NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shelton Man Admits Defrauding Pandemic Relief Program

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, and Harry Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that TONY STERLIN CANTAVE, 45, of Shelton, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven for defrauding a COVID-19 pandemic relief program.

    In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the distribution of Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDLs”), through the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”), which provided working capital to eligible small businesses to meet operating expenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2020, Cantave applied for EIDL funding through the SBA.  The application contained a number of materially false statements, including that the business for which Cantave sought the loan, Arbitrage 1 Media, was an ongoing, legitimate business involved in the limousine and transportation business, and that he was not more than 60 days delinquent in his child support obligations.  After the SBA reviewed and approved the fraudulent EIDL application, Cantave received $96,200.  He then used the proceeds from the loan to pay for personal and non-business expenses, including $16,607.26 to pay off an automobile loan.

    Cantave pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government money and one count of making an illegal monetary transaction.  Each charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

    Cantave has agreed to pay $104,176.21 in restitution.

    Cantave is released pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.

    Cantave has two prior federal convictions.  In December 1999, he was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 18 months of imprisonment for a firearm offense, and in February 2015, he was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 13 months of imprisonment for his participation in a U.S. Postal Service money order fraud scheme.

    This investigation has been conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.

    Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks on Republicans’ Bill to Block Access to Health Care and Close Hospitals Across Rural America: “There is still time to kill this bill—and I hope we do.” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch Puts Spotlight on Vermont, West Virginia, and Tennessee in Remarks 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) last night took to the Senate floor to call on Congress to kill Republicans’ disastrous budget bill, which will rip away health care coverage for more than 16 million Americans, including 32,000 Vermonters.  
    The Republican budget will hike health care costs, close rural hospitals, and force millions of middle-class families to lose their coverage altogether, all to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. In addition to draconian Medicaid cuts, Republicans are raising premiums and out-of-pocket costs for tens of millions of people who buy health insurance coverage on their own. Senator Welch highlighted that the Republican bill will impact red and blue states alike: 76,000 West Virginians and 290,000 Tennesseans would lose health care under the legislation. 
    “What’s happening in this bill is the infliction of bipartisan suffering. Whether it’s in the State of Vermont, or the State of West Virginia, or the State of Tennessee, folks who are depending on Medicaid are going to lose it,” said Senator Welch. “We’ve got to protect the people first. We take away their hospitals, they have no protection…There’s a cruelty in this bill. There’s an irresponsibility in the Senate if we don’t acknowledge explicitly what the impact of this bill will be on the people we represent, on the hospitals that are dependent on us, and on the future of community strength in all of our rural communities. Let’s kill this bill.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Read Senator Welch’s remarks as delivered here. 
    Senator Welch has been a leading voice in calling to protect Medicaid and health care in the Senate. Earlier this month, Senator Welch took to the Senate floor to slam Republicans’ tax bill, and joined Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE) for a virtual roundtable highlighting the harmful consequences of Republicans’ reconciliation bill for patients in Vermont.  
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with Prime Minister Schoof of the Netherlands: 24 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM meeting with Prime Minister Schoof of the Netherlands: 24 June 2025

    The Prime Minister met Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in The Hague today. 

    The Prime Minister met Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in The Hague today. 

    The Prime Minister began by thanking Prime Minister Schoof for his hospitality, adding that he was delighted to return to the city.

    Discussing the significant investment pledge made at this year’s summit, the Prime Minister said it was vital the next generation was able to enjoy the same peace and security that Allies had today. 

    The leaders also discussed the situation in the Middle East and agreed now was the time for diplomacy to prevail. 

    On Ukraine, the leaders underscored the need to secure a just and lasting peace, and to step up support through shared industrial capability and defence innovation. 

    The leaders looked forward to speaking again later today.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kiltarlity youth leading the way in playpark design

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Children from Tomnacross Primary School in Kiltarlity have been congratulated for helping to develop their local play park as part of Highland Council’s investment in play areas across the Inverness region.

    The Kiltarlity Play Park has been upgraded with new equipment which was chosen by the children and includes a basket swing, a flat spinning disc to challenge balance and coordination, new swings and a climbing frame with a top perch for watching Shinty.

    Chair of Highland Council’s Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham MacKenzie said: “I’m delighted that new equipment for all ages and abilities has been installed at Kiltarlity Play Park, thanks to the inspiration and creativity of the children from Tomnacross Primary School. The children played a central role in designing their newly upgraded play park and this project ensured that young people were at the heart of the design process to create a play space that’s inclusive and community focused.

    “By supporting young people to design their own play spaces, we not only encourage creative and collaborative thinking but also ensure that children have an opportunity to share their views on what play means to them in their own community. The young people of Tomnacross Primary School have shown true leadership and vision and have set an excellent example of how young voices can help shape the places in which they live. I would like to thank the children for their commitment to the project and look forward to the park’s official opening event.”

    An official opening of the new Kiltarlity Play Park will take place on Friday 27 June at 10.30am and all members of the community are warmly invited to attend.

    Leader of Inverness and Area, Councillor Ian Brown, said: “This has been a fantastic community-driven project that reflects Highland Council’s wider commitment to supporting child-led initiatives and promoting every child’s right to play, choice, and inclusion. The success and popularity of Shinty in the area created the need for a new training pitch, which in turn created the opportunity to redevelop the play park. I am delighted to see how well used the new equipment is, and my thanks to everyone involved in this exciting project.”

    Funding for the project was allocated by the Inverness City Area Committee as part of the Scottish Government’s Play Park Renewal Fund. Additional funding was received from Kiltarlity Shinty Club.

    Communities across the Highlands who are interested in upgrading their local play areas can contact Highland Council’s Play Park Strategy Coordinator for more information: lynn.macgillivray@highland.gov.uk

    24 Jun 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How restoring river catchments can minimise drought and flood risks

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Neil Entwistle, Professor of River Science and Climate Resilience, University of Salford

    Elenitsa/Shutterstock

    As Britain’s first heatwave of 2025 hits with temperatures climbing above 30°C, Yorkshire has joined the northwest in official drought status.

    This spring has been the driest in the UK since 1893. May’s rainfall was 43% lower than the long-term average. Fish rescues have already taken place in Shropshire as rivers dried up. Low water levels have made it difficult for boats to navigate along some canals.

    Water companies in regions such as Hampshire, Yorkshire and Cumbria are encouraging residents to conserve water.

    Years of drainage, overgrazing and peatland degradation have turned much of the UK’s uplands into fast-draining systems. Rainfall that once infiltrated slowly now rushes off hillsides, filling rivers quickly, before vanishing just as fast.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Even after a year of exceptional rain and flooding, the soils and ecosystems that should be buffering us against drought are depleted. This recent spell of dry weather has exposed just how fragile the system has become.

    The UK government reconvened the national drought group – a coalition of its most senior decision-makers, Environment Agency, water companies, plus key farming and environmental groups – on June 5 to address growing concerns as reservoir levels which are at 77% of capacity nationally.

    Water availability remains under pressure across much of England. Sources in the northwest Pennines, Haweswater and Thirlmere in the Lake District, which supply much of the northwest, are currently at around 50% of capacity. Normally, they would be around 75% full. In Yorkshire, these water levels are currently around 60%.

    The reservoir at Anglezarke in Lancashire is drying out.
    Neil Entwistle, CC BY-NC-ND

    But landscapes can be restored in ways that reduce both flood risk and the effects of drought. At Smithills Estate near Bolton, the Mersey Forest (Cheshire and Merseyside’s community forest), conservation charity Woodland Trust and the Environment Agency have spent the last decade restoring 1,700 hectares of upland.

    They have blocked old drainage channels, rewetted peat bogs, planted trees, improved soil structure and adapted farming. These changes (often referred to as natural flood management) allow the land to hold water longer, slow its release, and sustain the flow of water in rivers during dry periods that can help water conservation and reduce the risk of floods.

    Restoring rivers

    We both grew up in the shadow of the moorlands around Rivington and Smithills in Bolton. We built our careers restoring rivers and their catchments and want to prevent “water-stressed” situations where water demand exceeds the available supply. We continue to study the implications and resilience of natural flood management here in the UK and overseas.

    At Smithills, restored bogs act like sponges, soaking up rain and releasing it gradually. Newly planted woodland supports biodiversity, encourages water infiltration and provides shade, which reduces evaporation. Natural flood management has slowed water down across the catchment, helping to reduce peak flows during storms by 27.3% and has boosted river flows during dry spells by storing and slowly releasing water by 27.1%.

    Tree trunks slow down the flow of water.
    Neil Entwistle, CC BY-NC-ND

    Tree trunks laid across the gullies have kept areas of Smithills wet throughout spring, creating valuable habitat and supporting water resilience in the landscape. We’re working with partners to monitor natural flood management benefits and expand restoration, while also exploring new questions.

    These include how the structures influence greenhouse gas emissions through wetting and drying cycles, affect sediment capture and storage, and how their function changes over time. This research is helping to shape how nature-based solutions are understood, valued and adopted more widely.

    Mitigation (tackling the root causes) and adaptation (adjusting systems and behaviours) to water stresses require landowners, water companies, local authorities, regulators, environmental groups and communities to work together to deliver shared outcomes.

    But this effort needs to be matched by an understanding that changes in how land is managed too. If the landscape continues to shed water rapidly, reservoirs will struggle to recover even when rain does arrive. We need to slow the flow of water and rejuvenate the lost natural processes at large scales through restoration.

    Farmers are grazing cattle on the heath.
    Neil Entwistle, CC BY-NC-ND

    The UK will face water shortages within the next decade unless urgent action is taken. The recent Independent Water Commission, set up by the UK government to recommend a major overhaul of the water sector’s planning, regulation and infrastructure, highlights the importance of nature-based solutions, such as restoring natural processes like river flow and wetland function, alongside natural capital investment.

    This involves putting money and resources into the protection, restoration or enhancement of nature, to secure long-term benefits such as clean air, water purification or flood protection.

    Nature-based solutions can be scaled up quickly, plus they benefit people and the environment. Local communities can also get involved in meaningful restoration work. At Smithills, volunteers plant trees and help monitor the benefits of natural flood management, including changes in water quality, water levels and biodiversity. Farmers are exploring regenerative grazing.

    Schools use the estate for environmental learning. This is not only about resilience – it is about reconnecting people with the natural landscapes that surround them.

    To avoid routine hosepipe bans, protect biodiversity and secure food and water supply into the future, land needs to be at the centre of the UK’s drought strategy. Restoring bogs, woodlands and soils is not a luxury. It is essential infrastructure in a changing climate.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Neil Entwistle has received previous funding from British Council, Universities UK, NERC for work related to river restoration and climate resilience. He also works for a boutique fund manager, to fund and deploy solutions to some of the most pressing Nature-related challenges our economy faces today.

    Neil Macdonald receives funding from DEFRA through the Natural Flood Management Programme (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/natural-flood-management-programme).

    – ref. How restoring river catchments can minimise drought and flood risks – https://theconversation.com/how-restoring-river-catchments-can-minimise-drought-and-flood-risks-258840

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New industrial strategy brings Rachel Reeves’ securonomics to life – but will it protect Britain from more supply chain shocks?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Phil Tomlinson, Professor of Industrial Strategy, Co-Director Centre for Governance, Regulation and Industrial Strategy (CGR&IS), University of Bath

    Peter Titmuss/Shutterstock

    Brexit, COVID, the war in Ukraine and now Trump’s tariffs have all highlighted how vulnerable life in the UK is to disruptions in trade. Everyday items that people rely on can be subject to major shortages, delays and price rises, due to something as simple as a ship getting stuck in a canal.

    This is because the UK is hugely reliant on other countries to provide much of what it needs. Medical supplies, cars, electronics and fruit are just a few of Britain’s favourite things that it tends to buy in from elsewhere.

    Global supply chains deliver lower prices and wider choice to consumers but they are also often highly complex. In the car industry for example, components may move within and between companies and cross national boundaries many times, before ending up in the final assembled vehicle. This can make them vulnerable.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    In response to the disruption of recent years, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has long been arguing for what she calls “securonomics” – investing in domestic energy sources and resilient networks. So perhaps it was no surprise that the British government’s new industrial strategy plans emphasise the importance of supply chain security.

    A new industrial competitiveness scheme for example, is designed to cut energy costs for the UK’s most energy intensive firms, which manufacture things like steel, ceramics and glass. This should help domestic supply capacity.



    Read more:
    UK plan to cut energy bills for industrial firms threatens to leave small businesses out in the cold

    A reported £600 million has also been allocated to develop the UK’s logistics industry. And there is a proposal for a “national supply chain centre” to identify weaknesses, enhance domestic capability and build strategic international partnerships. Vulnerabilities and dependencies will also be more closely monitored.

    Another focus will be to diversify critical supply chains by reducing the UK’s dependence on single supplier nations (such as China for rare earth elements or semiconductors). One option should be strengthening alliances with friendly nations (known as “friendshoring”) with the aim of embedding supply chains in places that can be relied upon.

    The recently announced trade deals with the US and India, and signs of greater cooperation with the EU do offer some promise in this area. Trade deals help with supply chain cooperation, but could go further and include resilience initiatives (such as creating joint stockpiles of things like critical minerals) to reduce disruption in the future.

    An increased supply of cyber security.
    metamorworks/Shutterstock

    Manufacturing from home

    On the domestic front, the UK could still do more to incentivise “reshoring” (bringing some manufacturing or production of goods back to the UK). Reversing decades of decline in these sectors would be challenging, and require a long-term investment in domestic capacity and skills. But it could also deliver a boost to jobs and growth, potentially in parts of the UK which need it most.

    Given recent geopolitics, the government has also prioritised strengthening the defence supply chain, allocating £173 million of new funding on defence infrastructure and skills. Developments are are at an early stage, but the recent UK-EU security and defence partnership is a welcome start. And more work will be needed to make UK-EU collaboration on building a resilient defence industry across Europe a reality.

    Supply chains within that industry (and others, such as healthcare) can be vulnerable to cyberattacks and economic coercion from malicious groups and hostile foreign states. So enhancing cybersecurity in logistics and infrastructure will also be critical.

    This will mean better protection for ports, customs systems and logistics software. There is some limited additional funding on offer for this, but more will be required, which in turn will open up new opportunities for firms in the cyber industry. Indeed, a “cyber cluster” of businesses is already emerging in central England from the government defence and technology campus at Porton Down in Wiltshire across to GCHQ – the national centre for intelligence and security – in Gloucestershire.

    But with still much to do, overall Reeves has been right to stress the importance of supply chains. They are crucial to people’s jobs and homes, the medicines they need and the food they eat. And supply chain security is not just an economic issue. It is a strategic imperative for safeguarding the UK, its businesses and the welfare of its citizens.

    The tone of the new industrial strategy reflects Reeves’s “securonomics” rhetoric. But how far this goes in actually strengthening supply chains and boosting their resilience remains open to question, especially in the context of limited resources and a chancellor keen to build a reputation for fiscal prudence.

    Phil Tomlinson receives funding from the Innovation and Research Caucus (IRC).

    David Bailey receives funding from the ESRC’s UK in a Changing Europe programme.

    Paddy Bradley is affiliated with the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise based at Newcastle University.
    He is Chair of TransWilts Community Interest Company which aims to increase public use of trains and buses in the Wiltshire area.
    He is Chair of Governors of Wiltshire College and University Centre.

    – ref. New industrial strategy brings Rachel Reeves’ securonomics to life – but will it protect Britain from more supply chain shocks? – https://theconversation.com/new-industrial-strategy-brings-rachel-reeves-securonomics-to-life-but-will-it-protect-britain-from-more-supply-chain-shocks-258410

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Dementia: are younger generations really less likely to develop the disorder, as a recent study has claimed?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Clarissa Giebel, Senior Research Fellow in the Institute of Population Health, NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast, University of Liverpool

    The study revealed that dementia cases decreased for each subsequent generation. AtlasStudio/ Shutterstock

    Dementia affects over 57 million people worldwide – and this number is only projected to grow. By 2030, 78 million people are estimated to have dementia. By 2050, it’s projected that number will reach 139 million people.

    Despite this, a surprising new study has suggested that dementia risk has actually declined with each generation. However, there are good reasons to be sceptical of this finding.

    The researchers analysed data from 62,437 people aged 70 and over. Data was collected from three longitudinal cohort studies on ageing, including one conducted in the US, one in Europe and one from England.

    To conduct their analysis, the researchers compared probable dementia diagnoses from people born in eight different generation cohorts. The people in the first cohort were born in 1890-1913, while those in the most recent cohort were born in 1944-48.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The researchers employed an algorithm that suggested probable dementia diagnosis. This was based on participants’ demographic characteristics, as well as their cognitive performance and everyday functioning skills (including how well they were able to perform daily functions, such as washing and feeding, and how well they could remember things). These are standard assessment tools used in clinical practice to diagnose dementia.

    To then validate the algorithm’s projections on probable dementia cases, the predictions were compared against a sub-sample of participants from the US Aging, Demographics and Memory study who had a clinical diagnosis of dementia.

    The participants in this study had undergone a rigorous three- to four-hour cognitive assessment. The algorithm used to create dementia projections showed an over 85% agreement with clinical diagnosis data from that sub-sample data.

    Once dementia status was calculated, the authors computed two models to ascertain the relationship between age, cohort and dementia onset. They also included gross domestic product (GDP) in their analyses, as there’s a correlation between GDP and health – with research showing that people in higher-income nations tend to be healthier than those living in lower-income nations.

    Dementia cases fell across the generations – with those born between 1944and 1948 having the lowest risk.
    Halfpoint/ Shutterstock

    Their findings revealed that dementia cases decreased for each subsequent generation. For instance, in the US, the algorithm indicated that 25% of people born between 1890-1912 developed dementia, while only 15% of those born in the most recent cohort (1939-1943) developed dementia.

    In England, almost 16% of people born between 1924-28 were indicated to have developed dementia, compared with around 15% in those born between 1934-38. This effect was also apparently more pronounced for women than for men.

    It remains unclear why dementia cases fell across the generations, with more recent cohorts having reduced dementia cases.

    Projected diagnoses

    What does this mean? And how does this compare against existing projections?

    While the authors used a large sample from three established ageing research cohorts, the findings are based on data from high-income countries only.

    It’s well known that dementia can be better diagnosed and cared for in high-income countries, where there are more and better healthcare services and professionals. Dementia is hugely stigmatised in low- and middle-income countries as well. As a result, many people are not as aware of dementia as people living in high-income societies.

    This means people in lower-income countries may know less about the associated risk factors for dementia and are less likely to receive a diagnosis and support. This is particularly relevant given the fact that most people with dementia reside in low- and middle-income countries.

    With a lack of cohort data on older adults and dementia cases in low- and middle-income countries, the findings from this study do not provide representative projections on dementia diagnoses globally.

    It’s also important to consider the methods the authors used in their study. The authors used a prediction model. Although this model had high agreement with clinical diagnosis, there are still cases of dementia that will have been missed out as a result.

    Similarly, the authors did not distinguish between dementia subtypes in their modelling. Dementia is just an umbrella term. About 60-70% of dementia cases are actually Alzheimer’s disease.

    But there are also many rarer subtypes – such as Lewy Body dementia or semantic dementia. Each subtype brings with it different symptoms. A generic model is unlikely to pick up each subtype dementia case correctly.

    All these factors may possibly explain how the study came to their conclusions.

    Dementia cases worldwide are actually predicted to increase. As such, the findings from this study should be considered with caution. It may not be the case that dementia prevalence continues to fall for more recently born generations.

    Part of the reason for these projections is due to the fact that people are living longer and growing older. Dementia primarily affects people aged over 65, so with more people living to be over 65 this means that more people will be at risk of developing the disorder.

    The world population is growing, too. So naturally we’re going to see more people living with dementia – particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where people may have less knowledge of dementia symptoms and may be less able to address the modifiable risk factors linked to greater risk, due to poor healthcare infrastructure.

    We know that overall, people from more socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds experience greater health inequalities – and these health inequalities may contribute to increased risk of dementia. But as this factor was not taken into account in the study, it’s difficult to know whether there really will be any differences in the projected number of dementia cases in younger generations.

    Clarissa Giebel receives funding from the ESRC and the NIHR. She sits on the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Lewy Body Society.

    – ref. Dementia: are younger generations really less likely to develop the disorder, as a recent study has claimed? – https://theconversation.com/dementia-are-younger-generations-really-less-likely-to-develop-the-disorder-as-a-recent-study-has-claimed-258429

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Nice was right to say no – for now – to new Alzheimer’s drugs

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Paul Atkinson, Senior Research Fellow, History of Health and Medicine, University of Liverpool

    The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has declined to recommend two new Alzheimer’s drugs for routine NHS use in England. While disappointing for some families affected by dementia, this decision reflects a cautious and evidence-based approach that protects patients and public funds.

    The drugs in question – lecanemab, made by Eisai, and donanemab made by Eli Lilly – have received significant attention, with headlines hailing them as “breakthrough” treatments and “miracle” drugs. However, Nice has a long history of closely scrutinising new dementia drugs – and, as in previous cases, it has raised important questions about how much benefits these medicines actually provide.

    The main claim is that these drugs can delay the progression of Alzheimer’s by about four to six months in people with early-stage disease. That’s not nothing – but it’s also not the dramatic shift some headlines imply.

    It’s also important to distinguish between clinical trial results and how treatments perform in everyday care. Trial conditions are controlled and selective, whereas the NHS treats a much broader mix of patients.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    There are other factors to consider, too. These drugs come with risks – including the potential for brain swelling and bleeding – and require invasive testing, such as lumbar puncture or regular brain scans, before and during treatment. The infusions must also be delivered at a hospital infusion over many months. For some patients, that burden may outweigh the modest benefit.

    Another issue is that we don’t yet know whether the benefits last beyond the 18-month trial period. Nice must base its decisions on long-term projections, using well established tools such as the quality-adjusted life year to weigh the health benefits against the cost to the NHS. These decisions often involve complex models – and reasonable people may interpret the evidence differently.

    Cost plays a role too. In the US, the drugs are priced at up to £25,000 per patient per year. While companies can offer discounts to the NHS, Nice must still consider whether the same money might do more good elsewhere in the health system.

    In this case, Nice concluded that the benefits of the new Alzheimer’s treatments are still too small to justify the additional costs at the current price point – a decision supported by some experts.

    Tom Dening, professor of dementia research at the University of Nottingham, described the benefits as “minimal” and warned they could distract from other priorities, such as providing good care and support for people already living with dementia.

    A person receiving the treatment would need to go for regular infusions.
    Laura v.d. Broek/Shutterstock.com

    Heated debate

    Nonetheless, the debate has become heated. Some drug companies have argued that the UK system is flawed, suggesting that even offering their drug for free would not be enough to secure approval. But this misunderstands how Nice works. Evaluating the full cost – not just of the drug, but of scans, infusions and monitoring – is not a flaw, it’s part of responsible decision-making.

    There are echoes here of earlier disputes from the 2000s when companies tried to publicly pressure Nice to change its decisions. However, history suggests that this strategy rarely works. Ministers have consistently supported Nice’s independence, and the agency’s record shows that it usually says “yes” – or at least yes under certain conditions – even to very expensive drugs, where the evidence supports their use.

    The current decision is still technically a “final draft”. Both companies have until July 3 to comment or appeal. In 2007, Eisai took Nice to court – and lost. This time, an appeal is more likely.

    Understanding the principles behind Nice’s decision helps put this outcome in context. These are not decisions taken lightly. They reflect a careful balance of evidence, risk, cost and benefit to patients – and, crucially, a commitment to fairness in how NHS resources are used.

    Paul Atkinson received funding from the Wellcome Trust for the research on which this article draws.

    Sally Sheard has received funding from Wellcome, NIHR, UKRI and the PGH Foundation.

    – ref. Why Nice was right to say no – for now – to new Alzheimer’s drugs – https://theconversation.com/why-nice-was-right-to-say-no-for-now-to-new-alzheimers-drugs-259475

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • ENG vs IND, 1st Test: Ben Duckett’s blazing 149 powers England to exhilarating win over India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A superb century from Ben Duckett helped steer England to a sensational five-wicket win in the first test against India after a thrilling day five on Tuesday, the hosts reaching a target of 371 — the 10th highest successful run chase in test history.

    Having turned the match on its head at Headingley after India had been 430-3 in their first innings, England appeared to be cruising to a dramatic win as openers Duckett and Zak Crawley eased their side to lunch on 117-0 in their second innings.

    Duckett continued his imperious form with another four through the covers to reach his sixth test hundred, before Crawley fell for 65, their 188-run partnership the second highest England opening fourth-innings stand in tests.

    Two wickets in two balls — Duckett and Harry Brook — dragged India back into the enthralling contest and when Ben Stokes fell for 33 attempting an ambitious reverse sweep, England’s hopes of victory lay precariously in the balance.

    Joe Root’s unbeaten 53 calmed the nerves around his home ground, with the former skipper and Jamie Smith, who hit a six to seal victory, seeing England home as India, having scored five centuries in the match, somehow contrived to start the five-test series in defeat.

    -REUTERS

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster to launch new licensing scheme to raise private sector housing standards | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has announced a major new initiative to drive up housing standards in the private rented sector. Following last year’s public consultation, the council’s Cabinet has confirmed plans to roll out a Selective Licensing Scheme across the majority of the city, starting 24 November 2025.  

    The scheme, which applies to private homes rented to single households or two sharers in 15 of Westminster’s 18 wards, is designed to ensure that tenants live in properties that are safe, secure, and well-maintained. 

    Landlords will be able to apply online from 1 October 2025, giving them time to get up to speed with the requirements and make necessary changes ahead of the enforcement date.

     Councillor Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said:

     “This scheme is about raising standards in the private rented sector and making sure every tenant has access to a safe, secure, and decent home. Too many residents are still living in poor conditions, and that’s simply not acceptable.

    “We’re committed to driving improvements across the board and supporting landlords through this process, providing practical guidance to ensure all homes in Westminster meet the standards our communities deserve.”

    Westminster has one of the largest private rented sectors in England, and with growing demand for affordable housing, the council says it’s vital to hold rental properties to the highest standards. 

    To support landlords ahead of the rollout, the council will host a series of information sessions, forums, and drop-ins to answer questions and offer practical advice.

     Landlords can find out more about the scheme, including eligibility and fee discounts, by visiting the www.westminster.gov.uk/private-sector-housing, emailing propertylicensing@westminster.gov.uk or calling 020 7641 6161.

    ENDS 

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    • Mandatory HMO licensing scheme has operated since 2006
    • Additional HMO licensing scheme has operated since 2021
    • Designation 1 consists of eight wards experiencing high levels of poor housing conditions
      • Abbey Road
      • Church Street
      • Harrow Road
      • Knightsbridge and Belgravia
      • Little Venice
      • Maida Vale
      • Queen’s Park
      • Westbourne
    • Designation 2 consists of seven wards experiencing high levels of poor housing conditions, in addition to significant and persistent problems caused by anti-social behaviour linked to private rented housing
      • Bayswater
      • Hyde Park
      • Lancaster Gate
      • Marylebone
      • Pimlico North
      • Regent’s Park
      • West End
    • The selective licensing scheme excludes properties that are already licensed under Westminster’s existing HMO schemes
    • Incentives and discounts will apply to landlords or well managed properties including accredited landlords and energy efficient properties
    • More information about Westminster City Council’s existing licensing schemes for private landlords can be found here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Smarter Regulatory Sandbox developed to increase compliance

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    New Smarter Regulatory Sandbox developed to increase compliance

    HSE and the Safetytech Accelerator developed the Smarter Regulatory Sandbox, a collaborative environment to test digital products and increase compliance.

    Two construction workers in a building site

    Background

    Construction workers face a wide range of challenges – from physical health risks to exposure to hazardous substances.

    Importantly, a range of factors, such as the diverse nature of construction projects, varying levels of expertise among contractors and complex supply chains, create fragmented health and safety practices, presenting unique challenges.

    For example, smaller companies or subcontractors may lack the resources or knowledge to implement robust safety measures, leading to higher risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Therefore, protecting construction workers often requires going beyond regulatory compliance; it requires a proactive approach to creating safer, healthier work environments.

    The Knowledge Asset solution

    The team at the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) explored approaches to strengthen health and safety practices in the construction industry in order to reduce injuries, improve regulatory compliance, and foster a culture where workers’ wellbeing is prioritised at every level.  

    One of the findings resulted in a partnership with the Safetytech Accelerator to develop the Smarter Regulatory Sandbox (SRS), the first of its kind.   

    The groundbreaking Smarter Regulatory Sandbox applied digitised health and safety data to several health and safety challenges, increasing regulatory compliance, boosting efficiency across the construction sector and enabling the development of innovative products.   

    By combining a Sandbox approach with regulatory data, HSE and the Safetytech Accelerator created a flexible and collaborative environment where regulators, construction companies, and technology developers could come together to explore the potential of digital innovation, such as AI and robotics.   

    One example of this innovative approach involved exploring how using CCTV footage from construction sites not only to monitor project progress but also – when combined with regulatory data- to distinguish between compliant sites and those posing health risks to workers.

    Who will this help?

    • The construction industry: Making health and safety regulations machine-readable helps reduce the regulatory burden and provides clearer guidance on compliance.  

    • The workforce: Better understanding of regulatory compliance  and application of safety standards enhances protection from work-related injuries   

    • Tech companies: Combining the Sandbox approach with regulatory data, supports innovation, creates a collaborative space to test digital products, and understand their real-world impact.  

    • Regulators: Creating a safe and collaborative environment allows exploration of how new technologies affect compliance and safety outcomes.

    Funding awards

    The HSE was awarded £249,580 in the ‘Extend’ band of the Knowledge Assets Grant Fund in September 2023.

    GOTT’s role

    GOTT provided grant funding to the project.

    Early results

    The SRS project provided several positive results:  

    • Accessing content directly from the regulator improved the accuracy of the Large Language Model by 30%  

    • Using CCTV images helped track construction progress against plans and identify potential risks in advance  

    • Creating common data standards facilitated the development of automatic compliance checks  

    • Using AI-driven compliance solutions positively impacted the construction sector, although accessing quality source data remained challenging  

    • Trialling a workplace fatigue app helped detect acute fatigue, provided user feedback to improve performance, and highlighted gaps in fatigue management

    Next steps

    The team continue to make products enhancements and collaborate with industry partners.   

    The next steps for the SRS project include:  

    • Continuing collaboration with industry partners to broaden health and safety data and improve AI models for better compliance checks  

    • Adding synthetic knowledge to increase prediction accuracy and help AI better understand compliance data  

    • Improving structured audit, assurance data, and training AI with more diverse datasets  

    • Combining AI insights with human expertise to make compliance monitoring more effective and support the shift to automated checks 

    • Developing a blueprint for a regulatory Sandbox design, so that other Regulators can apply learnings and insights gained through this work

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: China audit: Foreign Secretary’s statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Oral statement to Parliament

    China audit: Foreign Secretary’s statement

    The Foreign Secretary made a statement to the House of Commons, updating members on the government’s approach to China following the cross-Whitehall audit.

    With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the China audit.  

    China’s rise has shaped the geopolitical landscape. Over the past decade, their military expenditure doubled. Their armed forces became the world’s largest. They established dominance over most critical mineral supply chains. They pursued relentless innovation in electric vehicles, AI and even space travel.

    And over this same period, China has delivered a third of global economic growth, becoming the world’s second largest economy. And, together with Hong Kong, the UK’s third largest trading partner.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, not engaging with China is therefore no choice at all. Chinese power is an inescapable fact.

    After what the Intelligence and Security Committee in 2023 described as a “completely inadequate” approach over the past decade to dealing with China’s “size, ambition and capability”, we must now look at the facts.

    [Political content redacted]

    Madam Deputy Speaker, this Government conducted an audit of our most complex bilateral relationship to deliver a long-term strategy – moving beyond cheap rhetoric to a data-driven, cross-government approach. I would like to thank the hundreds who contributed – Honourable Members of course, experts, businesses, diaspora communities, Devolved Governments, and close allies.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, the audit is less a single act, than an ongoing exercise which will continue to guide the UK’s approach to China.

    It informed the Government’s Strategic Defence Review, which assessed China was a “sophisticated and persistent challenge”. It informed the National Security Strategy, published today, which sets out China’s impacts on each strategic pillar of our UK national security. And it has steered our Trade and Industrial Strategies, which analysed where greater engagement is possible – given the important role China can play in delivering UK growth.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, Honourable Members will understand that much of the audit was conducted at high classification, and most of the detail is not disclosable without damaging our national interests. I am therefore providing a broad summary of its recommendations today, in a manner consistent with that of our Five Eyes partners.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, on security, the audit described a full spectrum of threats – from espionage and cyber-attacks, to the repression of Hong Kongers, and attacks on the rules-based order. It made clear that our protections must extend more widely than they currently do, from the security of this House, to our critical national infrastructure.

    Honourable Members will again recognise that disclosing the detail of these responses would undermine their effectiveness.

    But I can confirm that, following the audit, we are investing £600 million in our intelligence services. We are updating our state threats legislation, following Jon Hall’s review. We are strengthening our response to transnational repression, introducing training for police and launching more online guidance to support victims.

    We are launching, as announced in the Industrial Strategy, a 12-week consultation on updating the definitions covering the 17 sensitive areas under the National Security and Investment Act. And we are working bilaterally with China to enhance intelligence flows related to illicit finance specifically, organised immigration crime and scam centres, using National Crime Agency capabilities.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, on global security, the audit underlined the extent of Beijing’s support for the Kremlin. The Government has already tripled the number of Chinese entities sanctioned for equipping Russia’s illegal war. And we will continue to confront that.

    The audit reiterated that our approach to China must stay rooted both in international law and deterrence. We will continue to confront China’s dangerous and destabilising activity in the South China Sea, which I saw for myself when I visited the Philippines.

    And we will continue to work with our regional partners to support freedom of navigation and call out China’s abuses. We will double down on AUKUS.

    We will not change our longstanding position on Taiwan, while sustaining unofficial but vibrant ties with Taiwan on trade, on education and innovation. We will also never shy away from shining a spotlight on human rights, notably the situations in Xinjiang and Tibet.  

    While on Hong Kong, we will insist that China honours its commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration, including by repealing the National Security Law and releasing Jimmy Lai.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, the audit made clear that our approach will always be guided by the UK’s long-term economic growth priorities. It provided ample evidence of the extent to which our economies are intertwined.

    China is our third biggest trading partner. Our universities’ second-largest source of international students. China will continue to play a vital role in supporting the UK’s secure growth.

    But over the past decade, we have not had the structures, either to take the opportunities, or protect us from the risks which those deep links demand. Businesses told us time and again that they have lacked senior political engagement. Lacked adequate government guidance.

    We have already begun to develop new structures. Regular Economic and Financial Dialogues, with my Right Honourable Friend the Chancellor setting us on course to unlock £1 billion of economic value for the UK economy, and positioning the UK’s world leading financial sector to reflect China’s importance to the global economy.

    Joint Economic and Trade Commissions, and Joint Commission Meetings on science. We will also launch a new online hub bringing together detailed and specific business advice.

    And the forthcoming Trade Strategy will set out how we will support British firms to enhance links with China’s vast and growing consumer market, as well as assess new tools to keep goods made by forced labour anywhere in the world off Britain’s high streets.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, the audit recognised that China’s global role does not fit into simple stereotypes. China is the world’s biggest emitter, but also the biggest producer of renewables. It offers $80 billion towards development annually. And China is the UK’s second largest research collaborator – 11% of British research output included Chinese authors.

    So, the audit was clear. The UK must develop new dialogues with China on issues like climate, development, global health and science, as well as on trade. In doing so, we are driving our long-term interests and creating secure opportunities for UK plc.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, we cannot deal with China’s complexity, unless we improve our capability to understand it – for our national security and for secure trade and growth.

    The audit showed that [political content redacted] there was a profound lack of confidence in how to deal with China, and a profound lack of knowledge regarding China’s culture, its history and – most importantly – its language.

    Madam Deputy Speaker, over the past year I have found that far too few mandarins speak Mandarin. We are already taking action to address this. Introducing a new China Fast Stream in the FCDO. Creating an FCDO global China network. Training over 1000 civil servants on China policy in the past year.

    Enhancing these capabilities still further will be a core focus for the £290 million FCDO Transformation Fund, announced in the National Security Strategy by my Honourable Friend a short time ago. The new strategy which proceeds from this audit will ensure that the Government examines the full spectrum of interests in its decision-making processes [political content redacted].

    Madam Deputy Speaker, anyone expecting a simple prescription on China is not living in the real world. The audit has painted a complex picture, but it has provided us with a clear way forward.

    The UK’s approach to China will be founded on progressive realism: taking the world as it is, not as we would wish it to be. Like our closest allies, we will cooperate where we can and we will challenge where we must.

    Never compromising on our national security. Recognising the complexity of the world as it is. Engaging confidently, carefully and pragmatically. Delivering secure growth. These are the hallmarks of grown-up government, acting in the long-term national interest.

    I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Austrian Foot and Mouth Disease controls amended

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Austrian Foot and Mouth Disease controls amended

    Foot and mouth disease controls have been amended for Austria

    Following rigorous technical assessment, the UK has lifted the commercial import restrictions that were applied to Austria as a result of outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) near the Austria-Hungary border earlier this year.

    This means that the export of affected commodities from Austria can take now place, provided that all other import conditions are met and attestations in the relevant export health certificate can be certified.

    Personal import restrictions still apply for the entire EU area.

    FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. Livestock keepers should therefore be absolutely rigorous about their biosecurity.

    Foot and mouth disease is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:  

    • 03000 200 301 in England   
    • 0300 303 8268 in Wales   
    • your local  Field Services Office in Scotland

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Indicators of Global Climate Change 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Indicators of Global Climate Change 2024 is the third in a series of annual updates on the state of the climate system and human influence.

    The report, published in Earth System Science Data, was compiled by an international team of climate scientists and serves as an annual synthesis of key climate measures inbetween the IPCC assessment reports. According to the authors, they follow methods as closely as possible to those used in the IPCC AR6 Working Group 1 report.

    The report provides estimates for key climate indicators related to forcing of the climate system:

    • emissions of greenhouse gases and short-lived climate forcers
    • greenhouse gas concentrations
    • radiative forcing
    • the Earth’s energy imbalance
    • surface temperature changes
    • warming attributed to human activities
    • the remaining carbon budget
    • estimates of global temperature extremes
    • global land precipitation
    • global mean sea level rise

    Journalists came to this online SMC briefing to hear from some of the report’s authors.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Piers Forster, Director of the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures, University of Leeds

    Prof Joeri Rogelj, Director of Research at the Grantham Institute and Professor of Climate Science & Policy at the Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London

    Dr William Lamb, Senior Scientist at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)

    Dr Matthew Palmer, Joint Director of the UK National Climate Science Partnership (UKNCSP) at Met Office Hadley Centre, and Associate Professor at the University of Bristol

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A salute from the Island — Armed Forces Day returns to Ryde 24 June 2025 A salute from the Island — Armed Forces Day returns to Ryde

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    This Sunday, Ryde Esplanade will host one of the most meaningful events on the Island’s calendar — Armed Forces Day.

    But beyond the flypasts, marching bands, and parachute displays, lies a much deeper purpose: recognition.

    At its heart, Armed Forces Day is about saying thank you. Not just to those in uniform, but to the entire Armed Forces community — serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets, and the families who stand behind them.

    It’s a public expression of gratitude for people who often serve quietly, without expectation of applause.

    Ian Dore, one of the organisers and a veteran himself, says the event is rooted in something simple but powerful: appreciation.

    “We put this day on to say one of the best things you can say to someone—‘thank you’,” he said. “It’s about acknowledging the sacrifices, the service, and the support that often go unseen.

    “Whether it’s a young cadet learning discipline and leadership, a reservist balancing civilian life with military duty, or a family holding the fort while a loved one is deployed — this day is for them.”

    The event is backed by the Isle of Wight Council, a Gold Armed Forces Covenant Member, and supported by a wide range of local organisations and volunteers.

    For many involved in organising it, the connection is personal. Some have served, others are still serving, and all share a commitment to recognising the people who make up the Armed Forces community.

    While the day features high-profile displays — including the Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and live music — it’s the sense of community and shared respect that gives the event its true meaning.

    Ian points out that the Armed Forces don’t operate in isolation: “They rely on the strength of their families, the support of their communities, and the understanding of the public. This event is a way for the Island to show that support in return.”

    Veterans from every era are recognised, from those who served in the World Wars to more recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

    Cadet forces are celebrated for the opportunities they provide young people, helping them build confidence, skills, and a sense of purpose. And reservists are acknowledged for their unique role in bridging civilian and military life.

    “This isn’t just a show,” Ian added. “It’s a statement. It says: we see you, we value you, and we’re grateful.”

    Armed Forces Day takes place on Sunday, 29 June, starting at 10am with a parachute display and a marching parade shortly after.

    Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and use public transport.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Crowds flock to first Tak£500+ event in Banbridge!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Crowds of people flocked to the first Tak£500+ Market Stall and Decision Making event last weekend in Banbridge – and the next event takes place this Saturday 28th June, 10am – 2pm in Armagh City Hotel.

    Come along and check out all the projects within the Armagh area and vote for your favourite to receive up to £1000! See you there!

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: How AI is helping build new solutions for government social services 

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: How AI is helping build new solutions for government social services 

    An indigenous elder suffering chronic health conditions in a remote village needs help traveling to receive medical care. A single mother in in a crowded city loses her job and seeks unemployment and childcare benefits. A young worker in a multilingual country cannot access housing assistance because he doesn’t speak the official language. 

    These are just a few of the incredibly broad range of scenarios in which people around the world look to government social services entities for help and support. In fact, more than half the world’s population (52.4%) are covered by at least one social protection benefit.1 As these services expand, dedicated public organizations and agencies strive to administer benefits programs, enhance access to healthcare, and protect vulnerable populations—even as they face growing pressure to do more with less. 

    Helping government agencies and organizations explore the potential of AI and build new solutions that deliver both near-term impact and long-term transformation is central to our work at Microsoft for Government. We cultivate longstanding partnerships with government organizations of all types to help innovate and deliver secure, trustworthy services that promote safety, health, and prosperity. 

    Discover solutions with Microsoft for Government

    How generative AI is opening new avenues of impact 

    Fueled by a convergence of modern challenges, AI has quickly emerged as a uniquely transformative solution in delivering social services. Budgetary and workforce pressures, the proliferation of data, and constituents’ demands for services that mirror private sector offerings all add to the pressure. And that’s not to mention escalating cyberthreats and the complexity of business and technology.  

    Generative AI—with its unique abilities to synthesize data, understand natural language, retain contextual information, summarize content, and write documents and code—is uniquely suited to help answer these challenges. With powerful solutions like Microsoft 365 Copilot, custom-developed agents and chatbots, and other innovations that integrate AI into regular workflows and processes, governments have the opportunity to not just fix the old but invent the new.  

    Around the world, agencies and organizations have had remarkable success in early AI use cases designed to help improve efficiency, streamline service delivery, and gain powerful insights from data and predictive analytics. Here are three examples of critical impact we’ve seen in the past year:  

    1. Enhance constituent experiences with easier access to information 

    As expectations for fast, personalized digital services grow, many governments are seeing immediate impact with AI-powered chatbots or other virtual assistants to handle ranges of inquiries and assistance.  

    These innovations are available at any hour of the day and are well equipped to handle large volumes of requests for help with things like licensing, transit, taxation, and more. They let people engage on the channel of their choice—such as phone calls, digital chat, and social media—and use different languages to rapidly get the right information, apply for benefits, receive updates, and report incidents. 

    A great example is a chatbot called Boti, which the government of the City of Buenos Aires recently revamped using Microsoft Azure OpenAI services to revolutionize public interactions. Trained on an extensive government database, the chatbot uses natural language interaction to handle 2 million queries per month, helping citizens find services—everything from basic services like driver’s license renewals to public health information and personalized information for tourists. Along the way, it has lowered the operational burden by 50%. 

    The beauty of these kinds of solutions is that they ease the burden of finding and getting the best possible service, even when people have little idea of who or what agency to contact. AI makes it easier for a constituent to explore their options. And then, when they do engage, they only need to provide their critical information one time.

    Not forcing someone to continually supply the same information as they move through the system is a huge consideration in cases where people have experienced traumatic, emotional, or embarrassing events. Participation is strained when a person is forced to re-explain and re-live unpleasant experiences. So, AI’s ability to retain essential details through a case management process and retain context from queries helps ensure an experience that is not only more efficient but also more dignified.  

    AI also plays a role in helping constituents when they are unhappy with their services. An AI-powered contact center, like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Contact Center, can provide new levels of support that can enhance human decision-making. For example, an AI-powered contact center can trigger an escalation to a customer service representative when sentiment analysis detects a person getting frustrated or upset. Using intelligent routing, it can connect the constituent to the best representative based on context and need, and assist the representative by summarizing the person’s situation, suggesting optimal solutions, and even drafting response recommendations. 

    2. Boost the efficiency and effectiveness of staff 

    One of the most vital advances in the digital evolution of government is the shift away from cumbersome tasks involving antiquated websites, electronic forms, even paper-based processes, to automated, intelligent systems that not only ease data collection but also interpret data, learn from it, and even act on it.  

    With AI acting as an intelligent, ever-present assistant, social services case workers and caregivers are able to focus more on helping people and spend less time on tedious tasks than before. These new tools give workers instant access to relevant information from across data silos—including unstructured data such as content in PDFs, files, websites, and even digitized hand-written documents—all of which had largely been unavailable to analysis before. 

    For example, the Torfaen County Borough Council in Wales, United Kingdom, saw gains in productivity after they adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot, which integrates generative AI into everyday applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook. The process of taking and recording notes, for example, has been dramatically simplified, which is freeing workers to spend more time engaging with residents and providing personalized services. 

    With the help of AI assistance, a case worker can serve constituents far more effectively. Client meetings, for example, can be completely transformed. Meeting preparation can be done faster and far more comprehensively, with insights and recommendations gleaned from information across the enterprise, including from files that were previously inaccessible, restricted, or difficult to extract meaningful insights from. The meeting can be recorded and automatically transcribed, which enables the case worker to focus on their client versus note-taking. Afterwords, Microsoft Teams can transcribe and summarize the meeting, with details and action items imported directly into case management systems. 

    3. Enhance processes and outcomes with advanced analytics 

    Perhaps the most transformative aspect of AI is the power of advanced analytics. This refers to AI’s unique ability to turn raw data into actionable insights by identifying patterns, making connections, and even predicting outcomes. In health and social services, this can translate into a variety of useful benefits. 

    For instance, AI can help turn the often-cumbersome process of evaluating applications for benefits or other social services into a faster, more precise, and user-friendly process. It can analyze information against policy rules, interpret regulations to help ensure criteria are met, and cross-check submitted data with official records. This means fewer errors that might lead to incorrect approvals or denials, and greater client satisfaction. 

    Collectively, these abilities can transform important social services initiatives. For example, they play a crucial role in a new digital platform built by the Department of Human Services (DHS) in South Australia to modernize how high-risk domestic violence cases are managed. Previously, agencies relied on physical documents and semi-structured Excel spreadsheets to track cases, which hindered information sharing, decision making, and coordination across agencies. The new Family Safety Portal, integrating AI with Microsoft Power BI, transformed DHS’s domestic violence response into a proactive, highly adaptive, and evidence-based system. Referrals that once took days are now done in real-time, and 10 agencies now share data in a centralized system that is highly secure.  

    In terms of improving public health and wellbeing, AI and analytic tools can collect, analyze, and report on public health or program data to gain a holistic view of individuals receiving services to improve care. A case worker, for example, can use AI to see beyond isolated data points and gain a far more complete view of a person’s situation, needs, and history. With less administrative burden, this provides critical context to ensure that the constituent receives precisely the right support and enhance care coordination and interventions.  

    The other essential benefit provided by analytics is in the realm of fraud, waste, and abuse. By analyzing vast amounts of information in real time and leveraging data from past records and experiences, AI can spot patterns, identify irregularities, and flag suspicious behaviors far more effectively and faster than traditional methods. This can help organizations proactively detect and mitigate fraud risks—for example, by evaluating submissions as they arrive instead of through audits, automating verification in seconds by cross-checking IDs and application details, or comparing an applicant’s behavior with previous submissions to ensure they are legitimate. 

    Move forward in your AI journey 

    Virtually any government agency can derive immediate benefits from generative AI. However, to unlock the full power of modern analytics and advanced AI, an organization needs to modernize their cloud environment and ensure an AI-ready data estate.  

    Every organization’s journey is unique, and it’s important to build a long-term strategy with trusted technology partners. To help your government organization take the next step, contact your local Microsoft representative or certified Microsoft technology partner. They can help explore options, identify use cases, and transform your ideas into meaningful solutions.  

    Discover more

    Microsoft for Government

    Create opportunities innovative technologies

    1 International Labour Organization, “World Social Protection Report 2024,” September 2024.

    Eric Basha

    Director of Business Strategy, Worldwide Government Industry

    Eric Basha is Director of Business Strategy in Microsoft’s Worldwide Government industry group. With 30-plus years of experience in the technology industry, he joined Microsoft in 2002 and has been part of the Worldwide Government organization since 2007. In his current role, he leads Microsoft’s global solution strategy in this area, partnering with government customers, Microsoft teams, and industry partners to develop solutions that address the evolving needs of public sector organizations and the communities they serve.

    See more articles from this author

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: How AI is helping build new solutions for government social services 

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: How AI is helping build new solutions for government social services 

    An indigenous elder suffering chronic health conditions in a remote village needs help traveling to receive medical care. A single mother in in a crowded city loses her job and seeks unemployment and childcare benefits. A young worker in a multilingual country cannot access housing assistance because he doesn’t speak the official language. 

    These are just a few of the incredibly broad range of scenarios in which people around the world look to government social services entities for help and support. In fact, more than half the world’s population (52.4%) are covered by at least one social protection benefit.1 As these services expand, dedicated public organizations and agencies strive to administer benefits programs, enhance access to healthcare, and protect vulnerable populations—even as they face growing pressure to do more with less. 

    Helping government agencies and organizations explore the potential of AI and build new solutions that deliver both near-term impact and long-term transformation is central to our work at Microsoft for Government. We cultivate longstanding partnerships with government organizations of all types to help innovate and deliver secure, trustworthy services that promote safety, health, and prosperity. 

    Discover solutions with Microsoft for Government

    How generative AI is opening new avenues of impact 

    Fueled by a convergence of modern challenges, AI has quickly emerged as a uniquely transformative solution in delivering social services. Budgetary and workforce pressures, the proliferation of data, and constituents’ demands for services that mirror private sector offerings all add to the pressure. And that’s not to mention escalating cyberthreats and the complexity of business and technology.  

    Generative AI—with its unique abilities to synthesize data, understand natural language, retain contextual information, summarize content, and write documents and code—is uniquely suited to help answer these challenges. With powerful solutions like Microsoft 365 Copilot, custom-developed agents and chatbots, and other innovations that integrate AI into regular workflows and processes, governments have the opportunity to not just fix the old but invent the new.  

    Around the world, agencies and organizations have had remarkable success in early AI use cases designed to help improve efficiency, streamline service delivery, and gain powerful insights from data and predictive analytics. Here are three examples of critical impact we’ve seen in the past year:  

    1. Enhance constituent experiences with easier access to information 

    As expectations for fast, personalized digital services grow, many governments are seeing immediate impact with AI-powered chatbots or other virtual assistants to handle ranges of inquiries and assistance.  

    These innovations are available at any hour of the day and are well equipped to handle large volumes of requests for help with things like licensing, transit, taxation, and more. They let people engage on the channel of their choice—such as phone calls, digital chat, and social media—and use different languages to rapidly get the right information, apply for benefits, receive updates, and report incidents. 

    A great example is a chatbot called Boti, which the government of the City of Buenos Aires recently revamped using Microsoft Azure OpenAI services to revolutionize public interactions. Trained on an extensive government database, the chatbot uses natural language interaction to handle 2 million queries per month, helping citizens find services—everything from basic services like driver’s license renewals to public health information and personalized information for tourists. Along the way, it has lowered the operational burden by 50%. 

    The beauty of these kinds of solutions is that they ease the burden of finding and getting the best possible service, even when people have little idea of who or what agency to contact. AI makes it easier for a constituent to explore their options. And then, when they do engage, they only need to provide their critical information one time.

    Not forcing someone to continually supply the same information as they move through the system is a huge consideration in cases where people have experienced traumatic, emotional, or embarrassing events. Participation is strained when a person is forced to re-explain and re-live unpleasant experiences. So, AI’s ability to retain essential details through a case management process and retain context from queries helps ensure an experience that is not only more efficient but also more dignified.  

    AI also plays a role in helping constituents when they are unhappy with their services. An AI-powered contact center, like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Contact Center, can provide new levels of support that can enhance human decision-making. For example, an AI-powered contact center can trigger an escalation to a customer service representative when sentiment analysis detects a person getting frustrated or upset. Using intelligent routing, it can connect the constituent to the best representative based on context and need, and assist the representative by summarizing the person’s situation, suggesting optimal solutions, and even drafting response recommendations. 

    2. Boost the efficiency and effectiveness of staff 

    One of the most vital advances in the digital evolution of government is the shift away from cumbersome tasks involving antiquated websites, electronic forms, even paper-based processes, to automated, intelligent systems that not only ease data collection but also interpret data, learn from it, and even act on it.  

    With AI acting as an intelligent, ever-present assistant, social services case workers and caregivers are able to focus more on helping people and spend less time on tedious tasks than before. These new tools give workers instant access to relevant information from across data silos—including unstructured data such as content in PDFs, files, websites, and even digitized hand-written documents—all of which had largely been unavailable to analysis before. 

    For example, the Torfaen County Borough Council in Wales, United Kingdom, saw gains in productivity after they adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot, which integrates generative AI into everyday applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook. The process of taking and recording notes, for example, has been dramatically simplified, which is freeing workers to spend more time engaging with residents and providing personalized services. 

    With the help of AI assistance, a case worker can serve constituents far more effectively. Client meetings, for example, can be completely transformed. Meeting preparation can be done faster and far more comprehensively, with insights and recommendations gleaned from information across the enterprise, including from files that were previously inaccessible, restricted, or difficult to extract meaningful insights from. The meeting can be recorded and automatically transcribed, which enables the case worker to focus on their client versus note-taking. Afterwords, Microsoft Teams can transcribe and summarize the meeting, with details and action items imported directly into case management systems. 

    3. Enhance processes and outcomes with advanced analytics 

    Perhaps the most transformative aspect of AI is the power of advanced analytics. This refers to AI’s unique ability to turn raw data into actionable insights by identifying patterns, making connections, and even predicting outcomes. In health and social services, this can translate into a variety of useful benefits. 

    For instance, AI can help turn the often-cumbersome process of evaluating applications for benefits or other social services into a faster, more precise, and user-friendly process. It can analyze information against policy rules, interpret regulations to help ensure criteria are met, and cross-check submitted data with official records. This means fewer errors that might lead to incorrect approvals or denials, and greater client satisfaction. 

    Collectively, these abilities can transform important social services initiatives. For example, they play a crucial role in a new digital platform built by the Department of Human Services (DHS) in South Australia to modernize how high-risk domestic violence cases are managed. Previously, agencies relied on physical documents and semi-structured Excel spreadsheets to track cases, which hindered information sharing, decision making, and coordination across agencies. The new Family Safety Portal, integrating AI with Microsoft Power BI, transformed DHS’s domestic violence response into a proactive, highly adaptive, and evidence-based system. Referrals that once took days are now done in real-time, and 10 agencies now share data in a centralized system that is highly secure.  

    In terms of improving public health and wellbeing, AI and analytic tools can collect, analyze, and report on public health or program data to gain a holistic view of individuals receiving services to improve care. A case worker, for example, can use AI to see beyond isolated data points and gain a far more complete view of a person’s situation, needs, and history. With less administrative burden, this provides critical context to ensure that the constituent receives precisely the right support and enhance care coordination and interventions.  

    The other essential benefit provided by analytics is in the realm of fraud, waste, and abuse. By analyzing vast amounts of information in real time and leveraging data from past records and experiences, AI can spot patterns, identify irregularities, and flag suspicious behaviors far more effectively and faster than traditional methods. This can help organizations proactively detect and mitigate fraud risks—for example, by evaluating submissions as they arrive instead of through audits, automating verification in seconds by cross-checking IDs and application details, or comparing an applicant’s behavior with previous submissions to ensure they are legitimate. 

    Move forward in your AI journey 

    Virtually any government agency can derive immediate benefits from generative AI. However, to unlock the full power of modern analytics and advanced AI, an organization needs to modernize their cloud environment and ensure an AI-ready data estate.  

    Every organization’s journey is unique, and it’s important to build a long-term strategy with trusted technology partners. To help your government organization take the next step, contact your local Microsoft representative or certified Microsoft technology partner. They can help explore options, identify use cases, and transform your ideas into meaningful solutions.  

    Discover more

    Microsoft for Government

    Create opportunities innovative technologies

    1 International Labour Organization, “World Social Protection Report 2024,” September 2024.

    Eric Basha

    Director of Business Strategy, Worldwide Government Industry

    Eric Basha is Director of Business Strategy in Microsoft’s Worldwide Government industry group. With 30-plus years of experience in the technology industry, he joined Microsoft in 2002 and has been part of the Worldwide Government organization since 2007. In his current role, he leads Microsoft’s global solution strategy in this area, partnering with government customers, Microsoft teams, and industry partners to develop solutions that address the evolving needs of public sector organizations and the communities they serve.

    See more articles from this author

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Citizens’ Rights Specialised Committee meeting, 24 June 2025: joint statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Citizens’ Rights Specialised Committee meeting, 24 June 2025: joint statement

    The UK government and European Commission gave a joint statement following the 16th meeting of the Specialised Committee on Citizens’ Rights.

    The 16th meeting of the Specialised Committee on Citizens’ Rights was held on 24 June 2025 in Brussels, co-chaired by officials from the European Commission and the UK Government. Representatives from EU Member States were also in attendance.

    The EU and the UK discussed the implementation and application of the Citizens’ Rights part of the Withdrawal Agreement, under the overall objective of ensuring the full and faithful implementation of the Agreement. The meeting allowed both sides to take stock of progress made and identify outstanding issues that must be urgently resolved to ensure that all beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement can fully enjoy their rights now and in the future.

    On the true and extra cohort issue, the co-chairs reiterated the warm welcome by the co-chairs of the Joint Committee at its meeting on 29 April 2025 of the legislative step taken by the UK Government relating to legal clarity for EU citizens with status under the EU Settlement Scheme, and look forward to its practical application.

    The EU noted the work by the UK to automate the process of upgrading Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries from pre-settled status to settled status. In this context, the EU stressed, among others, that the UK measures to curtail residence rights on grounds of absences must be compatible with the Withdrawal Agreement. The EU also raised other issues of concern, such as travel incidents affecting EU citizens who are Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries and NHS charges for those who submit a residence application after the June 2021 deadline, which affects in particular newborn children.

    The UK highlighted that large numbers of UK national Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries would soon transition from temporary to permanent status. In that context, they raised the importance of adequate administrative preparation by the EU’s Member States, as well as clear guidance to beneficiaries. The UK also asked for updates on several implementation issues in certain Member States, including ensuring a proper process is in place to accept late applications, discrepancies in awarding temporary or permanent status and multiple immigration status.

    The EU and the UK also discussed the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), as well as the EU’s European Travel Information and Authorisation Systems (ETIAS) and the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme (ETA), from the perspective of their implications on Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries. Both sides called on Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries concerned to take in good time all necessary measures to facilitate their future travel, recognising the importance of timely communications to beneficiaries by national authorities.

    Representatives from civil society organisations, representing EU citizens living in the UK and UK nationals living in the EU, attended the meeting and asked questions about the implementation and application of the Citizens’ Rights part of the Withdrawal Agreement in the UK and the EU, in conformity with the rules of procedure of the Specialised Committee.

    The UK and the EU underlined their ongoing commitment to the full implementation of Part Two (Citizens’ Rights) of the Withdrawal Agreement, welcoming the progress made and agreeing to strengthen their ongoing cooperation on all issues. The co-chairs agreed to meet again in autumn.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Crown Nominee Account 2024-25

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Crown Nominee Account 2024-25

    Publication of the Bona Vacantia accounts for 2024 – 2025

    Bona Vacantia have confirmed the final 2024-2025 accounts for the Crown Nominee and the report can now be found on the GOV.UK website. Accounts for the Crown’s Nominee for the year ended 31 March 2025 – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: For Mining Beginners：PFM Crypto Launches Free BTC, ETH, DOGE and XRP Cloud Mining Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following the U.S. government’s landmark decision in March 2025 to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve, the global crypto market has entered a new era of recognition and legitimacy. Riding this momentum, UK-based PFM Crypto has announced the official launch of its free-to-start cloud mining platform, offering support for BTC, ETH, DOGE and XRP, and other major cryptocurrencies.
    In a fast-evolving regulatory climate, PFM Crypto positions itself as the go-to solution for crypto newcomers and passive investors alike. Built on AI-optimized cloud infrastructure and compliant with ESG regulations, the platform enables anyone to start earning crypto with as little as a mobile device and $0 upfront.

    Explore cloud mining: https://pfmcrypto.net 

    What Makes PFM Crypto Cloud Mining Different?
    PFM Crypto offers a unique set of features designed to eliminate traditional mining complexity while maximizing profitability:

    – Cloud-Based Mining Leases
    Users gain remote access to eco-certified mining power without buying or managing hardware. PFM CRYPTO operates high-efficiency, ESG-compliant mining centers in the UK, US and EU.

    – Beginner-Friendly Mining Setup
    Activate your mining contract in minutes using just your PC or phone. No tech skills or wallet configuration required.

    – Daily Mining for BTC、ETH、DOGE 和 XRP
    Enjoy seamless, 24/7 mining with no system downtime. All infrastructure is monitored by professionals to ensure uninterrupted income.

    – Instant Withdrawals, No Lockups
    Unlike traditional mining setups, PFM Crypto allows users to withdraw earnings anytime—with zero withdrawal fees.

    – Free Start for New Users
    First-time users receive a $10 welcome bonus, enough to activate their first mining contract and start earning daily rewards immediately.

    – Sustainable Blockchain Mining
    With ESG compliance at its core, PFM CRYPTO incorporates green energy sources and reforestation initiatives as part of its broader commitment to environmental sustainability.

    PFM Crypto Mining Performance (Jun 2025):
    5-Day BTC Mining Contract: +6.15% ROI
    15-Day DOGE Mining Contract: +20.7% ROI
    30-Day XRP Mining Contract: +55.6% ROI
    These returns, coupled with minimal barriers to entry, have attracted a surge of retail participation—especially among younger investors exploring crypto income for the first time.

    How to get started on the most trusted Cloud Mining platform in 2025
    1. Sign up on PC or mobile device here
    2. Receive a free $10 welcome bonus
    3. Active the first free cloud computing power with the bonus
    4. See a breakdown of your expected earnings and monitor rewards using its real-time analytical tool
    5. Access your free withdrawal anytime
    “We built PFM Crypto so that anyone, anywhere can earn from crypto—without needing to understand blockchain or manage hardware,” said PFMCrypto CEO.

    About PFM Crypto
    Founded in 2018, PFM Crypto is a next-generation digital asset mining platform that empowers global users to mine Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin, and 7 other top coins—all through AI-optimized cloud infrastructure. With a focus on security, sustainability, and accessibility, PFM Crypto provides a legally compliant, high-yield alternative to traditional crypto investing.
    Start mining smarter—visit https://pfmcrypto.net  to claim your $10 bonus.

    Amelia Elspeth
    info@pfmcrypto.net
    71 Grasmere Avenue, Farington, Leyland, England 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cookbook project helps sheltered housing residents to share memories and eat well

    Source: City of Winchester


    Residents of three local sheltered housing schemes have been sharing their family recipes as part of a Winchester City Council funded project to combat loneliness and boost healthy eating.

    Cllr Mark Reach joined Mary Carlton and residents of Richard Moss House for the presentation of their Community Cookbook

    As part of the Memories and Munch initiative, sheltered housing residents shared their stories about food and tried out new recipes, all the while learning new cooking techniques to help them create low-cost healthy meals.

    Richard Moss House resident Evie Kimpton and Munch CIC’s Mary Carlton

    The project has seen Mary Carlton of Munch CIC and Life Story Writer Rachel Lewis work with residents through a series of workshops to collect recipes and memories and explore fresh ideas for sharing food and cooking together.

    Those recipes, as well as stories and pictures from residents, have been collated into three cookbooks, which were presented to each of the three sheltered housing schemes.

    Speaking about the initiative, Eve Kimpton, a resident at Richard Moss House, said:

    “When Mary mentioned old recipes I thought, ‘oh, that bread pudding recipe might be perfect’. In the war it was used for the soldiers’ wedding cakes and my mum, who was also called Eve, used to make it.

    “This is my first time seeing the cookbook and it’s absolutely amazing – I love seeing my mum and dad, and my friends, in the pictures on the pages. Other people will see it and hopefully enjoy it as well. It was so nice taking part in the project and learning something new from Mary even though I am 81.”

    Munch CIC’s Mary Carlton said:

     “Our aim was to improve participants’ confidence in the kitchen.  All the new recipes we included in the cookbook had to be easily prepared with affordable ingredients. We also focused on batch cooking, not only to reduce food waste but also recognising that not everybody is able to cook every day.  With these dishes, participants could still enjoy a healthy homemade meal, avoiding the expense of ready meals.” 

    Winchester City Council Cabinet member for Good Homes Cllr Mark Reach said:

    “It was a joy to join Mary, Rachel and our sheltered housing residents at Richard Moss House last week for the presentation of their new cookbook. Speaking to everyone there it’s been plain to see happiness, passion and sharing of memories that this project has inspired and I’m glad we’ve been able to support it with through our grant funding”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment for Biological Assessors

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Recruitment for Biological Assessors

    Biological Assessor, working on new marketing authorisations, variations of existing authorisations, and animal test certificates.

    We have a vacancy for three Biological Assessors.

    Job Title

    Biological Assessor in the Biologicals Section

    Grade

    G7

    Salary & Pension

    £59,900 per annum with Pension Scheme

    Annual Leave entitlement

    Commencing at 25 days

    Role

    You will scientifically assess quality, safety and efficacy data for new marketing authorisations, animal test certificates to conduct clinical field trials and variations for biological/immunological veterinary medicinal products including veterinary vaccines and novel therapy medicinal products.

    How to apply

    You must make your application via Biological Assessor in the Biologicals Section – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK where you will find a full job description.

    Closing Date

    21 July 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The United Kingdom is deeply concerned by recent violence in Tripoli: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    The United Kingdom is deeply concerned by recent violence in Tripoli: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.

    President, I will make three points today.

    First, the United Kingdom is deeply concerned by recent violence and clashes in Tripoli. 

    We urge all parties to exercise restraint and engage constructively in mediation efforts to prevent further escalation. 

    The clashes underscore the fragility of Libya’s security landscape and the urgent need for sustainable political progress.

    Second, I want to echo the SRSG’s remarks and welcome the renewed commitment shown at the International Follow-up Committee on Libya in Berlin on 20 June. 

    We are concerned at Libya’s trajectory, particularly the worsening political and economic conditions. 

    And these trends threaten the country’s stability, sovereignty and unity. 

    We therefore fully support UNSMIL’s efforts to improve international coordination in support of the UN-facilitated political process.

    Third, the United Kingdom welcomes the valuable work of the Advisory Committee on technical options for elections pathways. 

    Now, as SRSG Tetteh engages stakeholders to devise a political roadmap, we call on all Libyan actors to engage meaningfully with UNSMIL as it moves into the next stage of the process. 

    Our message is clear: now is the opportunity for Libyan actors to shape the future of the political process, towards a peaceful, stable and prosperous Libya.

    In closing, we recognise the importance of creating conditions that ultimately enable national elections to be conducted safely, inclusively and credibly. 

    Forthcoming municipal elections provide an opportunity for Libyan institutions and security actors to demonstrate their commitment to this goal. 

    This is an opportunity for Libyans to exercise their democratic rights and shape local governance. 

    It is essential that all actors work to foster an environment in which democratic practice can take root and be sustained.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT RESPONDS TO WEEKEND VIOLENCE, HIGHLIGHTS ONGOING GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION EFFORTS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

    For Immediate Release                             Contact: Tionee Scotland 

    June 24, 2025                                                    202-808-6129 

    PRESS RELEASE 

    CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT RESPONDS TO WEEKEND VIOLENCE, HIGHLIGHTS ONGOING GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION EFFORTS 

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (VI-AL) issued the following statement regarding the tragic shootings that have occurred in the territory over the last few months, including over this weekend in St. John and St. Croix, which resulted in three deaths and three injuries, including a 14-year-old boy: 

    “I am deeply saddened by the shootings in our territory over the past few months. My heart goes out to the families of the victims, and I pray for the swift recovery of those injured, especially the young teenager who was struck multiple times. Every life lost to gun violence is a tragedy that reverberates throughout our entire Virgin Islands community. 

    “While we mourn these losses, I want to assure Virgin Islanders that my office continues to work tirelessly to secure resources and allow the implementation of programs to combat gun violence in our territory. We have been working on multiple initiatives to address this crisis which include but are not limited to:  

    “This federal funding supports critical initiatives including the Virgin Islands Youth Opportunity and Violence Prevention Program which provides community-based after-school programs, job training, and mentorship opportunities for at-risk youth in St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. The Virgin Islands Police Department’s Technology and Training Enhancement Grant provides advanced crime detection technology and provides specialized training in de-escalation and community policing techniques. In the Fiscal Year 2023 Community Project Funding requests, my office secured $3.9 million for the Virgin Islands Police Department to purchase three marine enforcement vessels to assist with the interdiction of drug-trafficking related criminal activity through the Virgin Islands as well as safety patrols through local waters and I continue to advocate with the DEA, Coast Guard and other federal agencies to stop the flow of guns and drugs through the Virgin Islands. 

    “Gun violence is not just a law enforcement issue—it is a public health crisis that requires a comprehensive approach involving prevention, intervention, and community engagement. I will continue to advocate for federal resources and work with local leaders to implement evidence-based solutions that protect our families and restore peace to our neighborhoods. 

    “I urge anyone with information about these shootings to contact the Virgin Islands Police Department immediately. Together, we must break the cycle of violence and build a safer future for all Virgin Islanders.” 

    Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-778-2211 or Crime Stoppers VI at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS) 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Direct support for Dundee University

    Source: Scottish Government

    Public funding in response to unprecedented situation.

    Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has confirmed up to £40 million funding in principle for the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) to support the University of Dundee’s recovery.

    Funding will be provided to the SFC over two academic years or three financial years. This is in addition to the £25 million funding announced by Ministers in February for the SFC to support universities facing financial challenges, of which the University of Dundee received £22 million. This means total additional funding made available for the University by the Scottish Government via the SFC is up to £62 million.

    The SFC and Scottish Government will work together to develop appropriate conditions for the funding, which is subject to further due diligence. Funding will only be released once a sustainable, long-term recovery plan is put in place by the University that leverages commercial and private investment.

    The statement follows Professor Pamela Gillies’ Independent Review into the University of Dundee’s finances, which highlighted that the University had failed to operate in line with the SFC’s Financial Memorandum and Code of Good Higher Education Governance. Ministers have held early discussions with SFC to consider options to strengthen governance in institutions.

    Confirming the funding in a statement to Parliament, Ms Gilruth said:

    “The Scottish Government is determined to do everything we can to secure a positive and thriving future for Dundee University.

    “Since issues at the University came to light in November, the thoughts of Ministers have continued to be with staff and students who have faced a period of real anxiety and uncertainty. This additional £40 million funding support will help return the university to the thriving institution it should be.

    “Scotland’s universities are independent and autonomous institutions. In normal circumstances, decisions on the allocation of funding to individual institutions are the responsibility of the SFC. However, this is a unique and unprecedented set of circumstances, which requires a unique and unprecedented response.

    “It is vitally important that the University works to secure a sustainable, long-term plan which will allow for commercial lending to support some, or all of the remaining liquidity ask. We will consider all avenues and other support we can provide to achieve that end.”

    Background

     Scottish Ministers have powers under section 25 of the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 2005 to direct the Scottish Funding Council Ministers to target a direct settlement to the University of Dundee, and to place specific conditions on that funding. This is the first time that these powers have been used. Ministers will work closely with the SFC on the provision of the funding.

    £40 million in-principle funding is subject to further due diligence prior to provision of the funding. The Scottish Government is in the process of procuring expert auditors to assist with due diligence, which is due to conclude in the coming days.

    Additional funding provided to the SFC for Dundee University will not impact on the funding available from the SFC to other institutions.

    The Strategic Advisory Taskforce established by Ministers is now undertaking a series of workshops to engage in detail on themes including income generation, shared services and the city, region and community.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Double Mac success for Anglia Ruskin illustrators

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Marguerite Davidson, left, pictured with Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan and one of the award judges

    Illustrators from the Children’s Book Illustration MA course at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) have won the top two prizes at the national Macmillan Prize for Illustration.

    First prize and a cheque for £1,000 went to Marguerite Davidson, while Carol Law, who graduated from the ARU course last summer, received the runner-up award and a prize of £500.

    Known as the “Mac Prize”, the award was established in 1985 and is open to all non-professional illustrators based in the UK. This year the prestigious competition, which is celebrating its 40th birthday, received almost 400 entries.

    Marguerite, who is originally California and holds degrees in Studio Arts and in Film Production from San Diego State University, won for her picture book Do You Want To Play? She received the award from Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan, at a ceremony held at Pan Macmillan’s London offices and will graduate from ARU’s Children’s Book Illustration MA course next month.

    “I love creating stories with warmth, silliness, and cheeky animal characters. I work with a multitude of different media, but my current favourite is screen printing. I enjoy using a limited palette and building up layers of colour, texture, and shape.

    “The initial idea for Do You Want To Play? came from a recurring image in my sketchbook of a stampede of animals all pushing and shoving their way out of the pages. I am fascinated by books that engage the reader in surprising ways, so I set about creating a story where the reader is trying to help the characters escape the book.

    “I love to make people laugh with my stories, and that is at the heart of this project. My tutors encouraged me to enter the Macmillan Prize for Illustration, and I am thrilled to have won! It is such a great honour to win this competition especially with this project, which is so close to my heart.”

    Marguerite Davidson

    “Marguerite’s winning entry Do You Want To Play? caught the judges’ attention immediately with its vibrant colour and flowing illustration style. Add to that a concept that invites the reader to interact with the book itself made this entry irresistible fun.

    “Making a book entertaining, full of life and interactive in a physical way is ambitious, but Marguerite brought all of these aspects together in an elegant, accessible and visually stunning form. The judges all felt that this book would be a great book for adults and children to read and enjoy together, making it a joyful experience for all.”

    Chris Inns, Art Director at Macmillan Children’s Books and Chair of Judges

    “This year was another strong year for the Mac Prize with work submitted by a fabulous range of talented illustrators. As a judging panel, we enjoyed seeing the variety of styles and the many dazzling imaginations at play on the page.”

    Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan and judge

    “As the Mac Prize celebrates 40 years, we have been delighted to see such a strong mix of voices and range of styles and themes coming through in the entries. We are always looking for picture books that speak to a child’s experience of their world and the Prize brings fantastic new talent to the surface that we are proud to publish on our Macmillan and Two Hoots lists.” 

    Alison Ruane, MD of Macmillan Children’s Books

    “The Macmillan Prize is always such a special event. Chris Inns goes round the room telling the winners why their work was chosen, which judges championed particular projects and sometimes even giving a piece of advice for the future.

    “It’s such a thrill for our students and also for us, as tutors, to see them honoured. We couldn’t be more pleased to see Marguerite and Carol recognised, and to have 14 of the 20 highly commended projects also coming from students and graduates of our course, that was the icing on the cake!”

    Shelley Jackson, Associate Professor and Course Director for the MA in Children’s Book Illustration at ARU

    Examples of Marguerite’s work are available on the MA Degree Show website here https://www.cambridgemashow.com/marguerite-davidson

    Meanwhile, Will Knight, who is also graduating from the MA course this summer, has been named as the winner of the Children’s Illustration category at the Batsford Prize 2025. And as with the Macmillan Prize, ARU enjoyed a one-two at the awards, run by independent trade publishers Batsford, with Will’s fellow student Vannysha Chang receiving the runner-up prize.

    Will impressed the judges with his work The House Dragon, a story about a child left behind accidently when his family move home, and the dragon who protects him. 

    “We’re delighted to award the children’s illustration prize to Will Knight for The House Dragon. This submission impressed all the judges with its mix of media – from a video showing a physical 3D model of the dragon, through working sketches and the final finished art. The illustrations are very accomplished, visually stunning and show an inventive range of perspectives – and it’s a funny story too.”

    Founder of Spring Literary and award judge Neil Dunnicliffe

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh recognised at the Scottish Transport Awards 2025

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Colleagues collect the Excellence in Transport Design award for the Roseburn to Union Canal project at the Scottish Transport Awards 2025.

    Edinburgh received six accolades last week at the annual Scottish Transport Awards in Glasgow.

    The Council was recognised for the Roseburn to Union Canal project, picking up the Excellence in Transport Design award, alongside our work on tackling pavement parking with our contractor NSL, winning the Most Effective Road Safety, Traffic Management & Enforcement Project.

    Lothian’s Country Service 43 took home the Best Bus Service award and their work alongside Police Scotland during Operation Crackle around Halloween and Bonfire Night won the Excellence in Social and Community Value gong.

    The Royal Highland Show won the Contribution to Sustainable Transport award with their Traffic Management Working Group.  

    Finally, the Edinburgh & South East Scotland City Region Deal were recognised for their Workforce Mobility Project which won Best Practice in Transport Planning.

    The Scottish Transport Awards have for over two decades, brought the transport community together to recognise and celebrate industry achievements across Scotland.

    Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said:

    I was delighted to attend the awards last week. I’m really proud of all the projects in our city which were recognised by experts from across the country. These represent a good mix of initiatives from both the Council and our fantastic partner organisations.

    From active travel to public transport, parking enforcement to event planning and beyond – these awards are testament to the hard work which goes every day into making Edinburgh a better place to be for everyone.

    The full list of award winners is available on the Scottish Travel Awards website.

    Published: June 24th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New joint Defence / NHS healthcare centre to open in Yorkshire

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New joint Defence / NHS healthcare centre to open in Yorkshire

    New multi-million pound joint Defence / NHS healthcare centre to open in 2026. The facility will treat up to 1,000 military personnel, families and civilian patients daily.

    Colonel Tariq Ahmad, Regional Clinical Director, Defence Primary Healthcare (North). MOD copyright

    A new cutting-edge healthcare facility in Catterick, jointly built by the Ministry of Defence and the NHS, will treat thousands of patients a year including the military, their families and the local civilian population in North Yorkshire and the wider area when it opens next year.

    The Catterick Integrated Care Centre (CICC) which has received approximately £110 million of funding, is a first-of-its-kind health partnership, directly employing more than 300 highly skilled medical personnel from the MOD and the NHS to treat up to 1,000 people a day.

    Situated within Catterick Garrison, home to over 14,000 military personnel, the centre will offer a range of services, including primary care, rehabilitation, mental health support, and specialist treatments. It will see military personnel, their families and the wider local population all treated at the same location.

    The project aims to improve local access to healthcare, providing a variety of healthcare services in one location, and will also provide opportunities for training.

    Colonel Tariq Ahmad, Regional Clinical Director, Defence Primary Healthcare (North), said:

    This centre is a great investment in our local community, with a bold and ambitious vision to approach care in an integrated way, working collaboratively with primary and secondary care, local authority and public health services for the benefit of our patients. It’s a coordinated approach to building better outcomes for the whole community.

    Michelle Hagger, Programme Manager from NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB added:

    The concept began in 2015, and our vision is now inching ever closer to reality. This purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility will bring together a broad range of integrated and responsive health and care services under one roof, helping ensure residents across Richmondshire can access the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

    Construction firm Tilbury Douglas was awarded the contract to build the CICC in 2021 by the Ministry of Defence, with over 200 people employed on the site over the lifetime of the project.

    Paul Ellenor, Regional Director for Yorkshire and the Northeast at Tilbury Douglas, said:

    This represents a landmark investment in integrated healthcare, and Tilbury Douglas is proud to be at the forefront of its delivery. It reflects the strength of collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, the NHS, and delivery partners. This pioneering facility will not only transform access to healthcare for both military and civilian communities, but also set a new standard for integrated service delivery. We’re proud to contribute to a project that enhances long-term wellbeing, strengthens local partnerships, and supports national priorities around Defence health and public care infrastructure.

    John Weatherby, Principal Project Manager for the CICC from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, which is part of the MOD and oversees all UK Defence land, buildings, and infrastructure, added:

    We’re proud to be building this fantastic new facility, which will greatly benefit both the military and the local population in the Catterick area. This is the first joint MOD and NHS project of this scale and is the result of a collaborative relationship between the MOD, NHS, Tilbury Douglas and other partners.

    The CICC is intended to be a model of innovation for future joint Ministry of Defence and NHS healthcare initiatives, offering modern medical technologies, a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, and rehabilitation.

    Over the coming months, a variety of engagement sessions and open days will take place to give members of the community the chance to find out more about the services the centre will provide.

    Work will now continue at pace to ensure the CICC is fully ready to start seeing patients when it opens in 2026, with staff due to begin familiarising themselves with the new facility shortly to ensure this this partnership is able to meet personnel needs and that Defence is playing it’s part in the Government’s mission to build an NHS for the future.

    Background information

    • The Catterick Integrated Care Centre started construction in 2021 and is an innovative collaboration between the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the National Health Service (NHS). This partnership creates a unified approach to healthcare that serves both military personnel and the local civilian population in North Yorkshire and the wider area.
    • Karina Dare, Primary Care Estates Strategy Lead at NHS Property Services, said: “NHS Property Service are thrilled to be a partner in this development. We have been able to support the ICB and local health partners using the specialist skills and experience in healthcare property development and strategic asset management. We look forward to our long-term role once CICC is operational and working with Defence Primary Healthcare and Defence Infrastructure Organisation on behalf of the NHS occupiers.”
    • The CICC will serve people from North Yorkshire and the surrounding areas. It will provide modern primary healthcare to the Catterick Army Garrison, and personnel form the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force based in the area, as well as their families.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How we protected the UK and space in May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    How we protected the UK and space in May 2025

    This report was issued in June 2025 and covers the time period 1 May 2025 to 31 May 2025 inclusive.

    The National Space Operations Centre is led by the UK Space Agency and UK Space Command in partnership with the Met Office.

    May saw more stable levels of space activity with both uncontrolled re-entry and collision alerts at levels below the 12-month rolling average.

    All NSpOC warning and protection services functioned as expected throughout the period.

    Re-entry Analysis

    May saw a 30% decrease in the number of objects re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, tracked by NSpOC, when compared with the previous month.

    Of the 64 objects that re-entered, 55 were satellites and 9 were rocket bodies.

    June: 48, July: 44, August: 89, September: 50, October: 35, November: 47, December: 83, January: 115, February: 129, March: 85, April: 92, May: 64

    In-Space Collision Avoidance

    Collision risks to UK-licensed satellites were lower in May with a 41% decline when compared with April, caused by fewer interactions between UK licenced objects and other spacecraft or debris over the previous 30 days.

    June: 1,881, July: 1,795, August: 2,137, September: 3,041, October: 3,181, November: 2,722, December: 2,142, January: 2,694, February: 2,567, March: 2,588, April: 2,620, May: 1,546

    Number of Objects in Space

    The in-orbit population increased in May, with a net addition of 198 objects to the US Satellite Catalogue.

    June: 28,868, July: 28,853, August: 29,626, September: 29,605, October: 29,642, November: 29,781, December: 29,843, January: 29,961, February: 29,989, March: 30,090, April: 30,208, May: 30,393

    The number of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) reported may be subject to small adjustments over time as the way objects are tracked is refined. Figures in this report reflect the most current available data and may differ slightly from those published in previous months.

    Fragmentation Analysis

    There have been no new fragmentation (break-up) incidents this month.

    Space weather

    Space weather impact modelling suggests a possible moderate to high estimated effect on satellite communications, aviation and marine transport systems during this reporting period.

    Comments

    The National Space Operations Centre combines and coordinates UK civil and military space domain awareness capabilities to enable operations, promote prosperity and protect UK interests in space and on Earth from space-related threats, risks and hazards.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –