NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens warn that when government “cuts red tape” this too often means harming environmental standards and workers’ rights

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Party MP for North Herefordshire, Ellie Chowns said: “Starmer’s pledge to investors that he will “cut red tape” is a tired cliché that, in practice, too often means harming environmental standards and workers’ rights. We’ve had fourteen years of successive Conservative governments promising to “cut red tape,” and all we have to show for it is a flatlining economy and falling living standards. If Starmer is serious about attracting investment to the UK, he will need a bolder approach that delivers on the “change” he promised in his election campaign. He could start by re-evaluating our relationship with our biggest trading partner, the European Union.”

    by Green Party

    Press Releases

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour’s approach to Middle East conflict “failing” as civilian death toll mounts

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Party Co-Leader, Carla Denyer said, “The reports over the weekend that no food has entered Northern Gaza since the 1st of October, of Israel’s attack on al-Aqsa Hospital, of chemical weapons being used to attack UNIFIL peacekeepers, of mass civilian casualties in Gaza’s Jabalia Refugee Camp and of increased rocket fire into Israel from Hezbollah are extremely disturbing. The huge numbers of civilian deaths and the prospect of widespread starvation in Northern Gaza are intolerable.

    The Labour government must recognise that violence in the Middle East is escalating rapidly and that their current approach is failing. The Government needs to consider far more direct measures to incentivise a ceasefire including an end to arms sales, the introduction of divestments, boycotts and sanctions, prosecutions for all those who have committed war crimes and a plan for a viable Palestinian state.”

    / by Green Party

    Press Releases

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hundreds of millions of new investment secured to get Britain building again

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones hosts roundtable with some of the biggest impact investors in the world.

    • £550m of investment secured to tackle housing crisis and get Britain building again, with new impact investment funds announced today by Schroders, Man Group and Resonance, also looking to raise over £1.2bn in coming years.
    • Chief Secretary hosts roundtable with major impact investors to instigate a new partnership to address social and environmental challenges, including affordable housing.
    • Announcement comes after £63bn of investment into Britain confirmed at International Investment Summit.

    Impact investment, whereby a fund creates beneficial social or environmental impact, has now grown to £76.8 billion in the UK in assets under management. This will result in tens of thousands of new homes are set to be built across Britain funded by over half a billion pounds worth of impact investments announced today (Tuesday 15 October).

    Coming the day after the Prime Minister announced £63bn of investment into Britain at the International Investment Summit, the commitment from three major financial institutions to invest for impact will directly tackle the most acute housing crisis in living memory, which includes at least 5,000 new homes to address social inequality. This supports the Government’s priority to get the country building again, creating more jobs and boosting the economy.  

    The announcement comes as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones this morning hosts a roundtable with some of the biggest impact investors in the world, including Schroders, M&G, International Bank of America, Blackrock and Barclays, as the Government looks to create the right environment for impact investment across the country.

    Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones said:

    Investors tell us they want to help in delivering a better Britain. Working in partnership with government, social impact investing can change people’s lives and improve communities across the country.

    We are dedicated to creating the right environment for impact investment across the country, and the announcement of over half a billion pounds worth of impact investment building tens of thousands of new homes is a great example of the change that we are delivering on.

    These three investments funds by Schroders, Man Group and Resonance are exemplars of private capital responding to major social and environmental challenges, delivering returns while also helping to grow the economy, the government’s central mission. Today’s £550 million impact investment underpins the government’s drive to foster public-private partnerships to drive meaningful impact across the country.

    Schroders, one of the UK’s largest investment managers, has today confirmed a new £50 million allocation from Homes England, into its recently launched real estate impact fund. The fund, which has an initial target of raising £200m with the aim of ultimately delivering 5,000 homes to address social inequality and deliver an appropriate financial return to investors, expects to make its first investments before the end of 2024. It is focused on helping to deliver more social and affordable housing, regenerate town centres and invest in social infrastructure, in places where housing benefits from public transport, green spaces, schools and GP surgeries.

    Man Group, a London-headquartered global alternative investment management firm managing $178.2 billion, has also announced a further £100mn investment to deliver affordable and environmentally sustainable housing for communities across England, with 90% of homes to be designated as affordable housing. The investment will have a particular focus on delivering homes with a low carbon footprint and addressing the housing needs of key and essential workers.  This investment programme builds on the £385mn that has already been committed to affordable housing since 2021.

    Leading social impact property fund manager Resonance have today announced an expected 300% increase in investment – from £79m to £250m – into its initiative to tackle homelessness. This directly channels investment into residential property to help create pathways out of Temporary Accommodation for individuals and families. Resonance has set a target of reaching £1bn investment in this area in the next five years, so it can work directly with local authorities and housing partners across the country to help provide people at risk of homelessness with a stable home.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leader of the council welcomes announcement on National Wealth Fund

    Source: City of Leeds

    Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said:  

    “We’re pleased to hear the announcement by Chancellor Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP of the new steps for the National Wealth Fund and its headquarters in Leeds. Leeds is the UK’s second largest city for financial services, and a major hub for related professional services, and this latest announcement further reinforces the city’s progress and influence as we continue to attract major players such as the UK Infrastructure Bank, Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority who have all chosen to locate their major UK hubs in our city.  

    “These developments create exciting opportunities for local people, offering a wealth of new jobs and career paths. We have huge strengths in this area and offer a wealth of expertise underpinned by strong regional, national and international partnerships and a diverse range of businesses which puts us in a great position to support this initiative.”  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Norwich pensioners may be missing out on Pension Credit

    Source: City of Norwich

    Norwich pensioners could be missing out on vital financial support that could significantly boost their incomes as well as make them eligible for further support, including the Winter Fuel Payment.

    To raise awareness and assist people with the application process, Norwich City Council is holding a Pension Credit Drop-In Event at Castle Quarter Shopping Centre on Friday 18 October from 11am to 3pm.

    At the event, pensioners, carers, and family members can speak directly with council representatives and benefits advisors who will be on hand to offer free advice, check eligibility, and assist with applications.

    Pension Credit is a government benefit designed to help low-income pensioners top up their weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level. Many eligible residents in Norwich may not be aware they qualify for this important support, potentially missing out on hundreds or even thousands of pounds annually.

    Event details:

    • Date: Friday 18 October
    • Time: 11am to 3pm
    • Location: Castle Quarter Shopping Centre, Norwich

    Benefits of Pension Credit:

    • Additional financial support: Pension Credit could top up weekly income to £201.05 for single pensioners and £306.85 for couples.
    • Additional benefits: Those receiving Pension Credit may also be eligible for other benefits such as help with council tax, Housing Benefit, and free TV licences for over-75s.

    Councillor Adam Giles, Norwich City Council’s cabinet member for communities and social inclusion said, “Creating a fairer Norwich is a key priority of our Community-Led Plan, which is why we want to help as many people as possible access this government benefit and the other help linked to it.

    “We know many residents are struggling with the cost of living, and Pension Credit could make a real difference to those on low incomes. I’d urge people to come along to Castle Quarter on 18 October to see if they or a loved one may qualify.”

    Norwich City Council’s commitment to financial inclusion and prioritising health and wellbeing for all is at the heart of this initiative. The Pension Credit Drop-In Event is open to everyone, and no booking is required. Whether you need advice for yourself, a relative, or a friend, our team will be available to provide expert guidance.

    The city council is also writing directly to more than 2000 residents that their records suggest may be eligible for Pension Credit.

    For further information visit http://www.norwich.gov.uk/CostOfLiving

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: PM call with Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada: 15 October 2024

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

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yesterday evening.

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yesterday evening.

    They discussed recent developments regarding allegations under investigation in Canada. Both agreed on the importance of the rule of law. 

    They agreed to remain in close contact pending the conclusions of the investigation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: InsideAIR Podcast Episode 101: The Red Arrows Maple Hawk Tour of Canada15 Oct 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    In the latest episode of InsideAIR, we catch up with the Red Arrows following their 6-week long ‘Maple Hawk’ tour of Canada.

    The RAF Waddington based team are celebrating their own 60th anniversary and were invited to help mark the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Centennial year. InsideAIR’s Flight Lieutenant McKinstry joined them behind the scenes.

    Listen to more episodes of Inside Air here.

    InsideAIR is produced for the Royal Air Force by RAF Media Reserves. Theme music by RAF Music Services.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF 60 Second Update09 Oct 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    We’re back with our latest 60 Second Update, from 607 (County of Durham) Squadron, who received a new Standard alongside three other Royal Auxiliary Air Force Squadrons.

    In this episode:

    • Exercise Cobra Warrior, the RAF’s largest air exercise, sees 80 aircraft from six nations training together at RAF Waddington.
    • 617 Squadron Lightning jets embark on HMS Prince of Wales with the Royal Navy 809 Naval Air Squadron on Exercise Strike Warrior.
    • 501 (County of Gloucester), 504 (City of Nottingham), 603 (City of Edinburgh) and 607 (County of Durham) Squadrons receive their new Standards in a special ceremony at the Tower of London.

    Thanks for watching and see you next time!

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada: 15 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yesterday evening.

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yesterday evening.

    They discussed recent developments regarding allegations under investigation in Canada. Both agreed on the importance of the rule of law. 

    They agreed to remain in close contact pending the conclusions of the investigation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader shares condolences for former First Minister Alex Salmond

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Reacting to the news today (Saturday 12 October) that Alex Salmond, former First Minister of Scotland, has passed away, Council Leader Cammy Day said:

    My thoughts are with Alex Salmond’s family and friends today. The sad news of his passing will be felt by a great many across Scotland, and beyond.

    A true stalwart of Scottish politics for many years, his influence over our country has been huge. 

    Political differences aside, his pride in his country and commitment to promoting Scotland on the world stage cannot be underestimated.

    Published: October 12th 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada Honours Mr. Floyd H. Prosser as a Hometown Hero

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Government of Canada Honours Mr. Floyd H. Prosser as a Hometown Hero

    Saturday, October 12, 2024               Halifax, Nova Scotia                         Parks Canada

    The Government of Canada is committed to sharing the stories of the people, places, and events who have contributed to our country’s rich and diverse heritage.  

    Today, Darren Fisher, Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour paid tribute to Mr. Floyd H. Prosser through Parks Canada’s Hometown Heroes program on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. The ceremony was held in Halifax, Nova Scotia at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site in the presence of dignitaries and family members.

    Mr. Floyd H. Prosser
    Born in 1920 in Elgin, New Brunswick, Floyd H. Prosser enlisted in the Canadian Army Active Service Force in 1941 in Moncton, New Brunswick. Transferred overseas, Prosser trained for 2 years with the tanks in England and Scotland before being sent to Italy in 1943. Prosser was present at many of the 1st Canadian Armoured Brigade’s famous battles and in addition to the tough enemy soldiers they were fighting, he and the other Canadian troops endured the extreme weather condition of hot summers and frigid winters. After leaving Italy, Prosser landed in France in March of 1945 when the 1st Canadian Armoured Brigade was sent to support the liberation of Europe. During his time away, he saw Winston Churchill, and King George VI in person as he stood on guard for inspection. In addition, he, along with other Canadian troops was blessed by the Pope when they arrived in Rome.

    He returned home to civilian life in 1946 after serving nearly 5 years away from home, working as an industrial electrician for Westinghouse Canada until his retirement in 1975. After retirement, he became actively involved with the Royal Canadian Legion and visited fellow veterans who were in the hospital.

