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Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Powering Britain’s Future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Powering Britain’s Future

    Electricity costs for businesses – including potentially hundreds in Scotland – to be slashed as Industrial Strategy launched to unlock investment and new jobs

    More than 7,000 British businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25% from 2027, as the Government unveils its bold new Industrial Strategy today [Monday 23 June].

    The modern Industrial Strategy sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business by tackling two of the biggest barriers facing UK industry – high electricity prices and long waits for grid connections.

    British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

    For too long these challenges have held back growth and made it harder for British firms to compete. Today’s announcement marks a decisive shift — with government stepping in to support industry and unlock the UK’s economic potential.

    From 2027, the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity costs by up to £40 per megawatt hour for over 7,000 electricity-intensive businesses in manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace and chemicals. Hundreds of Scottish businesses could be in line to benefit.

    These firms, which support over 300,000 skilled jobs, will be exempt from paying levies such as the Renewables Obligation, Feed-in Tariffs and the Capacity Market — helping level the playing field and make them more internationally competitive. Eligibility and further details on the exemptions will be determined following consultation, which will be launched shortly.

    The government is also increasing support for the most energy-intensive firms — like steel, chemicals, and glass — by covering more of the electricity network charges they normally have to pay through the British Industry Supercharger. These businesses currently get a 60% discount on those charges, but from 2026, that will increase to 90%. This means their electricity bills will go down, helping them stay competitive, protect jobs, and invest in the future.

    This will help around 500 eligible businesses in sectors such as steel, ceramics and glass reduce their costs and protect jobs in industries that are the backbone of our economy and will be delivered at no additional cost to the taxpayer. The support for steel manufacturing is crucial as it’s a critical enabling industry for Scotland’s world leading defence and renewable energy sectors.

    These reforms complement the government’s long-term mission for clean power, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets.

    To ensure businesses can grow and hire without delay, the government will also deliver a new Connections Accelerator Service to streamline grid access for major investment projects — including prioritising those that create high-quality jobs and deliver significant economic benefits.

    We will work closely with the energy sector, local authorities, Scottish and Welsh Governments, trade unions, and industry to design this service, which we expect to begin operating at the end of 2025. New powers in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently before parliament, could also allow the Government to reserve grid capacity for strategically important projects, cutting waiting times and unlocking growth in key sectors.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray today visited a new industrial development in East Lothian, on the site of a former coal-fired power station. The redevelopment site is partly funded by an £11 million UK Government investment, and includes the construction of a new interconnecter to take power from the Inchcape offshore wind farm to the National Grid. 

    Also joint Department for Business and Trade/HM Treasury Minister for Investment, Baroness Poppy Gustafsson, will meet senior figures from Dundee’s life sciences and tech, gaming, and creative sectors later. 

    Speaking ahead of his visit Mr Murray said:

    Scotland is rightly at the heart of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy with our businesses and expertise integral to further creating jobs and economic growth through the eight sectors identified.

    Advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative Industries, defence, digital and technologies, financial services, life sciences and professional and business services, Scotland excels at them all. But we have the potential to go much further. And by slashing electricity costs for Scottish businesses, increasing business investment and cutting red tape the UK Government is helping turbocharge the economy, create jobs and put more money in the pockets of working Scots as part of our Plan for Change.

    We have a proud industrial heritage and with this new comprehensive 10 year strategy Scotland and the wider UK has an exciting future.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    The UK has some of the most innovative businesses in the world and our Plan for Change has provided them with the stability they need to grow and for more to be created.

    Today’s Industrial Strategy builds on that progress with a ten-year plan to slash barriers to investment. It’ll see billions of pounds for investment and cutting-edge tech, ease energy costs, and upskill the nation. It will ensure the industries that make Britain great can thrive. It will boost our economy and create jobs that put more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We’ve said from day one Britain is back in business under this government, and the £100 billion of investment we’ve secured in the past year shows our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people.

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy will ensure the UK is the best country to invest and do business, delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets and pays for our NHS, schools and military.

    Not only does this Strategy prioritise investment to attract billions for new business sites, cutting-edge research, and better transport links, it will also make our industrial electricity prices more competitive.

    Tackling energy costs and fixing skills has been the single biggest ask of us from businesses and the greatest challenge they’ve faced – this government has listened, and now we’re taking the bold action needed. Government and business working hand in hand to make working people better off is what this Government promised and what we will deliver.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    For too long high electricity costs have held back British businesses, as a result of our reliance on gas sold on volatile international markets.

    As part of our modern industrial strategy we’re unlocking the potential of British industry by slashing industrial electricity prices in key sectors.

    We’re also doubling down on our clean power strengths with increased investment in growth industries from offshore wind to nuclear. This will deliver on our clean power mission and Plan for Change to bring down bills for households and businesses for good.

    The Supercharger and British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will be funded through reforms to the energy system. The government is reducing costs within the system to free up funding without raising household bills or taxes and intends to also use additional funds from the strengthening of UK carbon pricing, including as a result of linking with the EU carbon market.

    We have set out an intention to link emissions trading systems, as part of our new agreement with the European Union to support British businesses. Without an agreement to do this, British industry would have to pay the EU’s carbon tax.

    We intend to link our carbon pricing system with the EU’s, we will ensure that money stays in the UK—which allows us to support British companies and British jobs through these schemes.

    Building on the Spending Review and the recently announced 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, the Industrial Strategy is the latest step forward in our plans to deliver national renewal. It will include targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in our growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. This includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, at six locations to be chosen across the UK, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more, including  with the Scottish Government to support the Edinburgh-Glasgow Central Belt.

    • Strengthening existing “Industrial Strategy Zones” – in Scotland these are the Forth Green Freeport, Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, Glasgow City Region and the North East Scotland Investment Zones – with an enhanced offer of streamlined planning, better-targeted investment promotion, support for accessing concessionary finance and coordinated support on skills.

    • Delivering AI Growth Zones to attract investment in AI infrastructure in strategic locations across the UK, including Scotland, with support for planning, access to energy, and partnerships with the private sector.

    • Growing high-potential innovation ecosystems through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, with at least £30m for Scotland, building on UK-wide public R&D investment and Innovate UK’s joint action plans with devolved governments.

    • Identifying and securing the right financing for investment projects in Scotland with the National Wealth Fund, working with the Scottish National Investment Bank.  

    • Using a British Business Bank Cluster Champion in Glasgow City Region, with deep expertise and local knowledge, to coordinate investment-readiness programmes, strengthen financial networks, and connect high-potential firms to investors.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.

    Dame Clare Barclay DBE, Chair of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council and President of Enterprise & Industry EMEA at Microsoft said:

    I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out a clear plan to back the UK’s growth driving sectors. It is particularly positive to see the strong focus on skills in areas such as engineering, technology and defence. Commitments such as £187 million for the TechFirst programme will ensure the UK has the skills it needs to support our growth industries and seize transformative opportunities like AI.

    Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive, CBI said:

    Today’s Industrial Strategy announcement is a significant leap forward in the partnership between government and business that sets us on the path to our shared goal of raising living standards across the country.  

    It sends an unambiguous, positive signal about the nation’s global calling card as well as the direction of travel for the wider economy for the next decade and beyond.

    The CBI has long been advocating for a comprehensive industrial strategy, based on the UK’s USP – the sectors and markets where we can compete to win on the global stage.

    More competitive energy prices, fast-tracked planning decisions and backing innovation will provide a bedrock for growth. But the global race to attract investment will require a laser-like and unwavering focus on the UK’s overall competitiveness. 

    Today marks the beginning of delivering this strategy in close partnership, at pace, and with a shared purpose. 

    Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO at Make UK said:

    British industry has been in desperate need for a government who understands our sector and had the strategic vision for a plan for growth. Today’s Industrial Strategy is a giant and much needed step forward taken by the Secretary of State who has seen the potential and provided the keys to help unlock it.

    Make UK has led the campaign for a new industrial strategy for many years, highlighting the three major challenges that were diminishing our competitiveness, hampering growth and frustrating productivity gains: a skills crisis, crippling energy costs and, an inability to access capital for new British innovators.

    The strategy announced today sets out plans to address all three of these structural failings. Clearly there is much to do as we move towards implementation but, this will send a message across the Country and around the world that Britain is back in business.

    Tufan Erginbilgic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said:

    The UK Government’s Industrial Strategy commitment to support our world-leading aerospace and nuclear industries shows long-term strategic foresight. Rolls-Royce’s highly differentiated technologies in gas turbines and nuclear capabilities- including SMRs and AMRs- are uniquely placed to deliver economic growth, skilled jobs and attract investment into the UK.

    Mike Hawes OBE, SMMT Chief Executive said:

    The publication of an Industrial Strategy – one with automotive at its heart – is the policy framework the sector has long-sought and Government has now addressed. Such a strategy – long-term, aligned to a trade strategy and supported by all of Government – is the basis on which the UK automotive sector can regain its global competitiveness. Making the UK the best place to invest now depends on implementation, and implementation at pace, because investment decisions are being made now against a backdrop of fierce competition and geopolitical uncertainty. The number one priority must be addressing the UK’s high cost of energy, enabling the sector to invest in the technologies, the products and the people that will give the UK its competitive edge. 

    Five sector plans have been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight. Glasgow is a global force in advanced manufacturing –  home to the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District and globally competitive universities, the city region has strengths across defence, space and quantum. Edinburgh houses the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University and the Roslin Institute, which is a leading Agri-Tech research centre. 

    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Aberdeen-headquartered Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion. We are supporting Scottish clean energy industries with £200 million development funding to advance the Acorn Carbon Capture and Storage project, capitalising on expertise in the oil and gas sector around Aberdeen. Up to £185 million has been allocated to Scotland through the Clean Industry Bonus, unlocking up to £3.5 billion private sector investment in ports and high-tech components needed to build floating and fixed offshore wind farms. Aberdeen is a global energy capital boasting new investment in hydrogen, with its pioneering Energy Transition Zone repositioning the North East as a globally integrated energy cluster.  A new regional skills pilot for Aberdeen will also help ensure a strong local skills base to deliver these opportunities.

    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports. It includes a £30 million Games Growth Package to back the next generation of UK video games studios – a sector in which Scotland is world leading. Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee are centres for creative industries. The Edinburgh Festivals incubate creative talent, whilst Edinburgh Futures Institute drives innovation.

    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as quantum technologies in Scotland. Scotland is home to two of the UK’s five new Quantum Hubs, with involvement in all five. Ten of the top 30 global semiconductor companies have operations in Scotland. Scotland is also home to cutting edge AI research network and R&D infrastructure – Edinburgh Genome Biofoundry and Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre. An up to £750m investment in the UK’s largest supercomputer at the University of Edinburgh sets a marker for our ambition for further growth in digital & technologies.

    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas. Scotland’s financial services sector, second only to London, features a cutting-edge Fintech scene. Over 25% of Glasgow’s top tech firms are in financial & business services, attracting major firms such as Azets and RSM. This is anchored by a highly capable workforce, supported by a world-class skills ecosystem and universities.
       

    The Industrial Strategy will be published on GOV.UK later today.

    The Defence, Financial Services and Life Sciences sector plans will be published shortly.

    The 7,000 businesses are an indicative estimate of how many businesses could be in scope of the scheme. The full scope and eligibility of the scheme will be determined following consultation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City’s heritage under spotlight in series of roadshows

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Monday, 23rd June 2025

    Residents are being invited to share their views about heritage in the city as part an ongoing commitment to protect, preserve and celebrate Stoke-on-Trent’s history.

    Stoke-on-Trent is one of the first nine places set to benefit from a share of £200 million as part of the National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Heritage Places initiative.

    As part of the project, a series of heritage roadshows are taking place across the city to establish what people value the most. The roadshows will help to develop a shared approach to how the city manages its heritage, and establish a pipeline of heritage regeneration sites and projects over the coming years.

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council is working with Heritage Culture Communities to develop and deliver the events which will take place throughout June, July, September and October.

    The organisation will work in collaboration with key partners in the community to explore the city’s unique heritage and capture what communities and stakeholders say is important to them and what they think needs to be protected, promoted and prioritised.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We’re a city with a rich history and a number of distinctive buildings that need to be preserved, restored and refurbished for the benefit of the local community and visitors to the city.

    “Before we do anything, we need to understand how our residents feel about heritage in the city and what’s most important to them. When we talk about heritage in this context, we’re including the history, traditions and natural features that connect us to our past and shape our identity – whether they’re buildings, places, landscapes or old factory sites.

    “This exercise will also help us to know where to focus our resources and efforts as well as provide us with vital information to plan for future policy and direction.”

    The roadshows are designed to bring people together to uncover and share local stories, places and traditions. They will feature activities such as mapping local heritage assets, heritage-themed walks and talks led by the Potteries Heritage Society and family-friendly creative and cultural activities.

    They will take place:

    • Saturday 28 June – Burslem School of Art, Burslem, Oliver’s Mill, Cobridge – 10am-12pm (workshop) 12pm-1.20pm (heritage walk)
    • Saturday 12 July – Fenton Town Hall, Fenton – 10am-12pm (workshop) 12-1.30pm (heritage walk)
    • Saturday 19 July – Westport Lake Café, Longport, Canal and River Trust sites 10am-12pm (workshop) 12-1.30pm (heritage walk)

    People should arrive by 11.30am if only attending for the walk.

    Roadshows are also being organised in Shelton, Etruria and Stoke town centre throughout September and October. The details of these events will be shared in due course.

    The work to protect the city’s heritage through the Heritage Places initiative is in addition to the ongoing effort Stoke-on-Trent City Council is making to safeguard the long-term future of some of its most iconic heritage buildings.

    This includes the former Burslem Indoor Market building and the Wedgwood Institute, also in Burslem, where the council is looking to carry out emergency repair works to ensure they can be preserved for future generations.

    Plans are also progressing to transform the former Spode pottery works in Stoke after Capital & Centric was appointed as development partner for the site, marking a huge milestone in its regeneration.

    At the same time, the council is supporting Re-form Heritage with its plans to transform Bethesda Chapel in Hanley into a centre for education and events.

    It also follows the launch of the Living Heritage City Trail – an interactive self-guided trail through Stoke and Hanley which was unveiled earlier this year, as part of the city’s Centenary celebrations.

    For more information about the trail visit Stoke-on-Trent Living Heritage City – Visit Stoke

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Box Plymouth announces landmark Beryl Cook exhibition for 2026

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Taking place 100 years after she was born, the exhibition will re-assess and re-present Cook’s work, giving her the acclaim she deserves

    The Box Plymouth has today revealed details of a major exhibition by artist Beryl Cook (1926-2008). Running from Saturday 24 January to Sunday 31 May 2026, it will be the most extensive exhibition of her work to date. With the help of new research and rarely or never seen before paintings and archival material, it will reposition her career and contribution to British art.

    Born Beryl Frances Lansley in Egham, Surrey in 1926, Cook was a self-taught artist who was already in her late thirties when she picked up a paint brush. She moved to Plymouth in 1968, and the city and its people became her muse for the next 40 years. Her first exhibition at the former Plymouth Arts Centre in 1975 led to a major feature in the Sunday Times and launched a career filled with vibrant, warm-hearted paintings that led to an OBE for services to the arts in 1995.

    “A century after she was born a reappraisal of Beryl Cook’s work feels long overdue,” says Victoria Pomery, CEO of The Box. “Although loved by many, she wasn’t given enough serious consideration during her lifetime and we want to change that. This exhibition is a timely opportunity for us to fully explore her impact and highlight how skilled she was at documenting everyday life during a time of social change from the 1970s to the 2000s.”

    Ambitious in scale as well as approach, the exhibition will feature more than 80 works, including paintings from The Box’s significant art collection, loans from both private and public collections, plus rarely seen items from the personal archives of the Cook family.

    “We are thrilled to be celebrating 100 years of Beryl with The Box,” says Beryl Cook’s granddaughter, Sophie Cook. “Plymouth had a special place in Beryl’s heart having spent most of her life living there, so this feels like the rightful home for such a special exhibition.”

    The exhibition will also feature works by figures from history with whom Cook felt an affinity, such as influential Flemish painter Pieter Bruegel the Younger (1564-1638) and acclaimed English artist Stanley Spencer (1891-1959). Her continued impact on artists who are working today will also be explored.

    “This exhibition is a chance for us to really examine Cook’s meticulous practice, process and legacy, as well as present a wider contextualisation of her career,” says Terah Walkup, art curator at The Box who has been working with curatorial consultant Ben Borthwick on its development. “It will foreground her fascination and positive portrayals of a variety of people and communities, including those who were often on the fringes of mainstream society and, through the research we’re doing, share fresh perspectives from those who knew her, were painted by her or were there when some of her most iconic works were created.”

    Stay up to date with the development of the exhibition at theboxplymouth.com.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK The woolsack: seat of the Lord Speaker

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Introduced in the 14th century, the woolsack is thought to have been designed to reflect the economic importance of the wool trade in England. Today, it’s filled with wool from Britain and across the Commonwealth. Discover the history and significance of the seat of the Lord Speaker with Curator of the Historic Furniture and Decorative Arts Collection, Eloise.

    Watch the full film on the House of Lords YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7PSkYx-5KM&feature=youtu.be

    Find out more about the role and work of the Lord Speaker https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/lord-speaker/

    The House of Lords is the second chamber of the UK Parliament. It plays a crucial role in examining bills, questioning government action and investigating public policy. Find out more https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/

    If you’re interested in seeing it for yourself, why not book a tour of the Palace of Westminster? https://www.parliament.uk/visiting/visiting-and-tours/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z92t9xDcGw0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook launched in Philippines for Pride Month

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook launched in Philippines for Pride Month

    The British Embassy Manila launched the LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook, reaffirming support for equality and human rights for the LGBTQIA+ community.

    Ambassador Laure Beaufils (centre) is presented with a reproduction of Justin Nuyda’s Search Mindscape: Pride during the British Embassy’s Pride Reception. From right: Rhadem Musawah, Mujer LGBT; Emmanuele Parra, TrustLaw; Ambassador Laure Beaufils; Ayni Nuda; and Toni Gee, Mujer LGBT

    British Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, hosted a Pride Reception reaffirming the UK’s commitment to advance human rights and equality for the LGBTQIA+ community.

    The event saw the launch of the Comprehensive LGBTQIA+ Legal Guidebook, which aims to equip LGBTQIA+ organisations, activists and advocates with knowledge and tools against unfair treatment and discrimination. The Guidebook was developed by Mujer LGBTQIA+ Organisation, in collaboration with TrustLaw, Thomson Reuters Foundation and SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan.

    The British Embassy supported the publication of the Guidebook, recognising its value as a practical resource designed to empower members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

    Rhadem Musawah from Mujer LGBT+ Organisation stated:

    This book is a product of almost two years of research, consultation and deep reflection. It includes key laws like the Anti-Terror Law, Safe Spaces Act and Anti-Discrimination Ordinances. More importantly, it provides clear, step-by-step guidance on what to do, where to go and who to call. It is practical, accessible and rooted in the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ groups on the ground. This is not just a legal tool—it is a lifeline. A product of struggle and survival.

    The reception also included a panel discussion with members from the LGBTQIA+ community who shared insights on the challenges they face. They discussed available tools and strategies to protect and support the LGBTQIA+ community and highlighted how the UK and other countries can help maintain progress on equal rights.

    Ambassador Beaufils reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support and commitment to championing LGBTQIA+. She stated:

    In a time when we are witnessing a roll back on rights across the world, it is crucial that we all work together in upholding the human rights, dignity and freedom of the LGBTQIA+ community.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain published

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain published

    The VMD has published the Good Distribution Practice (GDP) for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain, providing updated guidance for wholesale dealers.

    The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has published the Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain, providing updated guidance for wholesale dealers to ensure the safe and effective distribution of veterinary medicines.

    This new guidance outlines the minimum standards that wholesale dealers must meet to comply with their legal obligations under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR). It is designed to support the integrity of the supply chain and ensure that veterinary medicinal products are consistently stored, transported, and handled under suitable conditions.

    Key areas covered in the guidance include:

    • Quality management systems to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
    • Personnel responsibilities and training requirements.
    • Premises and equipment standards for storage and distribution.
    • Documentation and record-keeping to ensure traceability.
    • Handling of complaints, returns, and recalls to protect animal and public health.

    The GDP guidance is applicable to all holders of a Wholesale Dealer’s Authorisation (WDA) for veterinary medicinal products in Great Britain. It aligns with international best practices and reflects the VMD’s commitment to maintaining high standards in the veterinary medicines supply chain.

    Wholesale dealers are encouraged to review the guidance in full and ensure their operations are compliant. The VMD will use this guidance as a reference during inspections and compliance assessments.

    Access the Guidance

    The full Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain document is available to download from Good Distribution Practice for Veterinary Medicinal Products in Great Britain.

    For further information or queries, please contact the VMD Inspections Team at inspections@vmd.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Developer appointed for 51 affordable homes in Littlemore

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford City Council’s housing company, OX Place, will work with Equans to build 51 sustainable council and shared ownership homes off Sandy Lane West in Littlemore. 

    This includes 27 flats let at social rent for people on the housing register, and 24 flats for shared ownership. 

    Social rent levels mean council tenants will typically pay around 40% of the rent a private landlord would charge for the same home. Shared ownership is a flexible option which helps a range of people onto the housing ladder in one of the UK’s most unaffordable cities.    

    OX Place and Equans working together for sustainable homes 

    The new partnership allows enabling works to begin on the site of the former Northfield Hostel, a SEND school that closed in 2014 and was demolished last year. It is expected that groundbreaking will happen later this summer. 

    In addition to the 51 homes already planned, the Council is exploring planning permission for a further 10 homes on the hostel’s adjacent sports field, which has been boarded up since the school closed. These would be built once the 51 flats are completed.  

    Equans has extensive experience working with local authorities to deliver vibrant, efficient and sustainable communities, using integrated energy and decarbonisation measures that make a real difference to people’s lives. 

    Comment 

    “Oxford needs homes, and this partnership marks the first step towards over 50 new affordable and sustainable ones for the people of Oxford. 

    “It is good that after a decade when it has been underused, we are exploiting this site for a development where the majority of homes will be much needed social housing. 

    “I look forward to work getting underway and new homes being delivered.” 

    Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies

    “OX Place and Equans are both experts at delivering great, sustainable developments and I’m confident this partnership will do just that.” 

    Kevin Lowry, Interim Managing Director at OX Place

    “We are thrilled to be underway with the Northfield project for our valued client, OX Place, on behalf of Oxford City Council.

    “Delivering 53 much-needed, sustainable homes in Littlemore presents a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in one of the UK’s most challenging housing markets. This marks an exciting new chapter in our strong, trusted partnership with OX Place, built over the past three years.

    “We’re proud to play a part in creating high-quality homes that meet both community needs and environmental goals.” 

    Rob Young, Regional Managing Director, Equans

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Beaney in the running for yet another Kids in Museums Award 

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Beaney in the running for yet another Kids in Museums Award 

    The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is in the running for yet another prestigious national award in recognition of its quality as a family attraction.

    Having won in the best medium museum category in the Kids in Museums Family Friendly Museum Awards back in 2023, The Beaney, in High Street, Canterbury, has been shortlisted in the ‘best accessible museum’ category.

    It is up against Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax and Worsbrough Mill Museum and Country Park in Barnsley.

    The Kids in Museums Family Friendly Museum Award celebrates the most family-friendly heritage sites in the UK and is the only museum award to be judged by families.

    From February to late April, families across the UK voted for their favourite heritage attraction on the Kids in Museums website.

    A panel of museum experts, children and young people then whittled down hundreds of nominations to a shortlist of 18 heritage attractions.

    Lots of comments were submitted about The Beaney during the voting period earlier this year, with many praising its provision for visitors with accessibility needs.

    One family wrote: “We so often feel excluded from society. We are a neurodivergent family of three, our son is six and has numerous SEN conditions.

    “We visited the museum and were blown away by the lengths that they went to in order to ensure that it is accessible to all. The staff were wonderful.

    “I am 45 and my mum used to take me to the museum as a child. It was wonderful to be able to take my own son, an opportunity that we are frequently denied with other experiences and museums.”

    The museum will be visited by undercover family judges who will assess the shortlisted museums against the Kids in Museums Manifesto, a set of guidelines on what makes a great museum visit for all ages.

    Their experiences will decide a winner for each award category and an overall winner of the Family Friendly Museum Award 2025.

    The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.

    Cllr Charlotte Cornell, Cabinet Member for Heritage, said: “Being nominated for yet another one of these awards just shows how valued The Beaney is in our community.

    “I know how hard the museum team works to break down barriers that might stop someone from visiting The Beaney, whether it’s sensory bags for children with special educational needs and disabilities, accessible versions of their family trails, creative workshops for blind and partially-sighted visitors, audio descriptions of collection highlights or online information to help those with accessibility needs plan their visit.

    “We’ll be eagerly awaiting the results following the secret family visit this summer, and I’ll have everything crossed that it goes just as well as it did last time!”

    Notes to Editors

    About Kids in Museums

    We are an award-winning charity dedicated to making museums open and welcoming to all children, young people and families. We support and champion family friendly organisations through wide-ranging initiatives, including the Family Friendly Museum Award and Takeover Day. We invite heritage organisations to sign up to our Manifesto, which sets out simple guidelines for making museums easy to reach for all ages. www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk Find us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

    About the Family Friendly Museum Award

    Kids in Museums began the Family Friendly Museum Award in 2004 to recognise heritage sites that are the most welcoming, fun and accessible for families.

    Previous winners of the Family Friendly Museum Award include Young V&A (2024), Craven Museum (2023), the National Emergency Services Museum in Sheffield (2022), Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery in Alnwick (2021), Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum in Dunfermline (2019) and Leeds City Museum (2018).

    Published: 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National maternity investigation launched to drive improvements

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National maternity investigation launched to drive improvements

    The rapid national investigation into NHS maternity and neonatal services will provide truth to families suffering harm and urgently improve care and safety.

    • It follows series of meetings between Secretary of State and bereaved families, with parents at heart of improving standards. 
    • It comes alongside package of immediate actions to boost accountability and safety as part of government’s mission to build an NHS fit for the future

    A rapid national investigation into NHS maternity and neonatal services has been ordered by Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting to provide truth and accountability for impacted families and drive urgent improvements to care and safety, addressing systemic problems dating back over 15 years.

    This government inherited a situation where issues in maternity and neonatal care had been ongoing for some time and a series of independent reviews into local trusts had found similar failings in compassionate care – including the failure to listen to women, concerns over safety, and issues with leadership and culture.

    The investigation will urgently look at worst-performing services in the country, but also across the entire maternity system, bringing together the findings of past reviews into one clear national set of actions to ensure every woman and baby receives safe, high-quality and compassionate care. 

    Crucially, it will be co-produced with clinicians, experts and parents all feeding in, following a series of private meetings last week between the Secretary of State and families who have been harmed or bereaved by failures in their care. It will begin its work this summer and report back by December 2025. 

    The investigation comes alongside a package of immediate actions to improve care, including greater intervention by the Secretary of State and NHS chief executive to hold failing trusts to account – a key step in delivering the government’s mission to build an NHS fit for the future through the Plan for Change.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 

    For the past year, I have been meeting bereaved families from across the country who have lost babies or suffered serious harm during what should have been the most joyful time in their lives.  

    What they have experienced is devastating – deeply painful stories of trauma, loss, and a lack of basic compassion – caused by failures in NHS maternity care that should never have happened. Their bravery in speaking out has made it clear: we must act – and we must act now. 

    I know nobody wants better for women and babies than the thousands of NHS midwives, obstetricians, maternity and neonatal staff, and that the vast majority of births are safe and without incident, but it’s clear something is going wrong.

    That’s why I’ve ordered a rapid national investigation to make sure these families get the truth and the accountability they deserve, and ensure no parent or baby is ever let down again.  I want staff to come with us on this, to improve things for everyone.

    We‘re also taking immediate steps to hold failing services to account and give staff the tools they need to deliver the kind, safe, respectful care every family deserves. 

    Maternity care should be the litmus test by which this government is judged on patient safety, and I will do everything in my power to ensure no family has to suffer like this again.

    The investigation will consist of two parts. The first will urgently investigate up to 10 of the most concerning maternity and neonatal units, including Sussex, to give affected families answers as quickly as possible. 

    The second will undertake a system-wide look at maternity and neonatal care, bringing together lessons from past inquiries to create one clear, national set of actions to improve care across every NHS maternity service.

    The government is also today establishing a National Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce, chaired by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care – and to be made up of a panel of esteemed experts and bereaved families.

    Sir Jim Mackey, Chief Executive at NHS England, said:

    Despite the hard work of staff, too many women are experiencing unacceptable maternity care and families continue to be let down by the NHS when they need us most.

    This rapid national investigation must mark a line in the sand for maternity care – setting out one set of clear actions for NHS leaders to ensure high quality care for all.

    Transparency will be key to understanding variation and fixing poor care – by shining a spotlight on the areas of greatest failure we can hold failing trusts to account. Each year, over half a million babies are born under our care and maternity safety rightly impacts public trust in the NHS – so we must act immediately to improve outcomes for the benefit of mothers, babies, families and staff.

    Kate Brintworth, Chief Midwifery Officer for NHS England, said:

    Through this rapid investigation and the immediate actions announced today, we are determined to transform services so that every family receives safe, personalised and dignified care at one of the most significant and vulnerable times in their lives.

    We know we have significant issues to address concerning safety and culture within maternity and neonatal services, and Black and Asian women and those in deprived areas still face worse outcomes, so we must redouble our efforts to improve care for all.

    The overwhelming majority of births in England are safe, and I’d urge all women to engage with their maternity service and raise any concerns they may have about themselves or their baby. Every birth matters and we will work to ensure all families trust their local NHS and feel supported through their maternity journey.

    This will address several issues facing maternity care in England. One area of focus will be addressing the devastating inequalities that women from Black, Asian and deprived backgrounds face. It will also look at a lack of compassionate care and concerns over safety.

    Speaking at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) World Conference today, the Secretary of State will outline a series of measures to immediately improve care.

    This includes: 

    • The NHS CEO and Chief Nursing Officer will meet with trust leaders in the areas of greatest concern, over the next month to drive forward urgent improvement, outline consistent expectations in changing culture and practice, and hold leaders to account for failing.
    • A new digital system will be rolled out to all maternity services by November to flag potential safety concerns in trusts and support rapid, national action. 
    • An anti-discrimination programme to tackle inequalities in care for Black, Asian, and other underserved communities. 

    Dr Clea Harmer, Chief Executive, Sands:  

    Sands believes listening to and learning from the experiences of bereaved parents is vital to improving maternity and neonatal care. We are pleased that the independent safety taskforce will include parent representatives.

    We particularly welcome the inclusion of an anti-discrimination programme to help tackle inequalities in care for Black, Asian, and other underserved communities. Sands, along with other organisations, friends and allies, have long campaigned for this.

    We look forward to working with the Secretary of State on this much-needed and long-overdue, programme and to ensuring that concrete steps are taken towards real accountability and lasting systemic change.

    Vicki Robinson, Miscarriage Association Chief Executive, said:

    We welcome today’s announcement by the Secretary of State of a major investigation into NHS maternity services. While the scope of this inquiry is broad, we’re reassured to know it will include the voices and experiences of our community – those affected by miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and molar pregnancy. With black women 43% more likely to experience miscarriage, it is especially welcome that these inequalities will be a key focus.

    At the Miscarriage Association, we are currently conducting a UK-wide survey which aims to improve care and support during and after miscarriage. We hope the findings will provide valuable insight for this NHS investigation, to help inform and improve pre-natal care across the board. 

    We hope this investigation leads to meaningful learning, and to better, more compassionate care for anyone experiencing pregnancy loss in the future.

    Shauna Leven, Chief Executive Officer, The Twins Trust said:

    Twins Trust welcomes the national maternity investigation. Families expecting twins, triplets or more face significantly greater risks and are sadly more likely to experience baby loss. Too often, maternity services aren’t equipped to meet the specific needs of multiple pregnancies.

    Our Maternity Engagement Project, which audits NHS units against NICE guidelines, has reduced stillbirths and neonatal deaths, proving that tailored care saves lives.

    We urge the government to ensure families with multiples are heard. More investment is needed in staff training and resources so that maternity units can meet clinical care standards and deliver safe, compassionate care for all.

    Angela McConville, Chief Executive, NCT (National Childbirth Trust) said:

    This investigation has been won by the determination of bereaved families who have bravely spoken out about the devastating failures in NHS maternity care. 

    The immediate investment package is a vital start to tackling deep-rooted inequalities, training frontline staff, and improving the UK’s worst performing services. 

    The national investigation must now move at pace to set out a clear, actionable plan for every NHS maternity and neonatal unit.

    We’ve seen first hand the power of co-creating solutions with women and parents – real change can happen if the government listens, learns, and builds a well-resourced, safe, and equitable maternity system that works for all.

    Paul Rees MBE, Interim Chief Executive and Registrar, The Nursing and Midwifery Council, said:

    Every woman, baby and family has the right to expect safe and effective maternity care, wherever they are.

    We welcome this rapid investigation and look forward to working with the independent taskforce and the Department of Health and Social Care to drive forward urgent improvements, and tackle the scourge of health inequalities.

    Notes:

    Sands is available to support anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss, for as long as they need this. Find out more about bereavement support for parents and families, and support for healthcare and other professionals at sands.org.uk/support

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Water (Special Measures) Act section comes into force

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Water (Special Measures) Act section comes into force

    Water companies will now have to address the use of nature-based solutions when managing wastewater.

    Water companies will have to address how they will use nature-based solutions within their networks from 23rd June as a new legal requirement of the Water (Special Measures) Act comes into force (Section 5). 

    New rules require water companies to consider nature-based solutions within their statutory Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans (DWMPs) – for instance the construction of wetlands rather than water recycling centres to help clean sewage effluent before it is released back into the wider environment. Another example could be riparian buffers—a border of vegetation next to a river or stream which helps improve water quality and protect it from surface runoff while providing habitats and reducing erosion. 

    New legal requirements mean companies have to specifically explain if and how they are using nature-based solutions within their networks, the benefits these systems have and provide transparency around their decision-making process. 

    This will improve transparency in this area, so the public knows that nature-based solutions have been considered and can understand why natural solutions have or have not been proposed in each case. 

    Alongside cost-effectiveness and sustainability, nature-based solutions provide additional benefits for people and the environment—like improved water quality, reduced flood risk and new habitats for biodiversity.  

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: 

    From now on, water companies must explain how they are using natural and sustainable solutions to clean up our waterways. 

    This measure is yet another step in the Government’s plan to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy to boost growth and jobs in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Industrial Strategy to boost growth and jobs in Wales

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business and support tens of thousands of new jobs in Wales.

    The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%   
    • UK Government to establish a centre for doctoral training in semiconductors, led by Swansea University
    • Welsh businesses to benefit from innovation funding, access to finance, faster grid connections and better-equipped sites for expansion. 

    Wales is set for increased economic growth, billions in investment and tens of thousands of new jobs supported over the next decade as a result of the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which is published today (Monday 23 June).  

    The Strategy contains measures to forge a new relationship between business and government, making Wales and the UK the best place to start and scale up a business. 

    It will unlock growth across Wales, targeting areas of strength from the country’s strengths in aerospace in North Wales to the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster in South Wales.   

    More than 7,000 UK businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25%. British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world— in some cases, double the European average, while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

    For too long these challenges have held back growth and made it harder for firms to compete globally. Today’s announcement marks a decisive shift — with government stepping in to support industry and unlock the UK’s economic potential.

    From 2027, the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity costs by up to £40 per megawatt hour for over 7,000 electricity-intensive businesses in manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace and chemicals.

    These firms, which support over 300,000 skilled jobs across the UK will be exempt from paying levies such as the Renewables Obligation, Feed-in Tariffs and the Capacity Market — helping level the playing field and make them more internationally competitive. Eligibility and further details on the exemptions will be determined following consultation, which will be launched shortly.

    The UK Government is also increasing support for the most energy-intensive firms — like steel, chemicals, and glass — by covering more of the electricity network charges they normally have to pay through the British Industry Supercharger. These businesses currently get a 60% discount on those charges, but from 2026, that will increase to 90%. This means their electricity bills will go down, helping them stay competitive, protect jobs, and invest in the future.

    These reforms complement the government’s long-term mission for clean power, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    Wales is already punching above its weight in many of the growth driving sectors set out in the Industrial Strategy. 

    The key measures for Wales are: 

    • More than £4bn for the advanced manufacturing sector in the UK over the next 5 years. Wales has a leading advanced manufacturing sector with companies such as Airbus based in Broughton in north Wales. 

    • UK Government to establish a centre for doctoral training in semiconductors, led by Swansea University, building on the world-leading cluster based in south Wales.   

    • A Defence Growth Deal cluster to build on Wales’s major strengths. The top five Ministry of Defence suppliers all have a footprint in Wales. 

    • A new British Business Bank champion for the Cardiff Capital Region to connect investors with businesses and kickstart growth. 

    • £30m for a Local Innovation Partnerships Fund in Wales to work with the Welsh Government and Innovate UK to grow innovation.  

    • The National Wealth Fund working with the Development Bank of Wales to identify and secure financing for investment projects in Wales. 

    • Support for the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more. 

    • Strengthened support from the Office for Investment to help identify, shape and deliver strategic investment opportunities across the UK. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: 

    Wales has huge potential and our government’s Industrial Strategy will harness the strengths of our businesses and workforce to drive growth and create jobs. 

    The strategy will support key sectors like aerospace and compound semiconductors while developing industries of the future like floating offshore wind where Wales is well-placed to be a world leader. 

    Our modern Industrial Strategy is built to last and make Wales one of the best places to invest and do business. Working alongside Welsh Government we will boost growth, raise wages and create wealth across our country.”  

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    We’ve said from day one Britain is back in business under this government, and the £100 billion of investment we’ve secured in the past year shows our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people. 

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy will ensure the UK is the best country to invest and do business, delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets and pays for our NHS, schools and military. 

    Not only does this Strategy prioritise investment to attract billions for new business sites, cutting-edge research, and better transport links, it will also make our industrial energy prices globally competitive.  

    Tackling energy costs and fixing skills has been the single biggest ask of us from businesses and the greatest challenge they’ve faced – this government has listened, and now we’re taking the bold action needed. Government and business working hand in hand to make working people better of is what this Government promised and what we will deliver.” 

    Sarah Williams-Gardener, Chair of Fintech Wales, said:

    We are delighted to see financial services recognised as a key sector in this Industrial Strategy. We look forward to working closely with the Government to help unlock the sector’s full potential. 

    The emphasis on AI and the compute power required to support its development is particularly welcome, as we begin to see generative AI driving innovation across financial services—empowering both providers and customers through the next generation of digital banking platforms.

    Frank Holmes, Founding Partner of Gambit Corporate Finance and Chair of the Cardiff Capital Region Investment Board, said: 

    Today’s announcements mark a timely and important shift towards a connected, strategic approach to economic growth. The renewed focus on industrial strategy and SME finance speaks directly to the opportunities we are unlocking in the Cardiff Capital Region. We have backed innovative and scalable businesses like Whisper TV, showcasing how tailored regional finance can drive job creation, innovation and global reach.  

    The UK’s commitment to extending SME access to finance aligns perfectly with the ecosystem we are building  in CCR as a proven delivery partner and a model for regional economic development.” 

    Louise Harris, CEO of Tramshed Tech in Cardiff, said: 

    The launch of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy is a pivotal moment for our tech and innovation ecosystem. By aligning local strengths with national ambition, this strategy provides a powerful platform for Welsh businesses to grow, attract investment and lead in emerging sectors such as technology, advanced manufacturing, and creative industries.  

    This strategy recognises that innovation isn’t just about technology in isolation – it’s about creating sustainable, high-quality jobs while tackling real-world challenges. This approach will create the perfect environment for startups and scale-ups to thrive, knowing they have both the infrastructure, skills and strategic support to take their innovations from Wales to the world.” 

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    Investment from private companies is essential to creating new jobs, growing the economy and securing public services. That is why the Strategy will also introduce measures to make it quicker, easier and more profitable for businesses to invest in the UK, with the aim of significantly increasing businesses investment and in key growth sectors by 2035 and helping to create 1.1 million well paid jobs across all corners of the UK. 

    It will realise Wales’ economic potential and raise wages and living standards to a level that the people of Wales deserve.  

    The UK Government’s plans address the main barriers to growth, making it easier and quicker to do business and invest in Wales.  

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes: 

    • Slashing electricity costs by 20-25% to level the playing field for energy-hungry industries like chemicals and key growth sectors like automotive. 

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital.  

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators.   

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migrations reforms and a new the Global Talent Taskforce.  

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.  

    Five sector plans have also been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes in prescription medication could help identify cancer earlier The University of Aberdeen is partnering in a new study funded by Cancer Research UK that could help detect cancer earlier by analysing the medications patients are prescribed before they are diagnosed.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen is partnering in a new study funded by Cancer Research UK that could help detect cancer earlier by analysing the medications patients are prescribed before they are diagnosed.
    Led by Queen’s University Belfast, the research will explore whether patterns in prescription data can act as early warning signs for cancer, enabling earlier diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes.
    With around 385,000 across the UK being diagnosed with cancer each year finding new ways to diagnose cancer earlier, is vital.*
    Professor Peter Murchie from the University of Aberdeen is part of the expert team, led by Queen’s University Belfast, working on the study which will use extensive anonymised prescription data from the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank at Swansea University+.
    The research will examine whether an increase in the strength or frequency of medication for symptoms such as pain, indigestion, or bleeding might reflect underlying conditions – such as ovarian or colorectal cancer – that have not yet been formally diagnosed.
    Codes used in the NHS to indicate medication prescriptions are easier to analyse and track than symptoms and can be flagged more easily to medical colleagues than notes on a patient’s record saying a symptom is worsening.
    Previous studies have already shown increased use of pain and indigestion medication in women with ovarian cancer up to eight months before diagnosis and increases in haemorrhoid treatments in patients with colorectal cancer up to 15 months before diagnosis.
    Professor Chris Cardwell, of Queen’s University Belfast, said: “Our study has the potential to identify previously unrecognised medications which are newly used in the period up to two years before cancer diagnosis.
    “These changes in specific medications could act as an alert for doctors to consider earlier cancer investigation or point to unrecognised symptom patterns.
    “Diagnosing cancer as early as possible is key to ensuring treatment is as effective as possible and give patients the best chance of recovery.”
    The study, which will receive £76,462 from Cancer Research UK, will focus on eight cancers: multiple myeloma, pancreatic, stomach, ovarian, lung, renal, colorectal and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – selected because these cancers are known to involve more GP consultations prior to diagnosis.
    Currently, there are many symptoms and medical conditions known to be associated with cancer, but often symptoms can indicate a variety of conditions, not just cancer, making diagnosis harder.
    The research will be the first of its kind to study prescription information comprehensively in the UK. Similar studies have been carried out overseas and smaller studies conducted looking at fewer cancer types in the UK.
    Cancer Research UK Director of Research, Dr Catherine Elliott, said: “Innovative approaches to tackling cancer are crucial to improving outcomes for patients. We have already made great strides in turning many types of cancer into a treatable disease if diagnosed at an early stage, and studies like this aim to help doctors identify people at risk of cancer much earlier.
    “Earlier diagnosis takes us further along the path towards a world where cancer diagnosis is the start of the road to recovery and a less fearful prospect for patients.”
    Professor Peter Murchie of the University of Aberdeen added: “This is an exciting study hoping to find out how our increasingly sophisticated health records can be used for the maximum patient benefit. We know symptoms of cancer can develop slowly, changes in our prescription data could become a very important early warning signal to prompt busy GPs.”
    Other members of the research team include Professor Carmel Hughes, Dr Sarah Baxter, Dr David Wright and Dr Blánaid Hicks of Queen’s University Belfast
    Nearly one in two people born in the UK will get cancer in their lifetime.**

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Talk reveals how history’s kids were stitched up by embarrassing outfits

    Source: City of Leeds

    The cringeworthy costumes and embarrassing outfits endured by children through the ages will come to light in a fashion-focused event in Leeds this week.

    During a special talk at Lotherton, visitors will have the chance to hear about the timeless trend of dressing children like adults for family pictures, while seeing first-hand some of the more unusual results inflicted on infants for more than 500 years.

    The talk will be part of the attraction’s current Fashion at Play exhibition, which explores the history of children’s fashion from the 1600s to the modern day.

    Among the outlandish outfits up for discussion will be the famous portrait of Child with Rattle, painted in 1611, which has been specially conserved for display in the exhibition.

    Depicting a boy of about two years old, just taking his first steps, the child was previously thought to be a girl but is now believed to be Henry Frederick Howard, the future third Earl of Arundel who was born in 1608.

    Dressed in an ostentatious silk gown, with a lace neck ruff and fancy lace hat, and accessorised with a hand made, lace apron, his eye-catching ensemble was specifically designed to capture the wealth and status of his family.

    Other questionable outfits featured in the event include those worn by youngsters Elizabeth and Edward, captured in a painting from around 1740.

    Aged around 12, Edward has been dressed in an adult suit, sporting a large wig and is even holding a dress sword in an effort to make him look like a proper grown-up gentleman for the portrait.

    Other outfits include a father and son in Wakefield wearing suits and riding matching penny farthing bikes, a fashion print from a Victorian women’s fashion magazine from around 1885 and a carefully posed picture of a mother and daughter from the 1860s, both wearing formal dress.

    The exhibition also features an album of photographs documenting a spectacular children’s fancy dress ball hosted at Leeds Town Hall by the mayor and mayoress of Leeds, Mr and Mrs Alf Cooke, on January 12, 1891.

    Nearly 400 children from well-to-do families attended, with each child dressed in a striking costume.

    Natalie Raw, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of costume and textiles, said: “The long tradition of children wearing grown up outfits is one that has clearly endured for hundreds of years, with youngsters of all ages being styled to essentially look like miniature versions of their parents.

    “The reasons for this have varied, from wanting to convey wealth and status in aristocratic circles, to a simple expression of affection between parents and their children.

    “Unfortunately for the children depicted in some of these family portraits, it’s probably fair to say they wouldn’t have chosen these outfits for themselves. Nevertheless, they do still tell us a lot about the evolution of children’s fashions and styles and how much they reflect wider trends over the years.”

    During the upcoming talk, which takes place on June 24, visitors will also have the chance to see a variety of historic garments up close, followed by tea in the servants’ rooms at Lotherton with the curator.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “It’s fascinating to see how the story of fashion, costumes and textiles in Leeds and beyond has developed over the centuries and to have so many remarkable images and objects in our collection which help tell that story so well.

    “Our exhibitions and events are the perfect way to get an up-close look at some of these wonderful exhibits and to find out more about the lesser known aspects of what is an amazing facet of our local heritage.”

    More details on the Tea and Talk session, including how to book, can be fund at: Tea and Talk with the Curator: Mini Adults | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

    Fashion at Play will be at Lotherton until October 12, 2025. For more details, please visit: Fashion at Play | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

    ENDS

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Armed Forces Day

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    The people of Dundee will come together in City Square later this month to mark Armed Forces Day.

    Members of the public and veterans will pay tribute to the work of all branches of the armed forces at noon on Saturday (June 28).

    Lord Provost of Dundee Bill Campbell, who is also Armed Forces and Veterans Champion for Dundee will speak at the event.

    He said: “With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe, this event takes on a special poignancy and resonance.

    “Armed Forces Day gives us a chance to show our support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to service families, veterans and cadets and I would encourage you to join me in City Square to help do so.”

    There will be short service on the steps of the Caird Hall at midday attended by officers and elected members of Dundee City Council, MPs, MSPs and other invited guests, including military representatives.

    Ex-services personnel in attendance will parade their standards, and Reverend Bob Wightman, Ex-Services Association Chaplain will lead the service. Readings will be given by Major (Retd) Colin Gray. 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK’s key business groups back government’s modern Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK’s key business groups back government’s modern Industrial Strategy

    Joint statement from business groups in support of the Industrial Strategy

    “The Industrial Strategy launched today marks a significant step forward and a valuable opportunity for the business community to rally behind a new vision for the UK—boosting confidence, sentiment, and enthusiasm for investment.

    “From start-ups and small businesses to large corporates, businesses need a more attractive, stable environment that enables faster, easier, and more certain investment decisions.

    “We welcome the government’s engagement with businesses across the UK. Much of what we’ve shared has been heard and reflected in this strategy. While there’s more to do, we are ready to support the next steps.

    “We encourage businesses nationwide to get behind this strategy and champion the UK as the best place to live, work, invest, and do business.”

    Joint statement from business groups on behalf of:

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce

    Rain Newton-Smith, Director General, Confederation of British Industry

    Aaron Asadi, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprise Nation

    Tina McKenzie, Policy and Advocacy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses

    Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive Officer, Make UK

    Michelle Ovens, Founder, Small Business Britain

    Dom Hallas, Executive Director, Startup Coalition

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy

    Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change.

    • Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change
    • £670 million in investment to accelerate impact of quantum computers from energy to healthcare
    • Engineering biology researchers in line for £380 million to advance cutting-edge research such as in life-saving medicines and sustainable food

    Innovators driving future technologies like quantum computers to deliver new life-saving medicines and semiconductors powering the next generation of mobile phones are being backed by well over £1 billion to set up and scale up their businesses in Britain, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced.

    Investment will include landmark funding for the UK’s mission to develop quantum computers that could unearth game-changing discoveries for our health and environment, the establishment of a new national semiconductor centre laser-focused on helping firms to scale-up, and new backing for engineering biology researchers working on everything from new vaccines to eco-friendly fuels.

    The package will drive the Digital and Technologies Sector Plan within our modern Industrial Strategy published today (Monday 23 June), a pivotal moment in the government’s agenda for national renewal and in supporting our mission as part of the Plan for Change to deliver the highest sustained economic growth in the G7.

    To ensure the UK is in pole position to make the most of quantum computing’s potential to improve our everyday lives, £670 million will be dedicated to accelerating the application of this revolutionary technology.

    It makes the National Quantum Computing Centre one of the first organisations to receive a 10-year funding settlement, providing long-term certainty to researchers that marks Britain as the place to do business when it comes to cutting edge tech.

    By 2035, the UK aims to develop quantum computers capable of outperforming conventional supercomputers, potentially meaning new drugs for incurable diseases or better carbon capture technologies, supporting our missions of building an NHS that is fit for the future and making Britain a green clean energy superpower as part of the plan for change.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Britain is full of ambitious risk-takers driven by a desire to innovate and improve people’s everyday lives. It is on us in government to match that boldness by investing in our country’s immense potential and embracing businesses who can drive that change and grow our economy.

    From quantum computers that could revolutionise drug discovery and make the NHS fit for the future, to sustainable fuels that can make the UK a clean energy superpower, science and technology has a key part to play in delivering our modern Industrial Strategy to renew our country and support our Plan for Change.

    In engineering biology, a £380 million investment will support researchers working on everything from new life-saving medicines to cell-cultivated meats and climate-resilient crops, to protect our environment and strengthen food security.

    Of this, £184 million will help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and commercial applications through infrastructure supporting innovators to scale up. The remaining £196 million will be invested in research and development through the National Engineering Biology Programme, bolstering the UK’s significant strengths in this field.

    Further initial investment includes:

    The commitment of £54 million to bring the world’s top science and tech talent to the UK. As the UK competes for the highest skilled individuals in priority industries, the launch of the government’s Global Talent Taskforce signals a greater focus on targeting and attracting the brightest and best talent to supercharge growth.

    A new UK Semiconductor Centre, backed by up to £19 million, will serve as a single point of contact for global firms and governments to engage with the UK semiconductor sector, helping our ambitious firms to scale-up, form new partnerships and strengthen the UK’s role in global supply chains – benefiting us all in helping to grow the economy.

    £35 million to scale up the recently announced Semiconductor Talent Expansion Programme – including new chip design courses for students, bursaries, schools outreach, and a proposed master’s conversion course to help more people move into the sector.

    £370 million for cutting-edge, UK-developed technologies to deliver advanced connectivity improving coverage for communities, providing connectivity across transport networks, and supporting defence applications – like drones.

    It includes a £240 million Advanced Connectivity Tech R&D programme, and a further £130 million will go towards strengthening the capabilities of the UK Telecoms Lab, enhancing the security and reliability of our networks.

    Building on a successful round of semiconductor Innovation and Knowledge Centres launched earlier this year, the government is providing funding for 2 additional centres, backed by £25 million.

    £10 million to expand Cyber ASAP supporting 25 academic teams annually, plus £2 million for Belfast’s Cyber AI Hub, aiming to support 28 academic spinouts by 2030.

    £6 million to extend Cyber Runway accelerator, supporting 60 startups annually with mentoring, skills development and networking to improve survival rates and growth.

    £24 million to promote CHERI blueprint adoption for designing secure next-generation chips.

    Find the full modern Industrial Strategy here.

    Notes to editors

    Further funding set out in the strategy includes:

    • Up to £330 million investment through the National Security Strategic Investment Fund for UK security and defence capabilities, plus a second year of the Science and Technology Venture Capital Fellowship to support digital and technology investments.
    • The Sector Plan also highlights AI as a frontier technology, following £2 billion committed at the Spending Review to implement the AI Opportunities Action Plan. The investment reaffirms the government’s commitment to deliver all 50 recommendations outlined in the Plan and underpins the Industrial Strategy’s approach to prioritise frontier technologies with the greatest growth potential.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI breakthroughs drive expansion of ‘Airlock’ testing programme to support AI-powered healthcare innovation

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    AI breakthroughs drive expansion of ‘Airlock’ testing programme to support AI-powered healthcare innovation

    MHRA opens second round of applications to test cutting-edge AI medical technologies following successful pilot phase.

    A £1 million boost to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) pioneering AI Airlock programme will expand access to a first-of-its-kind regulatory testing ground where companies can work directly with regulators to safely test new AI-powered medical devices and explore how to bring them to patients faster, through streamlined regulations.

    Applications for the second round of the programme open today (23 June 2025) and follow a successful pilot phase that saw four breakthrough AI technologies, including software that could help doctors create personalised cancer treatment plans, and a tool to help hospitals, AI developers, and regulators monitor AI performance in real time, tested in a regulatory ‘sandbox’ environment.

    Similar to an airlock on a spacecraft, the ‘sandbox’ testing space creates a boundary between experimental AI and fully approved medical technology used in the real world.

    This initiative builds on commitments in the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan and the government response to the Regulatory Horizons Council report on regulation of AI as a medical device to enable safe AI innovation through strategic guidance to regulators and enhance their AI capabilities.

    This programme is backed by the Government’s new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), which is supporting regulators to test more agile, flexible ways of working that can keep pace with emerging technologies like AI. By cutting unnecessary red tape and making the UK a more innovation-friendly environment, the RIO is helping to deliver the Government’s Plan for Change – backing high-growth industries, supporting NHS innovation, and accelerating technologies that can make a real difference to people’s lives.

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

    “Backing innovation means backing better regulation – and that’s what the RIO is here to do.

    “Smarter, faster approaches like the AI Airlock are helping to cut red tape, bring safe new technologies to patients quicker, and ease pressure on our NHS – fuelling the Government’s Plan for Change.”

    Health Minister, Baroness Merron, said:

    “AI has huge potential to improve healthcare, and we need to use it safely and responsibly. The AI Airlock programme is a great example of how we can test new technology thoroughly while still moving quickly.

    “This £1 million investment will help bring new medical tools to patients faster and strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in healthcare innovation.”

    Those selected for the next round of the AI Airlock programme will be able to test their AI healthcare products under careful supervision allowing for regulatory challenges to be identified early and adjustments made.

    James Pound, MHRA Interim Executive Director, Innovation and Compliance, said:

    “Traditional regulatory pathways weren’t designed with AI’s unique characteristics in mind – including its capacity to analyse large quantities of data and help automate existing manual processes. The AI Airlock programme helps address this gap by creating a supervised testing ground where these novel technologies and challenge areas can be safely investigated.

    “The technologies and devices which have been evaluated to date have shown the limitless potential of AI to improve patient outcomes, free up NHS resources, and enhance the accuracy and efficiency of healthcare services.

    “With AI, we must balance robust oversight with flexibility that doesn’t stifle innovation, and this programme achieves that balance.”

    Four projects were selected for the inaugural AI Airlock cohort, each focused on addressing critical healthcare challenges using AI. Among them was health technology multinational Philips’ Radiology Auto Impression project which tested the use of generative AI to automate the writing of radiologists’ final impressions – a critical section of radiology reports that summarises key findings from imaging procedures.

    Working directly with MHRA experts through weekly meetings, the team gained valuable insights about the need to involve their end users – radiologists – to help define testing strategies. As Yinnon Dolev, Philips’ Advanced Development NLP (Natural Language Processing) Tech Lead noted, the collaboration with regulators was “almost unheard of” and provided “a catalyst for meaningful progress expediting our development activities.”

    OncoFlow, another first round project, looked at the use of AI to help healthcare professionals create personalised management plans for cancer patients, with the potential to reduce waiting times for cancer appointments, leading to earlier treatment and the possibility of significantly increasing patients’ chances of survival. Co-founder Aruni Ghose said the Airlock programme provided his team with the chance to validate the product in a simulated clinical setting and “pressure-test it against real regulatory standards” which has helped the company accelerate its progress “from idea to a validated MVP (Minimum Viable Product).”

    Rounding out the cohort have been two projects; one by Automedica Ltd, investigating the regulatory advantages of using retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) technologies with verified knowledge bases and Large Language Models (LLMs); and the other by health tech startup Newton’s Tree testing its Federated AI Monitoring Service (FAMOS) to identify and mitigate AI risks in clinical settings, including performance drift or safety issues.

    Results from all four pilot projects will be published later this year, providing valuable insights that will shape the AI Airlock programme moving forward and help inform broader regulatory approaches to the effective and safe use AI in healthcare.

    Eligible candidates for the second cohort must demonstrate that their AI-powered medical device has the potential to deliver significant benefits to patients and the NHS, presents a new treatment approach, and offers a regulatory challenge ready to be tested in the Airlock programme.

    Applications for cohort two open on 23 June 2025 and will close on 14 July 2025.

    Notes to editors

    • Applications for the AI Airlock programme’s second cohort are open from 23 June – 14 July 2025. More information can be found at AI Airlock: the regulatory sandbox for AIaMD – GOV.UK.

    • The programme was launched in Spring 2024 and is the MHRA’s first regulatory sandbox for AI as a Medical Device (AIaMD) products.

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that benefits justify any risks.

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Climate Action ‘A Rating’ for third year running

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Dundee has been recognised as one of 112 cities worldwide for its environmental leadership and transparency.

    The list, co-ordinated by charity CDP, gives cities rankings based on their climate action with Dundee City Council being awarded an A rating for 2024 and included for the third consecutive year.

    Dundee City Council is listed alongside only three other Scottish local authority recipients, which include Glasgow City Council, City of Edinburgh Council and Perth & Kinross Council.

    CDP is a not-for-profit organisation that runs the global disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts.

    Climate, Environment & Biodiversity Depute Convener Cllr Nadia El-Nakla said: “Dundee is rightfully being recognised as a leader on environmental action receiving the highest possible rating from CDP for best practice in adaptation, mitigation, setting ambitious goals and progress towards those objectives.

    “The work being carried out is very positive, however the scale of the challenge we still face is considerable with no one organisation or single solution able to address the issues.

    “The Dundee Climate Leadership Group is leading the way in supporting city-wide action bringing together public, private and community organisations utilising the expertise here to achieve the reduction in carbon emissions that meet our city’s sustainability targets.”

    Hanah Paik, CDP Global Director for Cities, States and Regions said: “The cities, states and regions on CDP’s 2024 A List are setting the global benchmark for environmental leadership. Through robust disclosure and decisive action, they are ensuring that essential data is surfaced for informed decision-making across governments, markets and communities – and for unlocking access to the climate finance needed for implementation. They are not only accelerating their own progress but also charting a path for others to follow.”

    More information about the scores and A lists awarded by CDP can be found on the charity’s website.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Allister tables motion on 9th anniversary of Brexit referendum

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    To coincide with the 9th anniversary (23rd June) of the Brexit referendum, TUV leader and North Antrim MP, Jim Allister, has tabled this motion in the House of Commons:-

    “This House deplores that 9 years on from the Brexit referendum – the greatest democratic mandate in the nation’s history – Brexit has still not been delivered for Northern Ireland and that instead the United kingdom has been partitioned by a foreign EU customs and regulatory border in the Irish Sea, leaving Northern Ireland under the EU Customs Code and subject in 300 areas of law to EU, not UK, law.

    “This House therefore calls on HMG to take back control and sovereignty over the whole United Kingdom and to regulate the international border with the EU through application of the solution of mutual enforcement.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: City placements launched to promote Young Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is pleased to announce a new work placement initiative aimed at encouraging more young women to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

    Applications are now open for the Young Women in STEM Work Placement Program which is aimed at high school students in Years 9 and 10 across Greater Bendigo. The program will offer week-long placements in selected City units where STEM skills are actively applied such as Bendigo Airport, Bendigo Venues & Events, Engineering and Financial Strategy.

    Applicants will undergo a competitive selection process managed by the respective unit.

    Director Corporate Performance Jess Howard said the City was proud to present the new STEM placement program.

    “This is a fantastic opportunity for 12 young women to gain hands-on experience and valuable insights on what STEM careers look like within local government,” Ms Howard said.

    “Students will be selected through a competitive application process and placed in departments where they will see how STEM skills are used every day.

    “The City is deeply committed to advancing gender equality both in the workplace and across our community. This program reflects our goal to build strong, diverse teams that deliver high-quality services.

    “STEM offers a wide range of exciting and evolving career pathways, and these skills are increasingly valued by employers. I hope this experience inspires students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and maths. It’s vital that organisations like ours, and local businesses in the region, continue to attract emerging talent and embrace the benefits of a diverse workforce.”

    The following City business units are championing the program and offering placement opportunities that highlight STEM in action:

    • Bendigo Venues & Events: August 25-29, 2025
    • Resource Recovery & Education: August 25-29 or September 1-5, 2025
    • Climate Change & Environment: September 1-5 or September 15-19, 2025
    • Engineering: September 1-5 or November 10-14, 2025
    • Financial Strategy: September 8-12 or October 20-24, 2025
    • Bendigo Airport: October 6-10 or November 10-14, 2025
    • Information Technology: November 10-14, 2025

    Today also marks International Women in Engineering Day, a global celebration of the achievements of women engineers and a call to action for more women to shape the world through engineering. The City proudly acknowledges the contributions of its women engineers: Saran O’Connor-Williams (Infrastructure Engineer), Larnie Ham (Graduate Design Engineer), and Kylie Douglas (Senior Landfill Engineer).

    “Their work demonstrates the innovation and impact of women in engineering and highlights the exciting range of career opportunities available in STEM,” Ms Howard said.

    The City presents around 60 work placements a year for high school and university students, of which 12 will be linked to the Young Women in STEM Work Placement Program. The other City placements are open to everyone who meets the criteria.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Youths proceeded against for graffiti offences in George Town

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Youths proceeded against for graffiti offences in George Town

    Monday, 23 June 2025 – 2:30 pm.

    Three youths will be proceeded against for graffiti offences in George Town after several locations were reportedly damaged with spray paint within the Macquarie Street business hub between December 2024 and March 2025.
    Numerous complaints were received at the time of the incidents.
    Police investigating the graffiti identified the alleged offenders, and they will be proceeded against under the Youth Justice Act for nineteen graffiti offences.
    Police would like to thank members of the public for their assistance in relation to this investigation.
    Anyone with information about graffiti incidents should contact police on 131 444. People can also report to Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au. You can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Information sought over Pooraka arson

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are investigating a suspicious fire at a warehouse in Pooraka earlier this month.

    About 1am Saturday 14 June police and fire crews were called to a business on Main North Road after reports of a fire.

    Fire fighters quickly extinguished the blaze which caused minor internal damage to the building.

    CCTV from the incident shows a dark coloured vehicle, possibly a VN commodore, with light coloured mag wheels in the vicinity at the time of the fire.

    Police believe the fire was deliberately lit and ask anyone who recognises the car, who may have witnessed any suspicious activity or who may have CCTV or dashcam footage to assist with the investigation to anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

    Quote 25-84M.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT PRESENTS U.S. FLAG TO RAYMOND WILLIAMS AND FAMILY IN HONOR OF DECADES OF COMMUNITY SERVICE

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

    For Immediate Release                             Contact: Tionee Scotland
    June 18, 2025                                                    202-808-6129

    PRESS RELEASE

    CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT PRESENTS U.S. FLAG TO RAYMOND WILLIAMS AND FAMILY IN HONOR OF DECADES OF COMMUNITY SERVICE

    St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands – This week, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett presented a U.S. flag that flew over the United States Capitol to Raymond Williams of Grove Place, and his family in recognition of their extraordinary dedication to preserving Virgin Islands history and culture through their work with the Grove Place Action Committee. While the Congresswoman originally intended to present it to the family during the 2024 Liberty Day ceremony, the event’s cancellation due to inclement weather led to her presenting it to the Williams’ family this week.

    The presentation ceremony honored Mr. Williams’ tireless efforts in organizing and promoting Liberty Day and D. Hamilton Jackson Day celebrations, events that have become cornerstones of Virgin Islands cultural heritage and historical remembrance.

    “Raymond and the Williams family embody the spirit of service and cultural preservation that makes our Virgin Islands community so special,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “His family’s work with the Grove Place Action Committee ensure that the stories and struggles of our ancestors, particularly the legacy of D. Hamilton Jackson, will never be forgotten. This flag represents not just the gratitude of Congress, but the appreciation of an entire community that benefited from his and his family’s dedication.”

    Mr. Williams and his family have devoted many years to organizing Liberty Day observances and celebrations, honoring D. Hamilton Jackson, the labor leader and newspaper publisher who fought for workers’ rights and press freedom in the early 20th century Virgin Islands.

    The U.S. flag presented to Raymond Williams and his family flew over the Capitol on November 1, 2o24—recognized as Liberty Day in the Virgin Islands—at the request of Congresswoman Plaskett and honors D. Hamilton Jackson’s contribution to the freedom of the press in the Danish West Indies and the Virgin Islands’ continued quest for self-determination. The presentation reflects Congress’s acknowledgment of the vital role that community leaders like Mr. Williams and his family play in preserving American history and culture in all corners of our nation.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Powering Britain’s future: Electricity bills to be slashed for over 7,000 businesses in major industry shake-up

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Powering Britain’s future: Electricity bills to be slashed for over 7,000 businesses in major industry shake-up

    Industrial Strategy sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business

    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%.
    • New Industrial Strategy to unlock billions in investment and support 1.1 million new well-paid jobs over the next decade.
    • Strategy developed in partnership with business, marking a new era of collaboration between government and high growth industries.
    • Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business, delivering on the Plan for Change.

    More than 7,000 British businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25% from 2027, as the Government unveils its bold new Industrial Strategy today [Monday 23 June].

    The modern Industrial Strategy sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business by tackling two of the biggest barriers facing UK industry – high electricity prices and long waits for grid connections.

    British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

    For too long these challenges have held back growth and made it harder for British firms to compete. Today’s announcement marks a decisive shift — with government stepping in to support industry and unlock the UK’s economic potential.

    From 2027, the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity costs by up to £40 per megawatt hour for over 7,000 electricity-intensive businesses in manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace and chemicals.

    These firms, which support over 300,000 skilled jobs, will be exempt from paying levies such as the Renewables Obligation, Feed-in Tariffs and the Capacity Market — helping level the playing field and make them more internationally competitive. Eligibility and further details on the exemptions will be determined following consultation, which will be launched shortly.

    The government is also increasing support for the most energy-intensive firms — like steel, chemicals, and glass — by covering more of the electricity network charges they normally have to pay through the British Industry Supercharger. These businesses currently get a 60% discount on those charges, but from 2026, that will increase to 90%. This means their electricity bills will go down, helping them stay competitive, protect jobs, and invest in the future.

    This will help around 500 eligible businesses in sectors such as steel, ceramics and glass reduce their costs and protect jobs in industries that are the backbone of our economy and will be delivered at no additional cost to the taxpayer.

    These reforms complement the government’s long-term mission for clean power, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets.

    To ensure businesses can grow and hire without delay, the government will also deliver a new Connections Accelerator Service to streamline grid access for major investment projects — including prioritising those that create high-quality jobs and deliver significant economic benefits.

    We will work closely with the energy sector, local authorities, Welsh and Scottish Governments, trade unions, and industry to design this service, which we expect to begin operating at the end of 2025. New powers in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently before parliament, could also allow the Government to reserve grid capacity for strategically important projects, cutting waiting times and unlocking growth in key sectors.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

     The UK has some of the most innovative businesses in the world and our Plan for Change has provided them with the stability they need to grow and for more to be created.

    Today’s Industrial Strategy builds on that progress with a ten-year plan to slash barriers to investment. It’ll see billions of pounds for investment and cutting-edge tech, ease energy costs, and upskill the nation. It will ensure the industries that make Britain great can thrive. It will boost our economy and create jobs that put more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We’ve said from day one Britain is back in business under this government, and the £100 billion of investment we’ve secured in the past year shows our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people.

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy will ensure the UK is the best country to invest and do business, delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets and pays for our NHS, schools and military.

    Not only does this Strategy prioritise investment to attract billions for new business sites, cutting-edge research, and better transport links, it will also make our industrial electricity prices more competitive.

    Tackling energy costs and fixing skills has been the single biggest ask of us from businesses and the greatest challenge they’ve faced – this government has listened, and now we’re taking the bold action needed. Government and business working hand in hand to make working people better of is what this Government promised and what we will deliver.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    For too long high electricity costs have held back British businesses, as a result of our reliance on gas sold on volatile international markets.

    As part of our modern industrial strategy we’re unlocking the potential of British industry by slashing industrial electricity prices in key sectors.

    We’re also doubling down on our clean power strengths with increased investment in growth industries from offshore wind to nuclear. This will deliver on our clean power mission and Plan for Change to bring down bills for households and businesses for good.

    The Supercharger and British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will be funded through reforms to the energy system. The government is reducing costs within the system to free up funding without raising household bills or taxes and intends to also use additional funds from the strengthening of UK carbon pricing, including as a result of linking with the EU carbon market.

    We have set out an intention to link emissions trading systems, as part of our new agreement with the European Union to support British businesses. Without an agreement to do this, British industry would have to pay the EU’s carbon tax.

    We intend to link our carbon pricing system with the EU’s, we will ensure that money stays in the UK—which allows us to support British companies and British jobs through these schemes.

    Building on the Spending Review and the recently announced 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, the Industrial Strategy is the latest step forward in our plans to deliver national renewal. It will include targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in our growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.
    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. The includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.
    • Upskilling the nation with an extra £1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29, and delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses in relevant skills funded by the Growth and Skills Levy and skills packages targeted at defence digital and engineering.
    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 
    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.
    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.
    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce.
    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.
    • Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations, removing burdens on businesses as well as accelerating house building. 
    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.
    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.

    Dame Clare Barclay DBE, Chair of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council and President of Enterprise & Industry EMEA at Microsoft said:

    I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out a clear plan to back the UK’s growth driving sectors. It is particularly positive to see the strong focus on skills in areas such as engineering, technology and defence. Commitments such as £187 million for the TechFirst programme will ensure the UK has the skills it needs to support our growth industries and seize transformative opportunities like AI.

    Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive, CBI said:

    Today’s Industrial Strategy announcement is a significant leap forward in the partnership between government and business that sets us on the path to our shared goal of raising living standards across the country.  

    It sends an unambiguous, positive signal about the nation’s global calling card as well as the direction of travel for the wider economy for the next decade and beyond.

    The CBI has long been advocating for a comprehensive industrial strategy, based on the UK’s USP – the sectors and markets where we can compete to win on the global stage.

    More competitive energy prices, fast-tracked planning decisions and backing innovation will provide a bedrock for growth. But the global race to attract investment will require a laser-like and unwavering focus on the UK’s overall competitiveness. 

    Today marks the beginning of delivering this strategy in close partnership, at pace, and with a shared purpose.

    Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO at Make UK said:

    British industry has been in desperate need for a government who understands our sector and had the strategic vision for a plan for growth. Today’s Industrial Strategy is a giant and much needed step forward taken by the Secretary of State who has seen the potential and provided the keys to help unlock it.

    Make UK has led the campaign for a new industrial strategy for many years, highlighting the three major challenges that were diminishing our competitiveness, hampering growth and frustrating productivity gains: a skills crisis, crippling energy costs and, an inability to access capital for new British innovators.

    The strategy announced today sets out plans to address all three of these structural failings. Clearly there is much to do as we move towards implementation but, this will send a message across the Country and around the world that Britain is back in business.

    Tufan Erginbilgic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said:

    The UK Government’s Industrial Strategy commitment to support our world-leading aerospace and nuclear industries shows long-term strategic foresight. Rolls-Royce’s highly differentiated technologies in gas turbines and nuclear capabilities- including SMRs and AMRs- are uniquely placed to deliver economic growth, skilled jobs and attract investment into the UK.

    Mike Hawes OBE, SMMT Chief Executive said:

    The publication of an Industrial Strategy – one with automotive at its heart – is the policy framework the sector has long-sought and Government has now addressed. Such a strategy – long-term, aligned to a trade strategy and supported by all of Government – is the basis on which the UK automotive sector can regain its global competitiveness. Making the UK the best place to invest now depends on implementation, and implementation at pace, because investment decisions are being made now against a backdrop of fierce competition and geopolitical uncertainty. The number one priority must be addressing the UK’s high cost of energy, enabling the sector to invest in the technologies, the products and the people that will give the UK its competitive edge.

    Five sector plans have been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.
    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.
    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.
    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 
    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.  

    Notes to editors

    • The Industrial Strategy will be published on Gov.UK tomorrow.
    • The Defence, Financial Services and Life Sciences sector plans will be published shortly.
    • The 7000 businesses are an indicative estimate of how many businesses could be in scope of the scheme. The full scope and eligibility of the scheme will be determined following consultation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Carney of Canada: 22 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Carney of Canada: 22 June 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney this evening. 

    The Prime Minister spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney this evening. 

    They discussed the grave situation in the Middle East and last night’s action by the United States to tackle the severe threat posed by Iran’s nuclear programme.

    Both reiterated their support for a diplomatic solution and agreed that Iran must come back to the negotiating table with the United States as soon as possible.

    They looked forward to continuing their discussions at NATO this week.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious assault at Devon Park

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are investigating an assault at Devon Park this morning.

    About 4.30am this morning (Monday 23 June) emergency services were called to Belford Avenue after reports a man had been assaulted.

    When police arrived, they located a 28-year-old man who had been stabbed. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

    It is early in the Investigation anyone with further information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Freak wind gusts made worse by climate change threaten airline passenger safety

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milton Speer, Visiting Fellow, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney

    Unexpected severe turbulence injured crew and passengers on a Qantas Boeing 737 during descent at Brisbane on May 4 2024. The subsequent Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation suggested the severity of the turbulence caught the captain by surprise.

    This is not an isolated event. Thunderstorms featuring severe wind gusts such as violent updrafts and downbursts are hazardous to aircraft. Downbursts in particular have been known to cause many serious accidents.

    Our new research suggests global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of wind gusts from thunderstorm “downbursts”, with serious consequences for air travel.

    We used machine learning techniques to identify the climate drivers causing more thunderstorm downbursts. Increased heat and moisture over eastern Australia turned out to be the key ingredients.

    The findings suggest air safety authorities and airlines in eastern Australia must be more vigilant during takeoff and landing in a warming world.

    The weather radar system on a 737 jet plane can detect a microburst just before it causes heavy turbulence.
    Qantas, annotated by the ATSB

    Warm, moist air spells trouble for planes

    Global warming increases the amount of water vapour in the lower atmosphere. That’s because 1°C of warming allows the atmosphere to hold 7% more water vapour.

    The extra moisture typically comes from adjacent warmer seas. It evaporates from the surface of the ocean and feeds clouds.

    Increased heat and water vapour fuels stronger thunderstorms. So climate change is expected to increase thunderstorm activity over eastern Australia

    For aircraft, the main problem with thunderstorms is the risk of hazardous, rapid changes in wind strength and direction at low levels.

    Small yet powerful

    Small downbursts, several kilometres wide, are especially dangerous. These “microbursts” can cause abrupt changes in wind gust speed and direction, creating turbulence that suddenly moves the plane in all directions, both horizontally and vertically.

    Microburst wind gusts can be extremely strong. Brisbane airport recorded a microburst wind gust at 157km per hour in November 2016. Three planes on the tarmac were extensively damaged.

    On descent or ascent, aircraft encountering microbursts can experience sudden, unexpected losses or gains in altitude. This has caused numerous aircraft accidents in the past. Microbursts will become increasingly problematic in a warming climate.

    Delta Flight 191 is the most famous aviation accident caused by a microburst | Smithsonian Channel Aviation Nation

    Microburst analysis and prediction

    Microbursts are very difficult to predict, because they are so small. So we used machine learning to identify the environmental factors most conducive to the formation of microbursts and associated severe wind gusts.

    We accessed observational data from the Bureau of Meteorology’s extensive archives. Then we applied eight different machine learning techniques to find the one that worked best.

    Machine learning is a field of study in artificial intelligence using algorithms and statistical models to enable computers to learn from data without explicit programming. It enables systems to identify patterns, make predictions and improve performance over time as they take in more information.

    We found atmospheric conditions in eastern Australia are increasingly favouring the development of stronger, more frequent thunderstorm microbursts.

    We investigated a microburst outbreak from a storm front in 2018. It produced severe surface wind gusts at six regional airports in New South Wales: Bourke, Walgett, Coonamble, Moree, Narrabri and Gunnedah.

    Regional airports in Australia and around the world often use small aircraft. Small planes with 4–50 passenger seats are more vulnerable to the strong, even extreme, wind gusts spawned by thunderstorm microbursts.

    Widespread consequences

    Our extensive regional case study identified the weather patterns that create severe thunderstorms in eastern Australia during the warmer months.

    High cloud water content creates a [downward force] [https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/11215] in the cloud. This force induces a descending air current. When the heavier air reaches the ground, wind gusts spray out in multiple directions.

    A small yet powerful downburst can deflect a plane from it’s intended path of descent, pushing it down towards the ground.
    Mehmood, K., et al (2023) Fluids., CC BY

    These wind gusts endanger aircraft during takeoff and landing, because rapid wind shifts from tail winds to head winds can cause the aircraft to dangerously gain or lose altitude.

    Our analysis highlights the elevated aviation risks of increased atmospheric turbulence from thunderstorm microbursts across eastern Australia.

    Smaller aircraft at inland regional airports in southeastern Australia are especially vulnerable. But these sudden microburst-generated wind gusts will require monitoring by major east coast airports, such as Sydney and Brisbane.

    Beware of heightened microburst activity

    Flying has long been recognised as a very safe mode of travel, with an accident rate of just 1.13 per million flights.

    However, passenger numbers worldwide have increased dramatically, implying even a small risk increase could affect a large number of travellers.

    Previous research into climate-related risks to air travel has tended to focus on high-altitude cruising dangers, such as clear air turbulence and jet stream instability. In contrast, there has been less emphasis on dangers during low-level ascent and descent.

    Our research is among the first to detail the heightened climate risk to airlines from thunderstorm microbursts, especially during takeoff and landing. Airlines and air safety authorities should anticipate more strong microbursts. More frequent wind gust turbulence from microbursts is to be expected over eastern Australia, in our ongoing warming climate.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Freak wind gusts made worse by climate change threaten airline passenger safety – https://theconversation.com/freak-wind-gusts-made-worse-by-climate-change-threaten-airline-passenger-safety-258823

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Freak wind gusts made worse by climate change threaten airline passenger safety

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milton Speer, Visiting Fellow, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney

    Unexpected severe turbulence injured crew and passengers on a Qantas Boeing 737 during descent at Brisbane on May 4 2024. The subsequent Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation suggested the severity of the turbulence caught the captain by surprise.

    This is not an isolated event. Thunderstorms featuring severe wind gusts such as violent updrafts and downbursts are hazardous to aircraft. Downbursts in particular have been known to cause many serious accidents.

    Our new research suggests global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of wind gusts from thunderstorm “downbursts”, with serious consequences for air travel.

    We used machine learning techniques to identify the climate drivers causing more thunderstorm downbursts. Increased heat and moisture over eastern Australia turned out to be the key ingredients.

    The findings suggest air safety authorities and airlines in eastern Australia must be more vigilant during takeoff and landing in a warming world.

    The weather radar system on a 737 jet plane can detect a microburst just before it causes heavy turbulence.
    Qantas, annotated by the ATSB

    Warm, moist air spells trouble for planes

    Global warming increases the amount of water vapour in the lower atmosphere. That’s because 1°C of warming allows the atmosphere to hold 7% more water vapour.

    The extra moisture typically comes from adjacent warmer seas. It evaporates from the surface of the ocean and feeds clouds.

    Increased heat and water vapour fuels stronger thunderstorms. So climate change is expected to increase thunderstorm activity over eastern Australia

    For aircraft, the main problem with thunderstorms is the risk of hazardous, rapid changes in wind strength and direction at low levels.

    Small yet powerful

    Small downbursts, several kilometres wide, are especially dangerous. These “microbursts” can cause abrupt changes in wind gust speed and direction, creating turbulence that suddenly moves the plane in all directions, both horizontally and vertically.

    Microburst wind gusts can be extremely strong. Brisbane airport recorded a microburst wind gust at 157km per hour in November 2016. Three planes on the tarmac were extensively damaged.

    On descent or ascent, aircraft encountering microbursts can experience sudden, unexpected losses or gains in altitude. This has caused numerous aircraft accidents in the past. Microbursts will become increasingly problematic in a warming climate.

    Delta Flight 191 is the most famous aviation accident caused by a microburst | Smithsonian Channel Aviation Nation

    Microburst analysis and prediction

    Microbursts are very difficult to predict, because they are so small. So we used machine learning to identify the environmental factors most conducive to the formation of microbursts and associated severe wind gusts.

    We accessed observational data from the Bureau of Meteorology’s extensive archives. Then we applied eight different machine learning techniques to find the one that worked best.

    Machine learning is a field of study in artificial intelligence using algorithms and statistical models to enable computers to learn from data without explicit programming. It enables systems to identify patterns, make predictions and improve performance over time as they take in more information.

    We found atmospheric conditions in eastern Australia are increasingly favouring the development of stronger, more frequent thunderstorm microbursts.

    We investigated a microburst outbreak from a storm front in 2018. It produced severe surface wind gusts at six regional airports in New South Wales: Bourke, Walgett, Coonamble, Moree, Narrabri and Gunnedah.

    Regional airports in Australia and around the world often use small aircraft. Small planes with 4–50 passenger seats are more vulnerable to the strong, even extreme, wind gusts spawned by thunderstorm microbursts.

    Widespread consequences

    Our extensive regional case study identified the weather patterns that create severe thunderstorms in eastern Australia during the warmer months.

    High cloud water content creates a [downward force] [https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/11215] in the cloud. This force induces a descending air current. When the heavier air reaches the ground, wind gusts spray out in multiple directions.

    A small yet powerful downburst can deflect a plane from it’s intended path of descent, pushing it down towards the ground.
    Mehmood, K., et al (2023) Fluids., CC BY

    These wind gusts endanger aircraft during takeoff and landing, because rapid wind shifts from tail winds to head winds can cause the aircraft to dangerously gain or lose altitude.

    Our analysis highlights the elevated aviation risks of increased atmospheric turbulence from thunderstorm microbursts across eastern Australia.

    Smaller aircraft at inland regional airports in southeastern Australia are especially vulnerable. But these sudden microburst-generated wind gusts will require monitoring by major east coast airports, such as Sydney and Brisbane.

    Beware of heightened microburst activity

    Flying has long been recognised as a very safe mode of travel, with an accident rate of just 1.13 per million flights.

    However, passenger numbers worldwide have increased dramatically, implying even a small risk increase could affect a large number of travellers.

    Previous research into climate-related risks to air travel has tended to focus on high-altitude cruising dangers, such as clear air turbulence and jet stream instability. In contrast, there has been less emphasis on dangers during low-level ascent and descent.

    Our research is among the first to detail the heightened climate risk to airlines from thunderstorm microbursts, especially during takeoff and landing. Airlines and air safety authorities should anticipate more strong microbursts. More frequent wind gust turbulence from microbursts is to be expected over eastern Australia, in our ongoing warming climate.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Freak wind gusts made worse by climate change threaten airline passenger safety – https://theconversation.com/freak-wind-gusts-made-worse-by-climate-change-threaten-airline-passenger-safety-258823

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with President Trump of the United States: 22 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with President Trump of the United States: 22 June 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of the United States Donald Trump this evening.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of the United States Donald Trump this evening.

    The leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East and reiterated the grave risk posed by Iran’s nuclear programme to international security. They discussed the actions taken by the United States last night to reduce the threat and agreed that Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. 

    They discussed the need for Iran to return to the negotiating table as soon as possible and to make progress on a lasting settlement.

    They agreed to stay in close contact in the coming days.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Now is the time for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    Now is the time for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy: UK statement at the UN Security Council

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

    This is a pivotal moment for the region.

    A further spiral of conflict poses serious risks to regional and international peace and stability. Our foremost priority must now be to support de-escalation.

    We have long made clear that Iran must not have a nuclear weapon and their nuclear programme represents a serious threat to international peace and security.

    The United States took action last night to alleviate that threat. 

    The United Kingdom did not participate in US or Israeli strikes.

    But military action alone cannot bring a durable solution to concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme.

    My Prime Minister has been clear. We urge Iran  now to show restraint, and we urge all parties to return to the negotiating table and find a diplomatic solution, which stops further escalation and brings this crisis to an end.

    It is in the interests of all parties to pursue such a deal.

    This was the joint call made by my Prime Minister, with his French and German counterparts earlier today. Together with our E3 partners, the UK has long pursued a diplomatic solution to address Iran’s nuclear escalation. On Friday, alongside E3 and EU colleagues, my Foreign Secretary met Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi in Geneva to press directly for a return to diplomacy. My Foreign Minister spoke to Foreign Minister Araghchi again today and stressed the urgency of this and we continue to engage partners across the region.

    President, the UK reiterates its full support for the IAEA and Director General Grossi for their critical work, professionalism and impartiality. The IAEA and the Non-Proliferation Treaty are key pillars of international security. Threats against IAEA staff and the DG are unacceptable. We urge Iran to cooperate fully with the IAEA. Failure to do so will only further fuel escalation.

    President, now is the time for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy. It is essential Iran chooses this path.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –