The Housing Service is responsible for delivering high-quality services for all tenants and other customers. We are required to publish an Annual Assurance Statement in line with Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) guidance to confirm to tenants and the SHR that we are meeting all regulatory requirements, and to also highlight areas for improvement.
The statement is made available to tenants to give them assurance that the Council is meeting its responsibilities and providing quality services.
A report asking councillors to approve the Annual Assurance Statement for 2023/24 will be considered at a meeting of the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee on Wednesday 2nd October.
A report to the committee says that during 2023/24 the Council’s Housing Service complied with all but one regulatory requirement as set out by the SHR – our legal obligations around tenant and resident safety:
We did not fully comply with Electrical Inspection Certificate Reports (EICR) for 28 of our properties. This represents 0.35% of our 8,053 homes. This non-compliance was mainly due to the reluctance of some tenants to grant access to their home so the testing could be carried out, as well as the complex support needs of some tenants. Some properties were also waiting to have an EICR carried out as part of the voids process.
Overall, the report confirms that we achieved the standards and outcomes in the Scottish Social Housing Charter for tenants, people who are homeless and others who use our services. We complied with legal obligations relating to housing and homelessness, equality and human rights.
Committee Convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “The Council’s Housing Service continues to deliver very high levels of service, with strong performance across all areas despite ongoing challenges such as the cost-of-living crisis. In many areas we are exceeding the standards required by the SHR. This has been achieved in the context of maintaining our rents at affordable levels, demonstrating our commitment to delivering a value for money service for our tenants.
“To ensure continuous improvement we have an Action Plan in place to build on progress, implement improvement actions and ensure ongoing compliance with regulations. Safety remains a key priority for the Service, and we now have a dedicated Housing Compliance Team to ensure key areas such as gas, electrical, water, fire and asbestos safety are closely monitored, and that appropriate checks and governance arrangements are in place.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Ambassador Holland calls out Russia’s illegal attempted annexation of Ukrainian territory and the system of violence and terror that accompanies Russian occupation.
Location:
Vienna
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
Thank you, Madam Chair. Next week marks the second anniversary of Russia’s illegal annexation attempts in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts. Russia claims these land grabs, and ten years of control over Crimea, have brought liberty. On the contrary, these years of occupation have brought violence, terror, and occupation. Carried out under the guise of sham referenda and backed by military force, Russia aims to legitimise its aggression and create a false narrative of rightful control over Ukrainian land.
First implemented in Crimea, the Russian state has expanded to the newly occupied territories a systematic campaign, designed to suppress Ukrainian heritage, history, and language. This campaign goes beyond territorial ambitions; it seeks to dismantle the idea of Ukraine as a distinct nation, stripping away the cultural and national identity of its people.
We continue to be appalled by widespread reports of violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and violations and abuses of International Human Rights Law (IHRL) within the temporarily occupied territories. As the independent Moscow Mechanism reports have shown, arbitrary detentions, forced deportations, and the persecution of civilians are prevalent. Particularly alarming is the forced deportation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children. The most recent report details the atrocious conditions faced by both civilians and prisoners of war held in detention, and the widespread and systematic use of torture, as well as sexual violence. In recent weeks, we have also seen media reports of POWs being executed in the most barbaric manner.
Russia is also deliberately targeting Ukraine’s cultural heritage in the territory it occupies. Museums, religious sites, and historic buildings have been bombed, looted, or appropriated. This systematic destruction of cultural sites not only devastates the physical symbols of Ukraine’s heritage but also attempts to erase crucial elements of its national identity.
Madam Chair, Russia’s annexation attempts are a clear violation of the Helsinki Final Act, which enshrines the principle of territorial integrity and the inviolability of national borders. As a signatory, Russia committed to respect the sovereignty and independence of all states in the OSCE region, including Ukraine. They made the same pledge more directly in the Budapest Memorandum in the 1990s. By attempting to seize Ukrainian territory through force, Russia has flagrantly disregarded these principles. Moreover, the purported annexations represent a breach of the Paris Charter of 1990, in which all participating nations, including Russia, reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful relations, the rule of law, and the right of nations to determine their own destiny without external interference.
Russia’s continued imperialist ambitions destabilise the world, creating insecurity for all. We must call it what it is. And We must stand together to resist this dangerous expansionism. Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts, and Crimea are all irrefutably part of Ukraine. The UK will never recognise Russia’s illegitimate claims to these regions. We call upon Russia to immediately cease its unprovoked illegal war and withdraw its forces unconditionally from all of Ukraine. Thank you.
The Tenant and Resident Participation (TRP) Strategy for 2024-27 has been produced in partnership with Council tenants and Housing staff and aims to make it as easy as possible for tenants to get involved in shaping the decisions that affect them, at a level they are comfortable with.
The Council has a legal duty to manage Housing Services so that tenants and other customers find it easy to participate in decision-making. The involvement of tenants is also vital to ensure we continue to provide the type of high-quality services that people want and need.
Four key strategic priorities for participation have been agreed with tenants, which are:
Creating a culture of tenant participation across staff and tenants.
Improving communication and keeping tenants informed of the decisions which affect them.
Ensuring everyone has a say in the housing decisions that matter to them.
Ensuring tenants and communities lead the way in improving neighbourhoods and places.
To support these priorities, a menu of opportunities has been drawn up to encourage tenants to participate in a range of different ways. These include taking part in online consultations, attending events either in-person or online, joining groups set up to scrutinise services, or even just communicating with staff through our dedicated social media channels for tenants.
The Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee will be asked to approve the updated TRP Strategy on Wednesday 2nd October.
Committee Vice Convener, Councillor Sheila McCole, said: “It is vitally important that we work in close partnership with tenants and remove barriers so everyone can have a say in what kind of services we provide for them and so they can tell us where we need to improve.
“This new Strategy will see a participation built into every piece of work the Housing Service does, so that tenants’ voices are heard loud and clear.
“The approach set out will provide tenants with a wide range of participation opportunities, from small scale involvement like filling out a survey on their phone at home, to getting involved in meetings that examine the workings of our Housing Revenue Account. The strategy allows tenants to get involved and influence their services at a level that suits them.
“I would encourage all of our tenants to get involved in any way that they can, to make sure they have a say in important decisions that affect them.”
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons.
The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, in succession to The Venerable Tricia Hillas following her appointment as Bishop of Sodor and Man.
Background
Mark was educated at Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford Universities, initially in Veterinary Science. He trained for ministry at Westcott House Cambridge, served his title at the parish of Cirencester with Watermoor in the Diocese of Gloucester, and was ordained priest in 2001. In 2003 Mark was appointed Chaplain and Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford and in 2006 moved to become Chaplain and co-ordinator of spiritual care at Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice, in Oxford. In 2010 he was appointed as Chaplain at Lord Mayor Treloar’s School and College before moving into parish ministry as Priest in Charge of St Faith, Winchester, in 2012, alongside which he continued in chaplaincy work as Chaplain of the Hospital of St Cross, Winchester. In 2015 Mark was appointed Minor Canon and Chaplain at Westminster Abbey, becoming Sacrist in 2018. He was appointed to his current role as Precentor in 2020.
The construction of 2,800 mid-market rent homes will be supported by £100 million of investment from the Scottish Government.
As announced as part of the 2024-25 Programme for Government, funding will be used alongside institutional investment – such as pension funds – to grow to at least £500 million.
This commitment forms part of the Government’s approach to leverage in more private investment to deliver housing, making public funds go further.
It will build on the success of the Thriving Investments model which has grown an initial £47.5 million investment from the Scottish Government to £222.5 million to deliver up to 1,200 mid-market homes across Scotland.
Mid-market rent is a type of affordable housing aimed at assisting households on low to moderate incomes to access affordable rented accommodation and helps those who have difficulty accessing social rented housing, buying their own home or renting privately.
Housing Minister Paul McLennan said:
“Tackling the housing emergency requires a collective effort and bold decisions. We already have a strong track record in housebuilding in Scotland and this commitment will ensure public funds are used more efficiently.
“Since 2007, we have supported the delivery of more than 133,000 affordable homes, including more than 94,000 social rented homes. However, we know we can do more to tackle the housing emergency and encouraging more private investment into the sector is one key aspect of that.
“This new model will encourage more private investment into the mid-market sector that we know is willing and able to invest and it will deliver affordable homes that people need.”
Background
Thriving Investments, (formerly Places for People Capital) was the successful bidder to the MMR Invitation launched in February 2016 to support the continued expansion of MMR in Scotland. A £47.5m loan agreement between SG and PfP was agreed in June 2018. Since then they have grown their fund to £222.5m.
Thriving Investments has delivered 736 affordable homes with an additional 335 properties due for completion by early 2025. It is anticipated that the fund will deliver around 1,200 MMR homes across Scotland.
Scottish Government will commission a fund manager to deliver the new fund.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons.
The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor at Westminster Abbey as Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey and Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, in succession to The Venerable Tricia Hillas following her appointment as Bishop of Sodor and Man.
Background
Mark was educated at Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford Universities, initially in Veterinary Science. He trained for ministry at Westcott House Cambridge, served his title at the parish of Cirencester with Watermoor in the Diocese of Gloucester, and was ordained priest in 2001. In 2003 Mark was appointed Chaplain and Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford and in 2006 moved to become Chaplain and co-ordinator of spiritual care at Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice, in Oxford. In 2010 he was appointed as Chaplain at Lord Mayor Treloar’s School and College before moving into parish ministry as Priest in Charge of St Faith, Winchester, in 2012, alongside which he continued in chaplaincy work as Chaplain of the Hospital of St Cross, Winchester. In 2015 Mark was appointed Minor Canon and Chaplain at Westminster Abbey, becoming Sacrist in 2018. He was appointed to his current role as Precentor in 2020.
£124.9 million investment in consultants pay for 2024-25.
Consultants across Scotland have been offered a £124.9 million investment in their pay and reward package ensuring it is competitive with other UK nations.
The offer, if accepted by trade unions, will see the investment applied as a 10.5% uplift to basic pay and an investment of £5.7 million in other contractual elements.
It will be backdated to 1 April 2024.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said:
“Following weeks of constructive engagement with BMA Scotland, I am pleased to propose a pay offer that will ensure that our consultant workforce feel valued, supported and fairly rewarded.
“This will bring Scotland back into line with recent pay deals in other parts of the UK, ensuring our NHS remains competitive when recruiting and retaining consultants.
“I wish to thank our consultants for their dedication and patience. They are a critical part of NHS Scotland’s workforce and we are committed to supporting them.
“BMA will now put this to their members and I hope the unions will accept our offer.”
BACKGROUND
A total of £124.9 million has been committed for consultants’ pay in 2024-25. This will be distributed as a 10.5% pay uplift for all consultants with £5.7 million invested to uplift Discretionary Points from £3204 to £3600 per point.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
States’ obligations on the role of the family in supporting human rights of its members. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Location:
Geneva
Delivered on:
(Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
Thank you, Vice-President and dignitaries, for your opening remarks.
The United Kingdom is pleased to be joining this important panel discussion marking the 30th Anniversary of the International Year of the Family.
It is clear this commemoration reflects our common commitments to promoting and protecting all human rights of all individuals within the family unit, bringing us one step closer to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
The United Kingdom recognises the importance of considering the needs of all families, no matter how they are composed, to ensure everyone can live in a loving environment with dignity and respect.
We are committed to promoting and protecting the human rights of parents, children, persons with disabilities, older persons and other family members who experience societal marginalisation, including their right to an adequate standard of living and freedom from violence and discrimination.
We look forward to further collaboration with fellow member states on this initiative going forward.
The events, organised by City of Wolverhampton Council’s Trading Standards team, will take place on Wednesday, 9 October at Ashmore Park Community Centre Griffiths Drive, WV11 2LH and Thursday, 10 October at Bilston Indoor Market (stall 50). Both days will run between 9am and 4pm.
Residents with an electric blanket will be able to bring it along to be tested by experts from Gems Electrical Testing. It is important that all leads, controls and plugs associated with the electric blankets are brought along for testing.
If the blanket fails and the owner is a Wolverhampton resident, a replacement will be offered for free. Funding for the blankets has been provided through the government’s Household Support Fund.
General support and advice about energy bills will be available from charity Act on Energy. Advisors can give general advice and also arrange to speak to residents individually about ways to save on bills, how to switch providers and how to access energy debt support.
Other help on offer during the two days will include support from the council’s Missing Benefits team and information about ways people can protect themselves from scams, rogue traders and bogus callers.
Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services, said: “These two advice days are a great opportunity for people to have their electric blankets tested ahead of the colder weather as well as get information about energy bills and other issues which may be concerning them.
“While the majority of electric blankets will be perfectly safe, the condition of some may have deteriorated and become faulty which can risk injury and fire. We’d urge all local people, especially our older residents, to take advantage of these free checks.
“They will not only help to reduce a fire risk but will mean people can also rest assured that they will stay warm and safe this winter. And if blankets do fail, I’m pleased to say a free replacement will be offered to Wolverhampton residents through funding provided from the Household Support Fund.”
People do not have to book an appointment for the electric blanket testing but are asked to please be prepared to wait if the event is busy.
Times Square regenerated with new pedestrian plazas improving public safety, air quality and economic output
Sadiq given tour by former New York Transport Commissioner, Janette Sadik-Khan
Mayor says scheme can provide inspiration for his plans to transform Oxford Street
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, will today visit Times Square to see at first-hand how the iconic New York landmark could provide inspiration for the future regeneration of Oxford Street.
Times Square and its surrounding areas have been comprehensively regenerated since 2009 to create a series new and enhanced spaces to walk, sit, and cycle, transforming it from one of New York’s most notoriously congested spacesinto a world-class civic space that has boosted economic activity and improved safety.
Accompanied by Janette Sadik-Khan, a principal with Bloomberg Associates who was New York Transport Commissioner and the driving force behind the Times Square scheme under former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the Mayor learnt how the project has doubled the amount of pedestrian space and led to improvements in public safety, air quality, and economic output. As a result, 93 per cent of visitors said that the pedestrian plaza makes Times Square a more pleasant place to be. The number of pedestrians in Times Square soared by nearly a quarter in just five years, to 482,000 people a day in 2013, helping spur a more than doubling in the value of retail space in Times Square as major retailers opened new stores. Within two years of the project being implemented, Times Square was made the list of the 10 most desirable locations to do business, according to Cushman and Wakefield.
In total, more than 110,000 square feet of pedestrian space has been created, leading to a 40 per cent reduction in pedestrian injuries and a 15 per cent drop in road traffic casualties. Crime in the area fell by 20 per cent and more than 80 per cent of visitors said that they feel safer. While it comprises only 0.1 per cent of New York City’s land area, Times Square supported nearly 10 per cent of the city’s jobs before the pandemic, generating 15 per cent of its economic output.
Last week, Sadiq set out proposals to transform Oxford Street to ensure it can be a catalyst of London’s economic prosperity for decades to come. These proposals include transforming it into a traffic-free pedestrian boulevard and delivering an enhanced experience for shoppers, residents, employees, visitors and tourists.
Sadiq believes that Times Square can provide inspiration for the future regeneration of Oxford Street, creating new jobs and economic prosperity.
The Mayor is in New York this week to encourage US businesses to expand and invest in London, and promote the capital as an unrivalled destination for tourists and sporting events.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “I am delighted to visit Times Square to see how the incredible regeneration here can provide inspiration for our plans for Oxford Street.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Oxford Street to deliver a safer, greener part of the capital that creates new jobs and boosts growth for London and other parts of the UK.
“If we can replicate some of the aspects of Times Square on Oxford Street, I am sure we can create a high street destination that will be the envy of the world once again.”
Former New York Transport Commissioner, Janette Sadik-Khan, said: “Great streets make great cities. Bringing new life to old streets like Broadway and Oxford Street offers new possibilities for a city that is healthier and more prosperous for millions of people. Reimagining Broadway showed that this can be done quickly, inexpensively and that it can be wildly popular.”
John Dickie, Chief Executive at BusinessLDN, said: “Oxford Street is one of the world’s most celebrated shopping destinations and, like Times Square, needs modernisation to keep it a truly twenty-first century global destination. The Oxford Street Mayoral Development Corporation, working with local stakeholders and learning from other global cities, is a powerful vehicle to deliver the change that Oxford Street needs, to make it cleaner, greener and more attractive to visitors and Londoners alike.”
Dee Corsi, Chief Executive of New West End Company, the body representing 600 businesses in London’s West End, said: “The regeneration of iconic spaces like Times Square offers valuable insights as we work towards Oxford Street’s transformation and secure its place as a world-class flagship retail and leisure destination. By learning from successful projects in global cities, including New York, we can ensure that Oxford Street continues to deliver for visitors, residents, and businesses alike. It is crucial that we maintain momentum to deliver this transformation swiftly, realising its benefits for Londoners and the wider UK economy as soon as possible.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Personal injury discount rates (PIDR) in Scotland and Northern Ireland have been updated. PIDR determines damages awards to people with long-term injuries.
Credit: Shutterstock
The personal injury discount rates (PIDR) in Scotland and Northern Ireland have been updated following the determination by the Government Actuary, completed on 24 September.
The PIDR is used to determine lump sum damages awards to people who suffer serious and long-term personal injury.
Purpose and use
Damages are awarded to people who have endured life-changing events which have led to serious and long-term injuries. The lump sum payments are intended to provide people with full and fair financial compensation for all expected losses and costs caused by their injuries.
Where part of a claim for future losses is settled as a cash amount, the lump sum is calculated allowing for the:
period over which losses and costs are expected to be met
assumed investment return that the individual is expected to earn on the lump sum award after allowing for investment expenses, tax and damages inflation
The assumed investment return is referred to as the Personal Injury Discount Rate (PIDR).
Credit: Unsplash
GAD’s involvement
The Government Actuary’s reports cover the determination of the PIDR for both Scotland and for Northern Ireland. Following the Government Actuary’s review, the PIDR is set to change:
Scotland: from -0.75% to +0.50%
Northern Ireland: from -1.5% to +0.50%
The Damages Act 1996 and later amendments, set out how the PIDR is to be set by the Government Actuary in her role as the ‘rate-assessor’ as defined in the Act.
This legislation sets out various parameters that should be used to calculate the rate of return used to determine the PIDR such as the:
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Personal injury discount rates (PIDR) in Scotland and Northern Ireland have been updated. PIDR determines damages awards to people with long-term injuries.
Credit: Shutterstock
The personal injury discount rates (PIDR) in Scotland and Northern Ireland have been updated following the determination by the Government Actuary, completed on 24 September.
The PIDR is used to determine lump sum damages awards to people who suffer serious and long-term personal injury.
Purpose and use
Damages are awarded to people who have endured life-changing events which have led to serious and long-term injuries. The lump sum payments are intended to provide people with full and fair financial compensation for all expected losses and costs caused by their injuries.
Where part of a claim for future losses is settled as a cash amount, the lump sum is calculated allowing for the:
period over which losses and costs are expected to be met
assumed investment return that the individual is expected to earn on the lump sum award after allowing for investment expenses, tax and damages inflation
The assumed investment return is referred to as the Personal Injury Discount Rate (PIDR).
Credit: Unsplash
GAD’s involvement
The Government Actuary’s reports cover the determination of the PIDR for both Scotland and for Northern Ireland. Following the Government Actuary’s review, the PIDR is set to change:
Scotland: from -0.75% to +0.50%
Northern Ireland: from -1.5% to +0.50%
The Damages Act 1996 and later amendments, set out how the PIDR is to be set by the Government Actuary in her role as the ‘rate-assessor’ as defined in the Act.
This legislation sets out various parameters that should be used to calculate the rate of return used to determine the PIDR such as the:
On 23 September 2024, Perth and Kinross Council detected unauthorised access to a limited number of emails. This incident involved one user’s email account and access to emails containing invoicing data from some of our service providers.
The breach was identified and secured promptly, but eight emails were accessed. Some of these emails had attachments which may also have been accessed which contained bank account numbers and sort codes of some businesses, individual suppliers and commercial waste customers.
Rest assured, this incident does not affect recipients of other Council services, such as welfare payments or payments made for Council Tax and housing rent.
We will directly contact affected individuals to inform them as soon as possible. In the meantime, we urge everyone to be cautious of any unusual emails claiming to be from Perth and Kinross Council. Always verify that emails come from @pkc.gov.uk addresses and be wary of unexpected changes or requests and treat links and attachments with caution. If something seems off, please speak to your usual Council contact using a different communication method than the one given on the email you are concerned about.
We take the protection of personal and company information very seriously and are very sorry for the inconvenience and concern that this incident has caused.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in August 2024.
NicoElNino/Shutterstock.com
This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in August 2024.
Please note this data shows what HM Land Registry has been able to process during the time period covered and is not necessarily a reflection of market activity.
In August:
HM Land Registry completed more than 1,876,210 applications to change or query the Land Register
the South East topped the table of regional applications with 425,070
HM Land Registry completed 1,876,215 applications in August compared with 2,092,554 in July and 1,795,490 last August 2023, of which:
285,515 were applications for register updates compared with 318,267 in July
1,073,999 were applications for an official copy of a register compared with 1,190,880 in July
197,468 were search and hold queries (official searches) compared with 214,947 in July
78,219 were transactions for value compared with 93,549 in July
18,417 were postal applications from non-account holders compared with 19,357 in July
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
The Prime Minister met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at UNGA this afternoon.
The Prime Minister met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at UNGA this afternoon.
President Abbas opened by condemning the Hamas attacks of October 7th. He also highlighted the civilian death toll in Gaza since then, with 41k killed and 100k injured, plus 70% of infrastructure devastated. The Prime Minister agreed that the loss of civilian life had been intolerable.
The President and Prime Minister also condemned the increase in settler violence and settlement activity there has been on the West Bank.
The President and Prime Minister agreed that we need an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages and a surge in humanitarian aid getting in.
They also discussed what needed to come next in terms of supporting and reforming the Palestinian Authority and working towards a political horizon which was the only long term solution to this crisis: a viable Palestinian state along a safe and secure Israel.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Prime Minister met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at UNGA this afternoon.
The Prime Minister met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at UNGA this afternoon.
President Abbas opened by condemning the Hamas attacks of October 7th. He also highlighted the civilian death toll in Gaza since then, with 41k killed and 100k injured, plus 70% of infrastructure devastated. The Prime Minister agreed that the loss of civilian life had been intolerable.
The President and Prime Minister also condemned the increase in settler violence and settlement activity there has been on the West Bank.
The President and Prime Minister agreed that we need an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages and a surge in humanitarian aid getting in.
They also discussed what needed to come next in terms of supporting and reforming the Palestinian Authority and working towards a political horizon which was the only long term solution to this crisis: a viable Palestinian state along a safe and secure Israel.
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
The Prime Minister met Kenyan President William Ruto at UNGA this afternoon.
The Prime Minister met Kenyan President William Ruto at UNGA this afternoon.
The two leaders stressed how pleased they were to meet each other for the first time, and agreed the UK and Kenya share a close and important partnership.
They agreed to take forward work to further strengthen the bilateral relationship, building on the existing Strategic Partnership between our two countries.
In particular, both leaders shared their determination to deliver world-leading action to tackle climate change and accelerate the energy transition.
The Prime Minister praised President Ruto’s extensive and pioneering leadership in this area, both in Kenya and through his international work across Africa and the world to accelerate the clean energy transition, and reiterated his ambition to turn the UK into a clean energy superpower.
Both looked forward to working together more closely and agreed to take forward work to champion clean power internationally– including leveraging the power of private sector investment and international financial institution reform to deliver on their climate ambitions.
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
The Prime Minister met President Luiz Inacio da Silva at UNGA this afternoon.
The Prime Minister met President Luiz Inacio da Silva at UNGA this afternoon.
They discussed their shared commitment to tackling global challenges, including the importance of global ambition on climate change and poverty.
The Prime Minister congratulated President Lula on his leadership on tackling both these challenges as President of the G20 and looked forward to the Summit in Rio.
The leaders shared their plans to accelerate the energy transition at home and internationally, and agreed to work closely on this agenda including for COP30.
The Prime Minister also confirmed strong support for President Lula’s G20 Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.
They also discussed the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon. The Prime Minister set out his steadfast support for Ukraine and upholding the UN Charter. On the Middle East, the Leaders underlined the importance of ceasefires in both Lebanon and in Gaza.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Prime Minister met President Luiz Inacio da Silva at UNGA this afternoon.
The Prime Minister met President Luiz Inacio da Silva at UNGA this afternoon.
They discussed their shared commitment to tackling global challenges, including the importance of global ambition on climate change and poverty.
The Prime Minister congratulated President Lula on his leadership on tackling both these challenges as President of the G20 and looked forward to the Summit in Rio.
The leaders shared their plans to accelerate the energy transition at home and internationally, and agreed to work closely on this agenda including for COP30.
The Prime Minister also confirmed strong support for President Lula’s G20 Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.
They also discussed the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon. The Prime Minister set out his steadfast support for Ukraine and upholding the UN Charter. On the Middle East, the Leaders underlined the importance of ceasefires in both Lebanon and in Gaza.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Prime Minister met Kenyan President William Ruto at UNGA this afternoon.
The Prime Minister met Kenyan President William Ruto at UNGA this afternoon.
The two leaders stressed how pleased they were to meet each other for the first time, and agreed the UK and Kenya share a close and important partnership.
They agreed to take forward work to further strengthen the bilateral relationship, building on the existing Strategic Partnership between our two countries.
In particular, both leaders shared their determination to deliver world-leading action to tackle climate change and accelerate the energy transition.
The Prime Minister praised President Ruto’s extensive and pioneering leadership in this area, both in Kenya and through his international work across Africa and the world to accelerate the clean energy transition, and reiterated his ambition to turn the UK into a clean energy superpower.
Both looked forward to working together more closely and agreed to take forward work to champion clean power internationally– including leveraging the power of private sector investment and international financial institution reform to deliver on their climate ambitions.
Launched at the start of September, it is the latest step in the roll out of Government funded childcare.
And it means that all eligible parents of children aged from 9 months to 4 years old are now able to claim up at least 15 hours of funded childcare per week, for 1,140 hours or 38 weeks a year, at an approved provider – as eligible parents of children aged 3 and 4 can already claim 30 hours per week.
To qualify, each parent must earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at national minimum or living wage, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year.
People in receipt of certain benefits are also eligible for 15 hours of funded childcare for 2 year olds, known as Terrific for Twos in Wolverhampton.
A further change is due to be rolled out in September 2025, when eligible working parents of all children from the age of 9 months to school age will be able to claim 30 hours of funded childcare per week.
Meanwhile, eligible working parents and carers with children aged 11 or under can get up to £2,000 per child each year towards their childcare costs, or up to £4,000 for children with a disability aged 16 or under, though the tax free childcare scheme.
To find out more, including how to apply for support with childcare costs, please visit the Childcare Choices website.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Every year hundreds of families in Wolverhampton benefit from funded childcare schemes at participating nurseries, schools and childminders around the city.
“Accessing early education gives your child the chance to learn, play and make new friends and the opportunity to develop and master new skills. It supports them as they prepare for school by helping them to communicate, explore new experiences, be active and healthy – and of course, it also helps working parents juggle careers and childcare.
“I would encourage working parents to find out more about the expansion of funded childcare and to sign up if they are eligible.”
Joseph Powell had been a resident in a care home prior to his death.
Anyone who is related to Mr Powell, or who has any information which may help trace his relatives, is asked to please call Protection and Funerals Officer Diane Doré on 07919 626117 or 01902 550095, or email her via diane.dore@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
Hate crime is any criminal offence committed against a person or property which is motivated by an offender’s hatred of someone because of their race, colour, ethnic origin or nationality, their religion, their gender or gender identity, their sexual orientation, or their disability.
It can take many forms, from physical attacks such as an assault, damage to property, offensive graffiti and arson, to verbal abuse or insults or the threat of attack, including the sending of offensive letters, emails or texts, abusive or obscene telephone calls or malicious complaints.
The Safer Wolverhampton Partnership is calling on people to help raise awareness of the issue, and understand the ways that victims of, or witnesses to, an incident can report hate crime, during this year’s national Hate Crime Awareness Week, which takes place from 12 to 19 October. People can:
Call police on 101 – or dial 999 if it is an emergency
Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via Crimestoppers
Report in person to the police at any police station or one of the Police Hate Crime drop-ins – see StopHateWLV for details
Report at any Third-Party Reporting Centre – independent organisations that have been trained to record hate crimes and incidents, offer support and signpost to other help. See StopHateWLV for details
Visit Report It and fill in the online reporting form which will be forwarded to police for investigation
If an incident occurs on a train or the Midland Metro, text British Transport Police on 61016
If the incident is Islamophobic in nature, Tell MAMA by visiting Tell MAMA or calling on 0800 456 1226
If the incident is anti-Semitic, it can be reported via Community Security Trust’s website, CST, or by calling 0208 457 9999.
Members of the Safer Wolverhampton Partnership will be at Sainsbury’s Wednesfield, Rookery Street, on Saturday 12 October from 11am to 5pm, Tesco Wolverhampton, Marston Road, on Wednesday 16 October from 10am to 12.30pm, Central Library, Snow Hill, on Thursday 17 October from 10am to 12.30pm and Wednesfield Library, Well Lane, also Thursday 17 October from 2pm to 4.30pm, to raise awareness the importance of reporting hate crime, and will also be holding a series of other activities throughout the week.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Digital and Community, said: “The Safer Wolverhampton Partnership takes hate crime incredibly seriously, and all reports will be fully investigated by police.
“We’ll be using Hate Crime Awareness Week to get people thinking about how they can respond to hate crime if they witness or are victims to it.
“Most importantly, we’ll be encouraging people to report instances of hate crime, which will enable victims to get the support they need and to ensure those committing it are met with justice.”
People can find out more about hate crime by logging on to StopHateWLV. For details of National Hate Crime Awareness week, please visit #NationalHCAW.
Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW
The Minns Labor Government has today announced funding of $1.8 million for grants to improve recreational fishing as part of the 2024/2025 Recreational Fishing Trust grants program.
The NSW Government is committed to supporting recreational fishing and making it more accessible to everyone across the state.
This is demonstrated in funding for 21 projects that will contribute to the delivery of the Government’s election commitment to make fishing more welcoming to people with disabilities.
Some of the newly funded projects enabling better access include:
$375,000 in the Shoalhaven to repair, refurbish and upgrade five fishing platforms with improved accessibility
$98,300 in Hay to allow better and safer access to a local fishing platform and boat ramp
$11,035 in Davistown to replace ageing platform and build a pedestrian bridge with disabled access
$26,210 in Tumbulgum to provide local fiish cleaning facilities next to the jetty with disabled access
$79,500 in Port Macquarie/Hastings for multiple fish cleaning facilities
$10,000 for Fishing4All to introduce people with intellectual impairment to fishing
In total, 24 projects from external applicants will receive $1.8 million in funding, as recommended by the Recreational Fishing
NSW Advisory Council. The areas receiving funding cover the following:
$717,612 – fishing access and facilities
$85,000 – recreational fishing enhancement
$552,000 – recreational fishing education
$444,000 – aquatic habitat protection and rehabilitation
The next funding round for Recreational Fishing Trust Grants will open on 6 November and will open up for applications the Government’s new $2 million recreational fishing small infrastructure grant program.
This new program will make it easier for fishing clubs, community groups and other organisations to apply for funding for grassroots projects.
As part of the next round, the Government will boost communications with all fishers and clubs so that they know when and how to apply for grants to improve their local areas.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
“Fishing licence fees have been put to work to improve the state’s recreational fishing facilities, fishing habitats and opening up fishing to more people.
“I am pleased to see some significant new facilities being funded to welcome people with a disability into fishing around our state, both inland or along the coast.
“There are some big and small projects that will benefit many people, including Morisset High School receiving funding for students with disabilities to engage with fishing, to a fly-fishing day for people who have experienced breast cancer in the New England region.
“The NSW Government is committed to supporting the recreational fishing community and seeing it contribute to regional tourism where it is creating jobs and generating income.”
Released by: The Premier, Minister for Health, Minister for Women
Thousands of women across NSW will have easier, more affordable access to the oral contraceptive pill as a 12-month trial is made permanent by the Minns Labor Government.
Since the oral contraceptive pill trial began in September 2023, more than 500 pharmacies have delivered over 2,000 consultations to women in NSW.
From Saturday 28 September 2024, NSW pharmacists who have completed the required training and work in pharmacies with suitable facilities will be able to offer this service as part of their usual business.
Women who have been using these contraceptive options continuously for the last two years, as prescribed by a doctor (GP) or nurse practitioner, and require a refill of their script, will be able to access extended supply for up to 12 months without having to visit their doctor for a prescription.
The NSW Government will make the existing service more accessible by expanding patient age eligibility criteria from 18-35 years to 18-49 years. Women aged 40-49 will now be able to access extended supply for up to three months without having to visit their doctor for a prescription, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.
The announcement follows the successful implementation of the first phase of the NSW Pharmacy Trial in May 2024, which saw more than 3,300 NSW pharmacists provide more than 18,000 consultations to women aged 18 to 65 with symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). The UTI service transitioned to usual pharmacy care from 1 June 2024.
The third and final phase of the trial allowing pharmacists to manage common minor skin conditions is underway and will be running until early 2025.
A detailed evaluation of all three phases of the NSW Pharmacy Trial will be provided to NSW Health in 2025 and will inform future expansion of services.
The NSW Government is committed to expanding the role of community pharmacists outside the trial framework, and is working with NSW universities to develop formal training courses for pharmacists to manage a range of common conditions where clinically appropriate.
Quotes attributable to Premier Chris Minns:
“We know that people across NSW are doing it tough right now, even cutting back on essential healthcare because of affordability.
“This trial has been a huge success, and now we’ll make it permanent – women who are eligible will be able to go to their pharmacist to renew an existing script.
“At a time when seeing a GP can be difficult, we hope that this service will make it a little bit easier for women to access affordable healthcare, where and when they need it.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“I am excited to announce that women in NSW will now have easier ongoing access to continue their chosen contraceptive option as a result of the oral contraceptive pill trial service becoming usual business for community pharmacies in NSW.
“It has been amazing to see over a thousand pharmacists across the state sign up to take part in each of the trial’s three phases so far, and this has prompted us to look at more ways they can help our communities.
“Earlier this month, the NSW Government announced thousands of people across NSW will in the near future be able to access treatment for ear infections, wound management, gastro, acne, muscle and joint pain at their local pharmacy, boosting access to fast, convenient healthcare across NSW.
“By empowering pharmacists to undertake consultations for these common conditions and medications, we can help improve access to primary care services which will relieve the pressure on the state’s busy GPs and our hospital system.
“We are working with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia to ensure pharmacists have the support they need to continue delivering best practice and connected primary care.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Jodie Harrison
“Women’s timely access to quality health services, their health needs and sexual and reproductive health is a priority for the NSW Government.
“Making the trial permanent is a real win for women in NSW, who, if eligible, can now access the contraceptive pill at their local pharmacy. It not only increases accessibility, it saves time and GP costs, for busy women in our state.”
Quotes attributable to Catherine Bronger, Senior Vice of President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, NSW Branch:
“With our GPs stretched, community pharmacists have provided thousands of women with repeat prescriptions of the oral contraceptive pill under the NSW Government’s trial.
“Making the availability of the pill at community pharmacies is the right thing for women and our communities.”
Quotes attributable to Pharmaceutical Society of Australia New South Wales President Luke Kelly:
“Pharmacists across New South Wales continue to show that we can do more to support our patients. Giving our patients the option to access contraception through skilled community pharmacists is an important step in making reproductive care more accessible to women across the state.
“I congratulate the Minister on solidifying the role of pharmacists in the continuous supply of oral contraceptives as a permanent part of the New South Wales health care system.”
The park will reopen on Friday 27 September following the removal of invasive animals including pigs, rabbits, hares and horses from critical areas of the park through aerial and ground shooting operations.
Part of the park has been closed for 4 weeks during the operation, with public alerts on the NPWS website, onsite signage and standard notifications in place.
Barrington Tops National Park is a world heritage listed area. Invasive animals are one of the major threats to its unique plants and animals.
These animals have been damaging fragile sub-alpine areas across Barrington Tops, leading to the destruction of native plants, soil erosion and degradation of habitat for endangered species such as the broad-toothed rat and endangered orchid species.
There have also been risks to the public, including incursions into campgrounds and popular walking areas.
The operation focussed on areas of the park where invasive animals pose the greatest risk to world heritage and other values. This included aerial shooting in and around the sensitive Phytophthora quarantine area to reduce the potential spread of this soil-borne pathogen.
The recent program follows NPWS’ efforts throughout the year to remove invasive animals such as pigs, foxes, wild dogs, deer, cats, rabbits and hares from the national park by methods such as ground trapping, baiting and ground and aerial shooting.
NPWS will seek interest from individuals and organisations interested in rehoming horses from the park and, subject to interest, will undertake trapping for rehoming in 2025.
Visitors can keep up to date with the most recent update in all lands managed by NPWS: Alerts for NSW National Parks.
Released by: Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, Minister for Lands and Property
Aboriginal communities in Condobolin are celebrating completion of $2.8 million in essential infrastructure upgrades funded by the NSW Government to support social, economic and employment benefits for the area.
The Roads to Home program in the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has funded Condobolin Local Aboriginal Land Council to upgrade infrastructure at the Willow Bend village in Condobolin.
Infrastructure improvements have included upgraded roads and guttering, footpaths, an amenities block, stormwater drainage and sewerage infrastructure, new streetlighting, new house fencing, upgrades to the community basketball and tennis courts and public gardens, landscaping, a community yarning circle, and a new village entrance sign.
Upgrades have also occurred to a levee bank at the village which has been reinforced in sections and new flood gates and drainage flaps installed to help control flooding from the nearby Lachlan River.
The delivery of infrastructure upgrades to normal standards enhances quality of life for residents and improves access to services, including household waste collection, postal delivery, emergency vehicles and community transport.
A key feature of Roads to Home projects is ensuring there are employment and training opportunities for local Aboriginal communities. The Condobolin project provided training for 10 residents and work for 8.
The Minns Labor Government has so far committed a total of $173.8 million through the Roads to Home program to enable upgrades in 34 discrete Aboriginal communities.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“It’s fantastic to see these upgrades delivered to bring infrastructure up to acceptable standards to benefit the residents of the Willow Bend village in Condobolin.
“Infrastructure upgrades such as these are very important for Aboriginal communities as they improve quality of life and empower residents by supporting better health and safety and facilitating improved access to community services.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:
“The Roads to Home program is correcting an historic injustice where Aboriginal communities on former missions and reserves across NSW were left to fend for themselves without the types of infrastructure and services that communities in the rest of the state take for granted.
“It is a unique program that takes a partnership approach to empower Aboriginal landowners to make decisions about essential infrastructure upgrades in their communities to improve social outcomes while providing training and employment opportunities.
“We know there are better Closing the Gap outcomes when local Aboriginal communities and people drive shared decision-making and self-determination.”
Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:
“Its always great to see investment in Barwon communities.
“Things like reinforcing the levee to prevent inundation from the Lachlan river, along with upgrading the roads and building an amenities block, are not luxury items but they bring residents some much needed improvements that make Willow Bend a much better place to live.
“It has a net benefit to peoples wellbeing when they see investment and improvement in their community”
Condobolin Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO Louise Davis said:
“The infrastructure upgrades have made a big difference. The village looks a lot better than it did before and the improvements have given residents ownership and pride in the community.
“As part of the project, local residents got work and training with machinery including excavators and backhoes, and in fencing. and concreting.”
Released by: Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty
The NSW Government is delivering on its election commitment to consult with Aboriginal people about their desire for a treaty process, with the appointment of three commissioners to lead a process with Aboriginal people and communities across NSW.
The commissioners will lead a 12-month consultation to hear from Aboriginal people. This will include asking whether Aboriginal communities want an agreement-making process with government, and if so, what form that process could take.
NSW is home to the largest Aboriginal population in Australia. The commissioners will engage with Aboriginal communities across metropolitan, rural, regional and remote parts of NSW, before delivering a report on their findings to the Government.
The appointees bring with them experience, expertise and connections to Aboriginal people and communities.
The Government has appointed former senator Aden Ridgeway, academic Todd Fernando and Koori Mail newspaper CEO Naomi Moran to the roles.
The commissioners have been appointed for a fixed term of two years following an open, competitive process led by an independent Aboriginal advisory panel.
Consultation about agreement making aligns directly with NSW’s bipartisan commitment to the 2020 Closing the Gap National Agreement signed by then prime minister Scott Morrison and then premier Gladys Berejiklian.
The Closing the Gap Agreement includes a commitment to formal partnerships and shared decision-making with Aboriginal people to help close the gap faster in areas such as life expectancy, health and education.
Aboriginal people and communities hold answers to issues they face. When Aboriginal people have a direct say in these issues, the whole community gets better outcomes.
Over coming months, the commissioners will develop a detailed consultation plan, with consultations to commence in 2025.
Interstate treaty and agreement-making processes have not been simple nor fast. This is the first step in work that could drive improved outcomes for Aboriginal people, and all NSW taxpayers, so the NSW Government will not be rushing.
The NSW Government allocated $5 million for this work in the September 2023 budget.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:
“The appointment of the treaty commissioners is central to the process of listening to Aboriginal people on treaty and agreement-making.
“The commissioners have been appointed following a rigorous process that attracted strong candidates.
“We get better outcomes when we listen to the needs of Aboriginal people and communities. We must ensure Aboriginal people have a direct say on matters that affect them.”
Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads
The Minns Labor Government has launched engagement to understand community views on future passenger rail services for Orange, with a forum to be held on 31 October 2024.
The forum, hosted by Transport for NSW, will hear from the Orange and Central West community about transport connections in the region.
The forum, to be held in the Greenhouse function room at Orange Ex-Services Club, will bring together around 80 key stakeholders including local government, rail groups, Aboriginal bodies and representatives from the education, business and health sectors.
The forum will be followed by a drop-in session in the afternoon that will be open to members of the community.
Details will be announced closer to the date.
Feedback will also be sought from the wider community with around 130 other stakeholders from Orange and the Central West asked to complete a survey about passenger rail services.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“We are aware there is broad community support for improved rail services to Orange. The NSW Government has listened and is now responding with the next step.
“Through this targeted consultation process, including a forum at the end of October, we want to gather specific information on community needs, expectations and potential viability of options, to help inform decision making.
“We know the existing Bathurst Bullet train service provides an important and popular daily return train connection and we are considering all the possible options for Orange and the wider Central West.
“We are committed to safe and affordable public transport that allows regional people access work, education, health appointments and connect with other transport modes and networks.”
Independent Member for Orange Phil Donato said:
“More than 10,000 people signed Orange Rail Action Group’s petition, seeking to improve passenger rail services between the Central West and Sydney.
“Minister Aitchison has taken active interest in the proposal to initiate a daily return passenger rail service between Orange and Sydney, to meet transport needs of our growing community.
“I am pleased to see further consideration of the proposal, including vital community consultation to ensure future transport plans and services meet the needs and expectations of the community.
“I encourage all stakeholders and interested residents to participate in Transport for New South Wales’ consultation event at Orange Ex-Services Club on October 31.”
Fast facts:
Sydney Trains operates a twice daily Intercity service between Sydney and Bathurst on the Blue Mountains Line, which is commonly referred to as the Bathurst Bullet.
Sydney Trains Intercity train services are part of the Opal network, where customers can turn up and go and tap on and off to travel. Since 1 July 2024 the Bathurst Intercity train service has been operated by Sydney Trains.
NSW TrainLink operates a daily XPT train service between Sydney and Dubbo via Orange and a weekly Xplorer train service between Sydney and Broken Hill via Orange.
There are daily NSW TrainLink coach connections to and from Orange to Bathurst that provide connections with Bathurst Intercity services. There are also several coach connections from Orange to Lithgow daily, where passengers join Intercity train services to Sydney.
NSW TrainLink operates all regional train and coach services, including those that serve Orange. Advance booking is required on all NSW TrainLink services, including those that connect with Bathurst Intercity services.
Even by these standards, the latest proclamation from OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman, published on his personal website this week, seems remarkably hyperbolic. We are on the verge of “The Intelligence Age”, he declares, powered by a “superintelligence” that may just be a “few thousand days” away. The new era will bring “astounding triumphs”, including “fixing the climate, establishing a space colony, and the discovery of all of physics”.
However, even setting aside these motivations, it’s worth taking a look at some of the assumptions behind Altman’s predictions. On closer inspection, they reveal a lot about the worldview of AI’s biggest cheerleaders – and the blind spots in their thinking.
Steam engines for thought?
Altman grounds his marvellous predictions in a two-paragraph history of humanity:
People have become dramatically more capable over time; we can already accomplish things now that our predecessors would have believed impossible.
This is a story of unmitigated progress heading in a single direction, driven by human intelligence. The cumulative discoveries and inventions of science and technology – Altman reveals – have led us to the computer chip and, inexorably, to artificial intelligence which will take us the rest of the way to the future. This view owes much to the futuristic visions of the singularitarian movement.
Such a story is seductively simple. If human intelligence has driven us to ever-greater heights, it is hard not to conclude that better, faster, artificial intelligence will drive progress even farther and higher.
This is an old dream. In the 1820s, when Charles Babbage saw steam engines revolutionising human physical labour in England’s industrial revolution, he began to imagine constructing similar machines for automating mental labour. Babbage’s “analytical engine” was never built, but the notion that humanity’s ultimate achievement would entail mechanising thought itself has persisted.
According to Altman, we’re now (almost) at that mountaintop.
Deep learning worked – but for what?
The reason we are so close to the glorious future is simple, Altman says: “deep learning worked”.
Deep learning is a particular kind of machine learning that involves artificial neural networks, loosely inspired by biological nervous systems. It has certainly been surprisingly successful in a few domains: deep learning is behind models that have proven adept at stringing words together in more or less coherent ways, at generating pretty pictures and videos, and even contributing to the solutions of some scientific problems.
So the contributions of deep learning are not trivial. They are likely to have significant social and economic impacts (both positive and negative).
But deep learning “works” only for a limited set of problems. Altman knows this:
humanity discovered an algorithm that could really, truly learn any distribution of data (or really the underlying “rules” that produce any distribution of data).
That’s what deep learning does – that’s how it “works”. That’s important, and it’s a technique that can be applied to various domains, but it’s far from the only problem that exists.
What is interesting here is the fact that Altman thinks “rules from data” will go so far towards solving all humanity’s problems.
There is an adage that a person holding a hammer is likely to see everything as a nail. Altman is now holding a big and very expensive hammer.
Deep learning may be “working” but only because Altman and others are starting to reimagine (and build) a world composed of distributions of data. There’s a danger here that AI is starting to limit, rather than expand, the kinds of problem-solving we are doing.
What is barely visible in Altman’s celebration of AI are the expanding resources needed also for deep learning to “work”. We can acknowledge the great gains and remarkable achievements of modern medicine, transportation and communication (to name a few) without pretending these have not come at a significant cost.
They have come at a cost both to some humans – for whom the gains of global north have meant diminishing returns – and to animals, plants and ecosystems, ruthlessly exploited and destroyed by the extractive might of capitalism plus technology.
Although Altman and his booster friends might dismiss such views as nitpicking, the question of costs goes right to the heart of predictions and concerns about the future of AI.
Altman is certainly aware that AI is facing limits, noting “there are still a lot of details we have to figure out”. One of these is the rapidly expanding energy costs of training AI models.
Microsoft recently announced a US$30 billion fund to build AI data centres and generators to power them. The veteran tech giant, which has invested more than US$10 billion in OpenAI, has also signed a deal with owners of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant (infamous for its 1979 meltdown) to supply power for AI. The frantic spending suggests there may be a hint of desperation in the air.
Magic or just magical thinking?
Given the magnitude of such challenges, even if we accept Altman’s rosy view of human progress up to now, we might have to acknowledge that the past may not be a reliable guide to the future. Resources are finite. Limits are reached. Exponential growth can end.
What’s most revealing about Altman’s post is not his rash predictions. Rather, what emerges is his sense of untrammelled optimism in science and progress.
This makes it hard to imagine that Altman or OpenAI takes seriously the “downsides” of technology. With so much to gain, why worry about a few niggling problems? When AI seems so close to triumph, why pause to think?
What is emerging around AI is less an “age of intelligence” and more an “age of inflation” – inflating resource consumption, inflating company valuations and, most of all, inflating the promises of AI.
It’s certainly true that some of us do things now that would have seemed magic a century and a half ago. That doesn’t mean all the changes between then and now have been for the better.
AI has remarkable potential in many domains, but imagining it holds the key to solving all of humanity’s problems – that’s magical thinking too.
Hallam Stevens has previously received funding from the Ministry of Education (Singapore), the National Heritage Board (Singapore), the National Science Foundation (USA) and the Wenner-Gren Foundation.