    To mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day in 2024, Parks Canada is honoured to add Floyd H. Prosser to the Hometown Heroes program. This individual joins a growing list of Canadians who have been recognized for their contributions as strong community leaders who are in alignment with the Parks Canada mandate and its priorities, and for their efforts to help protect and promote natural and cultural heritage in Canada as part of the Hometown Heroes program. His story will be added to the Fortress Halifax: A City Shaped by Conflict exhibit at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site in a display dedicated entirely to Parks Canada Hometown Heroes from across the country.

                                                                                                                                        -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alex Salmond: Scotland’s first nationalist leader and a tireless campaigner for independence

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Murray Leith, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Centre for Migration, Diaspora, Citizenship and Identity, University of the West of Scotland

    Alex Salmond, possibly one of the most famous Scottish politicians of recent decades, and certainly the best-known face of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has died at the age of 69.

    The former first minister of Scotland, a long-standing member of the Westminster parliament and a member of the Scottish parliament, he led the SNP from a small, fringe party within Westminster to become the ruling party of the Scottish government. He was the first Scottish nationalist first minister of Scotland, a post he would hold from 2007 to 2014.

    Salmond was born, raised and educated in Scotland. It was while he was a student at St Andrews University that he joined the university branch of the Federation of Student Nationalists in December 1973. As one of only two fully paid-up members of the SNP at the university, he became the branch president.

    After graduation, and a couple of years as a civil servant, Salmond moved to the Royal Bank of Scotland and became an economics expert, with a focus on oil. Yet, throughout this career he remained an active and committed member of the SNP.

    Leftwing in his views, he was part of the 79 Group, a small faction of the SNP that was very critical of the then leadership, and which advocated a more leftwing stance for the party as a whole. He, along with others, was briefly expelled from the SNP in 1982, but was allowed back in a month later.

    By 1985, Salmon was a senior figure in the SNP. His political career truly began in 1987, when he defeated the incumbent Conservative in Banff and Buchan in 1987 to become the consituency’s Westminster MP. He would win re-election four times, and then be elected to Holyrood, all from the north-east of Scotland, for the next three decades.

    SNP leadership and independence referendum

    Salmond first became leader of the SNP in 1990, and he showed his significant skills as a political strategist on the UK-wide stage. From here, he would become a very visible and recognisable face for the SNP, and for Scotland.

    It would be the advent of devolution in 1997, and the creation of the Scottish parliament in 1999 that would change the face of Scottish politics and allow Salmond to reach new heights. But there were many bumps along the way. Just a year into the life of the brand new parliament, Salmond suddenly stood down as SNP leader. There were rumours of fallouts with other leading figures.

    Salmond would, however, return as leader in 2004, replacing John Swinney (currently the first minister) after a poor showing for the SNP in Scottish parliament elections. As he was an MP and not an MSP at the time, the party at Holyrood was led by Nicola Sturgeon, at the time a longtime ally.

    Not only did he return as an MSP, but the SNP became the largest party in the Scottish parliament by one seat in 2007. It formed a minority government with Salmond as first minister and Sturgeon as his deputy.

    Another milestone was reached in 2011, when Salmond would lead the SNP in winning a majority within the Scottish parliament, a task everyone thought impossible given the voting system was, arguably, specifically designed to avoid such outcomes. This win led Salmond to begin negotiations with the UK government of David Cameron to hold a referendum on Scottish independence.

    In perhaps one of Salmond’s most effective moments, he came away with an agreement that allowed him many of his specific objectives – a single question on the ballot and a long lead in, of two years, before the referendum itself. Only ten years after he had returned as leader, he led the SNP to a referendum outcome where 45% of voters said yes to independence, a much larger figure than many thought possible.

    However, this was still a loss, and Salmond resigned as party leader the next day. He then returned to Westminster in 2015 but lost his seat in 2017.

    Further problems arose for Salmond in 2018, when allegations of sexual assault were made, and he resigned from the SNP after being a member for 45 years. Despite being cleared at a trial in 2020 of 14 charges, his relationship with the SNP, and his personal relationships with Sturgeon and other leading SNP figures, were badly damaged.

    He directly blamed Sturgeon and her husband, SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, for the way in which he was treated. He took the Scottish government to court over the handling of the accusations and won a substantial payout of half a million pounds.

    Establishing a new party

    Whether it was because of his treatment by the SNP, his disquiet at what he saw as the wrong priorities, or the inability for him to find a role after leaving as first minister, Salmond decided to establish a new political party, Alba, in 2021, only three years after leaving the SNP.

    After being on the national, and international, stage for several decades, Salmond remained committed to the political fight for Scottish independence. There were several defections from the SNP – two MPs, one MSP, and a few local councillors – but the party has never won an elected seat at any level.

    Salmond also presented a television show on Russian state broadcaster RT, a decision unpopular with many in the SNP. He also wrote as a tipster on horse racing for newspapers for many years.

    There can be little doubt that Salmond’s professional and personal lives were characterised by ups and downs. Yet the fact remains that he led the SNP to many victories, and saw them challenge the status quo and the British state in a manner unthinkable when he first became an SNP MP.

    Those present during the last few days of the 2014 referendum will remember the distinct feeling that maybe, just maybe, the SNP could pull off a win, and an independent Scotland – a dream he shared with millions of others – could be a possibility.

    Salmond reshaped the SNP, he reshaped the political landscape of Scotland, and his legacy cannot be overstated.

    Murray Leith has previously received funding from the European Union, the Scottish Government, and the UK Government. He is a member of the Electoral Reform Society.

    – ref. Alex Salmond: Scotland’s first nationalist leader and a tireless campaigner for independence – https://theconversation.com/alex-salmond-scotlands-first-nationalist-leader-and-a-tireless-campaigner-for-independence-241222

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Government must publish A96 Climate Assessment ahead of budget

    Source: Scottish Greens

    12 Oct 2024 Transport

    We badly need to reduce the number of cars on our roads.

    More in Transport

    Scottish Greens spokesperson for transport, Mark Ruskell MSP, has called on the Scottish Government to publish its long overdue Climate Compatibility Assessment for the A96 Dualling project ahead of the publication of this year’s budget. 

    Mr Ruskell has written to the Cabinet Secretaries for Net Zero, Finance, and Transport calling for answers ahead of any further agreements on spending for this project. 

    The commitment to undertake a climate compatibility assessment for the project was made as part of the Bute House Agreement which brought the Scottish Greens into government.

    Mr Ruskell said: “We are heading for climate catastrophe, and we must do everything in our power to invest in solutions rather than making the problem worse.

    “We badly need to reduce our dependency on cars, but the Scottish Government’s commitment to do so looks insincere if it is also pouring billions of pounds into major road building projects that will only increase emissions.

    “This climate assessment is long overdue, and is badly needed before the government commits any more money to the project.

    “Car-use is responsible for almost 40% of transport emissions. We need a more balanced approach to the A96 focussed on safety improvements, and this climate compatibility assessment should be spelling out what the options are.

    “The eye watering sums that have been earmarked could be far better used to improve public transport, which in turn would cut our emissions and provide better transport choices for people across Scotland.

    “The Scottish Government has just reintroduced peak rail fares, hiking up prices for workers and students who have no say over when they travel. This could be scrapped entirely for a fraction of the money it plans to spend on dualling the A96.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy launch to ‘hardwire stability for investors’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Government launches a modern Industrial Strategy and new Advisory Council ahead of International Investment Summit

    Industrial Strategy logo

    • The Business Secretary and Chancellor announce steps to deliver long-term growth through a modern Industrial Strategy, including appointing a Chair of the new Industrial Strategy Advisory Council 
    • The Industrial Strategy will create a pro-business environment and play to the UK’s strengths, focusing on eight growth driving sectors including creative industries and financial services  
    • Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds pledges an end to instability “our modern Industrial Strategy will hardwire stability for investors and give industry the confidence to plan for the next 10 years and beyond” 
    • Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK, will chair government’s new Industrial Strategy Advisory Council, which will provide expert advice developed in partnership with business, unions, and stakeholders from across the UK 
    • Announcements come ahead of International Investment Summit which will bring together business leaders from around the globe to boost investment and growth 
    • Government is also asking for business to help shape the industrial strategy with a green paper to develop the plans in partnership 

    The next generation of British industry has been fired-up and readied to reignite our industrial heartlands and kickstart economic growth, as the Government launches the first Industrial Strategy in seven years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves have published a green paper to kickstart delivery of the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy. The strategy will drive long-term growth in key sectors that is sustainable, resilient and distributed across the country.   

    Announcing the eight growth sectors will be the focus of the Strategy, alongside naming the new Industrial Strategy Advisory Council’s chair, the Business Secretary has promised to ‘give investors a ten year plan to choose Britain’.  

    The key sectors the government will focus its modern Industrial Strategy are on advanced manufacturing; clean energy industries, creative industries; defence; digital and technologies; financial services; life sciences; and professional and business services. 

    The green paper, which will be published on the day of the International Investment Summit, will bring together UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world. There, Reynolds is expected to tell delegates the Industrial Strategy will put Britain back on the global stage and help attract investment into the most productive parts of the UK economy.  

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP said: 

    Our modern Industrial Strategy will hardwire stability for investors and give them the confidence to plan not just for the next year, but for the next 10 years and beyond.  

    This is the next step in our pro worker, pro business plan which will see investors and workers alike get the security and stability they need to succeed. 

    Clare’s wealth of talent and experience will help ensure the Industrial Strategy delivers its mission of unleashing the potential of high productivity sectors to spur growth, spread wealth, and drive-up employment across the UK.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP said:  

    I have never been more optimistic about our country’s potential. We have some of the brightest minds and greatest businesses in the world. From the creative industries and life sciences to advanced manufacturing and financial services. 

    This Government is determined to deliver on Britain’s potential so we can rebuild Britain and make every part of the country better off.

    Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK, will chair the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council. The Council will inform the development of the Industrial Strategy through its expertise and latest evidence, working with business, trade unions, devolved governments, local leaders, academia and stakeholders.  

    In the King’s speech the Government committed to putting the Council on a statutory footing – giving it powers and responsibilities and ensuring it will be permanent and independent.  

    Ahead of establishing a statutory body, we are introducing an interim advisory Council. The first Council meeting and announcement of full membership is expected in the coming weeks.   

    Microsoft UK CEO Clare Barclay said: 

    As Chair of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council, I will ensure the Council provides a clear and strong voice on behalf of business, nations, regions, and trade unions, as we invest for the future to ensure that our prosperity is underpinned by robust growth in key sectors right across the country. 

    Whilst we fully embrace the industries of today, we must also have a clear plan for future growth, and the Advisory Council will play a central role in shaping and delivering this plan.

    The government has also identified eight growth-driving sectors for the Industrial Strategy, focusing on sectors the UK excels in today and will excel tomorrow.  

    Over the last 25 years, the top 30% of sectors ranked by productivity in 1997 were responsible for generating roughly 60% of the economy’s entire productivity growth. That’s why our Industrial Strategy will channel support to sectors and geographical clusters that have the highest growth potential for the next decade. 

    Our strategy will create a pro-business environment to capture a greater share of internationally mobile investment in strategic sectors and motivate domestic business to boost their investment and scale up their growth. 

    Businesses up and down the country will also be invited to respond to the Industrial Strategy Green Paper, which will be published tomorrow.  

    The consultation will provide stakeholders with the opportunity to inform the Strategy’s continued development and ensure it delivers tangible impact to people and communities right across the UK.  

    Views are sought from business, international investors, unions and any other interested parties, on the overall vision, approach to growth sectors and the policy levers needed to drive investment.   

    Make UK CEO Stephen Phipson said: 

    We live in a world which is massively different to a decade ago and simply leaving the economy and, industrial strategy, to the free market is an ideology which is long past its sell by date. This is a welcome first step in addressing the achilles heel of the economy which has left the UK an outlier among advanced countries. It sets out a clarity of vision for how the resources of Government and, in particular, each department can be convened towards a single objective of long term growth across all regions.  

    With the welcome announcement of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council Chair and, the Council being put on a statutory footing, industry will no longer fear the constant chop and change in policy we have seen over the last decade or so and can focus on the long term – it is important that the Government is delivering on its promises.

    WPP CEO Mark Read said: 

    WPP supports the Government’s objective to create and foster an investment environment that drives long-term growth. As a global marketing services company, we believe that the UK’s world-leading creative industries, powered by new technologies like AI and exceptional talent, can continue to play a key role in further advancing the UK’s investment case on the global stage.

    Airbus UK Chairman John Harrison said: 

    Airbus welcomes the inclusion of advanced manufacturing in the Government’s Industrial Strategy as a vital opportunity to build on the successful partnership between government and the aerospace sector.  

    As one of the most technologically advanced businesses in the UK, we also welcome the strong focus on innovation, which is crucial to driving future growth and maintaining the UK’s global competitiveness in aerospace and defence.

    For businesses to invest and thrive they need confidence in their supply chains. So, we are also establishing a new supply chains taskforce in government that will work to assess where supply chains critical to the UK’s economic security and resilience – including those in the growth driving sectors outlined in the industrial strategy – could be vulnerable to disruption. The taskforce will ensure that government works with business to address these risks, building the conditions required to deliver secure growth. 

    We want the UK to be a prime investment opportunity for business. The Industrial Strategy, and the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council, will be key to giving investors the solid foundation on which to build. 

    Notes to Editors:  

    • More information on sectors and productivity can be found here: https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/economicoutputandproductivity/productivitymeasures/datasets/outputperhourworkeduk 

    • The Green Paper will be published tomorrow [Monday 14 October] at 9:30am. Businesses will have until 24 November to respond.  

    • Clare Barclay biography: Clare is Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft UK. She leads the strategy and delivery of Microsoft’s business in the UK, focused on helping organisations accelerate technology-driven growth. She is a thought leader and regular keynote speaker on how technology and AI presents a transformational opportunity to fuel UK economic growth. Clare engages at board level across industry sectors on how best to capitalise on the opportunity in harnessing the potential of AI. With nearly three decades in the technology industry, Clare has held a range of senior leadership roles with experience across all aspects of the business including partnerships to unlock opportunity across industries and empowering small and medium businesses, the beating heart of the UK economy, to prosper. In her prior role as Chief Operating Officer, she was also responsible for driving significant transformational change for Microsoft and in helping reshape its culture. Clare is passionate about the UK as a talent hub and the potential for UK industry to lead on the world stage, leveraging the latest scientific and technological advances. She is also deeply committed to diversity and inclusion and in helping young people succeed. She lives in London with her husband and two sons.  

    • The Summit will be sponsored by Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, M&G plc, Octopus Energy, and TSL.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extra funding committed to support Holocaust Memorial Day

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government has announced additional funding to support Holocaust Memorial Day 2025.

    • The Government has announced additional funding to support Holocaust Memorial Day 2025
    • 2025 will mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, with many Holocaust survivors expected to attend the national ceremony
    • Funding reflects the Government’s aim that the national commemorations should be seen by an audience of millions

    The Government has announced additional funding for the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust to support the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.

    Holocaust Memorial Day, marked each year on January 27th, is a day of reflection, remembrance, and education.

    2025 will mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, which will be a particularly poignant occasion, highlighting the significance of remembering the atrocities of the past while fostering a future of understanding and unity.

    Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 also marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica, sending a strong reminder that hatred and intolerance have continued long after the Holocaust.

    Faith Minister Lord Khan said:

    We are absolutely committed to ensuring the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten. The 80th anniversary is a time for deep reflection, and to remember the six million Jewish men, women and children murdered by the Nazis.

    This funding will enable the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust to stage an event and ensure it is broadcast to millions – matching the significance of the moment. It will enable communities across the country to take part in this moment for reflection – and to hear directly from survivors who can bear witness to the appalling crimes committed by the Nazis.

    The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust’s Chief Executive, Olivia Marks-Woldman, said:

    We are delighted that the Government’s commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day Trust means that we can reach even further in this significant year. The Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 commemorations will be engaging millions of people across the UK, in local communities, on social and traditional media, and at the UK Ceremony.

    Please join us in January to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia – to learn from the past, for a better future.

    The additional funds will help facilitate broadcasting the event, broadening access to people across the country for commemoration and reflection.

    Last month, in his speech to the Holocaust Education Trust, the Prime Minister set out a new “national ambition” to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to hear recorded Holocaust survivor testimony.

    Ahead of its curriculum review, the Government has also committed to ensure that the Holocaust remains on the curriculum and that state schools which are not currently required to follow the national curriculum also teach the Holocaust.

    Notes to editors:

    • The additional funding of £80,000 is in addition to an annual grant of £900,000 given to HMDT – totalling £980,000 this year – which is provided for the annual ceremony and for support for thousands of local activities up and down the country to remember the Holocaust and subsequent genocides.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £350,000 drought relief for Southern Africa

    Source: Scottish Government

    Aid for communities suffering worst drought in a century

    Thousands of drought-affected households in Zambia and Zimbabwe will receive support from the Scottish Government’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund.

    Christian Aid and the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) will each receive £175,000 to enable both charities to provide cash to communities to meet their immediate basic needs, including food and safe drinking water.

    SCIAF will support 1,530 households in Zambia with cash transfers of 600 kwacha, equivalent to £17 a month. Christian Aid will provide cash transfers to 562 drought-affected household in Zimbabwe and promote services that work to prevent gender-based violence, which can increase during times of instability following major disasters.   

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Between a record drought exacerbated by the climate crisis and ongoing cholera outbreaks, the current situation in Southern Africa looks very bleak.

    “This funding will ensure people in some of the hardest hit communities can put food on their families’ tables, buy basic essentials, and safe drinking water – which is critical to prevent further spread of cholera.

    “Scotland must fulfil its role as a good global citizen and a big part of that is supporting those who have contributed the least to climate change, through the worst of its effects.”

    SCIAF Chief Executive Lorraine Currie said:

    “Right now, people in Zambia and neighbouring countries in Africa are at crisis point, with failed harvest after failed harvest.

    “The root cause is climate change, which is ravaging the region. It’s making weather patterns more extreme with more intense, more frequent droughts, floods, and heat waves. Rural areas, where most people farm to feed themselves are the hardest hit.

    “This funding from the Scottish Government will literally save lives. Working through our local partners, we will make sure the most vulnerable people are reached with cash grants which will give them the freedom to quickly buy what their families need to survive. These are our sisters and brothers and we will not forget them.”

    Christian Aid’s Zimbabwe Country Director Aulline Chapisa said: 

    “We’re deeply grateful for the Scottish Government’s commitment and support. This funding will enable 562 vulnerable households to access essential food items and will be delivered by our local partner the Zimbabwe Council of Churches. It will also help to significantly reduce levels of gender-based violence by improving access to information and support services.  

    “Sadly we know that during times of crisis and food insecurity cases of domestic violence increase. Additionally, with extra funding from Christian Aid, we’ll be improving access to safe water supplies and supporting people to diversify their means of earning a living. Ultimately this project is about life saving food assistance and building resilience and wellbeing in these communities.”

    Background

    Southern Africa experienced its driest February in 100 years, according to the United Nations, with estimates suggesting between 40 – 80 per cent of the maize crop has been wiped out in areas where 70 per cent of the population relies on agriculture to survive.

    The Scottish Government’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund provides aid in the aftermath of a crisis through a panel of eight leading humanitarian aid organisations in Scotland who advise and access the fund: Mercy Corps, Oxfam, British Red Cross, Islamic Relief, SCIAF, Christian Aid, Tearfund and Save the Children.

    Scotland provided £2.9 million of humanitarian aid to nine countries between 2023-24. More than 745,000 people across Africa and southern Asia are estimated to have benefitted from this support between 2023-24, which was awarded in response to crises including earthquakes in Afghanistan, Tropical Storm Freddy in Malawi, and refugee displacement following conflict in South Sudan.

    Humanitarian Emergency Fund: Annual Report 2023-24

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 12/10/2024 Varsovia Regain control, ensure safety

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    At the heart of our country’s migration policy is caring for the security of Poland – millions of Poles. El primer ministro Donald Tusk announced the adoption of the government strategy “Regain control, ensure security”, the aim of which will be to regain full control over migration and to limit as much as possible the illegal crossing of Polish borders. The Prime Minister also referred to other government obligations implemented in recent months. One of the most important challenges in Poland, Europe and the world is to develop a strong response to the challenges and fears caused by mass migration and migratory pressure driven by hostile states. “Poland is supposed to be safe. Poles should feel free. Safe and free in their country. That’s why our migration policy is so important,” admitted the Prime Minister. The foundations of freedom are the state of law, the rule of law and true democratic rules, which have been consistently destroyed over the last eight years. MIGRATION WAS A TOOL OF FIGHT. Lack of real control and chaos in the previous migration policy. government caused hundreds of thousands of people from Asia and Africa to come to Poland, towards whom an atmosphere of hatred and contempt was created. “They built a partly corrupt system, and now no one has any doubts about it, which allowed for an absolutely uncontrolled influx, partly privatized, hundreds of thousands of formally legal migrants or hundreds of thousands of illegal ones. Was it the Belarusian border, was it the visa system, was it pseudo-studies, was it a completely privatized policy when it comes to the labor market versus migrants,” explained Donald Tusk. Thanks to the actions of the current government, in the first half of 2024 a total of 31 percent fewer visas of all categories compared to the same period in 2023. Their predecessors created the most pro-migration government in Europe, in the context of illegal migration, which had no regard for the security of its nation and EU borders. “One of the elements of the migration strategy will be the temporary territorial suspension of the law for asylum and I will demand that it be recognized in Europe. We know well how it is used by Lukashenko, Putin, by smugglers, smugglers and human traffickers, how this right to asylum is used exactly contrary to its essence,” the prime minister admitted. The current government is making a kind of turn in this matter, distancing itself from the disastrous practices of its predecessors and proposes coherent actions in this area. Migration will not threaten the security of either borders or citizens. MIGRATION AND INTEGRATION Over the last eight years, the Polish state has lost control over the wave of illegal migration, and the influx of immigrants has become a weapon in the political struggle. In the years 2018-2023, Poland issued over 6 million euros of visas, most of which were 3.8 million euros for work visas.  “The state is responsible for ensuring that people who want to work honestly in Poland, pay taxes, integrate with Polish society and study at a real university come to Poland. And these are people who deserve respect, respect. This also means integration activities. If someone wants to come to Poland permanently, work longer, study longer, they must want to respect Polish standards and Polish customs, they must want to integrate. After adopting this strategy, which has also happened in recent months, we will reduce illegal migration in Poland to a minimum. We will eliminate these practices in order to fully regain control over who comes, why they come, and how useful they can be,” said the head of government. A negative example of omitting integration processes is the Germans, who put private interests ahead of the good of society. The government’s tough attitude in line with the national interest will protect Polish women and men from fear and provide them with a sense of security. ACTIONS OF THE MFA In the fight against the huge influx of people from Asia and Africa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs not only increased the prices of Polish visas, but also introduced new guidelines for Polish consulates, which previous governments used for their own purposes. “What I am saying can be achieved, but on one condition: that Donald Tusk’s government will not have someone constantly putting a stick in its spokes, vetoing it maliciously, sending it to the so-called Tribunal, that it will not block even appointment of Polish ambassadors.” – Radosław Sikorski added to the Minister of Foreign Affairs. In its report, the Supreme Audit Office found a number of irregularities in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding, among others: consular activities, visa process or favoring companies, people and agencies. The previous Ministry of Foreign Affairs was indifferent to the threat posed by Russia and from the beginning of aggression against Ukraine until December 2023, it issued over 1.8 thousand to Russian citizens. fenómeno.GREAT RETURN TO THE HOMELANDPolonia, like many European countries, is struggling with the challenge of demographic decline. One of the ways to fight it will be the return of Poles and people with Polish roots to their homeland. “We are planning a policy of accelerated returns of Poles and people of Polish origin from the Polish diaspora and abroad. By building the image of a safe country, Poland is also becoming an attractive place for Poles who can come back here. Why wouldn’t an 18-year-old Polish woman, a 20-year-old Pole living in England, France or the United States want to come back here, study here. Soon he will be earning as much as in England, and the place is nicer. And perhaps also thanks to our migration strategy, it will really be not only the coolest, but also objectively the safest place in Europe,” announced Donald Tusk. Citizenship, repatriation and contact with the diaspora are one of the important elements of the migration strategy developed since December 2023. Poland did not have such a document in 2016. THE BORDER IS MORE AND MORE CLEAR Over recent months, our country has rebuilt its credibility in the international arena and has become the country on which the security of the eastern wall of the entire European Union rests, both in terms of defense against foreign countries and illegal immigrants. This year, Poland will allocate 4.3% of GDP to defense, and next year 4.7%. This is the most in the entire North Atlantic Alliance. “The fact that today we invest so much in our defense, in our security, and we do it in a well-thought-out way, also builds the image of Poland as a country that really knows what it is about and that really cares about security. ”- Prime Minister said. The construction of one of the strongest armies in the EU, the ruthless attitude of the Polish government and the services operating on the border with Belarus do not go unnoticed among those involved in the process of illegal border crossing. UNCROSSABLE BORDER Since December 2023, the Polish government has been consistently sealing the border with Belarus , which is attacked every day as part of the so-called hybrid war. The inviolability of Polish borders is guarded by thousands of policemen, soldiers and the Border Guard. If it turns out to be impassable for illegal migrants, no one will die on this border. Anyone who has such a need and is persecuted will be able to come to Poland. On one condition that it complies with all procedures, laws and rules in force in Poland. There is no way that someone would illegally enter Poland and we would turn a blind eye to it,” declared Donald Tusk. In less than a year of government, only two people lost their lives at the border. As many as 18 people died in 2023. TIME FOR ACTION Years of neglect are visible not only in the aspect of defense or migration policy. The actions of the previous government blocked the transfer of billions of zlotys that could have been spent on important investments. “Europe, both institutions and heads of state, all accepted that Poland regained access to European funds and became the center of Europe and the heart of Europe again. In a sense, it was these millions of Polish women and men who decided, and not only our actions, that Poland regained Europe and Europe regained Poland, including these billions,” said Primer Ministro. From the first days of this term, the government also cares about the safety of citizens in other dimensions, which can be seen in social benefits for families and the most needy, facilities for those running agricultural activities and health care. Poles can use, among others: from the “grandmother’s program”, the 800+ program or leave for entrepreneurs. The Prime Minister emphasized that no change could take place without the will of voters. He thanked all those who trusted the current government. “We are aware of how much we owe to those millions who, sometimes despite the circumstances, went and took power from the hands of these people who had been spoiling the Polish state for 8 years, destroying our hopes and dreams. The bromear pair is a real guarantee. Para bromear, the real foundation of these good, positive changes. For us, we are just workers. It is our job to transform these hopes, dreams, our obligations, the expectations of our voters into facts every day, every month. The most important thing is that we maintain and greatly accelerate the course of changes that we started at the end of last year,” explained Donald Tusk. The Prime Minister emphasized that Poles want a completely different Poland than it was under the previous government – they expect the highest standards. Voters’ demands towards the government motivate it to act. It is to them that the government pledged to continue working for the country and its inhabitants.

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: Scotland’s former First Minister Alex Salmond dies

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Scotland’s former First Minister Alex Salmond has passed away at the age of 69, local media reported on Saturday.

    Salmond took ill and collapsed while giving a speech in North Macedonia earlier today, according to the BBC. So far, the cause of his death has not yet been officially disclosed.

    His passing was described as sudden and unexpected. Anas Sarwar, leader of Scottish Labour, told local media that the news of Salmond’s passing came “as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the UK (the United Kingdom) and beyond.”

    Salmond, a former member of Parliament, served as Scotland’s first minister between 2007 and 2014.

    He led the Scottish National Party (SNP) to power after winning the Scottish Parliament election in 2007. A passionate advocate for Scottish independence, he resigned as first minister after 55 percent of Scottish voters backed remaining in the UK in the 2014 referendum.

    In 2021, he formed the pro-independence Alba Party, following his resignation from the SNP three years earlier.

    UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid his tribute to Salmond, calling him a “monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics” who leaves behind a “lasting legacy.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Voice defeat set us all back. And since then, our leaders have given up

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Blackwell, Research Fellow (Indigenous Diplomacy), Australian National University

    It’s one year since the failed referendum to enshrine a First Nations Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution.

    The vote represents a moment of deep sadness and frustration for many First Nations people for the lost opportunity to move towards meaningful change in our lives, communities and for our futures. Many elders and old people will likely not live to see change.

    I was one of the many people in the Uluru Dialogue at UNSW who worked last year across the country educating on and advocating for the constitutional change. I spoke to communities across New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT, from Boorowa to Melbourne.

    I not only saw the campaign first-hand, I also have read every think piece imaginable in the 12 months since about why the referendum failed.

    A ceaseless blame game

    From the expected pieces blaming the usual suspects (Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, Indigenous peoples, the Yes campaign, the No campaign and the media), there were also some weirder supposed culprits.

    Some blamed “wokeness”, Donald Trump and dark money, secret elites, identity politics, and all manner of culture war issues.

    To my mind, no single thing doomed the Voice. It was a mix of a lot of the above.

    Albanese treating the referendum like an election campaign but without the usual level of resourcing and advocacy. The Coalition’s outright opposition to the idea (despite previous indications of support). The media’s failure to grapple with Indigenous issues and dogmatic insistence on giving prominence to “both sides” of the debate.

    The YES23 organisation was also disorganised from the start. Yes campaigners were forced onto the back foot daily by relentless misinformation, seemingly deliberate, from the No campaign.



    Read more:
    Why did the Voice referendum fail? We crunched the data and found 6 reasons

    This built on a distinct lack of civic education among most Australians.

    It was further amplified by the No campaign’s very successful “If you don’t know, vote no” slogan – the idea being that their untruths warranted little scrutiny.

    That’s on top of a large undercurrent of racism that was never properly called out, and which has never been properly addressed.

    Campaigns like this are something we as a nation haven’t come to terms with. We’ve seen in the United States how effective misinformation can be at confusing people, creating false senses of reality and distorting public perception.

    Even if Australians supported the ideas behind the Voice in the abstract, neither they nor the media were prepared for the level of dishonesty and bad dealing from the No campaign. It was never a fair fight.

    No, no, and no again

    The Voice to Parliament represented a consensus plea from Indigenous communities for systemic reform. The idea was that the structure of the Australian political system was, either by design or outcome, causing many of the social and economic issues that we face, and therefore a structural solution was needed.

    The No campaign claimed after the referendum that the result was a rejection of this idea of a Voice to Parliament as a solution to issues in Indigenous communities or among Indigenous peoples more generally, “because it wasn’t going to fix the things that needed to be fixed”.

    Prominent No campaigner Warren Mundine even called the referendum the “most divisive, most racially charged attack on Australia I’ve ever seen”.

    “Australia has voted no to the Voice of division”, was the common refrain from people like Pauline Hanson and other No campaigners. Australians “wanted practical solutions” to Indigenous issues, not a body without any detail that wouldn’t hear “real communities”.

    I am not bringing up these issues again to relitigate the issues of the referendum. Instead, I want to ask a very important question: the Voice to Parliament was designed to address our systemic disadvantage, so what solutions to these serious structural issues have any of the No campaigners offered in the past 12 months?



    Read more:
    A royal commission won’t help the abuse of Aboriginal kids. Indigenous-led solutions will

    We have seen some policies from the Coalition. Plans to reduce “fly in, fly out” workers in remote communities. Reforming land rights and native title. A royal commission into child sexual abuse in Indigenous communities. Less need for programs with “a specific Indigenous focus” in urban areas, where most First Nations people live.

    Some of these are just a rehash of failed Coalition policies of the past, as many others have mentioned. Some appear to have come personally from Senator Jacinta Price and are seemingly not backed by experts (or many people in Indigenous communities). Others appear to be tied directly into conservative political talking points, rather than really addressing Indigenous need.

    The Coalition also abandoned its plan for an alternative second referendum almost immediately after the failed vote.

    The Coalition and other leading No campaigners clearly have no plans to address the structural issues facing our peoples. They’re only offering more of the regular policy tinkering and seesawing we have seen far too often before.

    Abandoning the cause

    The same is true of the government. I have already written for this masthead about the government’s abject failures at implementing the Closing the Gap targets and its lack of meaningful consultation.

    The government’s current attempts at Indigenous policy remain exercises in seeking consent over genuine consultation. Its proposed “economic empowerment” agenda for First Nations peoples is a perfect example.

    Aside from the lack of codesign and meaningful engagement, such policies have been bandied about for the better part of two decades and still have not substantively moved the dial.

    The pursuit of market-based wealth for some privileged few First Nations peoples and communities, under the guise of closing the gap, as well as focusing on the overexaggerated benefits of renewable energy as a driver of Indigenous economic power, is not “economic development” for all mobs.

    The policy focus was also announced as Albanese abandoned his commitment to a Makaratta Commission – the Treaty and Truth components that were meant to follow the Voice to Parliament.

    These ideas fall into the same tired policy stereotypes of throwing money at some of the usual organisations and peoples who have long benefited, and claiming this solves the systemic problems we face. The problem isn’t money, it’s the very rules of the game.

    Charting a way forward

    Research following the referendum shows that 87% of Australians think First Nations peoples should be able to decide for ourselves about our way of life. Moreover, 64% think the disadvantages faced by our communities warrant extra government attention, and 68% believe this disadvantage comes from “past race-based policies”.

    Only 35% believe Indigenous peoples are now treated equally to other Australians, and only 37% believe injustices faced by our community are “all in the past”.

    This clearly shows a level of recognition by the Australian people that something needs to be done about Indigenous policy and the structural issues in this country.

    According to the same data, 87% of Australians agree it is “important for First Nations peoples to have a voice/say in matters that affect them”. This jumps to 98.5% among Yes voters, but also is true of 76% of No voters.

    This suggests that Australian people see the problem and can identify the structural issues.

    The real work, then, is on civics education, getting people to understand that the structural issues they can see need structural change; but also making them more aware of the effects of misinformation. It’s not right that proposals that should get the support of the Australian people can be derailed the way this was.

    But what also isn’t right is the current abdication of Indigenous policy by both major parties and their abandonment of any attempt to remedy structural issues. Following the referendum, the major parties have given up.

    To paraphrase myself from February’s Closing the Gap announcement: the next time you run into an MP, ask them what their plan for Indigenous people is. Ask them not just about closing the gap, but to fix the structural issues that so clearly disadvantage our people.

    That’s the question no one wants to answer, but it’s what we need to do if we are to move on from the 2023 referendum in a positive direction.

    James Blackwell is a member of the Uluru Dialogue at UNSW. He is also an Independent Councillor for Hilltops Council in NSW.

    – ref. The Voice defeat set us all back. And since then, our leaders have given up – https://theconversation.com/the-voice-defeat-set-us-all-back-and-since-then-our-leaders-have-given-up-239732

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Electric car sales have slumped. Misinformation is one of the reasons

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Senior Lecturer of Urban Analytics & Resilience, UNSW Sydney

    Karolis Kavolelis/Shutterstock

    Battery electric vehicle sales in Australia have flattened in recent months. The latest data reveal a sharp 27.2% year-on-year decline (overall new vehicle sales were down 9.7%) in September. Tesla Model Y and Model 3 cars had an even steeper drop of nearly 50%.

    Sales also fell in August (by 18.5%) and July (1.5%). There’s a clear downward trend.

    Before this downturn, electric vehicle sales had been rising steadily, supported by increased choices and government incentives. In early 2024, year-to-date sales continued to grow compared to the same period in 2023. Then, in April, electric vehicle sales fell for the first time in more than two years.

    Australia isn’t simply mirroring a broader global trend. It’s true sales have slowed in parts of Europe and the United States — often due to reduced incentives. But strong sales growth continues in other regions, such as China and India.

    A range of factors or combinations of them could help explain the trend in Australia. These include governments axing incentives, concerns about safety and depreciation, and misinformation.

    Governments are cutting incentives

    Electric vehicles typically cost more upfront. However, the flood of cheaper Chinese vehicles is lowering the cost barrier.

    Federal, state and territory governments also provide financial incentives to buy electric vehicles. These have been among the main drivers of sales in Australia.

    Nationally, incentives include a higher luxury car tax threshold and exemptions from fringe benefits tax and customs duty. But several states and territories have scaled back their rebate programs and tax exemptions in 2023 and 2024.

    New South Wales and South Australia ended their $3,000 rebates on January 1 this year. At the same time, NSW ended a stamp duty refund for new and used zero-emission vehicles up to a value of $78,000. Both incentives had been offered since 2021.

    Victoria ended its $3,000 rebate, also launched in 2021, in mid-2023.

    In the ACT, the incentive of two years’ free registration closed on June 30 2024.

    Queensland’s $6,000 electric vehicle rebate ended in September.

    The market clearly responded to these changes. However, reduced financial incentives alone cannot explain the full picture. Despite several rounds of price cuts, sales of popular Tesla models are falling.

    Buyers are increasingly opting for hybrid vehicles instead. In September, sales of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles were up by 34.4% and 89.9%, respectively.

    These sales trends reflect other consumer concerns beyond just the upfront cost.

    Resale value worries buyers

    One major issue for car buyers in Australia, and globally, is uncertainty about their resale value. Consumers are concerned electric vehicles depreciate faster than traditional cars.

    These concerns are particularly tied to battery degradation, which affects a car’s range and performance over time. And batteries account for much of the vehicle’s total cost. Potential buyers worry about the long-term value of a used electric vehicle with an ageing battery.

    For example, a 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus with nearly 85,000km currently lists for about $34,000. It has lost roughly half its value in just three years.

    While Tesla offers transferable four-year warranties and software updates, the rapid evolution of EV technology also makes older second-hand models less desirable, further reducing their value.

    Fires raise fears about safety

    Electric vehicle fires have made headlines globally. This has created doubts among consumers about the risks of owning them.

    In Korea, a high-profile battery fire in August 2024 led to a ban on certain electric vehicles from underground car parks. While similar bans are not common in Australia, some have been reported. These could have harmed local consumer confidence.

    Incidents of electric vehicle fires have increased along with vehicle numbers. Statistically, these vehicles are not more prone to fires than conventional cars – in fact, the risk is clearly lower.

    For example, analysis of publicly available statistics from South Korean government agencies, one of the early adopters of electric vehicles, show the number of fires per registered electric vehicle is steadily increasing. Fire risk remains lower than for traditional vehicles, although the gap is shrinking as the electric vehicle fleet ages. And the highly publicised nature of their fires is a source of growing buyer hesitancy.

    Electric vehicle fires in Korea are increasing with EV numbers, but the rate is still less than for petrol or diesel cars.
    Author provided using data from South Korean government agencies, CC BY

    Misinformation and politicisation are rampant

    The full environmental benefits of electric vehicles depend on widespread adoption. However, there is a wide gap between early adopters’ experiences and potential buyers’ perceptions.

    Persistent misconceptions include exaggerated concerns about battery life, charging infrastructure and safety. Myths and misinformation often fuel these concerns. Traditional vehicle and oil companies actively spread misinformation in campaigns much like those used against other green energy initiatives.

    In response, coalitions such as Electric Vehicles UK have formed to combat these false narratives and promote accurate information.

    The politicisation of green initiatives adds to the challenge. When electric vehicles become associated with a specific political ideology, it can alienate large parts of the population. Adoption then becomes slower and more divisive.

    Green transition is a work in progress

    The electric vehicle market in Australia is facing challenges, despite the growing variety of models and price cuts.

    The EV sales trend signals deeper issues in the market. Broader trends, such as the dominance of SUVs and utes, underscore the fact that while the transition to greener vehicles is progressing, it remains uneven.

    Further efforts will be needed to reduce misconceptions and misinformation, and bridge the gap between owners’ experience and potential buyers’ perceptions. Only then can Australia enjoy the environmental benefits of widespread EV adoption.

    Hadi Ghaderi receives funding from the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, IVECO Trucks Australia limited, Victoria Department of Education and Training, Australia Post, Bondi Laboratories, Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre, Sphere for Good, Australian Meat Processor Corporation,City of Casey, 460degrees and Passel.

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

    – ref. Electric car sales have slumped. Misinformation is one of the reasons – https://theconversation.com/electric-car-sales-have-slumped-misinformation-is-one-of-the-reasons-240545

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Foreign Secretary takes seat at table with European Union on Middle East crisis and war in Ukraine

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy attends Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg

    • Foreign Secretary David Lammy will today reinforce closer UK-EU cooperation on global issues by attending the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg 

    • Foreign Secretary to join the group of 27 EU Ministers for the first time in more than two years

    • UK will use the meeting to engage with its closest neighbours on plans to reset European relations, the Middle East and ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine  

    The UK Government will today (Monday 14 October) signal its ambition to engage more closely with the EU on foreign affairs as the Foreign Secretary joins counterparts in Luxembourg.  

    Taking a seat at the table of the Foreign Affairs Council with all 27 EU Foreign Ministers, the talks will focus on the main challenges facing European security. This will include discussions on how the UK and EU can work together to tackle continued Russian aggression and interference across the continent, as well as the escalating crisis in the Middle East, including the ongoing threat posed by Iran.   

    The trip, at the invitation of Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, follows the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Brussels where he committed to move beyond Brexit and make the UK’s relationship with the EU work for the British people.   

    UK attendance at the meeting will be part of more regular engagement, with plans for closer working on international affairs and to strengthen the UK-EU partnership on security matters to be set out after discussions with Josep Borrell in Luxembourg to deliver for Britons and our fellow Europeans.  

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:   

    UK security is indivisible from European security. This government is determined to reset our relationships and deepen ties with our European partners in order to make us all safer.  

    This visit is an opportunity for the UK to be back at the table, discussing the most pressing global issues with our closest neighbours and tackle the seismic challenges we all face.

    The Foreign Secretary’s attendance will highlight the importance of the UK working side-by-side with the European Union on foreign policy issues.   

    Ukraine is a prime example of how UK-EU collaboration makes a tangible impact. Joint sanctions depriving Russia of hundreds of billions of pounds; coordinated training of Ukrainian troops providing them with the skills they need, and working together on humanitarian support to target those most in need.   

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Electronic monitoring to increase protection for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 11 October 2024

    Released by: Deputy Premier, Attorney General, Minister for Corrections, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to create a safer New South Wales and increase protections for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, with the commencement of electronic monitoring for alleged serious domestic violence offenders released on bail.

    Earlier this year, the Government significantly tightened bail laws for people charged with serious domestic violence offences, forcing them to ‘show cause’ why they shouldn’t be detained. This change has made it harder than ever for alleged serious domestic violence offenders to get bail.

    From today, any alleged serious domestic violence offender who is granted bail will be electronically monitored around the clock using GPS technology.

    The new program allows Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) to track alleged offenders against geographic bail conditions.

    These exclusion zones may include residential addresses, school and work locations, or suburbs or areas within a city for people in need of protection.

    If an alleged offender enters a restricted zone, CSNSW’s electronic monitoring officers are immediately notified.

    Corrections officers will contact NSW Police to advise that a potential breach of bail conditions has occurred and NSW Police can then respond.

    This builds on the around-the-clock monitoring of certain offenders already conducted by Corrective Services NSW, including the monitoring of high-risk domestic violence perpetrators on parole orders or Intensive Correction Orders.

    These tough new laws are one part of the NSW Government’s work to strengthen protections for victim-survivors of domestic, family and sexual violence.

    The Government has also introduced legislation to create Serious Domestic Abuse Prevention Orders. These new orders will allow the court to impose any conditions considered appropriate to prevent a person’s involvement in domestic abuse.

    In addition, this legislation would create new offences covering repeated and intentional breaches of Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders.

    Under earlier Minns Labor Government justice system reforms:

    • The categories of offences for which bail decisions can be ‘stayed’ were expanded, with the accused remaining in custody while prosecutors challenge the decision to grant bail.
    • For all domestic violence bail decisions, judges and magistrates must now consider, where relevant, domestic abuse risk factors and the views of victims and their family members.
    • All bail decisions will be made by judges and magistrates.

    The NSW Government delivered a $246 million package in the NSW Budget to address domestic, family and sexual violence through crisis response measures, early intervention, primary prevention, and justice system responses.

    If you or someone you know is affected by domestic, family or sexual violence, please call the toll-free number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for support on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit 1800respect.org.au

    Deputy Premier Prue Car said:

    “The NSW Government is committed to curbing the unacceptable rate of domestic, family and sexual violence within our community, and monitoring alleged offenders is key to that.

    “It’s harder now for alleged domestic violence offenders to get bail, but if they do, these new monitoring devices ensure Corrective Services will be able to keep an eye on their movements.”

    Attorney General Michael Daley said:

    “Earlier this year the NSW Government toughened bail laws that raised the threshold and added additional factors to be considered before bail could be granted for alleged serious domestic violence offenders, placing the onus on them to show the court why their detention isn’t justified.

    “We’ve seen an increasing number of alleged serious domestic violence offenders on remand, signalling these bail reforms are indeed working.

    “Domestic violence is an abhorrent crime and one that the NSW Government will not tolerate.”

    Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said:

    “Women, children, and others in danger deserve to live their lives in safety, free from the threat of domestic violence.

    “Corrective Services NSW has the specialist knowledge and robust systems in place to help successfully expand existing electronic monitoring of offenders on parole or subject to community corrections orders to those on bail.

    “This intense monitoring shows alleged domestic violence offenders how serious the government is about preventing domestic violence on all fronts.”

    Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

    “Electronic monitoring of people accused of serious domestic violence while they are out on bail prioritises victim-survivors’ safety and ensures alleged perpetrators abide by their bail conditions.

    “This is one part of a coordinated, multi-pronged response to addressing domestic and family violence in our state that includes earlier intervention and primary prevention.

    “The NSW Government is also working with the sector and victim-survivors as we continue to provide holistic, trauma-informed, wraparound support for victim-survivors who are escaping violence.”

    Acting Commissioner Corrective Services NSW Leon Taylor said:

    “The expansion of our existing electronic monitoring system allows us to track serious alleged domestic violence offenders.

    “In the case of a suspected breach our Corrective Services officers will immediately notify police so they can take action. 

    “If we hold concerns for a person in need of protection, the Corrections team will be able to pick up the phone and alert them to a potential bail breach in real time, allowing them to enact their safety plan.”

    Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin said:

    “Domestic and family violence disproportionately affects women, so it’s vital for the NSW Government to continue implementing reforms like this to better protect at-risk women across the community.

    “These changes will give victim-survivors of domestic and family violence greater peace of mind and support their safety planning while the matter is dealt with in the courts.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New leading cyber & digital forensics training facility for NSW jobs precinct

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 11 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional NSW

    A major state-of-the art cyber and digital forensics training facility will soon call South Jerrabomberra home following the Minns Labor Government’s $23 million investment in enabling infrastructure within the South Jerrabomberra Regional Jobs Precinct in southern NSW.

    CBIT Digital Forensics Services (CDFS), an Australian supplier of digital forensic tools, industry training and certification, has chosen the precinct to establish its first tactical training facility.

    Digital forensics focuses on identifying, acquiring, processing, analysing, and reporting on data stored electronically.

    CDFS anticipates it will almost double its workforce from nine to 18 over the next few years and plans to invest $11.7 million in a new building on the site, creating additional jobs for local construction and building workers.

    The construction of the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility is expected to be completed by March 2025 and aiming to have the facility ready for training and operations for the second semester.

    The company has provided hi-tech services to organisations including law enforcement and government department to help deal with digital forensic and investigative issues including electronic evidence handling.

    CDFS joins a growing number of investors setting up in the South Jerrabomberra Regional Jobs Precinct. Further blocks within the precinct will become available for investors in early 2025.

    The precinct is supported by a $23 million contribution by the NSW Government for essential infrastructure including roads, footpaths, upgraded electricity, natural gas, water, and access to NBN Enterprise Ethernet services.

    Strategically located on Canberra’s doorstep, the precinct’s infrastructure and proximity to universities, world-class research and development facilities and a skilled workforce makes it a highly attractive opportunity for investors.

    With the wider region already home to more than 90 companies specialising in technology, cybersecurity and defence, the precinct development will help nurture high-tech careers in engineering, programming and science, specialising in cyber, space, AI, and defence.

    The site’s proximity to government agencies and the nation’s decision-makers, an international airport and major road networks puts new and emerging businesses in a prime position to thrive.

    To activate this investment-ready precinct in regional NSW, the NSW Government is working closely with the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, the ACT Government and federal agencies.

    CDFS was supported by $3 million in Australian Government funding to establish the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility.

    Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

    “It is important that we empower regional people and communities to prosper through a boost in skills, wages and opportunities. Through Regional Job Precincts like South Jerrabomberra, the NSW Government is providing this opportunity.

    “This precinct gives investors access to a highly skilled and educated local workforce. It aims to build a sustainable business hub offering fast-tracked planning approvals.

    “This investor-ready precinct has the advantage of proximity to key decision-makers in Canberra, and I am really proud that the NSW Government is giving businesses this opportunity to establish and grow in regional NSW.”

    Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said

    “With the rapid growth of areas like Jerrabomberra, Tralee, and Googong, precincts like this are ensuring we can keep highly qualified and skilled workers in their local area, and not lose their talents to the ACT or other major cities.

    “The investment in modern and specialised industries like cyber security, space, AI, and research is creating a sustainable and competitive workforce for regional NSW which will attract new people to our area.

    “I look forward to touring the precinct and learning about the work being done there.”

    CDFS CEO Zoran Iliev said:

    “The Ngunnawal people, the Traditional Owners of the lands where the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility will stand, have recognised that these lands have always been places of teaching and learning. We deeply respect their traditions and are grateful to have NANGU in this beautiful area with a unique position near Queanbeyan, the Canberra airport, and our nation’s capital.

    Our facility, the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility, will not only be a hub for technology and science but also a preserver of traditions. The forensic scientists trained here will not only be guardians of the truth but also guardians of the rich traditions of the Ngunnawal people.

    “As an independent RTO, we are proud to bring this training facility to South Jerrabomberra and offer young Australians a unique chance to get the qualifications to help them get not just a job but a career to be proud of.

    “The CDFS team and I are very proud and grateful for the opportunity to help this region by providing top-notch Cyber Forensics training and creating the much-needed new workforce in Cyber.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Wheely easy access coming to Illawarra Train Stations as E-Scooter trial extension is confirmed

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 11 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Minister for Transport

    The NSW Government is investing $10 million to make it safer and easier to walk and ride to 11 Illawarra stations.

    The planned initiatives will include things like footpath upgrades, better lighting, new bicycle storage around stations for people who choose to walk or cycle to and from their homes and to other modes of transport.

    More than $3 million of the investment will be used to build a two-way shared cycleway at Corrimal, which would stretch nearly one kilometre along Murray Road between Corrimal Station and Cawley Street. Corrimal will also see a new pedestrian refuge installed and additional bicycle racks outside the station.

    Other stations to benefit from proposed upgrades include:

    • Helensburgh will see existing bicycle storage upgraded and bicycle racks replaced, a footpath upgrade and new lighting. Footpaths will also be improved between the station and nearby bus stop, with a new refuge crossing installed across Lawrence Hargrave Drive between school and railway station.
    • Stanwell Park will see new lighting and CCTV installed and footpaths upgraded.
    • Scarborough will see including a new pedestrian refuge across Lawrence Hargrave Drive between the station and nearby school, improved footpath access between the station and bus stop and improvements to station stairs.
    • Coledale will see stairs replaced with a ramp.
    • Austinmer will see two pedestrian refuge crossings installed across nearby streets and a new sheltered bicycle storage space at both station entrances.
    • Thirroul will see existing bicycle storage upgraded and bicycle racks replaced, a footpath upgrade and new lighting. The nearby bus stop will be improved so vehicles can overtake waiting buses.
    • Bulli will see new sheltered bicycle storage installed, existing bicycle racks upgraded and more lighting.
    • North Wollongong will see a new secure bicycle shed with CCTV installed.
    • Coniston will see sheltered bicycle storage installed, new lighting and upgraded footpaths. Design work is also underway to make Coniston fully accessible.
    • Dapto will see new sheltered bicycle stalling installed.

    Twenty-eight projects have been identified and prioritised following extensive consultation with the community and other stakeholders.

    Further consultation will take place with the community as the projects progress, with all of them expected to be completed between early next year and the first half of 2026.

    The Transport Integration and Placemaking projects are being delivered through Transport for NSW’s Rail Service Improvement Program, in partnership with Wollongong City Council and Sydney Trains.

    This announcement comes as Transport for NSW has approved an extension of Wollongong City Council’s shared e-scooter trial until 30 June 2025.

    In the first 12 months of the trial with operator Neuron Mobility, 165,000 e-scooter trips were taken in the Wollongong local government area – with riders collectively clocking up over 316,000 kilometres, enough to ride around Australia over 20 times.

    In addition to extending its trial, the council is also exploring options to expand the trial footprint, to support more people riding shared e-scooters to reach their destinations.

    Quotes attributable to Transport Minister Jo Haylen MP:

    “This is an exciting and incredibly important investment for the people of Wollongong.

    “Given there are 25 train stations in the Wollongong Local Government area, there is a growing need to ensure pedestrians and cyclists can connect to these public transport hubs as safely and easily as possible.

    “Sheltered bicycle storage, new refuge crossings and street lighting with CCTV are just some of the many projects we will be rolling out to support the community.

    “We know people in the Illawarra love active transport, so making it easier for people to make the most of these last mile connections is essential.

    “Extending the Wollongong e-scooter trial until June next year is a big added bonus too.

    “All of these small but meaningful investments dotted along the coast will make neighborhoods across the Illawarra better connected.”

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park MP:

    “It’s not every day that 11 trains stations receive much needed upgrades, but that’s exactly what is happening here in the Illawarra.

    “These small and important investments will make it so much easier for families to access their station, and safely lock their bike up there for the day.

    “Upgrades to lighting, footpaths and crossings will also go a long way to improving the overall safety and access for commuters and tourists alike.”

    Quotes attributable to the Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully MP:

    “I’ve said before Wollongong is the best city in the world to ride a bike, now it’s the best place to ride an e-scooter.

    I am pleased that council is also exploring expanding the eScooter trial zone to potentially include Port Kembla and that’s really exciting.

    “The upgrades to stations and improved connections to Corrimal Station will make for a better public transport experience for current and future residents.”

    Quotes attributable to the Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson MP:

    “After its recent accessibility upgrade, it’s exciting to see Dapto Station is once again receiving welcome investment from the Minns Labor Government. The new sheltered bike racks are a big win for our community and will make it easier to ride to the station, for those who want to.”

    Quotes attributable to the Member for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart MP:

    “Lawrence Hargrave Drive is the main artery connecting the villages along the coast. As a result, it’s incredibly busy and a challenge for pedestrians to cross. I really welcome the new pedestrian refuges that will make it safer for people to cross the road, as well as the other investments being made for our local stations.

    “Works being undertaken at our train stations and roadways are crucial after they were neglected by the former Liberal National State government. The upgrades at Austinmer in particular, are changes I have campaigned on, I am thrilled the Minns Labor Government will be delivering these upgrades!”

    Quotes attributable to the Lord Mayor of Wollongong, Tania Brown:

    “Projects like these upgrades to Murray Road, and other locations around Wollongong, will assist people to comfortably and safely walk, roll, cycle or scoot to and from train stations that link our city.

    “We welcome the grant funding from the NSW Government and will continue to look for ways to collaborate with Transport for NSW to improve the public and active transport system across Wollongong.

    “We’re pleased to see an extension of the trial to 30 June 2025 to allow Council to work with Transport for NSW to continue to learn about e-scooter use and the further opportunities the shared scheme offers to support e-micromobility across Wollongong.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Major funding boost for the Asylum Seekers Centre

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 11 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Health, Minister for Multiculturalism

    The Asylum Seekers Centre will be able to expand primary care clinics and meet the increasingly complex health needs of some of Sydney’s most vulnerable residents, thanks to a grant of more than $1 million from the NSW Government.

    Minister for Health Ryan Park today announced funding of $1.07 million over three years for the Centre, which will help employ more clinical staff to manage the growing number of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the asylum seeker community.

    The funding will also help the Centre address the increasing need and cost of medicine for members of the community without access to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

    The Asylum Seekers Centre is a not-for-profit organisation that was established in 1993 and offers practical and personal support to people seeking asylum. The Centre also provides primary healthcare services for people seeking asylum with limited Medicare eligibility through a specialist nurse-led health service with volunteer GPs and other specialists.

    The Centre’s health service runs four GP clinics per week and has seen an 81 per cent increase in visits since June 2022. The complexity of visits has increased due to growing mental health presentations, an ageing population, and increased demand for pharmaceuticals, compounded by rising costs.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “This funding will allow people seeking asylum to access critical healthcare services they otherwise wouldn’t be able to.

    “Without access to the valuable work of the Asylum Seekers Centre, patients would often have nowhere else to turn but to our already busy emergency departments.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper:

    “NSW settles a significant proportion of people fleeing conflicts in Australia. They are an important part of the NSW community and we must ensure they have access to the services they need.

    “We are proud to support the Asylum Seekers Centre to facilitate access to essential primary health care to those who need it most.”

    Quotes attributable to Asylum Seekers Centre CEO Frances Rush OAM:

    “The Asylum Seekers Centre Health Clinic relies on the support of the state government, as well as the generosity of our GPs, physiotherapists, and others who provide their services for free, including partner organisations that provide free access to optometry and dentistry.”

    “The Asylum Seekers Centre is appreciative of both the Minister’s support for the Centre’s Health Clinic and the recognition of the often-precarious plight that people seeking asylum in our state face.”

    “Without access to the Centre’s pharmaceutical services, many people seeking asylum would not have the means to access life-saving medication – a priority healthcare right for all.”

    “This funding will go a long way to help address the great need in our community, enhancing the health and lives of people seeking asylum.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW set to welcome Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla and showcase the best of the state

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 11 October 2024

    Released by: The Premier

    The NSW Government is honoured to welcome Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla to Sydney during their first official visit to Australia this month and is inviting NSW residents to join the celebration.

    NSW Premier Chris Minns is inviting members of the public to join Their Majesties at the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday, 22 October, which will be followed by with an impressive Fleet Review and fly past by the Australian Defence Force on Sydney Harbour.

    Members of the public are invited to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt for the special event and the chance to meet The King and Queen. The afternoon event [at 4.20pm] will be followed by a Fleet Review on Sydney Harbour including an Australian Defence Force fly-over. Their Majesties, accompanied by the Governor-General, Chief of the Defence Force and Chief of Navy, will conduct a review of His Majesty’s Australian Ships Hobart, Warramunga,Arunta, Gascoyne, and Yarra, which will be anchored in the Harbour.

    In celebration of regional NSW, Their Majesties will also attend a Premier-hosted community BBQ in Parramatta, which will showcase the cultural diversity of modern Australia, in particular Western Sydney. Invited guests include community leaders, volunteers, and individuals who have excelled in their field. The event will also showcase produce from NSW with support from the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW.

    As part of His Majesty’s engagements, The King will have the opportunity to meet current Australians of the Year (also NSW Australians of the Year 2024), Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO, to hear firsthand about their world-leading cancer research and treatment.

    The Queen will visit a Sydney library and meet students participating in a series of writing workshops, esteemed authors, and recipients of the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition.

    The King’s visit to Australia will be His Majesty’s first to a Realm as Monarch. After Australia, Their Majesties will undertake a visit to Samoa and will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM)

    For more information about the Royal visit and the Sydney Opera House engagement visit: http://www.nsw.gov.au/royalvisit

    Premier Chris Minns said:

    “I look forward to hosting Their Majesties at the Western Sydney community BBQ to showcase this state’s rich culinary and cultural diversity, where they will also meet with a range of community organisations and outstanding Australians.

    “It is wonderful His Majesty is taking the time to meet with current Australians of the Year (also NSW Australians of the Year 2024), Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO.

    “I invite everyone to head to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt on the afternoon of Tuesday 22 October to attend this special event.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Paper highlights significant burden of healthcare-associated infections in public hospitals

    Source: Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission

    Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in public hospitals are estimated to have cost the health care system $955 million in 2021 and to have caused more disability than road traffic crashes.
    These infections can have a significant impact on patients and their whānau, causing longer hospital stays, delaying return to work or normal activities and, in severe cases, can lead to death. There are also additional costs for primary and community-based care, such as follow up GP visits and rehabilitation.
    A paper produced by Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission on the annual economic burden of HAIs in terms of cost, deaths and disability has now been published in the Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology journal.
    It highlights this national burden and will inform a strategy to reduce HAIs across Aotearoa New Zealand.
    Clinical lead of the surgical site infection improvement programme at Te Tāhū Hauora and clinical microbiologist, Dr Arthur Morris, says that understanding the burden infections have on the health care system is an important step toward making positive change.
    Dr Morris says, ‘Our data from 2021 shows that the burden of infections on the health care system is high. However, there are already quality improvement activities underway in districts to reduce them happening.
    ‘One example is the Surgical Site Infection Improvement Programme, which has achieved and sustained 20 and 25 percent reductions in infections following orthopaedic and cardiac surgery respectively.
    ‘Our goal is to identify which of those activities will have the biggest impact and then roll them out on a national level.’
    Dr Morris says our rate of healthcare-associated infections is not unusual internationally.
    ‘It’s difficult to compare the rate of healthcare-associated infections in New Zealand with those of other countries because there are differences in the surveillance methods.
    ‘However, reviewing other countries using similar methodology showed the prevalence of these infections in adult patients in New Zealand was comparable to Europe, Wales and Switzerland and less than that of Australia and Singapore.’
    Te Tāhū Hauora is working with the health care sector to identify the priorities for improving infection prevention and control practices to reduce healthcare-associated infections.
    Background
    Te Tāhū Hauora, in partnership with district health boards, carried out Aotearoa New Zealand’s first national point prevalence survey (PPS) of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in public hospitals in 2021.
    A report was published by Te Tāhū Hauora in 2022 and the findings were published in Journal of Hospital Infection in 2023.
    The data from the national point prevalence survey has now been used to calculate the annual economic burden of HAIs in terms of cost, deaths and disability. These findings are detailed in the paper published in the Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology journal, ‘The burden of healthcare-associated infections in New Zealand public hospitals 2021’.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Major investment deals set to be announced at government’s inaugural International Investment Summit as PM vows to ‘remove needless regulation’ declaring Britain open for business

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

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today.

    • Ministers set to unveil billions worth of major investment deals in AI, life sciences and infrastructure
    • Follows investment of £24 billion in clean energy from business leaders hailing the UK’s “clear policy direction”
    • Comes as leading investors, CEOs, and politicians convene for inaugural International Investment Summit
    • PM vows to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth” as he pledges to “get rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment”

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today (Monday 14th October).

    World leading CEO’s and investors from across the globe will meet with ministers, First Ministers, and local leaders at the Guildhall – a historic landmark which has served as the ceremonial heart of the City of London for centuries. 

    Securing investment is central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off.  

    The government has already secured tens of billions worth of investments within 100 days of being in office. The International Investment Summit will provide an opportunity to build on this progress and showcase the UK’s economic strengths. The event will demonstrate that through serious, stable governance, the UK can establish enduring partnerships with businesses to boost investment and give investors the confidence they need to choose Britain. 

    In a sign of intent to deliver on its central promise, this government has immediately made a series of major interventions to restore economic stability and create the right conditions for growth and investment. Business leaders this week hailed the UK’s “clear policy direction” as they announced over £24 billion worth of investment in clean energy projects.

    The government’s policy platform – including bolstering the Office for Investment, a robust Industrial Strategy, major planning reforms to unlock infrastructure and housing, and founding a National Wealth Fund to catalyse private money – will attract investment, kickstart growth, and unlock Britain’s potential. 

    In his keynote speech opening the summit, the Prime Minister will outline how the government will build on this work, with a vow to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth including getting rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment.” 

    He is expected to say not enough has been done to make sure the UK is keeping pace with emerging industries. He will pledge to “upgrade the regulatory regime to make it fit for the modern age, making Britain fit to harness all opportunities.”

    In his keynote speech, the Prime Minister will make his ‘pitch for Britain’. On the value of stability, the Prime Minister is expected to say: 

    “It’s not just that stability leads to growth – though we all recognise that. It’s also that growth leads to stability. Growth leads to a country that is better equipped to come together and get its future back. That’s why it’s always been so critical to my project.

    “We have a golden opportunity to use our mandate, to end chop and change, policy churn and sticking plasters that make it so hard for investors to assess the value of any proposition. 

    “We have the determination, the focus on clear long-term ends, a mission-led mindset that thinks in years, not the days or hours of the news grid, needed to unlock that potential. Do not doubt that. 

    “We are focusing on investment because the mission of growth, in this country especially, demands it. Private sector investment is the way we rebuild our country and pay our way in the world. This is a great moment to back Britain. This is great moment to back England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.”

    On regulation, he is expected to say: 

    “We’ve got to look at regulation where it is needlessly holding back the investment, to take our country forward.

    “Where it is stopping us building the homes, the data centres, warehouses, grid connectors, roads, trainlines, you name it then mark my words – we will get rid of it.

    “We will rip out the bureaucracy that blocks investment and we will make sure that every regulator in this country take growth as seriously as this room does.”

    The government will ask the CMA to prioritise growth, investment, and innovation through their work as a priority and it will also be reviewing the focus of other major regulators. 

    The regulatory review is just one part of the government’s work ensuring Britain is at the front of the queue for emerging opportunities. It builds on the recent creation of the Regulatory Innovation Office, which will curb red tape for cutting-edge emerging technologies, speed up approvals, and allow them to be rolled out to the public safely and quickly. 

    These changes come at the same time as the government delivers on a key manifesto promise to establish a modern Industrial Strategy. Long called for by business, the strategy hardwires long-term stability for investors and plays to the UK’s strengths by focusing on eight growth-driving sectors. 

    The summit will involve sessions with ministers and business leaders to discuss how together we can ensure the UK capitalises on emerging growth sectors including health tech and AI, clean energy and creative industries, for the good of working people. Confirmed speakers including Ruth Porat President & Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet, David A. Ricks Chair and CEO of Eli Lilly, Alex Kendall CEO of Wayve and Pushmeet Kohli Vice President of Research at Google DeepMind. 

    The Prime Minister will take part in an “in conversation” event with former CEO and chairman of Google Eric Schmidt, moderated by CEO of GSK Dame Emma Walmsley to discuss how the UK can seize the opportunities of AI to drive growth and productivity, and it’s potential to improve public services such as health and education.

    The Chancellor will close the summit and take part in a panel event discussing investment opportunities in the UK with Group Chief Executive of USS Carol Young, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock Larry Fink and CEO of Brookfield Asset Management Bruce Flatt.

    Attendees will then be invited to an exclusive reception at St Paul’s Cathedral attended by His Majesty The King. 

    Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson OBE said: 

    “It’s never been a better time to invest in Britain. This summit is a hugely significant moment to showcase the UK’s economic strengths on the world stage and I’m delighted to be part of the government’s important work to drive growth and investment across the UK.”

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: 

    “I’m delighted to be attending the International Investment Summit. With a new government, we are reclaiming Britain’s reputation as a magnet for global investment – bringing with it new technology, new ways of thinking and, crucially, new jobs across our country, meaning higher living standards.  

    “London and the UK are open for business, trade and investment. I will continue working with the Government to forge new partnerships, reset relationships and seize the opportunity to secure long-term investment so that we can build a better London for everyone and deliver the change Britain needs.”

    Alex Kendall, Co-Founder and CEO of Wayve, said: 

    “I’m delighted to join the inaugural International Investment Summit. The UK has a strong opportunity to lead in Embodied AI, especially in automated vehicles. 

    “We appreciate the Government’s proactive collaboration with industry on intelligent legislation like the AV Act 2024. Their sector-specific approach to AI regulation is the right way to encourage both investment and innovation. 

    “As we advance our Embodied AI technology into safe, reliable, production-ready software for global automakers, we look forward to continuing to work with the Government to harmonise global regulations and scale UK innovation internationally.”

    Ruth Porat Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc said:

    “Google is proud of our long history of meaningful investments in local talent, infrastructure and digital skilling in the UK which help everyone participate in the benefits of the digital economy. With the UK’s rich academic heritage, particularly in the sciences, it is well-positioned to capture the many opportunities that AI can deliver. 

    “The Investment Summit is an important moment to reflect on the progress to date, and how to best position the UK as a global leader in AI, with the economic and societal benefits this transformative technology can deliver today, and in the years ahead.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public urged to prepare for floods after wettest 18 months on record

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Environment Agency launches Flood Action Week to ensure every person knows their flood risk, marking one year on from Storm Babet

    The Environment Agency is urging the public to ensure they are prepared for a flood as the nation marks the annual ‘Flood Action Week’, which this year runs from 14-20 October. 

    This year’s awareness campaign coincides with the one-year anniversary of Storm Babet, which brought significant flooding across the country.  

    According to the Met Office, Storm Babet saw the third wettest three-day period in a series for England and Wales since 1891. 

    Nearly 96,900 properties were protected by the Environment Agency during Storm Babet, though sadly around 2,150 were flooded. 

    As climate change brings more extreme weather, there has already been flooding this autumn. Only last month, heavy rainfall led to the first major incident of the season with almost a thousand properties flooded. It followed the wettest 18 months on record in England up to February 2024.  

    This campaign is all about showing people that they can easily take a few steps to reduce the devastation caused by floods to their homes and businesses, with around 5.5 million properties in England at risk from flooding. Recent data suggests that nearly half the country is unsure of how to find information on local flood risks, making this campaign all the more important. 

    The best way to protect yourself from flooding is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance. Some of the actions people can take to reduce the dangers are:   

    • Check your long-term flood risk. You can use this free service to find out the long-term flood risk for an area in England, the possible causes of flooding, and how to manage flood risk. 

    • Sign up for flood warnings by phone, text or email  

    • Taking steps to protect yourself from future flooding – including storing important documents in a secure, waterproof location, taking rugs and small furniture upstairs, checking how to turn off your electricity and water, preparing a flood kit. 

    The Environment Agency and its partners are continuing to help communities become more resilient to extreme weather and rising sea levels, but authorities can never stop all flood impacts.  

    Caroline Douglass, Environment Agency Executive Director of Flood and Coastal Risk Management, said:

    Climate change means extreme weather events are happening more frequently, and we have already seen an unusually wet September this year.  

    We can’t always predict where the rain will fall or where flooding will occur, but we do know which areas are at risk.  

    That is why it is essential we all do our part by checking our flood risk and signing up for flood warnings this Flood Action Week.  While we at the Environment Agency are stepping up our preparations to increase the nation’s resilience to flooding as we head into the winter, taking small steps today can immediately improve your own readiness. 

    Following the flooding caused by Storms Ciara and Dennis in 2020, it was estimated that the average insurance claim per household was £32,000. 

    The impacts of flooding to mental health can be equally as harmful as the physical damage and disruption. People whose homes have been damaged by extreme weather are more likely to have poor mental health than the rest of the population. 

    Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    Flooding can be a destructive force that puts everything in life on hold. I’ve seen the impacts firsthand and am determined to ensure as much as possible others do not. 

    Through the recent launch of our Floods Resilience Taskforce, this government is taking decisive action to accelerate the development of flood defences and bolster the nation’s resilience to extreme weather. 

    But this Flood Action Week, we must be all be proactive in taking steps to protect ourselves by checking our flood risk and signing up for flood warnings. 

    Last winter, Storm Babet was followed in quick succession by Storms Ciaran and Henk, which each led to more significant flooding, though flood defences operated well overall. While around 5,000 properties were sadly flooded, around 250,000 properties were protected thanks to the investments the Environment Agency has made in flood and coastal defences. 

    In the year since Storm Babet, the Environment Agency has undertaken a thorough assessment of the condition of flood defense assets across the country to ensure they are up to the required standard. 

    It has conducted over 200,000 checks on the state of assets in the past year – up from 150,000 in an average year – and increased our spend on asset maintenance and repair to £236 million, up from £200 million.  

    Pumps have been pre-emptively deployed at seven strategic depots in vulnerable regions around the country to ensure they can be rolled out rapidly as and when required. 

    The public are also urged to explore the longer-term Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures they can adopt to protect their own homes. The Environment Agency estimates nine out of 10 properties fitted with PFR in England saw the measures delivered via its flood and coastal risk management investment programme, ensuring better protection. 

    Flood Re is a joint initiative between the Government and insurers aiming to make the flood cover part of household insurance policies more affordable. Its Build Back Better initiative enables householders to install property flood resilience measures up to the value of £10,000 when repairing their properties after a flood. 

    Flood Re Interim CEO Stuart Logue said:

    One year on from Storm Babet and we are seeing yet more severe weather and flooding across the country, causing not only physical devastation to homes, but also placing a unique burden on the mental health and wellbeing of families who are affected. 

    This acts as a stark reminder of the importance of our Build Back Better scheme where householders can access up to £10,000 to build resilience into their homes when carrying our flood repairs.  

    Householders can find out which insurance providers are part of the scheme on our website by searching Flood Re Build Back Better.

    During a flood, it is especially important that drivers take particular care on roads, stay away from swollen rivers and do not drive through flood water, just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.   

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major investment deals set to be announced at government’s inaugural International Investment Summit as PM vows to ‘remove needless regulation’ declaring Britain open for business

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today.

    • Ministers set to unveil billions worth of major investment deals in AI, life sciences and infrastructure
    • Follows investment of £24 billion in clean energy from business leaders hailing the UK’s “clear policy direction”
    • Comes as leading investors, CEOs, and politicians convene for inaugural International Investment Summit
    • PM vows to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth” as he pledges to “get rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment”

    Billions worth of investments in emerging growth sectors including AI and life sciences, and infrastructure are set to be unveiled by businesses and ministers at the government’s inaugural International Investment Summit today (Monday 14th October).

    World leading CEO’s and investors from across the globe will meet with ministers, First Ministers, and local leaders at the Guildhall – a historic landmark which has served as the ceremonial heart of the City of London for centuries. 

    Securing investment is central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off.  

    The government has already secured tens of billions worth of investments within 100 days of being in office. The International Investment Summit will provide an opportunity to build on this progress and showcase the UK’s economic strengths. The event will demonstrate that through serious, stable governance, the UK can establish enduring partnerships with businesses to boost investment and give investors the confidence they need to choose Britain. 

    In a sign of intent to deliver on its central promise, this government has immediately made a series of major interventions to restore economic stability and create the right conditions for growth and investment. Business leaders this week hailed the UK’s “clear policy direction” as they announced over £24 billion worth of investment in clean energy projects.

    The government’s policy platform – including bolstering the Office for Investment, a robust Industrial Strategy, major planning reforms to unlock infrastructure and housing, and founding a National Wealth Fund to catalyse private money – will attract investment, kickstart growth, and unlock Britain’s potential. 

    In his keynote speech opening the summit, the Prime Minister will outline how the government will build on this work, with a vow to “do everything in my power to galvanise growth including getting rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment.” 

    He is expected to say not enough has been done to make sure the UK is keeping pace with emerging industries. He will pledge to “upgrade the regulatory regime to make it fit for the modern age, making Britain fit to harness all opportunities.”

    In his keynote speech, the Prime Minister will make his ‘pitch for Britain’. On the value of stability, the Prime Minister is expected to say: 

    “It’s not just that stability leads to growth – though we all recognise that. It’s also that growth leads to stability. Growth leads to a country that is better equipped to come together and get its future back. That’s why it’s always been so critical to my project.

    “We have a golden opportunity to use our mandate, to end chop and change, policy churn and sticking plasters that make it so hard for investors to assess the value of any proposition. 

    “We have the determination, the focus on clear long-term ends, a mission-led mindset that thinks in years, not the days or hours of the news grid, needed to unlock that potential. Do not doubt that. 

    “We are focusing on investment because the mission of growth, in this country especially, demands it. Private sector investment is the way we rebuild our country and pay our way in the world. This is a great moment to back Britain. This is great moment to back England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.”

    On regulation, he is expected to say: 

    “We’ve got to look at regulation where it is needlessly holding back the investment, to take our country forward.

    “Where it is stopping us building the homes, the data centres, warehouses, grid connectors, roads, trainlines, you name it then mark my words – we will get rid of it.

    “We will rip out the bureaucracy that blocks investment and we will make sure that every regulator in this country take growth as seriously as this room does.”

    The government will ask the CMA to prioritise growth, investment, and innovation through their work as a priority and it will also be reviewing the focus of other major regulators. 

    The regulatory review is just one part of the government’s work ensuring Britain is at the front of the queue for emerging opportunities. It builds on the recent creation of the Regulatory Innovation Office, which will curb red tape for cutting-edge emerging technologies, speed up approvals, and allow them to be rolled out to the public safely and quickly. 

    These changes come at the same time as the government delivers on a key manifesto promise to establish a modern Industrial Strategy. Long called for by business, the strategy hardwires long-term stability for investors and plays to the UK’s strengths by focusing on eight growth-driving sectors. 

    The summit will involve sessions with ministers and business leaders to discuss how together we can ensure the UK capitalises on emerging growth sectors including health tech and AI, clean energy and creative industries, for the good of working people. Confirmed speakers including Ruth Porat President & Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet, David A. Ricks Chair and CEO of Eli Lilly, Alex Kendall CEO of Wayve and Pushmeet Kohli Vice President of Research at Google DeepMind. 

    The Prime Minister will take part in an “in conversation” event with former CEO and chairman of Google Eric Schmidt, moderated by CEO of GSK Dame Emma Walmsley to discuss how the UK can seize the opportunities of AI to drive growth and productivity, and it’s potential to improve public services such as health and education.

    The Chancellor will close the summit and take part in a panel event discussing investment opportunities in the UK with Group Chief Executive of USS Carol Young, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock Larry Fink and CEO of Brookfield Asset Management Bruce Flatt.

    Attendees will then be invited to an exclusive reception at St Paul’s Cathedral attended by His Majesty The King. 

    Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson OBE said: 

    “It’s never been a better time to invest in Britain. This summit is a hugely significant moment to showcase the UK’s economic strengths on the world stage and I’m delighted to be part of the government’s important work to drive growth and investment across the UK.”

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: 

    “I’m delighted to be attending the International Investment Summit. With a new government, we are reclaiming Britain’s reputation as a magnet for global investment – bringing with it new technology, new ways of thinking and, crucially, new jobs across our country, meaning higher living standards.  

    “London and the UK are open for business, trade and investment. I will continue working with the Government to forge new partnerships, reset relationships and seize the opportunity to secure long-term investment so that we can build a better London for everyone and deliver the change Britain needs.”

    Alex Kendall, Co-Founder and CEO of Wayve, said: 

    “I’m delighted to join the inaugural International Investment Summit. The UK has a strong opportunity to lead in Embodied AI, especially in automated vehicles. 

    “We appreciate the Government’s proactive collaboration with industry on intelligent legislation like the AV Act 2024. Their sector-specific approach to AI regulation is the right way to encourage both investment and innovation. 

    “As we advance our Embodied AI technology into safe, reliable, production-ready software for global automakers, we look forward to continuing to work with the Government to harmonise global regulations and scale UK innovation internationally.”

    Ruth Porat Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc said:

    “Google is proud of our long history of meaningful investments in local talent, infrastructure and digital skilling in the UK which help everyone participate in the benefits of the digital economy. With the UK’s rich academic heritage, particularly in the sciences, it is well-positioned to capture the many opportunities that AI can deliver. 

    “The Investment Summit is an important moment to reflect on the progress to date, and how to best position the UK as a global leader in AI, with the economic and societal benefits this transformative technology can deliver today, and in the years ahead.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –