Asian World January 2023

As wintry weather takes hold, a winter warmer bundle provided by a charity’s trading arm is flying off the shelves to help people on a low income keep warm and cook a hot meal in the months ahead, while keeping energy bills down. The winter warmer bundle includes items such as a thick blanket, oil filled radiator, microwave, slow cooker and air fryer and is being supplied to grantmakers trying to keep people warm and fed.

It has been put together by Family Fund Business Services, the trading arm of charity Family Fund, the UK’s largest grant-making charity for families with disabled and seriously ill children, living on a low income.

Family Fund supports families with grantsfor essential items such as kitchen appliances, clothing, bedding, sensory toys, computers and tablets, much-needed family breaks.

The charity used its expertise in procuring large quantities of essential goods from suppliers, to set up its own company, Family Fund Business Services, which gifts 100% of its profits back to the charity.

Phil Henderson, direc-

tor of Family Fund Business Services said: “For our winter warmer bundle we have worked hard to get urgent access to value-for-money quantities of air fryers, slow cookers, thick blankets and oil filled radiators from suppliers.

“This means that they are readily, and easily, available for organisations such

Family Fund Business Services secures income through its expertise and collec-

tive buying power for essential goods with suppliers. It works on behalf of other charities, local authorities and housing associations seeking to help people in need

It provides value-for-money, easy access to thousands of essential products, including washing machines, furniture, energy vouchers and food vouchers for organisations supporting those facing hardship such as veterans, refugees and those struggling financially to meet their most basic needs.

Phil Henderson added: “The winter warmer bundles demonstrate a unique business model which delivers social value twice over.

“The expertise of Family Fund Business Services in securing cost-effective contracts for essential goods with suppliers, means the money of local councils, charities and other organisations goes further to help those in greatest need.

“But its work also helps to secure the future of the Family Fund charity so that Family Fund, in turn, can carry on its vital work of helping even more families with disabled children on a low income.”

Profits from Family Fund Business Services has helped the charity significantly increase its reach. Last year, Family Fund provided over 170,919 grants and services worth over £37 million to families across the UK.

as local authorities and other charities to provide them for people struggling with the cost of living this winter and seeking emergency help to keep warm and make hot food. The demand for our winter bundle is growing by the day”.

Saira Ali, Team Leader of our Landscape, Design and Conservation Team has received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford in recognition of her work on the environment, climate change and the promotion of greener healthier communities.

Saira, who has already received a number of awards for her work, said: “I feel I am accepting this honour on behalf of Bradford Council’s Landscape, Design and Conservation Team, as well as myself. To be recognised by the university for our contribution to our industry and our community is a real honour and I am extremely grateful. It’s a massive privilege to join the ranks of incredible people who have been honoured in this way before me.

University of Bradford Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon said: “Saira is an award-winning landscape architect who recognises the importance of working with communities to create sustainable landscape design. Her emphasis on the environment, climate change and the promotion of greener healthier communities is something that chimes with the university’s own values and vision. We’re also very mindful that students often look for role models, and Saira has proved that hard work and dedication pay off.”

Kersten England, Chief Executive, said: “The honour Saira has received shows how her dedication to landscape architecture has brought international recognition of the work we are doing in Bradford. Almost everyone across the Bradford District will have seen the impact of her work. Whether through the dressing of the District for the Tour de Yorkshire, the specially cultivated trees which line ‘The Grove’ in Ilkley, the proliferation of ‘parklets’ allowing businesses to trade outside or the plans for rewilding and biodiversity along Canal Boad and the Bradford Beck.”

Saira, who grew up in Bradford, studied Landscape Architecture at Leeds Metropolitan University and has worked for landscape design practices Barton Willmore (now Stantec), Chris Blandford Associates and David Huskisson Associates, before coming to Bradford Council.

Saira has led or worked collaboratively with a number of other organisa-

tions on a wide range of projects. She was the project lead for Bradford’s team in the URBACT Healthy Cities Action Planning Network, and on the current LIFE CRITICAL climate change mitigation project at Horton Park. These EU projects have brought Bradford’s knowledge and experience to a wider audience. Her team also supports the delivery of Better Start Bradford and Join Us: Move Play, working with partners on the link between the quality of outdoor space and our communities leading healthier lifestyles.

Saira has also secured additional external funding for the Council to help deliver of blue (water-related, such as ponds and drainage) and green (such as trees and plants) infrastructure projects. These include the Top of Town Public Realm Improvement Scheme and the Naturalising Bradford Beck project which will improve flood re-

silience and biodiversity at Shipley Fields.

She will also play a role in the regeneration projects to be funded by the recently announced Towns Fund Grants for Keighley and Shipley.

In addition, she is a strong advocate for encouraging more women and people from diverse communities into the landscape design profession.

Jane Findlay, Immediate Past President of the Landscape Institute, said “I’m delighted that Saira has been recognised, receiving such a special honour at a time when the landscape sector needs role models. With leaders like Saira, we can create and greatly improve the environment and places that allow everyone to thrive.”

Saira received her honour at a ceremony held last week at the university.

SIMPLE SAFETY TIPS AS wINTER wEATHER THREATENS IN COMING DAYS

ROAD SAFETY AND breakdown

organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging motorists to take extra care, with winter weather predicted across the country this week. Road journeys are more difficult and treacherous when there is ice on roads, foggy conditions or a fall of snow. GEM is encouraging drivers to plan ahead and be ready to postpone journeys if necessary. For those who will need to travel, GEM offers some simple safety tips to reduce the chance of risk, delay and difficulty – and to avoid putting additional strain on the emergency services and breakdown providers who are likely to be at full stretch in winter weather. Don’t drive if you don’t really need to. The easiest way to avoid trouble from winter conditions is to postpone your journey. If you do have to travel, ensure your car is properly equipped for the likely conditions. That’s because if you do experience a breakdown, you will most likely have to wait longer until help arrives. So get a winter check-up completed on your car – or at the very least ensure the battery is in the best possible shape. Listen for weather updates, and plan your travel accordingly. Ensure your windscreen and all other windows are completely clear of snow and ice before you set out. Give your lights and

number plate a good wipe, too. Prepare a set of essential items to take with you, including shovel, fully charged mobile phone, torch, ice scraper, food, water, jump leads, first aid kit, warm clothes and a supply of sand or gravel to assist with grip if your wheels are spinning. In winter conditions, keep your speeds down, leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front, give room to snowploughs and gritter trucks, and be ready for sudden, rapid deteriorations in conditions. Remember that driving in conditions like this is hard work. You are likely to become tired much more quickly than in less challenging conditions. So ensure you build in breaks on your journeys.

