NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ODS and Oxford City Council Launch Recycling Trial for Flats to Reduce Waste Contamination

    Source: City of Oxford

    Wednesday, 23 October 2024

    ODS, in partnership with Oxford City Council, has launched a new recycling and waste management trial at some flat sites in Oxford to improve recycling and reduce contamination.

    ODS, which manages domestic recycling and waste collections on behalf of Oxford City Council, is exploring a new approach to waste management at six blocks of Council flats across the city.  

    Blocks of flats typically share bin stores for recycling, rubbish, and food waste, often leading to high contamination rates. This trial aims to address these issues by testing new approaches.  

    The initiative is part of a six-month trial, which will see the Council and ODS trialing different approaches to waste management, to encourage increased participation in recycling efforts and reduce contamination, and identify which approach works best.  

    The Council and ODS have identified six blocks of flats that have recognised concerns around recycling contamination and overflowing waste. The blocks of flats that are participating in the trial are: 

    • Henry Taunt Close  
    • Field Avenue (blocks 113-139) 
    • Hawksmoor (blocks 1-12) 
    • Williamson Way (blocks 2-24) 
    • Mason Road (blocks 69-103) 
    • Wolseley and Riley House 

    At the start of each trial, residents in participating blocks of flats were visited by Recycling Officers, and received a letter and informational leaflet detailing what can and cannot be disposed of in each bin. Signage located near the bins at each block has also been updated to reflect the trial.  

    ODS and the Council will be monitoring and reviewing feedback from residents as well as recycling and waste collection crews. Each approach will be assessed before making any decisions about permanent changes or expanding the new approaches across the city.  

    There will be no change for blocks of flats that are not participating in the trial, and these residents are encouraged to continue to follow their regular recycling and waste advice.   

    “We can all improve our recycling habits. We are committed to increasing recycling rates and reducing costly contamination, which is why we’re trialing these new approaches. We will be working closely with residents in the blocks of flats throughout the trial and will be asking for their feedback before making any permanent changes.”

    Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies (including ODS)

    “We’re excited to launch a new recycling initiative aimed at tackling the unique challenges faced by residents in Oxford who use shared bins. Our pilot programme, starting at six flat sites, will trial innovative strategies to reduce fly-tipping, cut down on contamination, and make recycling easier. If successful, we would look to expand this approach to other flat sites across the city.” 

    Michelle Bradbury, Recycling Team Leader, ODS

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local Area Energy Plan adopted by Lancaster City Council Lancaster City Council has adopted a pioneering new strategy that aims to shape future energy planning, reduce carbon emissions and support economic prosperity.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Lancaster City Council has adopted a pioneering new strategy that aims to shape future energy planning, reduce carbon emissions and support economic prosperity.

    Front cover of the Local Area Energy Plan

    On Tuesday (October 22) the council’s cabinet approved a Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP), which sets out a long-term vision for decarbonising the district by 2040 and looks beyond the council’s own 2030 target for its direct activities.

    The LAEP sets out the changes required to transition the Lancaster district energy system and built environment to net zero while also addressing fuel poverty. It details what changes are required, where, when and by whom.

    It also provides a high-level overview of the likely scale of investment that will be required to achieve net zero.

    This includes:

    • Domestic fabric upgrades – 38,000 domestic properties (approximately 54% of all buildings) are recommended to be retrofitted with fabric upgrade measures
       
    • Low carbon heating – installing heat pumps to 52,000 – 65,000 and having approximately 75% of non-domestic building floorspace being heated by heat pumps in the future
       
    • Installation of electric vehicle charge points – The LAEP recommends the deployment of up to 1,250 public charge points to plug the gaps. It is estimated that 45% of households will not have the ability to charge at home
       
    • Local renewable generation – The district has a significant opportunity to generate renewable energy locally from solar PV and onshore wind. Up to 575 GWh of annual generation is recommended
       
    • Energy Networks: The plan illustrates the importance of investment in the electricity network to ensure there is capacity for the rapid growth of low carbon technologies. The council has been working closely with Electricity North-West to develop the LAEP

    Councillor Paul Stubbins, cabinet member with responsibility for climate action, said: “The city council set itself an ambitious target to decarbonise its services by 2030 and we are well on the way to delivering on that aim.

    “The next step is to set out how the whole district can transition to a low carbon future, and that’s what the LAEP is all about. But it’s not just a blueprint for reducing emissions, it’s a vision for a sustainable future and supporting the local economy.

    “The city council will need to collaborate closely with key local stakeholders along the way but this is an exciting start to delivering a net zero district.”

    To find out more about the plan visit Lancaster.gov.uk/laep .

    Last updated: 23 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New initiative to boost growth and innovation for Winchester district businesses

    Source: City of Winchester

    IncuHive Chief Executive Officer George Scott-Welsh and Cabinet member for Business and Culture Cllr Lucille Thompson

    Entrepreneurs, early-stage startups, and small- to medium-sized businesses across the Winchester district are being encouraged to get involved in a new initiative to boost their growth and inspire innovation.

    The Business Growth Factory, delivered by IncuHive in partnership with Winchester City Council, will provide businesses with crucial skills, such as the ability to identify target markets, effectively manage finances and make successful investment pitches.

    The programme itself features a mix of tailored support, expert-led mentoring and hands-on workshops to help participants make the most of the support on offer and make sure they have the tools and insights needed to thrive in competitive marketplaces.

    The programme is provided completely free of charge thanks to funding from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

    Winchester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Culture, Councillor Lucille Thompson, said:

    “Local entrepreneurship is a vital part of our district’s vibrant local economy and it’s hugely important that our start-ups and small businesses have the support they need.

    “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to partner with IncuHive on this fantastic initiative to empower our local business community by equipping them with important skills for growth”.

    The Business Growth Factory is open to new entrepreneurs, early-stage startups and small businesses in the Winchester district.

    Those interested can apply by visiting incuhive.co.uk/acceleration-investment/winchester-cc-business-growth-factory and completing the online application form.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement on Defence – Joint Communique

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A commitment to improve and enhance bilateral defence co-operation between the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

    In July this year, the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland committed to improve and further enhance bilateral defence co-operation to better meet the common challenges of the 21st Century and to best secure the common interests of both countries in defence-related areas. We outlined escalating security concerns, exacerbated by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. We said that the deteriorating strategic environment demanded a unified response to ensure the preservation of European security.

    As we confront these challenges together with Allies and partners, we are guided by our shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Recognising the imperative for closer collaboration in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges and shared security threats, we aim to promote stability on NATO’s eastern flank, in Europe as a whole, and beyond for the Euro-Atlantic area. Strategic defence co-operation is an important first pillar in the new relationship between Germany and the United Kingdom, which will be codified in the forthcoming bilateral treaty in 2025.

    Recognising the imperative, we have worked at pace to create our response through this historic, first-of-its kind, defence agreement between our two great nations. Our shared strategic objective is to sustain effective deterrence against would-be aggressors by building credible, resilient defence forces and defence industries, working towards the vision of a peaceful and stable Euro-Atlantic area. To do this, our agreement will become a crucial element in the broader architecture of European security; it is explicitly designed to support our Allies and strengthen the European contribution to NATO. In particular, it complements our respective existing bilateral agreements with France, laying the foundation for increasingly close co-operation between the E3.

    Through this agreement, we have brought focus, resource, and ambition to our previously stated objectives: Strengthening Defence Industries, Reinforcing Euro-Atlantic Security, Enhancing Interoperability, Addressing Emerging Threats, Supporting Ukraine, and Deep Precision Strike. In addition to new governance structures, we will bring these objectives to life through the creation of totemic lighthouse projects, which will serve as beacons for unprecedented levels of co-operation and integration between our respective Armed Forces.

    Deep Precision Strike and Defence: The UK and Germany will work jointly to rapidly develop extended Deep Precision Strike capabilities, to provide a conventional deterrent in Europe and strengthen European Integrated Air and Missile Defence. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Undertaking a comprehensive exercise to compare capability needs and identify synergies.
    • Developing common requirements and military doctrine to aid the development of long-range systems, working in co-operation with Allies and partners, in particular through the European Long Range Strike Approach.
    • Identifying opportunities for industrial collaboration and investment to achieve closer working on countering threats through Integrated Air and Missile Defence.

    And in the medium term through:

    • Joint development and procurement of new extended Deep Precision Strike capabilities in close co-ordination with Allies and partners, giving special focus to new capabilities which far exceed today’s ranges.
    • Joint development of a common approach to deploying extended Deep Precision Strike in all physical domains.
    • Cohering Integrated Air and Missile Defence activity through the European Sky Shield Initiative, NATO’s Multinational Procurement Initiatives, and the UK’s DIAMOND initiative.

    Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Future Connectivity: The UK and Germany will work jointly, in close co-ordination with Allies and partners, to develop and employ Uncrewed Aerial and Offboard Air Systems to ensure interoperability between Future Combat Air Systems. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Joint integration of common missile systems into drone fleets to enhance precision strike capabilities, drawing benefit from each nations’ previous experience, e.g. the integration of Brimstone to UK Uncrewed Air Systems.
    • Sharing plans on integration of capabilities between Current and Future Combat Air Systems, to enable development of interoperable offboard systems.

    And in the medium term through:

    • Joint exploration and development of cross-system Combat Cloud capabilities across aircraft fleets.
    • Joint exploration and development of new Maritime Uncrewed Air System capabilities.
    • Joint exploration and development of common offboard systems compatible with respective Future Combat Air Systems to enable, inter alia, data sharing, to support interoperability and integration of those systems.
    • Supporting implementation of NATO-agreed common standards to ensure connectivity and collaboration between fighter aircraft, reinforcing inter-generation and (un)crewed teaming.

    Strengthening the Eastern Flank through a new Land Strategic Partnership: Using our Forward Land Forces and shared enduring commitment to NATO’s eastern flank as a catalyst, the UK and Germany will work to strengthen NATO by developing doctrine, uncrewed systems, and enabling capabilities to transform our land forces; sustaining continuous land-based deterrence within Europe. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Working jointly in the Armour Capability Coalition to drive innovation in the land domain, through support to Ukraine.
    • Working jointly with Canada and the Baltic States, including through the 3+3 format, to rapidly transform the capability and effectiveness of our respective Forward Land Forces and tap the full potential of synergies of the Forward Land Forces in the Baltic States
    • Co-ordination of UK and German exercises between the Forward Land Forces, with the goal of combined exercises.
    • Working together to tackle the challenges in the shortage of NATO Corps troops across the Alliance. Equipping, training, and exercising the German-British Amphibious Engineer Battalion 130 in Minden to fulfil tasks as one entity within the NATO Force Model.
    • Fostering a deep Industrial Partnership between UK and German Defence Industries, including assisting respective prime contractors wishing to expand production facilities in each other’s countries. Our will to develop industrial co-operation is illustrated by developing plans between the UK MOD and Rheinmetall for a new barrel factory to be opened in the UK, further strengthening the defence industrial links between the UK and Germany.
    • Close collaboration in the BOXER User Group, conducting regular consultations on the “strategic pipeline”, and joint exploration of new capabilities and variants, striving for a closer exchange of BOXER In-Service-Experience topics, and close co-operation in the area of BOXER training and operation. Beyond BOXER, we will pursue joint procurement and through-life capability management initiatives around land vehicles.

     And in the medium term through:

    • Joint development of common offboard systems for Future Ground Combat Systems to support interoperability between those systems, in co-ordination with Allies and Partners
    • Joint development of military doctrines for future land warfighting, supported by Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Disruptive Technologies.

    Undersea Co-operation in the Northern Seas: The UK and Germany will work jointly to strengthen UK-German naval co-operation with a focus on the North Atlantic and North Sea. We will aim to establish and share a clear and concise picture of underwater activity, significantly contributing to the protection of Critical Undersea Infrastructure and Sea Lines of Communications. We will do this in the short term through:

    • Co-ordination of combined and joint operations in the North Atlantic, in close co-operation with Allies and partners, focussing on Anti-Submarine Warfare with ships, submarines, and aircraft. We will enable forward deployments of each other’s units and goods between our countries when required.
    • Episodic deployments of German P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the UK to support interoperability and collaborative Anti-Submarine Warfare operations in the North Atlantic, following their entry into service.
    • Joint development of common training for our Maritime Patrol Aircraft crews.
    • Promoting a common co-operative procurement of the UK’s Lightweight Torpedo STINGRAY MOD 2 for our Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
    • Contributing to the strengthening of NATO’s work strand on Critical Undersea Infrastructure.

    And in the medium term through: 

    • Exploring new offboard undersea surveillance capabilities to improve detection of adversary activity and support the protection of Critical Undersea Infrastructure, supported by Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Disruptive Technologies.

    In addition, we are committed to working together for as long as it takes to support and enable Ukraine to counter Russian aggression. Our combined will is unequivocal, we will continue to ensure Ukraine has the military capabilities it requires. Our specialist teams and our Defence Industries will work ever more closely to ensure that Ukraine will prevail and achieve a fair and lasting peace. In the short term, we will collectively provide Ukraine with a new offensive capability, supporting fitting German donated Sea King Helicopters with modern missile systems. In the longer term, we will work increasingly closely through the Capability Coalitions for Ukraine using the lessons learnt there to continuously develop our co-operation. The UK will increase its support to the German and Polish-led Armour Coalition, Germany will support the UK and Latvian led drone coalition.

    Through our agreed mechanisms, enhanced dialogue, and increased political leadership, we will drive co-operation for decades to come. We will regularly review the content and our collaboration. We will consistently raise our ambitions to meet tomorrow’s threats wherever they come from: on Land, at Sea, or in the Air, in Space or in the Cyber domain; and irrespective of whether these threats are caused by hostile actors or are a result of natural disasters or Climate Change.

    We will confront such threats across all domains and between each of our Armed Forces and joint organisations, with co-operation in Cyber, Communications, and Information Systems forming the backbone and connective tissue required to embark on such an ambitious programme of work.

    John Healey Boris Pistorius
    Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom Federal Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany

    UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement on Defence

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Designing Defence’s next generation multi-satellite system

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Dstl scientific expertise and advice is at the heart of the Ministry of Defence’s ambitions in space.

    Scientists from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) are at the forefront of designing and developing Defence’s next generation satellite constellation – a system that will bring giant leaps in operational advantage to the armed forces. 

    We have developed new collaborative ways of working with both Space Command and Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) to deliver the next generation multi-satellite system to support greater global surveillance and intelligence for military operations – known as the ISTARI programme.

    ISTARI will cost £968 million and involves the development of a constellation (group) of satellites to deliver global intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and to send data and information rapidly to decision makers across the globe. A series of operational capability demonstrator missions will first be carried out to test the concept.

    Dstl is leading the initial constellation design and development. Using our evidence-based decision-making and systems engineering we are working with DE&S to jointly deliver the missions and bring them into service for Space Command.

    Taking a multi-disciplinary approach enables more rapid decision-making and sharing of best practice across technical, programmatic and operational disciplines. It enables defence to ask the right questions and make the right decisions to develop and deliver capability effectively and efficiently.

    Tyche: MOD’s first sovereign Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) satellite

    Space Command’s first satellite, Tyche, launched in August aboard SpaceX Falcon 9. Dstl provided technical assurance to Tyche, which was built by UK industry.

    Space Command’s first satellite, Tyche

    Tyche is an electro-optical imaging satellite capable of collecting images of the ground, and short image sequences of ground locations, to detect moving objects. It also possesses an additional on-board processor for immediate processing of data collected, including the ability to upload Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms for data reduction.

    Tyche will be able to communicate with commercial data relays in geostationary orbit to reduce data latency and increase opportunities for tasking.

    A key aspect to the experimentation Tyche will deliver will be the opportunity to demonstrate how the satellite interfaces with the wider emerging MOD space architecture.

    Goonhilly Earth Station: new communications ground stations in Cornwall

    Dstl is also building on the existing ground facilities to enhance space operations. In conjunction with the National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF), 2 new remote ground stations have been installed at Goonhilly Earth Station (GES) in Cornwall to expand Dstl’s space-to-ground capability and enable increase experimentation.

    Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station (Credit: Shutterstock)

    The powerful 3.9m Safran Legion antennas, to be operated by Dstl, complement Dstl’s Hermes ground station and will track satellites and download Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) data – vital to demonstrating the ISTARI concept.

    Dstl is also working with Goonhilly to tailor and assess the suitability of an open standard for booking and scheduling of remote ground terminals within a network; this will broker access between multiple end users.

    Dstl’s in-house expertise is vital to these missions as we help build Defence’s next generation space capability, which will be vital to ensure operational advantage on the frontline. Find out more about our space defence science and technology capability.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Why won’t Labour even consider putting water companies back into public hands ask Greens

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Responding to the news (BBC) that a new independent commission will soon launch the largest review of the water industry since privatisation in the 1980s, Green Party Co-Leader, Carla Denyer said,

    “Water is a basic human need. It should be in public hands run for people, not profit. I don’t know why Labour won’t even consider this.”

    by Green Party

    Press Releases

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Caol Swedish Timber Retrofit Project

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council is undertaking a retrofit project in Caol for Swedish Timber properties which aims to enhance the energy efficiency of homes, reduce carbon emissions and reduce energy demand and costs. This initiative is part of the Council’s efforts to meet its 2045 Net Zero targets, in line with the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy.

    The project aims to reduce energy costs, improve lifestyles and make homes warmer for residents, while addressing fuel poverty. Focusing on properties which have a low energy efficiency rating and are amongst the most in need of energy efficiency upgrades to meet Scotland’s energy standards. This is a mixed tenure project and available to both privately owned and Council properties.

    Councillor Sarah Fanet, Chair of the Climate Change Committee, said “It is wonderful to see the Council delivering a mixed tenure project which offers significant benefits to Highland residents, aligning with Net Zero targets and housing standards. This project is an exemplar for building future mixed-tenure retrofit projects which can attract various sources of external funding, aligning with the Council’s ambition to reduce fuel poverty across the region.”

    Anticipated benefits of the project include lower energy bills, improved home comfort, and significant reductions in carbon emissions. Some properties are expected to see significant increases in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, potentially increasing ratings from E to B. The improvements are expected to make homes not only more energy efficient but also more affordable to maintain in the long term.

    The Council is delivering the project in partnership with Union Technical Services Limited, who is the Council’s approved Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS) contractor and have produced a video (link below) which outlines the project.

    https://vimeo.com/1008021843/ab3462bf62?share=copy

    Michael Sweeney, Director, Union Technical Services said “We are delighted to be delivering the scheme in Caol. This will give the whole area a lift in terms of aesthetics but more importantly we will be reducing fuel bills and giving residents a better quality of life and a warmer home to live in.”

    Multiple funding streams, including Scottish Government EES:ABS, Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding, SSE Renewable grant and Council Housing Capital budget, have been secured to enable the Council to have a wider impact and achieve economies of scale.

    Lindsay Dougan, Senior Manager, SSE Renewables said “The Highland Energy Efficiency Programme is a great example of partners working together to support the needs of the Highlands. SSE Renewables Sustainable Development Fund has provided £1.8 million to the programme to ensure households in extreme fuel poverty are supported to have the warmer, energy efficient homes they need.”

    This project builds on the success of the Council’s Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme, which the Council is delighted to announce has been shortlisted as a finalist for The Scottish Green Energy Awards in two award categories; Outstanding Project Award and Carbon Reduction Award.

    For more information and to stay updated on the Energy Efficient Highland Project, please visit our website https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/1210/environment/829/energy_and_sustainability/4

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Shetland residents have their say about population decline across island communities Shetland residents have supported a new research project looking at ways to help make the islands’ population sustainable.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Survey responses can still be returned by post and online until 5 NovemberShetland residents have supported a new research project looking at ways to help make the islands’ population sustainable.
    More than 450 households took part in a study investigating changing population dynamics and the role policy and place-based interventions can play to help create and maintain healthy and balanced populations in Shetland and other Scottish island communities.
    The project is led by Marcus Craigie, a PhD student based at the University of Aberdeen, supervised by academics in the Department of Geography and Environment at the School of Geosciences and The James Hutton Institute. Marcus’ research is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council.
    Marcus, who grew up in Orkney, said: “I am delighted by the support shown by local communities during fieldwork in August and September and with the response rates to surveys distributed across Unst, Bressay, Burra and Trondra, and Walls and Sandness.
    “It is vitally important that the challenges and opportunities associated with retaining existing residents and attracting new and returning residents – for example, transport, housing and jobs – are considered in a way that is geographically nuanced and to do this, we need people to have their say.”
    Over 450 surveys have already been returned but, from discussions in the community, Marcus says he is aware others were filled out but may not have been returned or were left in places the restrictions of his role prevent him from accessing.
    “From chatting to local residents, I know that a number left their surveys ready to be collected inside their front doors but I wasn’t able to enter someone’s home and collect in this way without prior permission from the homeowner,” he added.
    “The survey will help increase awareness of the Shetland context in Scotland-wide discussions about island population change and support policy recommendations for national and local government, so we want the best representation possible. I am hugely grateful to everyone who has taken the time to share their views, and it would be a real shame not to collect any responses which either missed the initial deadline for collection or were left for collection in this way.”
    If anyone has already received an invitation to take part in the survey and has a completed response that was not collected it may be returned by 5 November 2024 to: Marcus Craigie, Doctoral Candidate, Geography and Environment, School of Geosciences, University of Aberdeen, St Mary’s, Elphinstone Road, Aberdeen, AB24 3UF.
    An opportunity to complete and submit a response online at https://bit.ly/ShetlandSurvey using the participant ID on the invitation to participate also remains available until 5 November 2024.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: September 2024 Retail Prices Index published23 October 2024 ​​​Statistics Jersey have today published the September 2024 Retail Prices Index report. The All Items Retail Prices Index (RPI) is the main measure of inflation in Jersey. It measures the change from… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 October 2024

    ​​​Statistics Jersey have today published the September 2024 Retail Prices Index report. 

    The All Items Retail Prices Index (RPI) is the main measure of inflation in Jersey. It measures the change from quarter to quarter in the price of the goods and services purchased by an average household in Jersey. 

    ​The September report shows:

    • ​the All Items Retail Prices Index (RPI) for Jersey increased by 3.0% to stand at 233.7 (June 2000 = 100)
    • the increase in the RPI was less than that to June 2024 (5.0%); hence the annual rate of inflation decreased by 2.0 percentage points (pp) since last quarter
    • a few groups contributed to the decrease in the annual rate of inflation, most notably the housing group
    • prices in most groups increased and these increases were similar to or less than those over the 12 months to June 2024, which resulted in an overall downward contribution to the annual rate of inflation
    • leisure services which includes entertainment, sport and leisure fees and foreign and UK holidays, was the price group that made the largest contribution to the annual rate of inflation, contributing +0.8 pp to the rate
      • the overall price change in the leisure services price group was lower compared with the 12 months to June 2024, hence its contribution to the change in rate of the RPI was -0.3 pp
    • the increase in the RPI was 7.1 pp smaller than a year ago (10.1% in September 2023)
    • RPI(Y), which measures underlying inflation, increased by 3.3%, which was 0.6 pp smaller than the June 2024 rate (down from 3.9%)
    • RPI(X) increased by 3.5%
    • RPI Pensioners increased by 3.6%
    • RPI Low Income increased by 3.4%
    • annual changes in RPI(X), RPI(Y), RPI Pensioners, and RPI Low Income were 0.6 to 0.8 pp smaller than those in June 2024
    • the rate of inflation in Jersey as measured by the RPI, was 0.4 pp higher than the UK CPIH, which is the broadly comparable headline rate of inflation for the UK

    ​Retail Prices Index September 2024​

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Everyone invited to Community Wellbeing Event

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Parents, young people, community groups and everyone in between are invited to a Community Wellbeing Event taking place in Craigavon Civic Centre on Thursday 7 November.

    Focusing on relaxation, fun and self-care, this event will also feature information stands with details on support services for drugs, alcohol and mental health.

    With health checks, a mocktail bar, spot prizes and goodie bags, this event is open to the whole community. There will be interactive activities helping to educate people on the services provided by organisations within the ABC area, as well as improving access to these services.

    Look out for signposting, advice, guidance and information and make sure to enjoy some of the light refreshments that will also be served on the night.

    Guest speaker will be Theresa Burke who has been tirelessly helping to raise awareness of the devastating and long-lasting impact of drugs following her son’s death in 2009.

    “We would like to encourage people to come along, get involved, avail of some health checks and listen to Theresa who bravely continues to raise awareness of the real cost of drugs,” commented Alderman Mark Baxter, Chair of the PCSP.

    “Vital information and advice on these important issues will also be readily available and will show how all of our local organisations work together to help those who need this support and help.”

    The event has been organised by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) in partnership with Southern Drug and Alcohol Communication Team Connections Service (SDACT).

    If you are interested in attending this event please rsvp to 

    *protected email*

     by Thursday 31 October.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kingswells bus to resume with ACC-supported service

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Following a procurement exercise for a supported bus service between Kingswells and the city centre, Aberdeen City Council has awarded a contract to McGill’s Buses to run the service. 

    The service will operate up to every 30 minutes at peak times and up to every 60 minutes at off-peak times, Monday to Friday, between Kingswells and Bridge Street, via Lang Stracht, Westburn Road, and Holburn Junction, from 6.30am to 8.05pm.

    The Council will now work with McGill’s Buses and the Traffic Commissioner for the service to start on Monday 25 November 2024. Timetables and route maps will be available from the Council’s website in the coming weeks.   

    Stagecoach Bluebird season passes will be accepted on the service up to and including 31 December 2024. 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: BLOG | Sowing the seeds for future investment, collaboration and economic growth

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Key representatives from the Liverpool City Region are currently on a trade mission to the United States. Liverpool City Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, outlines why the visit is vital for the city’s future economic success...

    One of Liverpool’s key strengths is that, thanks to our maritime, music and sporting heritage, we are known around the world.

    No matter whether you are in Boston, or Botswana, mentioning the city’s name means instant recognition – usually linked to our history as a place of emigration, the city that gave birth to The Beatles, and is home to two Premiership football clubs.

    It is a useful ‘foot in the door’ when you want to have conversations with the right people about driving trade and investment.

    That is why I am delighted that ‘Team Liverpool City Region’ are currently on a high-level mission to the United States aimed at driving tens of millions of pounds of long-term investment, trade and tourism to the Liverpool City Region.

    Liverpool has a rich shared history with the United States and was the exit port for millions of people emigrating to America during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

    The delegation includes senior representatives from the city region’s Health and Life Sciences sector, including the University of Liverpool and Health Innovation North West Coast, as well as leaders from our hugely successful cultural, museums and events sectors.

    They are taking part in a packed schedule of meetings with civic and business leaders aimed at promoting our city region as a place that is ready to do investment deals, and is a must-visit destination for tourists.

    The United States is already the Liverpool City Region’s largest export market worth £1.8bn a year.

    Total trade between the city region and the US is worth £2.5bn, and Liverpool is the UK’s largest western-facing port, handling 45% of the UK’s trade from the US.

    But we believe there are huge opportunities to do more.

    The trade mission is all about sowing the seeds for future investment, collaboration and economic growth.

    We know our city region is a great place to live, work and visit – but it is vital that, in an increasingly competitive world, we do all we can to spread that message around the globe.

    Photo credit: Stratus Imagery

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council statement about Rathbone Park

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council is continuing discussions with the City of Liverpool Football Club about finding a new location to meet their aspirations of building a community stadium.

    It follows a recent decision by the Council to refuse their application for a Community Asset Transfer of Rathbone Park in Old Swan.

    In mid-2023, the Club submitted an Expression of Interest in taking over the land.

    In September 2023, Liverpool City Council provided the Club with extensive feedback, and requested that they resubmit it.

    The Council received no further information from the Club, but did receive a number of objections from the community, including the Friends of Rathbone Park following the Clubs own consultation.

    Based on the substantial gaps in the Club’s initial submission, and the objections, a decision was taken to refuse the application, in line with Council policy.

    The Council is committed to an ongoing dialogue with the Club to find a suitable site with a fully funded, viable scheme, and met with representatives last Friday to discuss a way forward.

    Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy, said: “The Council is supportive of the work the Club does and its aspirations to grow the impact of community football in Liverpool and beyond.

    “I realise that this decision is a disappointment for the Club and its supporters, but the Council is committed to an ongoing dialogue with the Club to find a suitable alternative site for a fully funded, viable scheme. 

    “We want to keep working with the Club constructively to explore alternatives and hope we can continue talking.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to MHRA and NICE news on donanemab for Alzheimer’s disease

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on MHRA saying ‘Donanemab licensed for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease in some adults’, and NICE draft guidance saying ‘Donanemab does not currently demonstrate value for the NHS’.

    Prof Andrew Doig, Professor of Biochemistry, University of Manchester, said

    “Donanemab is a new drug for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) which tackles the build-up of a form of amyloid-β in the brain, the likely root cause of AD. It is an antibody that is administered through a needle inserted into a vein. Donanemab was tested with a clinical trial on about 2000 people with early-stage AD, run over 18 months.

    “Donanemab shows real benefit to patients with mild AD by slowing down cognitive decline. The benefits are small, however, and there are concerns with the drug. Firstly, donanemab is not a cure for AD and it does not reverse, or even halt, the disease. All it does is to slow down the rate at which the disease progresses, as measured by loss of memory and other cognitive skills. In effect, patients who take donanemab see a delay to their loss of brain function by around six months. Secondly, carrying out a diagnosis to see who is eligible to take donanemab can only be carried out by a PET scan, similar an MRI scan, or by analysing cerebrospinal fluid, carried out by a lumbar puncture. These diagnosis methods are expensive and can be unpleasant for patients, so are not routinely available. Genetic tests to check that a patient is eligible for the drug are also useful. Thirdly, there is a small, but real risk, that donanemab can cause swelling or bleeding in the brain. About a quarter of patients in the trial showed evidence of this. Finally, the cost of the drug is very high, as is the cost of administering the drugs, as it requires regular MRI scans. Given the small benefits and high costs of the drug, NICE has not approved donanemab. NHS resources are limited (e.g. MRI machines) and are better spent elsewhere.

    “This decision will be disappointing for patients and carers who are living with the burden of this horrible disease that has no cure. Nevertheless, there is hope. Better diagnostic methods are in development, such as a simple blood test, which would mean that PET scans or lumbar punctures are not needed. Donanemab has not been ruled out forever and this decision could change. We will continue to track how well it works over longer time periods. Costs may also come down. In addition, many other AD therapies, such as other antibodies are on the way. Some of them are likely to work better than donanemab and could be approved.

    “Donanemab and other related drugs have shown that it is possible to slow cognitive decline caused by AD. They therefore point the way to a future where AD can be treated, bringing benefit to millions of people.”

     

    Prof B. Paul Morgan, UK Dementia Research Institute Cardiff, Cardiff University, said:

    “NICE has reached the decision that the Alzheimer’s drug Donanemab, despite having a modest effect on rate of disease progression, does not clear the clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness hurdles for approval for use in the NHS.  The drug requires monthly infusions and carries significant risk of side effects, necessitating very close monitoring using imaging and other expensive tests.

    “The decision is not surprising in that it closely mirrors that made for another Alzheimer’s drug, Lecanemab, in August.  Both drugs are monoclonal antibodies that target amyloid, the main component of the plaques that develop in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease. They differ subtly in that Lecanemab targets the soluble form of amyloid to prevent plaque formation while Donanemab targets amyloid aggregates in plaques. Nevertheless, both efficiently clear amyloid and have a similar slowing effect on progression of cognitive decline in patients. Both also share the same risks, notably an increase in inflammation in brain blood vessels that can lead to bleeding in the brain. 

    “The decision will be a disappointment to Alzheimer’s sufferers and their carers. It means that there are no disease-modifying drugs for Alzheimer’s currently approved in the UK. The decision also highlights the problems with the amyloid-targeting drugs – eye-wateringly expensive, difficult to administer and potentially harmful. Balancing these against a modest impact on the disease, the decision made by NICE is understandable.  These drugs are already in use in the US and elsewhere, albeit at lower than predicted uptake, and more will be learned from their wider use.  In particular, improvements in patient selection and monitoring may tip the balance in the future.

    “The final lesson from these disappointments is that we need better drugs for Alzheimer’s disease, moving beyond the focus on amyloid clearance and targeting other aspects of the disease that may provide better, safer and affordable routes to effective therapy of this awful disease.”

     

    Prof Rob Howard, Professor of Old Age Psychiatry, University College London (UCL), said:

    “NICE have made the correct and responsible decision that donanemab treatment within the NHS cannot be considered to represent a cost-effective use of resources. Importantly, the estimated potential value-based benefits of donanemab to patients with dementia and their families were between only a fifth and a sixth of the actual costs of buying and administering the treatment.

    “Although there is considerable uncertainty about both the meaningfulness of the very small benefits seen with treatment and any longer term effects beyond the 18 months of data collected in the pivotal trials, NHS access to these new drugs would not have made an appreciable difference to the experience of patients and families affected by dementia. 

    We have well-established drug treatments and psychosocial interventions for Alzheimer’s disease that are already available to people with dementia within the NHS but are not universally accessed. Our priority now should be to ensure that everyone with dementia who might benefit from these cost-effective interventions and adequately resourced adult social care services is able to access them. It would be unhelpful if the conversation about how we adequately fund NHS and social care for people with dementia was distracted by the issue of these new drugs. We should thank NICE for their leadership and clarity in this regard.”

     

    Prof Siddharthan Chandran, Director of the UK Dementia Research Institute, said: 

    “These first drugs are just the opening chapter for Alzheimer’s treatments. Today’s MHRA approval of donanemab is another step towards a future where we can begin to offer treatments to people affected by dementia. In this case, NICE’s initial recommendation is that the benefits of the drug are not significant enough to make it cost effective, which means it will not be available to patients on the NHS. This will be disappointing to many. However, I do believe we are at a pivotal moment in our research mission to develop better, safer treatments.

    “This is a long journey and is only possible because of long-term investment in research that underpins the identification and development of new treatments. The MRC-funded UK Dementia Research Institute is at the forefront of research into dementias, and working together with our many partners from patient charities, leading UK universities, the NHS and industry we are hopeful that major advances in diagnostics and treatments are ahead of us.”

     

    Prof Charles Marshall, Clinical Senior Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Neurologist, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), said:

    “This will be very disappointing news for people affected by Alzheimer’s who are desperate for something that can slow the course of the disease. Hopefully, future developments will allow the introduction of treatments like this in the NHS. For this we will need investment in modernised dementia clinics that can deliver diagnosis and treatment appropriately, as well as evidence that Donanemab continues to slow Alzheimer’s disease over a longer time period, which could make it cost effective. We need NHS patients to be involved in generating this evidence so that we can see how effective Donanemab might be if used widely in the UK.”

     

    Prof Tara Spires-Jones, Director of the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences at the University of Edinburgh, Group Leader in the UK Dementia Research Institute, and President of the British Neuroscience Association said:

    “While people living with dementia and their loved ones will undoubtedly be disappointed by the decision not to fund this new treatment on the NHS, the good news that new treatments can slow disease even a small amount is hopeful.  New research is bringing us closer to treatments that should be safer and more effective. This decision on the amyloid targeting drug donanemab is not a surprise as it is consistent with the recent recommendations for lecanemab, a very similar drug.  Donanemab is an antibody that removes amyloid pathology from the brain. This is not a cure. The treatment slows disease progression modestly but does not stop or reverse symptoms.  The treatment also comes with potentially serious side effects of brain swelling and brain bleeding.”

     

    Prof Tom Dening, Professor of Dementia Research, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, said:

    “Given the MHRA and NICE positions previously stated on lecanemab, these decisions in relation to donanemab are hardly surprising. My personal position stands more with NICE, because I think that we don’t do enough to support people with dementia after they get a diagnosis, and the expensive monoclonal antibodies are a bit of a distraction from the main issue, which is to help people live the best lives they can with the diagnosis.”

    Professor Fiona Carragher, Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, said:  

    “Disease-modifying therapies like donanemab and lecanemab offer a new horizon of hope in the fight against dementia. MHRA’s approval of donanemab marks another milestone in this journey, but it comes alongside a draft NICE decision not to recommend donanemab for use on the NHS. While this is disheartening, we respect the decision of the regulator. 

    “In other diseases like cancer, treatments have become more effective, safer and cheaper over time and we hope to see similar progress in dementia. 

    “With around 20 Alzheimer’s disease drugs in late-stage clinical trials, more drugs will be submitted for approval within the next few years. 

    “New treatments are an important catalyst for change, but they are only one piece of the puzzle. While preparing for the future, we must not lose sight of the million people living with dementia in the UK today – a third of whom don’t have a diagnosis. 

    “We need to see significant government investment to bring about radical change so that everyone with dementia in the UK can get an early and accurate diagnosis. Without this, people won’t be able to access existing treatments and interventions to help manage their symptoms today or be ready for the disease slowing treatments of tomorrow.” 

     

    Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

    “Today’s announcement marks another frustrating setback for people affected by Alzheimer’s disease. We finally have two new treatments licensed in Britain for Alzheimer’s, but it’s incredibly disappointing that NHS patients in England and Wales won’t receive them. While these drugs are not cures and come with risk of side effects, trials show they are the first treatments to slow the decline in memory and thinking skills linked to Alzheimer’s, rather than just alleviating symptoms.

    “NICE’s recent interim decisions on lecanemab and donanemab highlight uncertainty about their benefits compared to the significant costs of delivering them in the NHS. Yet dementia remains the UK’s leading cause of death, and without action, an ageing population means more families will be affected, driving up NHS costs through emergency admissions and care.

    “NHS England has identified nearly 30 other dementia treatments that could be available by 2030, giving the government and NHS a crucial opportunity to transform how dementia is treated – just as Labour pledged in their manifesto. But we still haven’t heard from Health Secretary Wes Streeting on how he plans to break the deadlock we’re facing, where research is delivering new treatments but they remain out of reach for NHS patients. We’ve written to the Health Secretary again, calling for his leadership to bring together NICE, NHS England and industry so that people with dementia in the UK aren’t left behind.

    “Today’s decision also risks signalling that the UK is no longer a good place to launch new dementia treatments. Although the UK has a strong history in dementia research, it currently hosts just 7% of global dementia trials and under 3% of participants in phase 3 trials for dementia worldwide live here. How the government tackles these challenges will show if they’re serious about bringing innovation to the NHS and cutting the red tape that is limiting people’s access to research and innovative medicines.”

    MHRA decision and NICE draft guidance on donanemab for Alzheimer’s disease was published at 10:00am UK time Wednesday 22nd October 2024. 

    https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/indevelopment/gid-ta11221

    Declared interests

    Prof Andrew Doig: Andrew Doig is a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Manchester. He is a founder and director of PharmaKure, a spin-out company working on diagnostics and drugs for Alzheimer’s Disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.

    Prof Rob Howard: I don’t have any relevant CoIs.

    Prof Charles Marshall: I have no relevant conflicts to declare.

    Prof Siddharthan Chandran: Siddharthan is the academic lead of Neurii, a £5M partnership to deliver patient focused digital health solutions for dementia, part funded by Eisai. The UK Dementia Research Institute holds partnerships with charities (BHF, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society and LifeArc), and industry (Lilly, Eisai, Astex, SPARC and Ono).

    Hilary Evans-Newton No COI.

    Prof Tom Dening: No COI.

    Professor Fiona Carragher: No conflicts of interest.

    Prof Tara Spires-Jones: I have no conflicts with this study but have received payments for consulting, scientific talks, or collaborative research over the past 10 years from AbbVie, Sanofi, Merck, Scottish Brain Sciences, Jay Therapeutics, Cognition Therapeutics, Ono, and Eisai. I am also Charity trustee for the British Neuroscience Association and the Guarantors of Brain and serve as scientific advisor to several charities and non-profit institutions.

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Lloyds Bank PLC: 2024 Q3 Interim Management Statement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Lloyds Bank plc
    Q3 2024 Interim Management Statement
    23 October 2024

    Member of the Lloyds Banking Group

    FINANCIAL REVIEW

    Income statement

    The Group’s profit before tax for the first nine months of 2024 was £3,927 million, 27 per cent lower than the same period in 2023. This was driven by lower net interest income and higher operating expenses, partly offset by a lower impairment charge. Profit after tax was £2,727 million (nine months to 30 September 2023 £3,975 million).

    Total income for the first nine months of 2024 was £12,613 million, a decrease of 8 per cent on the same period in 2023. Within this, net interest income of £9,378 million was 10 per cent lower on the prior year, driven by a lower margin. The lower margin reflected anticipated headwinds due to deposit churn and asset margin compression, particularly in the mortgage book as it refinances in a lower margin environment. These factors were partially offset by benefits from higher structural hedge earnings as balances are reinvested in the higher rate environment.

    Other income amounted to £3,235 million in the nine months to 30 September 2024 compared to £3,268 million in the same period in 2023, with improved UK Motor Finance performance, reflecting growth following the acquisition of Tusker in the first quarter of 2023, increased fleet size and higher average rental value, partially offset by the impact of changes to commission arrangements with Scottish Widows.

    Operating expenses of £8,392 million were 13 per cent higher than in the prior year. This includes the impacts of higher operating lease depreciation, largely as a result of fleet growth, the depreciation of higher value vehicles and declines in used electric car prices, alongside higher ongoing strategic investment, accelerated severance charges and inflationary pressure. It also includes c.£0.1 billion relating to the sector-wide change in the charging approach for the Bank of England Levy taken in the first quarter. In the nine months to 30 September 2024, the Group recognised remediation costs of £118 million (nine months to 30 September 2023: £127 million), largely in relation to pre-existing programmes, with no further charges in respect of the FCA review of historical motor finance commission arrangements. The FCA confirmed in September 2024 its intention to set out next steps in its review in May 2025, including its assessment of the outcome of the Judicial Review and Court of Appeal decisions involving other market participants; the Group will assess the impact, if any, of these decisions.

    The impairment charge was £294 million compared with a £881 million charge in the nine months to 30 September 2023. The decrease reflects a larger credit from improvements to the Group’s economic outlook in the first half of the year, notably house price growth and through changes to the severe downside scenario methodology. The charge also benefitted from strong portfolio performance, a large debt sale write-back, and a release in Commercial Banking from loss rates used in the model. Asset quality remains strong with resilient credit performance.

    Balance sheet

    Total assets were £4,207 million higher at £609,612 million at 30 September 2024 compared to £605,405 million at 31 December 2023. Financial assets at amortised cost were £15,406 million higher at £503,477 million compared to £488,071 million at 31 December 2023 with increases in reverse repurchase agreements of £11,128 million and loans and advances to customers of £7,355 million, partly offset by a reduction in loans and advances to banks of £2,919 million. The increase in reverse repurchase agreements and the decrease in cash and balances at central banks by £17,984 million to £39,925 million reflected a change in the mix of liquidity holdings. The increase in loans and advances to customers included growth in UK mortgages, UK Retail unsecured loans, credit cards and the European retail business, partly offset by government-backed lending repayments in Commercial Banking. Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income were £5,032 million higher reflecting a change in the mix of liquidity holdings. Other assets increased by £1,864 million to £28,925 million, driven by higher settlement balances and higher operating lease assets reflecting continued motor finance growth.

    Total liabilities were £4,390 million higher at £569,364 million compared to £564,974 million at 31 December 2023. Customer deposits at £446,311 million have increased by £4,358 million since the end of 2023, driven by inflows to limited withdrawal and fixed term savings products, partly offset by a reduction in current account balances and an expected significant outflow in Commercial Banking. In addition, repurchase agreements at £41,370 million have increased by £3,668 million since the end of 2023. Debt securities in issue at amortised cost decreased by £7,369 million to £45,080 million at 30 September 2024. Amounts due to fellow Lloyds Banking Group undertakings increased by £1,510 million to £4,442 million at 30 September 2024. Other liabilities increased by £3,042 million to £12,926 million, driven by higher settlement balances.

    Total equity was £40,248 million at 30 September 2024 was broadly stable compared to £40,431 million at 31 December 2023, with the profit for the period largely offset by interim dividends of £3.4 billion, pension revaluations and movements in the cash flow hedging reserve.

    FINANCIAL REVIEW (continued)

    Capital

    The Group’s common equity tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio reduced to 13.6 per cent at 30 September 2024 (31 December 2023: 14.4 per cent). This largely reflected profit for the period, offset by the payment of interim ordinary dividends, the accrual for foreseeable ordinary dividends and an increase in risk-weighted assets.

    The Group’s total capital ratio reduced to 19.8 per cent (31 December 2023: 20.5 per cent). The issuance of AT1 and Tier 2 capital instruments was more than offset by the reduction in CET1 capital, the reduction in eligible provisions recognised through Tier 2 capital, the impact of regulatory amortisation and foreign exchange on Tier 2 capital instruments and the increase in risk-weighted assets.

    Risk-weighted assets have increased by £2,350 million to £184,910 million at 30 September 2024 (31 December 2023: £182,560 million). This reflects the impact of Retail lending growth, Retail secured CRD IV model updates and other movements, partly offset by optimisation including capital efficient securitisation activity.

    The Group’s UK leverage ratio reduced to 5.3 per cent (31 December 2023: 5.6 per cent). This reflected both the reduction in the total tier 1 capital position and an increase in the leverage exposure measure, principally related to the increase in securities financing transactions and other balance sheet movements.

     
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT (UNAUDITED)
     
      Nine
    months ended
    30 Sep
    2024
    £m    		     Nine
    months ended
    30 Sep
    2023
    £m    		  
           
    Net interest income 9,378     10,432  
    Other income 3,235     3,268  
    Total income 12,613     13,700  
    Operating expenses (8,392 )   (7,457 )
    Impairment (294 )   (881 )
    Profit before tax 3,927     5,362  
    Tax expense (1,200 )   (1,387 )
    Profit for the period 2,727     3,975  
           
    Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders 2,454     3,708  
    Profit attributable to other equity holders 256     249  
    Profit attributable to equity holders 2,710     3,957  
    Profit attributable to non-controlling interests 17     18  
    Profit for the period 2,727     3,975  
     
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED)
     
      At 30 Sep
    2024
    £m    		     At 31 Dec
    2023
    £m    		  
               
    Assets          
    Cash and balances at central banks 39,925     57,909  
    Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 1,990     1,862  
    Derivative financial instruments 2,926     3,165  
    Loans and advances to banks 5,891     8,810  
    Loans and advances to customers 440,479     433,124  
    Reverse repurchase agreements 43,879     32,751  
    Debt securities 12,569     12,546  
    Due from fellow Lloyds Banking Group undertakings 659     840  
    Financial assets at amortised cost 503,477     488,071  
    Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 32,369     27,337  
    Other assets 28,925     27,061  
    Total assets 609,612     605,405  
               
    Liabilities          
    Deposits from banks 3,474     3,557  
    Customer deposits 446,311     441,953  
    Repurchase agreements 41,370     37,702  
    Due to fellow Lloyds Banking Group undertakings 4,442     2,932  
    Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss 4,964     5,255  
    Derivative financial instruments 3,583     4,307  
    Debt securities in issue at amortised cost 45,080     52,449  
    Other liabilities 12,926     9,884  
    Subordinated liabilities 7,214     6,935  
    Total liabilities 569,364     564,974  
               
    Equity          
    Share capital 1,574     1,574  
    Share premium account 600     600  
    Other reserves 2,904     2,395  
    Retained profits 29,667     30,786  
    Ordinary shareholders’ equity 34,745     35,355  
    Other equity instruments 5,428     5,018  
    Non-controlling interests 75     58  
    Total equity 40,248     40,431  
    Total equity and liabilities 609,612     605,405  
    ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     

    1.  Basis of presentation

    This release covers the results of Lloyds Bank plc together with its subsidiaries (the Group) for the nine months ended 30 September 2024.

    Accounting policies

    The accounting policies are consistent with those applied by the Group in its 2023 Annual Report and Accounts

    2.  Capital

    The Group’s Q3 2024 Interim Pillar 3 Disclosures can be found at http://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com/investors/financial-downloads.html.

    3.  UK economic assumptions

    Base case and MES economic assumptions

    The Group’s base case scenario is for a slow expansion in GDP and a modest rise in the unemployment rate alongside small gains in residential and commercial property prices. Following a reduction in inflationary pressures, cuts in UK Bank Rate are expected to continue during 2024 and 2025. Risks around this base case economic view lie in both directions and are largely captured by the generation of alternative economic scenarios.

    The Group has taken into account the latest available information at the reporting date in defining its base case scenario and generating alternative economic scenarios. The scenarios include forecasts for key variables as of the third quarter of 2024. Actuals for this period, or restatements of past data, may have since emerged prior to publication and have not been included, including specifically in the Quarterly National Accounts release of 30 September 2024. The Group’s approach to generating alternative economic scenarios is set out in detail in note 19 to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2023. For September 2024, the Group continues to judge it appropriate to include a non-modelled severe downside scenario for ECL calculations as explained in note 12 of the Group’s 2024 Half-Year news release.

    UK economic assumptions – base case scenario by quarter

    Key quarterly assumptions made by the Group in the base case scenario are shown below. Gross domestic product is presented quarter-on-quarter. House price growth, commercial real estate price growth and CPI inflation are presented year-on-year, i.e. from the equivalent quarter in the previous year. Unemployment rate and UK Bank Rate are presented as at the end of each quarter.

    At 30 September 2024 First
    quarter
    2024
    %    		   Second
    quarter
    2024
    %    		   Third
    quarter
    2024
    %    		   Fourth
    quarter
    2024
    %    		 First
    quarter
    2025
    %    		 Second
    quarter
    2025
    %    		 Third
    quarter
    2025
    %    		 Fourth
    quarter
    2025
    %
                     
    Gross domestic product 0.7   0.6   0.3   0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.4
    Unemployment rate 4.3   4.2   4.3   4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.8
    House price growth 0.4   1.8   5.3   3.1 3.2 3.6 2.4 2.0
    Commercial real estate price growth (5.3 ) (4.7 ) (2.5 ) 0.3 1.4 1.9 1.6 1.7
    UK Bank Rate 5.25   5.25   5.00   4.75 4.50 4.25 4.00 4.00
    CPI inflation 3.5   2.1   2.1   2.7 2.4 2.9 2.7 2.3
                           

    ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

    3.  UK economic assumptions (continued)

    UK economic assumptions – scenarios by year

    Key annual assumptions made by the Group are shown below. Gross domestic product and CPI inflation are presented as an annual change, house price growth and commercial real estate price growth are presented as the growth in the respective indices within the period. Unemployment rate and UK Bank Rate are averages for the period.

    At 30 September 2024 2024
    %    		   2025
    %    		   2026
    %    		   2027
    %    		   2028
    %    		   2024-2028
    average
    %
                 
    Upside            
    Gross domestic product 1.2   2.4   1.9   1.5   1.4   1.7  
    Unemployment rate 4.2   3.3   2.8   2.7   2.8   3.1  
    House price growth 3.5   4.6   7.1   6.4   5.1   5.3  
    Commercial real estate price growth 1.6   9.0   4.2   1.8   0.7   3.4  
    UK Bank Rate 5.06   5.08   5.16   5.34   5.58   5.24  
    CPI inflation 2.6   2.7   2.4   2.8   2.8   2.7  
                 
    Base case            
    Gross domestic product 1.1   1.3   1.5   1.5   1.5   1.4  
    Unemployment rate 4.3   4.7   4.7   4.5   4.5   4.5  
    House price growth 3.1   2.0   1.0   1.5   2.1   2.0  
    Commercial real estate price growth 0.3   1.7   2.1   0.7   0.3   1.0  
    UK Bank Rate 5.06   4.19   3.63   3.50   3.50   3.98  
    CPI inflation 2.6   2.6   2.1   2.2   2.1   2.3  
                 
    Downside            
    Gross domestic product 1.0   (0.3 ) 0.4   1.3   1.5   0.8  
    Unemployment rate 4.4   6.5   7.3   7.3   7.1   6.5  
    House price growth 2.9   (0.2 ) (6.1 ) (5.8 ) (2.9 ) (2.5 )
    Commercial real estate price growth (0.7 ) (6.2 ) (1.7 ) (1.9 ) (1.9 ) (2.5 )
    UK Bank Rate 5.06   3.11   1.48   0.96   0.65   2.25  
    CPI inflation 2.6   2.6   1.9   1.5   1.1   2.0  
                 
    Severe downside            
    Gross domestic product 0.9   (2.0 ) (0.1 ) 1.1   1.4   0.2  
    Unemployment rate 4.6   8.6   9.9   9.9   9.7   8.5  
    House price growth 2.3   (2.5 ) (13.5 ) (12.6 ) (8.3 ) (7.1 )
    Commercial real estate price growth (2.7 ) (16.5 ) (6.5 ) (6.5 ) (5.1 ) (7.6 )
    UK Bank Rate – modelled 5.06   1.83   0.23   0.06   0.02   1.44  
    UK Bank Rate – adjusted1 5.13   3.67   2.55   2.16   1.88   3.08  
    CPI inflation – modelled 2.6   2.6   1.5   0.7   0.1   1.5  
    CPI inflation – adjusted1 2.6   3.5   1.8   1.3   0.9   2.0  
                 
    Probability-weighted            
    Gross domestic product 1.1   0.8   1.1   1.4   1.4   1.2  
    Unemployment rate 4.3   5.2   5.4   5.3   5.3   5.1  
    House price growth 3.1   1.7   (0.7 ) (0.6 ) 0.5   0.8  
    Commercial real estate price growth 0.1   (0.3 ) 0.7   (0.5 ) (0.8 ) (0.1 )
    UK Bank Rate – modelled 5.06   3.90   3.10   2.95   2.92   3.59  
    UK Bank Rate – adjusted1 5.07   4.08   3.33   3.15   3.11   3.75  
    CPI inflation – modelled 2.6   2.6   2.0   2.0   1.8   2.2  
    CPI inflation – adjusted1 2.6   2.7   2.1   2.1   1.9   2.3  
                             

    1 The adjustment to UK Bank Rate and CPI inflation in the severe downside is considered to better reflect the risks to the Group’s base case view in an economic environment where the risks of supply and demand shocks are seen as more balanced.

    ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

    4.  Loans and advances to customers and expected credit loss allowance

    At 30 September 2024 Stage 1
    £m    		     Stage 2
    £m    		     Stage 3
    £m    		     POCI
    £m    		     Total
    £m    		     Stage 2
    as % of
    total    		   Stage 3
    as % of
    total
                               
    Loans and advances to customers
                               
    UK mortgages 271,138     28,389     4,545     6,949     311,021     9.1   1.5
    Credit cards 13,429     2,620     262     –     16,311     16.1   1.6
    Loans and overdrafts 8,839     1,374     173     –     10,386     13.2   1.7
    UK Motor Finance 14,390     2,314     119     –     16,823     13.8   0.7
    Other 16,702     513     150     –     17,365     3.0   0.9
    Retail 324,498     35,210     5,249     6,949     371,906     9.5   1.4
    Small and Medium Businesses 26,393     3,430     1,303     –     31,126     11.0   4.2
    Corporate and Institutional Banking 37,564     2,306     637     –     40,507     5.7   1.6
    Commercial Banking 63,957     5,736     1,940     –     71,633     8.0   2.7
    Other1 260     –     –     –     260     –   –
    Total gross lending 388,715     40,946     7,189     6,949     443,799     9.2   1.6
    ECL allowance on drawn balances (764 )   (1,228 )   (1,106 )   (222 )   (3,320 )        
    Net balance sheet carrying value 387,951     39,718     6,083     6,727     440,479          
                               
    Customer related ECL allowance (drawn and undrawn)
                               
    UK mortgages 86     321     339     222     968          
    Credit cards 207     351     129     –     687          
    Loans and overdrafts 170     242     111     –     523          
    UK Motor Finance2 169     105     68     –     342          
    Other 15     18     42     –     75          
    Retail 647     1,037     689     222     2,595          
    Small and Medium Businesses 138     190     160     –     488          
    Corporate and Institutional Banking 126     125     259     –     510          
    Commercial Banking 264     315     419     –     998          
    Other –     –     –     –     –          
    Total 911     1,352     1,108     222     3,593          
                               
    Customer related ECL allowance (drawn and undrawn) as a percentage of loans and advances to customers
                               
    UK mortgages –     1.1     7.5     3.2     0.3          
    Credit cards 1.5     13.4     49.2     –     4.2          
    Loans and overdrafts 1.9     17.6     64.2     –     5.0          
    UK Motor Finance 1.2     4.5     57.1     –     2.0          
    Other 0.1     3.5     28.0     –     0.4          
    Retail 0.2     2.9     13.1     3.2     0.7          
    Small and Medium Businesses 0.5     5.5     12.3     –     1.6          
    Corporate and Institutional Banking 0.3     5.4     40.7     –     1.3          
    Commercial Banking 0.4     5.5     21.6     –     1.4          
    Other –     –     –     –     –          
    Total 0.2     3.3     15.4     3.2     0.8          
                                         

    1 Contains central fair value hedge accounting adjustments.

    2 UK Motor Finance includes £170 million relating to provisions against residual values of vehicles subject to finance leases.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and section 27A of the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended, with respect to the business, strategy, plans and/or results of Lloyds Bank plc together with its subsidiaries (the Lloyds Bank Group) and its current goals and expectations. Statements that are not historical or current facts, including statements about the Lloyds Bank Group’s or its directors’ and/or management’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Words such as, without limitation, ‘believes’, ‘achieves’, ‘anticipates’, ‘estimates’, ‘expects’, ‘targets’, ‘should’, ‘intends’, ‘aims’, ‘projects’, ‘plans’, ‘potential’, ‘will’, ‘would’, ‘could’, ‘considered’, ‘likely’, ‘may’, ‘seek’, ‘estimate’, ‘probability’, ‘goal’, ‘objective’, ‘deliver’, ‘endeavour’, ‘prospects’, ‘optimistic’ and similar expressions or variations on these expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements concern or may affect future matters, including but not limited to: projections or expectations of the Lloyds Bank Group’s future financial position, including profit attributable to shareholders, provisions, economic profit, dividends, capital structure, portfolios, net interest margin, capital ratios, liquidity, risk-weighted assets (RWAs), expenditures or any other financial items or ratios; litigation, regulatory and governmental investigations; the Lloyds Bank Group’s future financial performance; the level and extent of future impairments and write-downs; the Lloyds Bank Group’s ESG targets and/or commitments; statements of plans, objectives or goals of the Lloyds Bank Group or its management and other statements that are not historical fact and statements of assumptions underlying such statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend upon circumstances that will or may occur in the future. Factors that could cause actual business, strategy, targets, plans and/or results (including but not limited to the payment of dividends) to differ materially from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: general economic and business conditions in the UK and internationally; acts of hostility or terrorism and responses to those acts, or other such events; geopolitical unpredictability; the war between Russia and Ukraine; the conflicts in the Middle East; the tensions between China and Taiwan; political instability including as a result of any UK general election; market related risks, trends and developments; changes in client and consumer behaviour and demand; exposure to counterparty risk; the ability to access sufficient sources of capital, liquidity and funding when required; changes to the Lloyds Bank Group’s or Lloyds Banking Group plc’s credit ratings; fluctuations in interest rates, inflation, exchange rates, stock markets and currencies; volatility in credit markets; volatility in the price of the Lloyds Bank Group’s securities; tightening of monetary policy in jurisdictions in which the Lloyds Bank Group operates; natural pandemic and other disasters; risks concerning borrower and counterparty credit quality; risks affecting defined benefit pension schemes; changes in laws, regulations, practices and accounting standards or taxation; changes to regulatory capital or liquidity requirements and similar contingencies; the policies and actions of governmental or regulatory authorities or courts together with any resulting impact on the future structure of the Lloyds Bank Group; risks associated with the Lloyds Bank Group’s compliance with a wide range of laws and regulations; assessment related to resolution planning requirements; risks related to regulatory actions which may be taken in the event of a bank or Lloyds Bank Group or Lloyds Banking Group failure; exposure to legal, regulatory or competition proceedings, investigations or complaints; failure to comply with anti-money laundering, counter terrorist financing, anti-bribery and sanctions regulations; failure to prevent or detect any illegal or improper activities; operational risks including risks as a result of the failure of third party suppliers; conduct risk; technological changes and risks to the security of IT and operational infrastructure, systems, data and information resulting from increased threat of cyber and other attacks; technological failure; inadequate or failed internal or external processes or systems; risks relating to ESG matters, such as climate change (and achieving climate change ambitions) and decarbonisation, including the Lloyds Bank Group’s or the Lloyds Banking Group’s ability along with the government and other stakeholders to measure, manage and mitigate the impacts of climate change effectively, and human rights issues; the impact of competitive conditions; failure to attract, retain and develop high calibre talent; the ability to achieve strategic objectives; the ability to derive cost savings and other benefits including, but without limitation, as a result of any acquisitions, disposals and other strategic transactions; inability to capture accurately the expected value from acquisitions; and assumptions and estimates that form the basis of the Lloyds Bank Group’s financial statements. A number of these influences and factors are beyond the Lloyds Bank Group’s control. Please refer to the latest Annual Report on Form 20-F filed by Lloyds Bank plc with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC), which is available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov, for a discussion of certain factors and risks. Lloyds Bank plc may also make or disclose written and/or oral forward-looking statements in other written materials and in oral statements made by the directors, officers or employees of Lloyds Bank plc to third parties, including financial analysts. Except as required by any applicable law or regulation, the forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of today’s date, and the Lloyds Bank Group expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The information, statements and opinions contained in this document do not constitute a public offer under any applicable law or an offer to sell any securities or financial instruments or any advice or recommendation with respect to such securities or financial instruments.

    CONTACTS

    For further information please contact:

    INVESTORS AND ANALYSTS

    Douglas Radcliffe
    Group Investor Relations Director
    020 7356 1571
    douglas.radcliffe@lloydsbanking.com

    Nora Thoden
    Director of Investor Relations – ESG
    020 7356 2334
    nora.thoden@lloydsbanking.com

    Tom Grantham
    Investor Relations Senior Manager
    07851 440 091
    thomas.grantham@lloydsbanking.com

    Sarah Robson
    Investor Relations Senior Manager
    07494 513 983
    sarah.robson2@lloydsbanking.com

    CORPORATE AFFAIRS

    Grant Ringshaw
    External Relations Director
    020 7356 2362
    grant.ringshaw@lloydsbanking.com

    Matt Smith
    Head of Media Relations
    07788 352 487
    matt.smith@lloydsbanking.com

    Copies of this News Release may be obtained from:
    Investor Relations, Lloyds Banking Group plc, 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN
    The statement can also be found on the Group’s website – http://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com

    Registered office: Lloyds Bank plc, 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN
    Registered in England No. 2065

    This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit http://www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Crime news: procurement process for 2025 Standard Crime Contract

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The second stage of the procurement process opens for delivery of criminal legal aid services from Wednesday 1 October 2025.

    Stage 2 of the crime procurement process is now open. It closes on 30 April 2025. Tenders submitted in this stage will have contracts commence on 1 October 2025 and will be able to join the duty rotas from January 2026.

    If you have submitted a bid in Stage 1 you should not tender Stage 2. Anyone who tendered in Stage 1 will be notified of the outcome in mid-December 2024.

    Tenders received after Thursday 1 May 2025 will be opened on the 1st working day of each month following their submission commencing from 1 July 2025 and, where successful, the contract will commence no later than three months after processing began.

    How do I tender?

    Tenders must be submitted using the LAA’s eTendering system.

    For full details of the procurement process please read the Application Guide which is available at Crime Contract 2025 Tender – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Firm shut down for falsely offering ‘early resolution’ to IVA debt solutions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Firm offered advice on early resolution to customers’ IVA debt solutions despite not being licensed to provide financial or debt advice

    • McKenzie Jones Associates charged fees to help end customers’ IVAs early 

    • The company promised full refunds if IVAs did not reach an early solution – but investigators found no evidence that refunds were made 

    • Investigation found the firm had taken almost £55,000 in fees for this service, but a lack of company records prevented its full financial position from being uncovered 

    A company which claimed to help customers reach an early resolution to their Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), but instead exposed them to the risk of their debt solution failing, has been closed down. 

    McKenzie Jones Associates, which was last registered to an address in Kent Road, Formby, near Liverpool, was wound up at the High Court in Manchester on 22 October 2024. 

    The company sent unsolicited letters to people who had an IVA, which led to offers to help secure an early resolution to the debt solution for a fee.

    IVAs are legally-binding agreements with creditors to pay all or part of a person’s debts, and usually last about five years. 

    Sales staff for the company told customers it would refund the fee if it did not achieve an early resolution of their IVAs. 

    The company also falsely advised customers that their IVA supervisors – the Insolvency Practitioners administering their debt solutions – must place the IVAs on hold and suggested that customers should refuse to speak to their IVA supervisors if they contacted them.

    However McKenzie Jones Associates was not registered with the Financial Conduct Authority to provide debt advice, and their advice exposed customers to the risk of their IVAs failing.

    David Usher, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said

    McKenzie Jones Associates took advantage of people in debt to offer them a solution that was unlikely to work and gave advice which jeopardised the success of their IVAs. 

    The Insolvency Service has powers to remove companies that operate against the public interest. 

    We will shut down businesses that prey on people facing tough times and protect the public from further financial harm. 

    The company generated custom by sending letters to people listed on the Individual Insolvency Register, inviting them to call a freephone number to discuss ‘financially beneficial information’. 

    Those who responded were offered help to encourage their IVA Supervisors to propose an early resolution of the IVA, known as a ‘Paid to Date’ solution, to their creditors. 

    Sales staff for McKenzie Jones Associates advised customers that they would use ‘new government legislation’ to help them exit their IVA. But investigators found this ‘legislation’ was in fact guidance for Insolvency Practitioners on specific considerations for recommending a Paid to Date solution. 

    One customer was told that she would be debt free in six months if she used the company’s services. 

    But in reality the likelihood of such an early resolution was very low. 

    The firm typically charged a £450 fee, paid over six instalments of £75.

    Their customer records showed 424 files related to Paid to Date, and investigators found that the company had received at least £54,900 from clients under the Paid to Date scheme, but had made no provision to pay refunds. 

    None of the customers who responded to the investigation had benefited from the services offered by the company or received a refund. 

    And as the firm’s directors failed to maintain or hand over all the company’s books, investigators were unable to establish the true financial position of the company, including the full amount it had received under the scheme, or the amount McKenzie Jones Associates had refunded – if any – to clients.

    They were also unable to verify the accuracy of accounts filed for the periods ending 31 December 2020 and 31 December 2021, or confirm whether receipts of £128,996 and payments from £129,046 in McKenzie Jones Associates’ bank accounts were legitimate business transactions. 

    McKenzie Jones Associates ceased trading in April 2023. 

    The Official Receiver was appointed by the court as liquidator of the company. All enquiries concerning the affairs of McKenzie Jones Associates should be made to the Official Receiver of the Public Interest Unit: 16th Floor, 1 Westfield Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1HZ. Email: piu.or@insolvency.gov.uk.

    Further Information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Market dynamics vary at key natural gas pricing hubs

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    October 23, 2024

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration
    Note: $/MMBtu=dollars per million British thermal units

    Pricing hubs provide transactional flexibility to buyers and sellers in the natural gas industry. The integrated North American market has close to 200 pricing hubs, which vary by size, location, type, liquidity, and age. Pricing hubs convey market information and make it easier for buyers and sellers to arrange natural gas deals in physical and financial markets across many time periods: intra-day, daily, weekly, balance-of-month, monthly, seasonally, and annually. Changes in prices at natural gas hubs tend to be reflected in movements in prices at nearby power market hubs or zones. A mix of private price reporting agencies and exchanges offer services and platforms to help buyers, sellers, and market observers obtain pricing information. Pricing hubs are dynamic; new ones are established or are retired based on market conditions and consumer preferences.

    Prices can vary substantially at hubs based on many factors: geographic location, unique or seasonal weather conditions, proximity to energy supplies, prevalence of constraints or bottlenecks, access to substitutes, and infrastructure availability.

    We examine several key pricing hubs below to better understand regional natural gas pricing.

    A closer look at key pricing hubs around the United States

    South Central region
    Henry Hub in Erath, Louisiana, has many features that make it an important pricing benchmark: pipeline interconnectivity, proximity to storage and production, access to diverse markets, and lots of buyers and sellers of natural gas, especially with growing export markets for natural gas. Henry Hub is the delivery location for natural gas futures contracts transacted on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) that go to physical settlement. Most natural gas at U.S. trading hubs is priced relative to Henry Hub, which is also an increasingly relevant benchmark for global liquefied natural gas (LNG) purchases, as U.S. exports increase and as Henry Hub price indexation is used to price deliveries at U.S. export terminals.

    The Houston Ship Channel (HSC) is in southeastern Texas in the Port of Houston, surrounded by numerous natural gas and processing plants along the Gulf Coast. The HSC market is diverse, providing price transparency and liquidity for exports markets, industrial and process gas uses, and power generation. Production from the nearby Eagle Ford shale formation accounted for about 6% of total marketed natural gas in the United States last year. Growing LNG exports and related facilities that process the hydrocarbon gas liquids present in natural gas in this region have also further increased the significance of this hub, as have increased natural gas exports via pipeline to Mexico.

    The Waha natural gas pricing hub is in West Texas near Permian Basin production activities and helps natural gas market participants get a sense of pricing in West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. The Permian Basin produced 19% of total U.S. natural gas in 2023, with most coming from associated gas from crude oil wells. Because natural gas production in the Permian Basin has increased more rapidly than natural gas pipeline takeaway capacity, Waha prices are typically lower than those at other hubs, sometimes turning negative.

    Pacific region
    SoCal Citygate is the major natural gas pricing hub in Southern California in the Los Angeles Basin, with substantial natural gas consumption by the various local sectors, averaging about 2.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) in 2023. SoCal Citygate prices reflect the price of moving natural gas from diverse nearby basins and Mexico into the Los Angeles metro area’s distribution system. Prices also include the cost of transporting natural gas from the California border to the distribution system in the greater Los Angeles Basin. SoCal Citygate traded at prices that were historically low for this hub through the first eight months of 2024, due to milder winter conditions, increased solar generation, more natural gas in storage, and increased hydroelectric power generation.

    Opal is a key natural gas pricing hub in southwestern Wyoming. The Kern River Gas Transmission pipeline, which is connected to the Opal Hub, is the only interstate pipeline that delivers natural gas directly from the Rocky Mountain region to Southern California. This pipeline receives about 25% of the Rocky Mountain’s natural gas supply, and its deliveries account for approximately 25% of California’s natural gas demand, according to pipeline owner BHE. Operations at Opal’s large nearby processing plant often influence price volatility.

    Northwest Sumas is the key pricing hub along the British Columbia-Washington border for natural gas in the Pacific Northwest, providing customers in the Pacific Northwest with natural gas supply diversity. Sumas prices reflect market conditions in the Pacific Northwest, such as the state of the regional hydroelectric market, natural gas storage availability, space heating needs, upstream gas conditions in British Columbia, and increasing power burn.

    Midwest region
    At Chicago Citygate in Illinois, seven major interstate pipelines transporting natural gas from Canada, the Southwest, and the Gulf of Mexico converge. Chicago Citygate, the primary pricing hub for end users in Chicago and parts of the upper Midwest, is linked to three pipelines that transport natural gas from Henry Hub, increasing the linkage of prices between the two hubs. This market is also close to storage, and abundant infrastructure helps to moderate seasonal and daily price volatility at this hub.

    Northeast region (defined as New York, New England, and Pennsylvania)
    Algonquin Citygate is an important pricing hub in the northeastern United States, and prices at this hub reflect natural gas market dynamics in Boston, Massachusetts, and elsewhere in New England. New England relies heavily on natural gas for heating in the winter months, but supplies are constrained by the region’s limited natural gas pipeline capacity and changing fuel mix. Price volatility at Algonquin Citygate is typically related to these periods of peak demand.

    Transco Zone 6 NY is a key pricing hub primarily serving New York City. Named after the Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, Transco is the main pipeline serving the U.S. eastern seaboard. Price volatility at Transco Zone 6 NY tends to be reflected in locational marginal prices in the New York Independent System Operator’s zones in New York City (Zone J) and Long Island (Zone I). Historically, disruptions or constraints along this long-distance pipeline quickly affected prices, but recently, production in the Appalachian Basin has muted those effects. Competing needs for deliveries along the Transco network can contribute to higher prices at Transco Zone 6 NY, especially in the winter.

    Eastern Gas South (formerly Dominion South) serves as a pricing hub in the mid-Atlantic and is one of the most important trading hubs in the United States. In addition to being a key point of liquidity for buyers and sellers of Appalachian natural gas, this benchmark has undergone substantial growth in production over the past decade, accounting for 29%, or 37.7 Bcf/d, of gross natural gas production in the United States last year. Prices in this area tend to be discounted to the Henry Hub price because of regional productivity, supply surpassing local demand, and transportation of natural gas supply out of Appalachia being constrained by takeaway pipeline capacity.

    We provide the locations of major hubs in our U.S. Energy Atlas geospatial application in the Natural Gas Infrastructure and Resources layer.

    Principal contributors: Andrew Iraola, Chris Peterson

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Traders see almost £10,000 worth of fake Paddington Bear goods seized ahead of half-term film release | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Almost £10,000 worth of counterfeit Paddington Bear merchandise was seized by Westminster City Council’s Trading Standards during raids along Oxford Street.

    Just days away from the release of the latest film in the Paddington series, officers targeted nine shops along Oxford Street and Central London seizing £9,500 worth of unofficial merchandise. Some of the items seized included t-shirts, tote bags, fridge magnets and even shot glasses – all emblazoned with the image of Westminster’s famous furry character.

    Supporting the council’s officers were representatives from Surelock, acting on behalf of Paddington & Co. They helped to identify products that displayed trademarks and copyrighted material without the permission of the owner. This represented criminal breaches of the Trade Marks Act 1994 and Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

    When it comes to protecting Westminster’s consumers the council provides more than the bear necessities. This latest sting is part of a wider operation by the council targeting unscrupulous businesses on Europe’s premier shopping destination that continue to sell counterfeit goods or American candy or snacks containing banned ingredients.

    Ron Harrison, Managing Director of Surelock said: 

    We are extremely grateful to the team, carrying out enforcement action at so many premises in one day, it was unprecedented, everyone worked very hard.”

    Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Adam Hug said:

    Trying to con shoppers in Westminster with fake Paddington goods is bear-faced cheek we won’t stand for.

    “Our job is to ensure shoppers get what they pay for. Big retail names are making a welcome return to Oxford Street and rogue traders have been a blemish on the area for too long.

    “People trying to fleece Paddington fans have felt the long-arm of the paw, and so will anyone who tries to rip off customers in Westminster.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Play your part in a greener, more resilient Plymouth

    Source: City of Plymouth

    From Monday 4 to Friday 8 November, in celebration of Green Careers Week, the Skills team at Plymouth City Council are inviting local people to take part in activities that will inspire them to get involved in developing the city’s green economy.

    Students, career changers, job seekers, or anyone simply interested in the transition to a more sustainable and green economy can sign up to attend free sessions that aim to inspire local people to contribute to a sustainable future, while also exploring the range of green careers available in Plymouth.

    Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “Whether you’re interested in renewable energy, conservation, or sustainable construction, taking part in these Green Careers Week activities can help you to find out how your skills can play a part in a greener, more resilient Plymouth.

    “There’s a fantastic line-up of activities with organisations including MVV Plymouth, Fugro, Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, Poole Farm, Secure Forests, the University of Plymouth, Plymouth City Bus and Southwest Highways, and it’s a great chance for people to find out more about the career opportunities that are out there.

    “Join us to discover how various sectors in our city are contributing to a sustainable future and explore the range of green careers available!”

    Click here to view the programme and for details on Green Careers Week with Skills Launchpad Plymouth.

    If you are interested in participating in Green Careers Week, please click here to sign up. You can also email skillslaunchpad@plymouth.gov.uk  

    ​​​

    ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Esplanade resurfacing during October half term23 October 2024 The Government of Jersey will be carrying out essential highway maintenance on the eastbound carriageway of the Esplanade from 26 October to 3 November 2024. The Esplanade and Victoria Avenue will remain… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 October 2024

    The Government of Jersey will be carrying out essential highway maintenance on the eastbound carriageway of the Esplanade from 26 October to 3 November 2024.

    The Esplanade and Victoria Avenue will remain open in both directions during the work, with a contraflow to ensure there are two lanes for each direction. 

    Signed diversions will also be in place, which will be especially important if you have an appointment at the General Hospital. Drivers approaching from the east will need to use Castle Street to get to Patriotic Street Car Park, while those coming from the west will need to use Cheapside/Gloucester Street to access Kensington Place/Patriotic Street. 

    We are sorry for any inconvenience caused. The work is much needed as some sections were last improved more than 20 years ago. 

    More details on diversions and working times are detailed on gov.je/roadworks​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rick Witter’s namesake gritter unveiled!

    Source: City of York

    City of York Council is introducing its new fleet of gritters ahead of the winter season, with one named as Rick Gritter (after Rick Witter, Shed Seven).

    The lead singer from the local band Shed Seven has been chosen in recognition of their achievements in the last year.

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of City of York Council, said:

    We’ve got a couple of new gritters this year, so this is a fantastic opportunity mark a hometown tribute to Rick and the band in recognition of their achievements.

    “Our gritting season officially starts in November, with some ‘dry runs’ taking place this month. So, you’ll start to see Rick Gritter on the streets of York soon!”

    Here’s how the council is helping residents, visitors and businesses during the winter months:

    Gritting

    The council has stockpiled 3,000 tonnes of road salt (as per national reserves allow), which is stored in its salt barn at Hazel Court depot.

    On average, crews spread around 6,000 tonnes of road salt per season, over 75-80 road treatments (gritter runs). The council has a full crew of staff for its gritters, for the whole season.

    Each season, crews treat eight routes across the highway, covering 226miles (365km) of York’s road network, including 13.6miles (22km) of priority footpaths and off road cycle network, and when resources allow, 36miles (58km) of cycle network.

    Salt bins in wards

    Around 180 salt bins, amounting to approximately 36tonnes of salt in total, are located across the city in prominent places such as near slopes or shopping areas. To locate salt bins, or report them empty visit the council website.

    Cycle/walking network

    Small tractors will be used to grit 11miles (18km) of York’s cycle/walking network to help keep people safer in winter conditions.

    Popular cycle routes, including Scarborough Bridge and other off road bridges too, are included.

    Off road cycle networks are often difficult to grit or salt because cycles don’t have the same weight or action as a vehicle tyre. Effective gritting works by vehicles driving over the grit with their tyres which beds the grit into the snow and ice.

    Whilst cars or heavy vehicles generally follow the same tyre path. Cycle tyres are much thinner and therefore these typical treatments are less effective.

    Snow wardens

    The council runs a snow warden scheme, which supports around 200 volunteers and is encouraging more people to join. Volunteers receive training, equipment and insurance cover. They choose where and when to keep pavements free of ice and snow and make a real difference to their neighbourhoods. Find out more online.

    For more information about gritting in York, visit the winter page on the council website, or follow Facebook, X, Instagram.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Are Londoners’ voices heard in transport planning?

    Source: Mayor of London

    Who is using London’s transport, and what is being done to make sure their needs are taken into account in planning services?

    Tomorrow, the London Assembly Transport Committee looks at demographic trends in people using different services, and examines what is being done to provide accessible and inclusive transport options for Londoners.

    The meeting will focus on the needs of women, children and young adults, and people in low-income households. The Committee has also launched a call for evidence, which is open to transport planners, campaign and advocacy groups with expertise on the needs of Londoners from a broad range of demographics.

    Members will ask what more, or alternative, accessibility and inclusion measures Transport for London (TfL) could consider to improve its services, and ask how TfL engages with different groups as it plans and designs our transport system.

    The Committee will also hear from Members of some of TfL’s advisory groups, to understand whether they are consulted with and listened to in the transport planning process, and on decisions affecting the services they use.

    Guests include:

    Panel 1: 2pm – 3.30pm

    • Dr Emily Barker, Research and Learning Officer, 4in10
    • Gideon Salutin, Senior Researcher, Social Market Foundation
    • Dr Liz Hind, Senior Local Partnerships and Training Officer, Women’s Budget Group
    • Dr Sara Reis, Deputy Director and Head of Research and Policy, Women’s Budget Group

    Panel 2: 3.45pm – 4.45pm

    • James Lee, City Bridge Foundation, TfL’s Independent Disability Advisory Group Board Member
    • Lauren Price, TfL’s Youth Panel Member
    • Callum Shakespeare, Whizz Kidz, TfL’s Inclusive Transport Forum Member

    The meeting will take place on Thursday 24 October from 2pm, in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

    Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

    The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

    Follow us @LondonAssembly.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: 4BIO Capital leads oversubscribed $28.4 million Series A financing of March Biosciences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    March Bio is rapidly advancing its innovative autologous chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, MB-105, in development for the treatment of relapsed and refractory CD5 positive T-cell lymphoma.

    Series A was led by 4BIO Capital and Mission BioCapital with participation from KdT Ventures, Alexandria Venture Investments, Volnay Therapeutics, Modi Ventures, and Mansueto Investments.

    London, United Kingdom, 23 October 2024 – 4BIO Capital (“4BIO” or “the Group”), an international venture capital firm unlocking the treatments of the future by investing in advanced therapies and other emerging technologies, today announces that it has led a $28.4 million (£21.9 million) Series A Financing round of March Biosciences (“March Bio” or the “Company”).

    4BIO led the oversubscribed round alongside Mission BioCapital with participation from new investors KdT Ventures, Alexandria Venture Investments, Volnay Therapeutics, Modi Ventures and Mansueto Investments and existing investors TMC Venture Fund, Cancer Focus Fund and Small Ventures.

    Since its inception as a spinout of the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy (Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital), March Bio has rapidly advanced its innovative autologous chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, MB-105, in development for the treatment of relapsed and refractory CD5 positive T-cell lymphoma. MB-105 is specifically engineered to overcome major hurdles related to T-cell targeting by overcoming T-cell fratricide while maintaining high potency against CD5 positive tumor cells. MB-105 has demonstrated a favorable safety profile and durable remissions in relapsed T-cell lymphoma patients in a Phase 1 clinical trial at Baylor College of Medicine, with plans to begin a Phase 2 clinical trial in early 2025. Proceeds from the financing will support the Phase 2 clinical development of MB-105 to expand on this data with optimized manufacturing processes.

    Owen Smith, Partner of 4BIO Capital, said, “For far too long, T-cell cancers have been an innovation desert with patients facing a dismal prognosis. March Bio’s innovative autologous CAR-T approach brings patients new hope. MB-105 is specifically engineered for relapsed and refractory CD5 positive T-cell lymphomas and I am delighted that this targeted approach combined with the incredible team led by Sarah is moving rapidly into Phase 2 to bring this exciting new treatment to patients. We are honored to be a co-lead investor in March Bio and to help support the company as it continues in its mission to bring transformative therapies to those in urgent need.”

    Sarah Hein, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of March Biosciences, added, “This oversubscribed financing enables us to advance our first-in-class CAR-T therapy, MB-105, into a Phase 2 trial for T-cell lymphoma – an indication with an exceptionally poor prognosis and few treatment options. With the support and confidence of 4BIO and all of our investors, we are not only advancing our lead program but also expanding our pipeline, underscoring our commitment to delivering best-in-class therapies to patients that can change the treatment paradigm for these challenging cancers.”

    Owen Smith of 4BIO Capital and Cassidy Blundell of Mission BioCapital will be joining March Bio’s Board of Directors. The financing will also provide resources for the ongoing development of undisclosed pipeline products, as well as for general corporate proceeds.

    – End –

    Contacts

    4BIO Capital +44 (0) 203 427 5500
    info@4biocapital.com
       
    ICR Consilium
    Amber Fennell, Kris Lam, Jonathan Edwards    		 +44 (0)20 3709 5700
    4biocapital@consilium-comms.com

    About 4BIO Capital

    4BIO Capital (“4BIO”) is an international venture capital firm focused on investing in advanced therapies, including genomic medicines and other emerging technologies, to unlock the treatments of the future. 4BIO’s objective is to invest in, support, and grow early-stage companies developing treatments in areas of high unmet medical need, with the ultimate goal of ensuring access to these potentially curative therapies for all patients. Specifically, it looks for viable, high-quality opportunities in cell and gene therapy, RNA-based therapy, targeted therapies, and the microbiome. The 4BIO team comprises leading advanced therapy scientists and experienced life science investors who have collectively published over 250 scientific articles in prestigious academic journals including Nature, The Lancet, Cell, and the New England Journal of Medicine. 4BIO has both an unrivalled network within the advanced therapy sector and a unique understanding of the criteria that define a successful investment opportunity in this space. For more information, connect with us on LinkedIn and X @4biocapital and visit http://www.4biocapital.com.

    About March Biosciences

    Houston-based March Biosciences, launched from the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy (Baylor College of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital), is dedicated to addressing challenging cancers unresponsive to current immunotherapies. Its lead asset, MB-105, is a CD5-targeted CAR-T cell therapy currently in Phase 1 trials in patients with refractory T-cell lymphoma and leukemia, with promising signals of efficacy and safety to date. A Phase 2 trial is expected to begin next early year. The company has raised over $50M to date, inclusive of this current financing and support from the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) and the NIH SBIR program. Learn more at http://www.march.bio.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ESFA Update: 23 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Latest information and actions from the Education and Skills Funding Agency for academies, schools, colleges, local authorities and further education providers.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    ESFA Update further education: 23 October 2024

    HTML

    ESFA Update academies: 23 October 2024

    HTML

    ESFA Update local authorities: 23 October 2024

    HTML

    Details

    Latest for further education

    Article Title
    Action The further education workforce data collection is now open
    Information Targeted retention incentive applications are now open
    Information National professional qualification targeted support funding 2023 to 2024 allocations
    Information Further Education Condition Data Collection 2
    Information 16 to 19 and adult revenue funding allocations for 2024 to 2025
    Reminder Final funding claim submission for 2023 to 2024 by Friday 25 October 2024

    Latest information for academies

    Article Title
    Information Targeted retention incentive applications are now open
    Information National professional qualification targeted support funding 2023 to 2024 allocations
    Information 16 to 19 and adult revenue funding allocations for 2024 to 2025
    Information New digital format for the general annual grant statement
    Information Academy trust management accounting good practice guide
    Information PE and sport premium allocations and conditions of grant for 2024 to 2025 academic year
    Events and webinars Mock trial – risk protection arrangement (RPA) members only
    Events and webinars Academy finance professionals national power hour with guest speaker Minister McKinnell

    Latest information for local authorities

    Article Title
    Action The further education workforce data collection is now open
    Information National professional qualification targeted support funding 2023 to 2024 allocations
    Information Copyright licences for schools
    Information 16 to 19 and adult revenue funding allocations for 2024 to 2025
    Information Update on the 2024 autumn term early years data collection
    Information PE and sport premium allocations and conditions of grant for 2024 to 2025 academic year
    Reminder Final funding claim submission for 2023 to 2024 by Friday 25 October 2024
    Events and webinars Mock trial – risk protection arrangement (RPA) members only

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight the most successful area with Warmer Homes scheme 23 October 2024 Warmer Homes

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    A government funded scheme allowing eligible Island residents to apply for free upgrades to make their homes more energy efficient has been the most successful in our region.

    Upgrades are worth up to £38,000 per household and could include insulation, air source heat pumps and solar PV panels which can be installed for free, saving households thousands of pounds in the future. The eligibility criteria includes,

    • You use electric, oil or LPG to heat your home, not mains gas
    • Your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is D, E, F, or G (Warmer Homes can help you find out if you’re not sure).
    • You have a household income of £36,000 or under, or you or you receive a means-tested benefit.

    The Isle of Wight Council was among a group of 23 local authorities to successfully bid for £41.4 million in government funding. The money comes from the Home Upgrade Grant and aims to help lower income households whose home is not very energy efficient and not heated by mains gas.

    Councillor Phil Jordan, council leader, said: “We are really pleased that eligible Isle of Wight residents have taken up the Warmer Homes scheme more than anywhere else in the southern region. This is testament to the work we have done to ensure that those who can claim this help have been targeted. We have produced a campaign to included social media and radio ads as well as working closely with our partners to promote the scheme to those eligible residents.’’

    He continues ‘’Improving energy efficiency in homes is a key issue. Energy bills are a major concern for many households so anything that can be done to reduce these costs is vital. Making homes more energy efficient at the same time helps to reduce carbon emissions across the Island.”

    Katherine Shadwell, Project Manager, AgilityEco said: “We are proud to be supporting the Isle of Wight Council with their delivery of the Warmer Homes scheme. Since 2023, the Warmer Homes scheme has supported Isle of Wight residents with a range of fully funded energy-saving home improvements to help keep their homes warm and their energy bills low. Since the Warmer Homes scheme has been introduced to the Island, we have supported over 120 homes with over £2.5 million of fully funded energy-saving measures.”

    The scheme has now been extended by a further month and the application deadline for residents is now the end of November (31/11/2024).

    More information can be found on the Isle of Wight Council website by visiting The Warmer Homes programme

    You can also call the freephone number on 0800 038 5737 or email: retrofit@warmerhomes.org.uk for further information and guidance.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Libraries consultation proposes revised opening hours

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Wednesday, 23rd October 2024

    Following feedback from the final phase of the libraries consultation, it was highlighted there was a need for more equitable hours. Therefore, we are now proposing a revision of option 4.

    The revision of option 4 is directly based on input from responses during the final phase consultation, which closed last month. We now want to hear your thoughts on this revised option 4 and the proposed hours for each library.

    We welcome everyone who lives, works and study in Birmingham to share your thoughts and comments on the revised option 4 model. Share your comments on the revised proposals here before 11.59pm 3 November 2024.

    The revised option 4 model will be presented to Cabinet for their decision in January 2025. Final decisions will not be made until after the Cabinet meeting and results will be shared in advance across the council’s channels.

    To find more information about the revised proposal visit the library consultation page.

    Paper forms will also be available at all Birmingham Libraries.

    Comment can also be sent via email to LibrariesPublicConsultation@birmingham.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: As more Americans go ‘no contact’ with their parents, they live out a dilemma at the heart of Shakespeare’s ‘King Lear’

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeanette Tran, Associate Professor of English, Drake University

    Losing a connection to your family, intentionally or not, is tragic. catscandotcom/E+ via Getty Images

    Is blood thicker than water? Should family always come first?

    These clichés about the importance of family abound, despite the recognition that familial relations are oftentimes hard, if not downright dysfunctional.

    But over the past few years, a discussion has emerged about a somewhat taboo move: cutting ties altogether with family members deemed “toxic.”

    Called going “no contact,” this form of estrangement usually involves adult children cutting ties with their parents. It might happen after years of abuse or when a parent disapproves of a child who has come out as LGBTQ+. Or it might be spurred by political or religious differences. Even Vice President Kamala Harris has been mostly estranged from her father since her parents’ divorce.

    The “no contact” movement has its proponents and detractors.

    Those in favor say people should disentangle from unhealthy relationships without shame, and that family should be held to the same standards as friends and romantic partners.

    Those against say the bar for what constitutes familial trauma has become too low, and that some kids who cut off all contact are being selfish.

    At the heart of the debate over the ethics of estrangement is a cultural attachment to the idea of family. The field of family estrangement is still in its early stages, but discussions of the collapsed parent-child relationship – its sources, its ethics, its consequences – can be found in literature across history. As I’ve encountered more articles, forums and social media posts devoted to family estrangement, I can’t help but see connections to Shakespeare’s “King Lear,” which I teach to my students as a tragedy about dysfunctional families.

    The tragedy features characters who are cast out by their families, and while the work is over 400 years old, it offers uncanny insight into the logic of modern family estrangement.

    Early modern family

    In Shakespeare’s time – the English early modern era, which spanned from the beginning of the 16th century to the start of the 18th century – Protestantism reinforced the idea that people had special obligations to their kin.

    As the English Puritan preacher John Foxe wrote in “The Book of Martyrs,” “Among all the affections of nature, there is none that is so deeply graved in a father’s mind, as the love and tender affection towards his children.”

    In Foxe’s teaching, children were blessings from God who required nurturing, spiritual guidance and material support from their parents. Children, in turn, were obliged to honor and obey their parents who cared for them.

    While this sounds simple enough, the early modern family was no less prone to dysfunction than the modern family.

    Just like today, parent-child relationships were dynamic and evolved across the life span of the parents. As historian Ilana Krausman Ben-Amos argues, the family bond was not sustained by adhering to God’s commands, but through giving and reciprocation that was asymmetrical.

    Parents could invest a lot into their children and get very little in return, and vice versa. Due to shorter life expectancy, many parents did not live to see their children come of age, and if they did, children rarely earned enough to pay their parents back for the cost of raising them. Thus, children might reciprocate in less material forms, such as through offering affection.

    When a parent died, the children might receive some form of inheritance, but this was largely determined by class status, gender and the order of birth.

    Shakespeare’s characters go ‘no contact’

    “King Lear” features two storylines. Each relates to the disintegration of the family.

    In ‘King Lear,’ Edgar cuts his family off after his father, Gloucester, disavows him.
    Heritage Images/Hulton Archive via Getty Images

    The first plot involves Gloucester and his two sons, Edgar and Edmund. Edmund is a bastard, which means when Gloucester dies, his legitimate brother, Edgar, will inherit everything. To get his revenge, Edmund forges a letter in which Edgar reveals plans to murder Gloucester to expedite his inheritance. Once Gloucester sees the letter, he writes Edgar off as a villain. Feeling betrayed, Edgar assumes a new identity as a beggar and goes no-contact with his family.

    In the second plot, King Lear attempts to divide his kingdom among his daughters. Because it is impossible to equally divvy up cities, towns and villages, he invents a contest: Each daughter will give a speech articulating their love for their father. He’ll award the best parts of the kingdom to the daughter who does the finest job stroking his ego.

    Lear expects Cordelia, his favorite, to outshine her sisters. But she refuses to play along and instead calls him out for his vanity. Feeling disrespected, Lear disinherits Cordelia. With no money, she’s forced to marry the first man who will take her and moves to France.

    In these family dramas, the parents are unfair, even vindictive, toward their children. But the conflict is still compelling and relatable to readers today because so many families are characterized by inequality.

    The favorite child, the preferred parent and the inheritance dispute are as timeless to families as birthday parties and funerals.

    Right and wrong get muddied

    Deception inspires Gloucester’s disavowal and disinheritance of Edgar. And, yes, Edmund’s scheme to destroy Edgar and Gloucester’s relationship is diabolical. But at the same time, Gloucester’s decision to throw away his decades-long relationship with his son over a letter – phony or not – seems rash.

    Was Edgar right to flee from his father? Or could something have been done to save the relationship?

    Cordelia is correct that Lear is vain for expecting his daughters to compete for their inheritance. At the same time, complimenting her father seems like a small price to pay for an entire kingdom.

    Is Cordelia acting like a spoiled brat by refusing to honor and obey her father? Or is she doing him a favor by calling out his unbecoming behavior?

    Shakespeare doesn’t offer us any clear answers to these questions; he just asks readers to wade in the complexity of them and experience the unique grief that comes from watching a family fall apart over something that maybe could have been avoided.

    No envy for the estranged

    No one gets a happy ending in “King Lear” – not the children who reject their parents, and most certainly not the parents, who need their children to protect them and care for them in old age.

    Edmund’s grief over his bastard status begets the grief he brings to Gloucester and Edgar. For failing to see the truth of Edgar’s innocence, Gloucester is physically blinded by one of Edmund’s unwitting co-conspirators, a punishment he accepts. When Edgar reunites with Gloucester, his eyes fill with tears as he witnesses his father’s physical suffering. Before Gloucester dies, Edgar asks his father for a blessing.

    Even though Lear cut off contact with Cordelia, she still returns to England once she learns her sisters have thrown Lear out onto the streets with nothing but the clothes on his back. The sisters come off as villains, but one could also see their abandoning Lear as karmic retribution. When Lear reunites with Cordelia, he begs for her forgiveness, suggesting he recognizes his failures, and she begs for his, recognizing her enduring love for him despite his faults.

    Cordelia comforts her father, King Lear, after he’s been betrayed by his other daughters.
    Universal History Archive/Getty Images

    Then and now, family estrangement often leads to loneliness, along with social stigma.

    Parents can be ashamed to say their children no longer speak to them. People who are estranged from their parents speak of the impulse to share milestones with family, but fear eroding the boundaries they’ve worked so hard to maintain.

    Just like in “King Lear,” not having a family also means being economically vulnerable: It remains difficult to get a loan or lease as a young adult without a co-signer.

    The advantages of belonging to a family are so obvious that losing that affiliation, intentionally or not, is tragic. “King Lear” ends with almost all the characters dying, but because this is a play – a fiction, a fantasy – they get to ask for and receive forgiveness before the curtain closes.

    Real life doesn’t usually work like that, nor should it be expected to. If “King Lear” and Kamala Harris’ estrangement from her father make anything clear, it is that no amount of money, power or threat of bad publicity can fully protect a family from dysfunction and disintegration.

    Jeanette Tran does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. As more Americans go ‘no contact’ with their parents, they live out a dilemma at the heart of Shakespeare’s ‘King Lear’ – https://theconversation.com/as-more-americans-go-no-contact-with-their-parents-they-live-out-a-dilemma-at-the-heart-of-shakespeares-king-lear-239916

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reminder to sign in at every hearing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Recent joint working between LAA and HMCTS has identified the need for greater consistency across all courts in the way advocates sign in on all hearing days.

    New guidance has been issued by HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) to all court staff and the expectation is that counsel and defence practitioners will be required to sign in at every hearing.

    This will improve the data within Common Platform and enable the Legal Aid Agency to process claims without the need to request an attendance note and delay any payments.

    Evidence of attendance via the court log or attendance note is vital to ensure that the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) can evidence that payments are being made in compliance with the Criminal Procedure Rules. All payments must be evidenced for Crown Court hearings.

    Detailed guidance for how to sign in is available on the HMCTS GOV.UK pages: Check in to a Common Platform hearing – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

    Further information

    Crown Court fee guidance

    Legal aid guidance page has the following resources:

    Criminal Bills Assessment Manual

    Regulatory links:

    Criminal Legal Aid (Remuneration) Regulations 2013 – regulation 13(3)

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Child Poverty Taskforce aims to ‘give all children the best start in life’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Voices of struggling families, anti-poverty organisations and local leaders will be put at the centre of the Child Poverty Taskforce’s work to build an ambitious strategy to give all children the best start in life, ministers have pledged in a new framework published today [Wednesday 23 October].

    • Child Poverty Taskforce co-chairs Liz Kendall and Bridget Phillipson speak to parents and Barnardo’s CEO at a charity centre in Brent  

    • Comes as new framework sets out how Child Poverty Taskforce will build a bold strategy to break down barriers to opportunity and give all children the best start in life  

    • Ministers to host events and travel across the United Kingdom to hear views and experiences of local leaders, charities and those living in poverty

    The Taskforce today publishes a framework for the strategy that will come out in the Spring. 

    Over the coming months the Taskforce will focus on reducing the number of children in relative poverty after housing costs, reducing the number of children who are going without essentials, and giving all children the best start in life.

    The publication outlines how the Taskforce will work with key anti-poverty organisations around targets such as reducing costs, increasing incomes and improving access to early year’s support for struggling families.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall MP and Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP kicked off this engagement by visiting a Barnardo’s Family Centre in Brent alongside Barnardo’s CEO Lynn Perry MBE. They joined a children’s session focused on healthy eating and heard how parents – including single parents – are struggling with the cost of essentials.

    Later today, ministers will meet with the likes of Ofgem, The Food Foundation, Water UK and other leading organisations on the theme of reducing household costs.

    The new document sets out how ministers will take part in events across the nations and regions of the United Kingdom, bringing together a diverse range of voices and expertise to address the systemic drivers of poverty – ranging from employment to housing – as it creates an ambitious strategy to be set out in the Spring.

    Taskforce co-chair and Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall MP will visit Scotland next month to bring together local leaders, key charities and organisations as well as parents, children and frontline workers.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall MP said:  

    Children can’t fulfil their potential without food in their bellies or a roof over their head. And Britain cannot fulfil its potential when the talents of so many children are being denied.

    It is unacceptable that more than 4m children are now growing up in poverty. Under our new government, this will change.

    We will work with campaigners and experts – and struggling families across the country to deliver a bold and ambitious strategy that drives down poverty and drives up opportunity in every corner of the land.

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP said:  

    The stain of poverty of child poverty in this country has jeopardised the life chances of too many children for too long.

    Ending child poverty is a complex and difficult task, but our defining mission is to break down the unfair link between background and success – so every child believes that opportunity can belong to them.

    Today’s framework sets the clear direction on this mission, ensuring we are united across government and with stakeholders to drive down household costs.

    A new forum of parents and carers living across the UK will be set up to ensure the experiences of children in poverty, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, feed into the final strategy.

    Leading organisations such as Barnardo’s, Citizens Advice, the National Children’s Bureau and Save the Children will share their knowledge with Ministers, and a new board of leading academics and experts on tackling poverty will inform, test and scrutinise the work being done on the Strategy.

    Barnardo’s Chief Executive, Lynn Perry MBE, said:    

    We are seeing epidemic levels of poverty amongst children in the UK. Across the country, families are facing a desperate struggle to put food on the table, keep the lights on and heat their homes this winter. More than 4.3 million children are growing up in poverty, with one in four families saying they’ve struggled to afford food in the last 12 months alone.   

    Growing up in poverty can have a devastating impact on a child’s life, affecting their learning, mental and physical health long into adulthood, while limiting their life chances.  

    We’re grateful to the Secretaries of State for Work and Pensions and Education for their visit to meet children and families at our Brent service which supports those struggling with the cost-of-living. We look forward to working with ministers to find long-term solutions to these issues whilst recognising families also need immediate help this winter.

    Dame Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive at Citizens Advice, said:  

    The cost-of-living crisis has squeezed household finances and tipped many into significant hardship. Our frontline advisors are still seeing families doing all they can but unable to afford essentials for their children.

    A clear strategy to combat child poverty is urgently needed. It must be ambitious and ensure that people facing acute pressures get the help they need soon, while also delivering change that will last.

    Anna Feuchtwang, Chief Executive of the National Children’s Bureau, said:  

    4.3 million children living in poverty in the UK is an unacceptable blight on our society and children deserve better.

    NCB welcomes the Government’s commitment to consulting with a broad range of stakeholders to understand how to make this happen. It is crucial that the voices of children and families with lived experience of poverty are central not just to the development of the strategy, but to implementing it as well.

    We desperately need to see progress for children in this area – asking the right questions is a good start.

    Dan Paskins, Executive Director of Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns at Save the Children UK, said:  

    For too long child poverty has been shamefully high, so we welcome the recognition from the UK Government today that tackling it is a moral imperative.

    The root causes of poverty are complex and can only be solved by listening to and working with those most affected. We are therefore really pleased to be working with the UK Government to facilitate the Child Poverty Taskforce hearing directly from children, their families, and our partners in communities across the UK.

    We look forward to working with UK Government, with organisations across the sector, and across the regions and nations of the UK, to develop a Child Poverty Strategy that ensures all children have the guaranteed support that they desperately need and deserve.

    The development of this ambitious strategy will be guided by the internationally recognised measure ‘Relative Poverty After Housing Costs’. 

    To support struggling families, we have already boosted the Household Support Fund by a further £421 million in England while the Warm Home Discount remains in place for low-income households as the Government stands firms on its commitment to protect those most at risk this winter.  

    This comes alongside Government plans to deliver quality work and better pay through the Employment Rights Bill, create 3,000 new nurseries, and lower energy bills through Great British Energy.  

    Additional Information   

    • There are currently 4.3m children in relative poverty after housing costs in the United Kingdom as of 2022/23.  

    • Relative Poverty After Housing Costs takes into account the proportion of families with below 60% of the median income after housing costs are deducted.  

    • The Barnardo’s Family Centre in Brent offers a wide range of free advice to families while providing crisis funding through vouchers, hosts cooking sessions and holds activity days for children to give them the best start in life and ease the burden on those living in poverty.  

    • The ’Tackling Child Poverty: Developing our Strategy’ document is available here: Tackling Child Poverty: Developing Our Strategy – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 

    • Following the Household Support Fund extension, an estimated £79million will be made available to the Devolved Governments to support their citizens as they see fit.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –