.

    We are extremely proud to have reached the momentous milestone of 5 million Ryanair passengers at City of Derry Airport, and we look forward to growing the airline’s presence in the Northwest for years to come.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Remembrance Sunday in the Lancaster District This year’s Remembrance Sunday falls on 10 November and a number of services have been arranged in the Lancaster district.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    This year’s Remembrance Sunday falls on 10 November and a number of services have been arranged in the Lancaster district.

    Everyone is welcome to attend and remember all who died for their country in the two World Wars and also those who served in more recent operations.

    The Mayor of Lancaster, Councillor Abi Mills, said: “It’s tremendously important that we continue to remember the sacrifices made by so many during times of conflict.

    “Remembrance Sunday allows us to come together as a nation, to honour those who have given so much, and to pay tribute to our armed forces, both past and present.”

    Remembrance Sunday services will take place as follows:

    Lancaster
    This year there will be a service in the Priory Church at 9.15am followed by a procession through the city to Lancaster Town Hall starting at approximately 10.30am. The service in the Garden of Remembrance at the town hall will start at 10.50am.

    Morecambe
    A procession will form up at The Platform, leaving at approximately 10.40am, for a service and two minutes silence at the cenotaph on Marine Road.

    Carnforth
    The procession will leave the council offices on Market Street at approximately 10.25am and then proceed to the war memorial, via North Road and New Street for a remembrance service from 10.50am -11.30am. Market Street will be temporarily closed to traffic during the service.

    To help people to pay their respects, Lancaster City Council has suspended parking charges on its Nelson Street car park in Lancaster and Bay Arena car park in Morecambe.

    Last updated: 24 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gaston sets the record straight on Commission questions about Michael McMonagle

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “Both during and in the aftermath of yesterday’s disgraceful meeting of the Executive Office Committee, there have been suggestions that I have not explored issues related to the Michael McMonagle’s scandal with the Assembly Commission.

    “In the current session of the Assembly a total of 30 written questions have been submitted to the Commission by all MLAs – 19 of those are mine, almost two thirds of all questions.

    “A total of 25 questions have been asked by all MLAs on issues relating to the Michael McMonagle scandal. All but 7 of those were tabled by myself – over 70% of all questions on the issue.

    “The questions can call be read here.

    “Among the answers I have received is one revealing that just short of £110,000 of public money was paid by the Assembly to convicted child sex offender Michael McMonagle.

    “Other key questions – including whether the Commission will come to the Assembly chamber to answer questions on the issue remain unanswered. This was something I attempted to do by way of an urgent oral some weeks ago only for Alliance deputy speaker John Blair to reject the request. Telling, there are no questions in from any Alliance MLAs on these matters.”

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