GEM chief executive Neil Worth says: “It makes sense to have a plan in place that means you can postpone a journey, or switch to public transport. Agree to reschedule a meeting or a visit if it’s not vital. In that way, you’re avoiding a lot of potential trouble for yourself, and ensuring you won’t be putting additional strain on emergency and recovery crews, who are sure to be at full stretch in the coming days.

“Ensuring that you and your car are properly prepared for winter can make a big difference towards keeping you safe on the roads.”

UK TO CUT ENERGY SUPPORT SCHEME FOR FIRMS

BOE’S SEES RISK OF PERSISTENT INFLATION

The United Kingdom government plans to reduce the financial support provided to businesses to assist with their energy bills. This move is being made as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to cut costs and reduce the country’s budget deficit.

The decision to cut support for businesses comes as the Bank of England’s (BoE) Deputy Governor, warned of the risk of persistent inflation in the UK. Cœuré noted that while inflation is currently being driven by temporary factors such as supply chain disruptions and the weak pound, there is a risk that it could become entrenched if it leads to higher wages and higher prices for goods and services.

Many businesses in the UK have been struggling in recent years as rising energy costs have hit them. The support scheme, which has been in place for several years, has helped many businesses to offset these costs and stay afloat. However, with the government now looking to reduce spending, this support will be cut, which could significantly impact many businesses. Critics of the decision have argued that cutting support for businesses at this time could

lead to further job losses and economic hardship, as it will make it more difficult for many companies to stay afloat. They have also pointed out that the move could lead to higher consumer prices, as businesses will pass on their increased costs to customers.

On the other hand, supporters of the decision have argued that it is necessary to cut costs and reduce the budget deficit and that the support scheme has been in place long enough. They also say that the reduction in support will encourage businesses to invest in more energy-efficient technologies, ultimate-

ly leading to lower costs and reduced emissions.

In any case, this is a significant development in the UK economy, and it will be essential to see how it plays out in the coming weeks and months. Many businesses will closely watch the situation and its impact on their bottom lines. The BoE’s warning on inflation will also be closely watched as the government’sgovernment’s decision on the energy support scheme may impact the inflation trajectory.

SINGLE-USE PLASTIC CUTLERY AND PLATES TO BE BANNED IN ENGLAND

Rishi Sunak is the Chancellor of the Exchequer (finance minister) of the United Kingdom, and as such, he is a high-profile public figure. The use of private healthcare by politicians is a topic that has been the subject of much debate in the UK. Some argue that politicians who use private healthcare are out of touch with the general population’s needs and that it may appear as if they are using their position of power to access privileged healthcare that is not available to most people.

On the other hand, supporters of private healthcare argue that politicians, like anyone else, have a right

to access the healthcare they feel is best for them and their families. They also say politicians who use private healthcare can better understand the healthcare system and how he can improve it for everyone.

It’s important to note that Sunak hasn’t made any statement about his healthcare access, nor he has any legal obligation to disclose it.

Politicians’ use of private healthcare is a complex issue that raises many questions about access to healthcare, fairness, and privilege. It is a matter of personal choice, and ultimately it is up to the voters to decide whether or not they agree with it.

In general, voters in the UK view healthcare as a fundamental right that should be available to everyone, regardless of income or status.

It is why the British public so highly values the National Health Service (NHS), and any politician seen to be using private healthcare may face criticism.

In the end, It is up to Sunak to decide whether or not to make a statement about his healthcare, and it will be up to the voters to decide whether or not his use of private healthcare is relevant to his performance as Chancellor of the Exchequer.

The UK government has announced plans to ban singleuse plastic cutlery, plates, and straws in England, as part of a broader effort to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. The ban is expected to be enacted in 2023 and will apply to other single-use plastic items, such as cotton buds and stirrers.

The ban is part of a more comprehensive set of measures that the government is taking to tackle plastic waste, including a tax on plastic packaging and a commitment to increase recycling rates.

It’s a good step to reduce plastic waste and move towards more sustainable practices. It’s important to note that other countries have taken similar steps, like the EU, Canada, and

some US states. Besides, Many civil society organizations and environmental groups have praised the government’s announcement as a positive step. Still, some have also said that more needs to be done to address the problem of plastic waste. They would like a more comprehensive approach and regulations applicable across the UK.

In conclusion, The ban on single-use plastic cutlery and plates is a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment. It has the potential to drive innovation and encourage more sustainable alternatives, but it should be seen as part of a broader effort to address the problem of plastic waste.

The city council is supporting children and families this winter with a number of initiatives.

The Holiday Activities and Food winter programme – Bring it on Brum – returns, helping children, young people and their parents have fulfilling, active, fun-filled and healthy school holidays. It is the biggest programme of its kind in the country.

There are hundreds of events available, free ideas and resources for keeping children and young people busy, indoor and outdoor games, cookery skills, arts and crafts, sports, fitness and dance, health and wellbeing, quizzes, park activities, nature trails and more. Activities offer a hot meal or snack should children choose to have one.

The holiday clubs are designed for children who are eligible for free school meals.

Funding comes from central government and this year the city council has also funded 1,900 food parcels for families over the Christmas holidays, match-funding parcels that are being provided through the Holiday Activities and Food programme. These food parcels will feed a family of four for four days, meaning that 30,000 meals will be provided.

Additionally, some of the latest Household Support Fund allocation will be given to schools across Birmingham for them to support families over the winter.

The £613,000 will be distributed to 318 schools and nurseries; these schools have been chosen as they support the most deprived children and young people in the city. The size of the allocation based on how many pupils are at each school.

While the council doesn’t specify what the money is spent on, suggestions include food or fuel vouchers, boxes of essential items or help before and after school or to access digital resources to help with studying.

Cllr Karen McCarthy, cabinet member for children, young people and families, said: “Everyone deserves a good break and school holidays are better when there’s a great choice of things to do to keep children and young people active.

“Being able to support families with children is particularly important in the cost of living crisis and as winter really starts to bite. I am so pleased that we are using some of the Household Support Fund to help schools help families over winter, and I know the response from schools has been really positive.”

The wider Household Support Fund allocation was approved at cabinet on 13 December.

SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH THE wINTER

FASHION BRANDS PAID BANGLADESH FACTORIES LESS THAN COST

However, a recent survey conducted by Aberdeen University’s Business School in partnership with justice charity Transform Trade has shed light on some disturbing practices in the Bangladeshi garment industry.

The survey found that 90% of more prominent high-street brands buying from four or more factories were engaging in unfair practices, such as cancellations, failure to pay, payment delays, and discount demands. These practices significantly impact the lives of Bangladeshi garment workers, who are struggling to make ends meet. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the survey findings and discuss the impact

have on Bangladeshi workers.

Key

Findings of the Survey:

The Aberdeen University and Transform Trade survey found that 90% of more prominent high-street brands buying from four or more factories in Bangladesh were in unfair purchasing practices. These practices included cancellations, failure to pay, delays

in payment, and discount demands.

The survey also found that one in five manufacturers struggled to pay Bangladesh’s £2.30 a day minimum wage, despite soaring materials costs.

Possible Solutions:

The issue of unfair purchasing practices in the Bangladeshi garment industry is complex, but It can take steps to address it. One solution is to support fair trade fashion brands, which prioritize ethical and honest practices

in their supply chains. Another solution is for more prominent high-street brands to improve their purchasing practices and ensure that the workers who make their clothes are treated fairly. The industry can also adopt transparent and sustainable policies to treat workers better.

Conclusion:

The findings of the Aberdeen University and Transform Trade survey reveal some disturbing practices in the

Bangladeshi garment industry. These practices significantly impact the lives of Bangladeshi garment workers, who are struggling to make ends meet. We must bring attention to this issue and take action to support fair trade fashion brands and improve the purchasing practices of more prominent high street brands. Together, we can work to improve the lives of Bangladeshi garment workers and create a more just and sustainable fashion industry.

The global fashion industry is a multibillion dollar, with many significant brands sourcing their garments from factories worldwide.

these practices

In ‘market of hate’ a Congress leader’s march to ‘unite India’

K A bul, Isl A m A b AD Agree to b oost bI l Ater A l t r AD e, t r A ns I t

The Joint Chamber of Afghanistan and Pakistan said on Wednesday that Kabul and Islamabad have agreed on an agreement to reduce tariffs on commodities in bilateral trade and transit affairs between the two countries.

Pakistani media reported that based on the “Preferential Trade Agreement,” Afghanistan will reduce taxes by 60 percent on coals being exported to Pakistan.

“By signing the agreement, the problems in tariffs will be solved. A specific sector will go forward towards commercial improvement and trade between the countries will increase,” said Najibullah Safi, head of the Afghanistan and Pakistan Joint Chamber.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC) said the reduction of taxes on five items of fruits and vegetables being imported from Pakistan, has been agreed upon.

Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, a spokesman for the

MoIC, said coal will be sold based on international prices.

“We share the lists of fruits and vegetables which are being spoiled soon so that there is no problem in the future. There were discussions about coal.

Afghanistan is working on a procedure to make our prices based on the market,” he said.

“The problems that exist due

The march led by Rahul Gandhi is seen as an effort to revive the electoral fortunes of the Indian National Congress party, which has seen its support decline in recent years. The Congress party has traditionally been one of the main political parties in India and has held power for several decades. Still, it has struggled to maintain its electoral popularity in recent years.

The march passes through various states and cities in India, such as Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, and is expected to cover a distance of over 200km. The march also sees the participation of party leaders and supporters, with thousands of people thronging the streets during the march.

This march is an attempt by Congress Party, led by

Rahul Gandhi, to gain public attention and create a new narrative for the party, which has been in power for many decades but has recently lost traction with other parties. The march is seen as an effort to reach the public and showcase the party’s commitment to addressing their issues and concerns. It is also an effort to protect the party’s leadership capabilities, especially that of Rahul Gandhi, to appeal to voters. It’s worth noting that The Indian political scene is complex, with multiple regional parties and the dominance of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

Political analysts will closely watch the march to see whether it could successfully rebuild support for the Congress party.

to political issues push traders to avoid trade via Pakistan as much as other ports,” said Mahbobullah Mohammadi, an investor. Figures by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC) show that over $1 billion worth of commodities has been exported abroad over one last year. According to the MoIC, $744 million has only been exported to Pakistan during this period.

Investors said that Pakistan plays animportant role in Afghanistan’s trade.

“ “

INDONESIA: PRESIDENT’S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HISTORIC ABUSES IS ‘NOTHING WITHOUT ACCOUNTABILITY’

recommendations to help with victims’ reparations.

The president acknowledged 12 events as gross human rights violations from 1965 to 2003, dating back to an anticommunist crackdown in the mid1960s in which an estimated half a million people were killed. Other cases included 1998-1999 shootings, in which at least 32 people - including university students - were killed in protests demanding reform in Jakarta, as well as the murder and torture of civilians in April 2003 after the military raided 25 villages in Wamena, Papua.

- Usman Hamid

Responding to Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Coordinating Political Legal and Security Minister Mahfud MD’s statement today acknowledging gross historic human rights violations during Indonesia’s past, Usman Hamid, Amnesty International Indonesia’s executive director, said: “While we appreciate President Widodo’s gesture in admitting the occurrences of human rights abuses since the 1960s in Indonesia, this statement is long overdue considering the suffering of victims who have been left in the dark without any justice, truth, reparation and redress for decades.

“But acknowledgement without efforts to bring those responsible for past hu-

man rights abuses to trial will only rub salt into the wounds of victims and their families.

“Put simply, this statement is nothing without also addressing accountability and bringing an end to impunity.

“Merely mentioning the name of several tragic events is far from enough.

“If the president is truly committed to preventing a repeat of gross human rights violations, the Indonesian

authorities should immediately, effectively, thoroughly and impartially investigate everyone suspected of criminal responsibility in past human rights abuses, wherever they have occurred, and if there is sufficient admissible evidence, prosecute them in fair trials before an ordinary criminal court.

“Ending impunity is crucial to preventing the recurrence of human rights abuses and to provide victims and their

Government-commissioned report

The Indonesian president’s rare statement admitted that “gross human rights violations did happen in many occurrences” and that he “strongly regrets” them. He made this remark after receiving a report from a governmentcommissioned team formed by presidential decree last August to formulate

A number of key abuses were omitted from the president’s statement, including the systematic use of sexual violence from 1965-1966; the May 1998 Riot Tragedy and the Aceh military operation while it was under martial law during 1989-1998; and violations carried out by the Indonesian security forces and militia groups during the occupation and invasion of East Timor from 1975 to 1999.

The president said the Government would seek to provide proper redress for victims and prevent future such violations. To date, Indonesia has failed to hold a single member of its security forces accountable for acts of sexual violence and other gross human rights violations which have occurred in the past.

President Widodo refers to multiple cases dating back to 1960s anti-communist crackdown Not a single member of Indonesia’s security forces has yet been held accountable ‘Merely mentioning the name of several tragic events is far from enough’

families with genuine truth, justice and reparation.”

uK goVernment HelPs It ComPAnY breAK Into AFrICA WItH £900K uKeF suPPort

UK Export Finance (UKEF) has provided £900,000 of support to Atlancis, a Kenyan cloud services company, enabling it to forge a new relationship with UK exporter Vespertec to unlock growth opportunities in Africa.

A Standard Buyer Loan Guarantee was offered by UKEF to guarantee an export credit loan from Apple Bank, supported by its UK servicer and arranger of the deal AF Capital. Both AF Capital and Apple Bank specialise in export credit debt.

Launched in February 2021, the Standard Buyer Loan Guarantee allows UKEF to guarantee a loan of up to 85% of a contract value, ensuring UK exporters get paid upfront and their buyers benefit from flexible repayment terms. The deal was brokered through UKEF’s international export finance executive who supports deals across East Africa.

Based in Stockport, Cheshire, Vespertec is a leading provider of server, network, and storage solutions for the data centre and technology industries. With its in-house logistics capabilities, it deploys the full spectrum of IT hardware solu-

tions around the world and, with a turnover in excess of £20 million, nearly half its business is driven by exports. With a number of deals in the pipeline, its partnership with Atlancis is expected to see Vespertec’s cloud hardware and software deployed across several sectors, including telecommunications, health and fintech. UK businesses, like Vespertec, are helping to accelerate the digitalisation of industries, creating more opportunities and fuelling growth

across African economies. Samir Parkash, interim CEO of UK Export Finance, said: UKEF’s support will help Vespertec strengthen its exporting business and expand into new markets. It shows the huge trading opportunities open to British businesses. You don’t need to be a big company to access UKEF support, in fact, 81% of the companies UKEF supported last year were small and medium-sized enterprises, the highest annual figure

on record.

Vespertec is a great success story of a UK business exporting nextgeneration technologies around the world.

Steve Evans, Finance Director at Vespertec, said: With UKEF’s support, we are tapping into a fantastic opportunity in Africa as part of our new partnership with Atlancis. We are excited for the future and the opportunity to increase sales in new geographies and sectors.

Philip Kaye, Director at Vespertec, added:

This deal is amongst a number of our recent successes that will create new roles in the business, strengthening our technical expertise and enabling Vespertec to meet the rise in demand for our products and services.

Dan Njuguna, founder and CEO of Atlancis, said:

We’re pleased to be partnering with Vespertec to support Kenya’s technology ambitions. Through the collaboration, our customers will benefit from cutting-edge IT solutions that delivers real benefits for their business.

Andrew Woolfson, Partner at AF Capital, adds:

The SBLG product has been a substantial success for UK exporters.

AF Capital and Apple Bank remain a leading funder of these transactions and will continue to expand with this product. With Vespertec and Atlancis as our partners on this particular project, it is a shining example of how these transactions can expand opportunities for UK exporters.

67 KILLED IN NEPAL PLANE CRASH

BANGLADESh, RwANDA SIGN AIR CONNECTIVITY AGREEMENT

Bangladesh and Rwanda have signed an air services agreement to enhance connectivity, trade and people-to-people ties.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to New Delhi Mustafizur Rahman and Rwanda High Commissioner to Bangladesh with residence in New Delhi Jacqueline Mukangira inked the deal in the Indian capital. The agreement will facilitate the move-

ment of people and goods between Bangladesh and Rwanda using the air route.

The air connectivity agreement is also expected to contribute largely to the economic growth between Bangladesh and Rwanda.

Bangladesh has taken initiatives to forge cooperation with Rwanda in different sectors, including agriculture, food processing; promotion and protec-

tion of investments, foreign office consultations and cooperation between the Foreign Service academies of the two countries. Both sides are having discussions to sign agreements in these areas. Initiatives have also been taken to organize a bilateral visit from Bangladesh to Rwanda and hold bilateral consultations between the foreign ministries.

The flight from Kathmandu slammed into the gorge and smashed to pieces between Pokhara’s domestic and brand new international airport on Sunday Poor record: Nepal’s air industry has boomed in recent years, carrying goods and people between hard-to-reach areas as well as foreign trekkers and climbers.

But it has been plagued by poor safety due to insufficient training and maintenance.

The European Union has banned all Nepali carriers from its airspace over safety concerns.

The Himalayan country also has some of the world’s most remote and tricky runways, flanked by snow-capped peaks with approaches that pose a challenge even for accomplished pilots.

Aircraft operators have said Nepal lacks infrastructure for accurate weather forecasts, especially in remote areas with

challenging mountainous terrain where deadly crashes have taken place in the past. The weather can also change quickly in the mountains, creating treacherous flying conditions.

In May 2022, all 22 people on board a plane operated by Nepali carrier Tara Air -- 16 Nepalis, four Indians and two Germans -- died when it crashed.

Air traffic control lost contact with the twin-propeller Twin Otter shortly after it took off from Pokhara and headed for Jomsom, a popular trekking destination. Its wreckage was found a day later, strewn across a mountainside at around 14,500 feet (4,400 metres) above sea level. After that crash authorities tightened regulations, including that planes would only be cleared to fly only if there was favourable weather forecast throughout the route.

UP TO £250 MILLION TO SPEED UP HOSPITAL DISCHARGE

Thousands of extra medically fit patients will be discharged from hospitals into community care settings, such as care homes, over the coming weeks to free up hospital beds and reduce pressure on the NHS, the Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay, is set to announce today (Monday 9 January 2023).

The government will make available up to £200 million of additional funding to immediately buy short-term care placements to allow people to be discharged safely from hospitals into the community where they will receive the care they need to recover before returning to their homes.

The move will free up hospital beds so people can be admitted more quickly from A&E to wards, reducing pressure on emergency departments and speeding up ambulance handovers. There are currently around 13,000 people occupying hospital beds in England who are fit to be discharged.

The additional £200 million – on top of the £500 million Adult Social Care Discharge Fund already announced which reached the frontline in December and is already helping discharge people more quickly – will fund maximum stays of up to 4 weeks per patient until the end of March. Integrated care boards – organisations that arrange health services in each local area – will begin booking beds that are most appropriate to patients’ needs.

The government is immediately making available additional £50 million in capital funding to expand hospital discharge lounges and ambulance hubs. Ambulance queues in some areas are made worse due to a lack of physical space – the new money will create new ambulance hubs where vehicles can manoeuvre more easily to avoid delays handing over patients. The

Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay, said:

“The NHS is under enormous pressure from COVID-19 and flu, and on top of tackling the backlog caused by the pandemic, strep A and upcoming strikes, this winter poses an extreme challenge.

I am taking urgent action to reduce pressure on the health service, including investing an additional £200 million to enable the NHS to immediately buy up beds in the community to safely discharge thousands of patients from hospital and free up hospital capacity, on top of the £500 million we’ve already invested to tackle this issue.

In addition, we are trialling 6 National Discharge Frontrunners – innovative, quick solutions which could reduce discharge delays, moving patients from hospital to home more quickly.

funding boost will also expand discharge lounges in NHS trusts – areas where patients can be moved out of acute beds while they wait to be discharged, freeing up beds in the meantime.

In a statement in Parliament later today, the Health and Social Care Secretary will outline a series of further measures to address current pressures facing the NHS over winter, including long waits for emergency care and delays to discharging patients who are medically fit to leave hospital.

This will include 6 areas trialling innovative long-term solutions to free up hospital beds and make sure patients get the right care at the right time, which could be rolled out across the NHS if successful.

“Sussex Health and Care, the Northern Care Alliance, Humber and North Yorkshire, One Croydon Alliance, Leeds Health and Care Partnership and Warwickshire Place have all put forward ideas that will help the patients in their area move out of hospital more quickly while providing continuity of care.

These ideas include dedicated dementia hubs, new offers of provision for rehabilitative care and creating effective data tools to help manage demand for discharge of medically fit patients – giving them the help they need to live comfortably in the community after a hospital stay.

This new programme will trial long-term solutions to issues which result in patients staying in hospital longer than neces-

sary. For example, one area, Leeds, is looking to improve how health teams in their local hospitals are working with those providing community services such as rehabilitation, which will mean better support locally for patients who need support after a hospital stay.

Prolonged stays in a hospital bed can contribute to poorer outcomes, particularly for older people, with increased muscle loss making rehabilitation harder, as well at the ongoing risk of exposure to infections and the impact on mental health. These delays also have a knock-on impact for other people, including those awaiting elective care and those needing urgent medical treatment.

The new measures follow the Prime Minister’s speech last week on building a better future, where he set out one of his key promises that NHS waiting lists will fall and people will get the care they need more quickly.

SINGER SHILPA RAO ON DEEPIKA PADUKONE IN ‘BEShARAM RANG’

Producer Aditya Chopra and director Siddharth Anand unveiled the first song of Pathaan, Besharam Rang, on Monday that has broken the internet! Shilpa Rao, who has playbacked the song for the ethereally gorgeous Deepika Padukone, says the song is addictive because of how Deepika is looking in it!

Shilpa who has sung many blockbuster hits for Deepika like Subhanallah and Khuda Jaane says, ”Deepika is a whole vibe in Besharam Rang and the track is addictive because of her! I have many sung many songs for Deepika but some have been of romance, some have been of falling in love, some have been of finding your true self, but this one is very different. This one is where she is confident in her own skin, she’s like taking on the world as brilliant as she is and she (her character in the film) is in fact embracing her good and the flaws that she has!”

The talented singer adds, “Deepika is saying that this is what I have to offer to the whole world and I think that is what I love about the song. Many women across the world need to feel really confident in their skin, no matter where we come from. We need to embrace our goodness with the flaws and really celebrate ourselves and that is what I love about Besharam Rang and really hope the audiences love it. Have a blast listening to it guys.”

The song features a sizzling Deepika with Shah Rukh Khan, who plays a gun-toting spy with a license to kill in Pathaan. Both are looking their hottest and fittest best as Deepika flaunts her hot bod in bikinis and SRK – a perfectly chiselled eight pack! Besharam Rang was shot in Spain’s most gorgeous coastal towns Mallorca, Cadiz and Jerez.

SRK and Deepika are one of the biggest on-screen pairings in the history of Indian cinema given their epic blockbusters Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express and Happy New Year. Pathaan is India’s biggest ever action spectacle for audiences. The visually spectacular Yash Raj Films’ action extravaganza, Pathaan, is part of Aditya Chopra’s ambitious spy universe and has the biggest superstars of the country Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and John Abraham in it. The adrenaline pumping, visually extravagant film is set to release on Jan 25, 2023 in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

AW Facts

Raj Kapoor’s ‘Mera Naam Joker’ was the first Hindi movie to have not one but two intervals

Did you know?

MEET JIM FROM ‘PATHAAN’

Pathaan is being touted as India’s biggest ever action spectacle that audiences have ever seen on the big screen.

The visually spectacular Yash Raj Films’ action extravaganza, Pathaan, is part of Aditya Chopra’s ambitious spy universe and has the biggest superstars of the country Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and John Abraham in it.

The makers are constantly dropping breadcrumbs to the fans and audiences so that they are constantly discovering new information about this most anticipated film in recent times. It looks like YRF released the jukebox of Pathaan on Friday and it interestingly has a Pathaan theme track and a Jim theme track which led to fans figuring out that John, who plays Pathaan’s arch-enemy, is going to be called Jim!

Director Siddharth Anand had earlier revealed that he will present John in a super slick avatar in Pathaan. He had said, “I have always believed in the fact that the villain’s projection should be as big, if not bigger than that of the hero’s. Only when the villain is massive, can the tussle between them be spectacular. And we have an extraordinary battle when SRK takes on John!”

YRF’s adrenaline pumping film is set to release on Jan 25, 2023 in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

PresentIng tHe FIrst song From ‘sHeHZADA’ ‘munDA sonA Hoon mAIn ‘

The first and the much anticipated song from Kartik Aaryan’s Shehzada Munda Sona Hoon Main is finally out and it will be fitting to say that the makers have done justice to the anticipation.

Ever since the leading duo Kartik Aaryan and Kriti Sanon teased everyone by dropping a glimpse from this peppy track, fans are eagerly waiting for the song. Shot in the picturesque backdrop of Mauritius, Kartik and Kriti can be seen bringing the heat and setting screen on fire with their sizzling chemistry!

Makers of the song comment, “Munda Sona Hoon Main is an infectious track that will become an instant earworm. Kartik and Kriti are nailing the track with their sizzling chemistry. This foot-tapping track that is hot and high on energy definitely has a vibe to it.”

This vivacious track that is sure to make you groove on its beats marks Kartik and Diljit’s first ever collaboration. It’s safe to say that the electrifying voice of Diljit Dosanjh compliments Kartik’s charming looks perfectly, making the song a treat to watch and hear! The Makers add, “It’s for the first time, Diljit Dosanjh is lending vocals to Kartik’s song that makes the song sound as well as look so fresh.” The song is also sung by Nikhita Gan-

Aaryan, the film is set to release on 10th February 2023.

dhi, lyrics penned by Kumaar and the upbeat music is given by Pritam. The action family entertainer She-

hzada is directed by Rohit Dhawan, starring Kartik Aaryan, Kriti Sanon , Manisha Koirala, Paresh Rawal, Ronit

Roy, Sachin Khedekar, music by Pritam, produced by Bhushan Kumar, Allu Aravind, Aman Gill and Kartik

neW breAst CAnCer sCreenIng unIts to sPeeD uP DIAgnosIs

and sustain the cancer workforce, to ensure our cancer services can provide timely treatment and care for everyone living with cancer, both now and in the future.

This government will continue to work with the NHS across cancer alliances, primary care networks and regional teams to increase the uptake of breast screening.

The life-saving investment includes 16 new mobile breast screening units, 13 additional static units, 58 live remote access upgrades for existing units and 10 software upgrades to carry out ultrasounds and Xrays.

These new units and service upgrades will allow more women to be screened earlier, improving outcomes for patients. Screening will be focused at sites where it is most needed, tackling health disparities and improving diagnosis rates in line with the NHS Long Term Plan.

This investment will also help deliver a more accessible NHS where patients receive care close to home.

According to the minister of State for Health, Helen Whately, These breast cancer screening units will mean more people can get checked for cancer, closer to home.

Most people will get the reassurance of an all-clear but for those who are diagnosed, catching their cancer early is the best thing we can do – and gets them on the path to early treatment too.

The mobile units will be used flexibly to target areas which will most benefit from increased opportunities for screening and the static units will be placed in areas to improve accessibility, uptake and coverage.

Those areas with existing units will also benefit from upgrades to improve screening by using the latest technology, ensuring the best possible care for patients.

The funding is now in place for NHS trusts to spend within

the 2022 to 2023 financial year and the timing for delivery of units will be individual to each trust.

This funding will help increase screening rates among women from communities and regions where uptake is lowest by improving facilities in both fixed and mobile locations, making it easier for more women to get checked, and we encourage anyone invited for a screening to take up their appointment without delay and help us catch cancers earlier when they are easier to treat.

The commitment to provide additional breast screening units was made in the Women’s Health Strategy published in July 2022 which is designed to improve equality of healthcare.

The government has also committed to improving diagnosis, treatment and survival rates as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. By 2028, the government has committed to 75% of people with cancer being diagnosed at stages 1 and 2, up from 55% and for 55,000 more people each year to survive their cancer for at least 5 years after diagnosis.

nosis and improve access to cancer screening services, particularly in areas where they are most needed, as we know the earlier someone is diag-

nosed the better their outcome is likely to be.

Alongside this, we also look forward to working with the government on steps to grow

Alongside this, Breast Screening Offices (BSO) are running extra screening sessions to clear any remaining mammogram backlog, although a large number of services have recovered. The NHS National Demand and Capacity Tool and NHS national round length planning tool have been developed and implemented to deliver better support and intervention so the best possible care can be given to patients.

We encourage people to check themselves and look out for any changes and if they are concerned, speak to their GP.

Steve Russell, NHS national director for screening and vaccinations, said: Screening is vital in detecting breast cancer early and getting better outcomes for patients, and this further investment is great news for improving access to breast screening services for women across England.

Continued investment in mobile breast screening units is one of the best ways to increase capacity – screening saves around 1,300 women every year with around 21,000 cancers detected. This is why each year more than 2 million women have breast cancer screening in the UK.

Ciarán Norris, Head of Campaigns and Public Affairs at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:

We

any

that helps to speed up diag-

Cancer diagnosis will be sped up for tens of thousands of women after the government pledged an additional £10 million to provide 29 new NHS breast cancer screening units and nearly 70 life-saving upgrades to services in areas where they are most needed.

welcome

intervention

Minister of State for Health Helen Whately said:

Catching cancer early saves lives. Last year 100,000 people were diagnosed with cancer at stages 1 & 2. This is the highest proportion on record but we want to do better still.

“

“

PHArmACIsts Able to suPPlY AlternAtIVe PenICIllIn to treAt streP A

Serious shortage protocols (SSPs) have been issued across the UK for 3 penicillin medicines in mid december 2022.

SSPs are a standard procedure, used frequently to manage temporary and potential medicine supply issues. They are a safe and effective way to ensure that medicines continue to be available for everyone who needs them, while saving time for patients, pharmacists and prescribers.

Issuing an SSP allows pharmacists to legally supply a specified alternative medicine, removing the need for the patient to return to the prescriber –which saves time in GP practices and inconvenience for patients. Usually when a patient presents a prescription, by law, the pharmacist can only supply what is on the prescription. If the medicine is not available, the patient must be sent back to the prescriber to get a new prescription for an alternative.

Demand for penicillin has risen recently as it is used to treat strep A and scarlet fever, and the increased demand means that some pharmacists are experiencing temporary and localised supply issues and may not have the specific formulation listed on the prescription.

There are 9 other SSPs currently active. They have been used to improve patients’ access to hormone replacement therapy drugs and were used extensively during the pandemic.

There are various versions of penicillin – liquid, sugar-free liquid and tablet – and the SSP issued today will give pharmacists the flexibility to supply an alternative formulation, if they do not have the one listed in stock.

The SSPs apply to the following medicines:

• phenoxymethylpenicillin

250mg/5ml oral solution sugar free

• phenoxymethylpenicillin

250mg/5ml oral solution

• phenoxymethylpenicillin

125mg/5ml oral solution sugar free

Minister of State for Health Will Quince said:

The increased demand for the antibiotics prescribed to treat strep A has meant some pharmacists have been unable to supply the medicine shown on the prescription.

These SSPs will allow pharmacists to

supply an alternative form of penicillin, which will make things easier for them, patients, and GPs.

We are taking decisive action to address these temporary issues and improve access to these medicines by continuing to work with manufacturers and wholesalers to speed up deliveries, bring forward stock they have to help ensure it gets to where it’s needed, and boost supply to meet demand as quickly as possible.

The Chief Pharmacist provided guidance to the profession last week, emphasising the importance of prescribers and local pharmacy teams working together to understand availability of

antibiotics locally and ordering antibiotics sensibly, so as not to put the supply chain under pressure.

The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows there is an out-of-season increase in scarlet fever and strep A infections. There is no evidence to suggest this is a new strain and it is likely being caused by high amounts of circulating bacteria and increased social mixing.

Strep A symptoms include flu-like symptoms, a sore throat, headache, fever, and muscle aches. If there is also a rash that feels rough like sandpaper it could be scarlet fever.

There are several viruses that cause sore throats, colds and coughs circulating. These should resolve without medical intervention.

However, children can on occasion develop a bacterial infection on top of a virus and that can make them more unwell.

For parents, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement.

The NHS website has more information on the signs and symptoms of strep A and scarlet fever.

ASIAN wORLD’S KITCHEN

COOKING IS JUST LIKE ACCOUNTING PROFESSOR / CHEF JULIAN YEO

By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author)

Chef Julian Yeo is a Clinical Associate Professor of Accounting at NYU Stern School of Business. Professionally is a professor of accounting he received a lot of teaching awards. Apart from playing with financial accounting numbers he loves to play with food ingredients in the kitchen and made cooking a hobby. Motivated so much towards cooking that he started taking recreational cooking classes in New York i.e., the Institute of Culinary Education, French Culinary Institute (FCI). After learning cooking, he made a habit to post food pictures cooked by him on his Instagram account @yeocancook.

Q.) Do you think accounting and cooking are interrelated? If yes, then how?

Chef Yeo: Just like accounting, cooking is about keeping things in balance. Instead of debit and credit, when I cook, I think about balancing spices with sweets, and fat with acid. With a touch of salt, you now have a dish with a depth of flavours.

Q.) Being a professor how will you define healthy food, especially for the school/college students?

Chef Yeo: My definition of healthy food is a little broader. Healthy to me is eating less processed food, preferably eating food prepared using fresh ingredients.

Q.) Which cuisine do you like to cook and why?

Chef Yeo: Over the years, I have enjoyed my exploration of different Asian spices, from Lemongrass, Szechuan peppercorns, Japanese Shichimi Togarashi, and Korean Gochujang to Fenugreek, Turmeric, and others. I always like to include an Asian “twist” in my cooking.

Q.) Did cooking brought any change in your life?

Chef Yeo: My cooking time is my time to decompress. It’s my meditative zen moments that I enjoy. When I chop ingredients, I don’t think about anything other than the tasks. It is a ritual that I look forward to daily. I feel that cooking has enriched my life.

Q.) Is cooking more difficult than doing accounting?

Chef Yeo: Practice, practice, practice! With practice, both cooking and accounting are not difficult. I guess having the right instructor/professor helps anyone to learn cooking, accounting, or both.

Q.) Why your plating is mostly in white & black cutlery, any specific reason?

Chef Yeo: I like the classic white or the modern black plates rather than more colourful plates or plates with design. To me, the white/black accentuates what’s on the plate. It forces our eyes to focus on the food items. I like the food to be the main focus.

Q.) Before cooking, you first learned it. So, do you agree cooking needs learning or that anybody can cook?

Chef Yeo: Everyone can cook. Elevated cooking is a learned skill that anyone can possess. Once you know the fundamental techniques (sauté, braise, stew, steam, roast, stir-frying, etc.) and how to treat the ingredients, making something delicious is within everyone’s capability.

Q.) Why your cooking time limit is only 30 minutes?

Chef Yeo: As a working professional, I don’t have the luxury of spending hours cooking. We have to eat, and I prefer to eat a home-cooked meal. For cooking to be a habitual life routine, I limit my active cooking time to 30 minutes (at least on weekdays). It is also a fun challenge that I set for myself.

Q.) Any advice for the upcoming chefs?

Chef Yeo: Keep doing what you love. The more you do, the more you will find people who appreciate or value what you do.

I LOVE FRUIT AND VEG – FAST NUTRITION FACTS!

1. Globe artichoke: Globe artichokes are both low in fat and low in carbohydrate and provide a good level of protein compared with other vegetables which tend to have values of less than 2%. They are high in folic acid and a source of potassium. They also provide useful levels of Manganese, Niacin and Magnesium. Globe Artichokes have been part of the gastronomic culture of the Campania Region in Italy for thousands of years and have both DOC and IGP status. The “Carciofo di Paestum” PGI artichoke, also known as “Tondo di Paestum”, from the name of the type from which it derives, is associated with the group of “Romanesco” type artichokes, known for the rounded appearance of its flower heads, their high compactness, and the absence of thorns in the bracts.

2. Racula / Salad rocket: Racula or salad rocket is a peppery tasting green originating in the Mediterranean region. Low in calories, carbohydrate, and fat, it is packed with the following vital vitamins and minerals for good health –high in both Vitamin K and Folic acid and providing a source of calcium, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium. Its dark green sprigs are a super-distinctive salad ingredient with an oh-so-peppery bite. In particular the Piana del Sele rocket with its unique flavour and distinct aroma, has received the prestigious European IGP mark.

3. Savoy Cabbage: is a winter vegetable and one of several cabbage varieties. It has crinkled, emerald, green leaves and is named after the Savoy region in France. It is high in both Vitamin C and

Folic acid and provides a source of fibre, Vitamin A, and potassium.

4. Basil: comes in many varieties, differing in size of the leaves to their fragrances echoing cinnamon or anise, even lemon. It adds colour and flavour to many dishes, particularly in Italian and Thai cuisine. Basil contains the antioxidants lutein and beta carotene, these carotenoids can protect us from disease and enhance our immune system. Basil is also high in the antioxidant Vitamins A and C as well as being high in calcium and Iron and providing a source of potassium.

5. Parsley: often thought of as a garnish, parsley has so much goodness: both nutritional and in flavour, making it so much more than a decoration! There are two types of fresh parsley – curly leaf and flat leaf which has a stronger flavour. Parsley has many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can provide important health benefits. It is a particularly rich source of Vitamin K which is required by the body for blood clotting and helping wounds to heal. Parsley is also rich in Vitamins A and C, Folic acid and Iron and a source of calcium.

6. Round lettuce: delicate in taste, texture and colour, it is the perfect gentle leaf for summer and famous for giving salads a base. Health benefits vary depending on the type of lettuce and a typical round lettuce, surprisingly, is a rich source of Vitamin K and a good source of Folic acid.

7. Prickly pear: ranging in colour from green, which isn’t very sweet, to red, which is the sweetest. Yellow and red prickly pears tend to contain the

most vitamin A and carotenes and they are also a source of vitamin C. In terms of mineral make-up, they are a source of magnesium and provide potassium and calcium. This unique variety of pear has both DOP and IGP protected status.

8. Red orange (Blood orange): have a dark red flesh and less acidic, yet slightly sweeter taste than regular oranges. They are full of anthocyanins, responsible for their dark red colour and these antioxidants help the body reduce damage from harmful free radicals. They are also rich in vitamin C. The Sicilian Arancia Rossa also has both DOP and IGP protected status.

9. Peaches: There are two varieties of peach, grown in two different regions of Sicily that have both been recognized by the European Union with PGI status. The Leonforte peach is cultivated with centuries old tradition and is a late season peach with yellow flesh. The Bivona peach is a velvety peach with creamy white flesh and slightly red veins. It is sweet with an unmistakeable scent, making it unique. Peaches are high in Vitamin C and provide useful amounts of Potassium and Vitamin K.

10. Coscia pear: is an Italian variety

of pear with creamy white flesh and a slightly scented, sugary flavour. They are low in calories, fat and provide us with fibre. They also contain useful levels of Potassium which helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contraction and nerve signals.

11. Watermelon: invigorating and refreshing, watermelon provides a natural source of hydration. Its cheery red colour comes from lycopene, an antioxidant in the carotenoid family. Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by compounds known as free radicals.

12. Spring onion: high in levels of Vitamins C and K, both of which are essential for normal functioning of bones. Vitamin C helps in the synthesis of collagen that makes your bones strong, while vitamin K plays a key role in maintaining bone density. While some cuisines eat only the white part, and others eat only the green part, the whole wonderful length of the green onion is delicious in its own way: like having two vegetables in one!

13. Kohlrabi: a bulb-shaped vegetable with a crisp, crunchy texture is part of the cabbage family. Less common in UK cuisine, it is high in both Folic acid and

Vitamin C and contains a wide array of antioxidants such as anthocyanins, isothiocyanates and glucosinolates.

14. Radish: the perfect vegetable to slice and add to a wide variety of salads, sandwiches or soups. A root vegetable with variable skin colour and an almost spicy, peppery taste. They are a good source of antioxidants like Catechin, Pyrogallol, Vanillic acid and other phenolic compounds. They are also a good source of Vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant to protect against cell damage.

15. Green and Red Lollo Salad: Lollo Rosso has more antioxidants than regular lettuce. It also contains Vitamins A and C and is a good source of both Folic acid and Potassium.

16. Asparagus: a spear-like vegetable and member of the lily family, it is one of several vegetables that act as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria which live in our digestive systems, helping them thrive and increase in number. It is a rich source of Folic acid and a good source of Vitamin C as well as providing useful levels of Vitamin E. 17. Sweet chilli peppers: can be tasty, sweet, or super-hot too! These peppers contain the compound capsaicin, which gives them a distinctive taste as well as several health benefits. Their characteristic red colour is an indication that they are rich in beta-carotene or pro-Vitamin A. Vitamin A is key in maintaining healthy vision and a healthy respiratory, intestinal, and urinary system. Also, Vitamins A & C are vital in building up your immunity against infections and illnesses.

ALIBABA PARTNERS WITH CHINA’S GEELY TO GIVE AUTOS A DIGITAL MAKEOVER

Alibaba Group said on Friday it is partnering with Chinese automaker Geely to accelerate the digitalization of the world’s largest car market.

The duo struck a broadranging strategic partnership on areas including cloud computing, sustainable development and digitalization of the automotive industry, Alibaba said in a statement.

Leveraging Alibaba’s digital capabilities and Geely’s expertise in smart vehicles, they will work on building digital solutions for the auto industry.

Connected, electric and autonomous cars are gaining ground in China.

The number of intelligent and connected vehicles in China will reach 28

million by 2025, accounting for 82% of cars in the country, according to China’s state agency National Development and Reform Commission.

Computers on Wheels Geely, one of China’s largest carmakers, has been making the leap from a traditional automaker to a mobility tech company. It has launched a series of electric vehicles with intelligent capabilities and doubled down on smart technologies to improve cars’ autonomous driving experience.

As cars become computers on wheels, cloud computing and artificial intelligence are essential for vehicles of the future.

Under the strategic partnership, Alibaba’s cloud computing arm will help Geely boost computing efficiency, and work with Geely’s research institute to explore building an intelligence computing platform.

It will also work with Geely to build data-

By Ivy Yu

driven manufacturing capabilities, powered by cloud-native technology. More than 70% of automobile companies in China rely on Alibaba Cloud for cloud computing services, according to Alibaba Cloud. Electric vehicle maker Xpeng worked with Alibaba Cloud earlier last year to launch a computing platform to accelerate AI training for its autonomous driving model.

Digital Revolution

To be sure, China’s auto industry is highly competitive. Carmakers are increasingly focused on enhancing consumer experience to gain an edge. Geely can rely on Alibaba’s e-commerce platform Tmall for marketing expertise. The e-commerce platform has provided a one-stop solution for consumers that want to buy cars online, from searching for their favorite models to vehicle pickup and delivery.

QANTAS AND IT’S TRAINING ACADEMY

Qantas, a flag carrier of Australia moved at Brisbane airport to open a new pilot training facility with the capacity to train around 900 pilots a year . The airlines in addition expanded the training centre in Melbourne and a new flight centre will be built in Sydney . The main reason to take this decision is as the majority of Qantas pilots are based in those

three eastern states so it will be a cost saving for Qantas.

Qantas Group flight training centre is home to four state of art aircraft simulators – B737 , B767F, B787 , QantasLink’s Q400, QantasLink Q400 FTD . It will provide recurrent training for 500 plus pilots based in Queensland and from other states and the new pilots who will join Qantas Group in fu-

ture. Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said, “ Qantas first flying school was set up in 1927 in a tin shed at Eagle Farm, so we’ve clearly come a long way since then. Having simulators based in Brisbane is great news for our Queensland based pilots and is a clear vote of confidence in the long term future of aviation in this country despite the challenges we’ve faced re-

cently . Training is a critical part of our business and the new Brisbane simulator facility will play a key role in helping us to maintain the highest standards of pilot skills and experience .”

Joyce further added , “ We have a pilot training academy in Toowoomba that is providing a pilot pipeline to Qantas Group and other airlines and some of the graduates have already secured pilot positions with QantasLink.

phase of their training program at the new Queensland facility.”

Cameron Dick Queensland Treasurer & Minister for trade & investment said, “ The “Q” in Qantas proudly stands for Queensland and it has been more than 100 years since the company was founded in Winton in 1920.”

Qantas Group Executive John Gissing said, “ The changes were made possible through support from the state

majority of our crew reside, we can reduce costs by millions of dollars a year through training them in their home base.”

The Queensland government is fully supporting this new facility and for this Joyce is very thankful to the Queensland government as it will give more jobs based in Queensland and the ongoing economy will boost the state.

The four simulators and flight

By: Rida Khan ( Aviation Author)

MAZDA CX-60 DIESEL UK SPECIFICATION AND PRICING ANNOUNCED

Arriving in the UK early next year the all-new Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D MHEV is available to order now. Powered by a powerful, clean and efficient all-new e-Skyactiv D diesel engine, the new model will be offered in the same Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi grades as the recently launched PHEV version.

The new diesel powertrain that will make its debut in the CX-60 is a Mazda first – a 3.3-litre in-line sixcylinder e-Skyactiv D diesel engine that features Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI) Technology. This highly innovative advanced combustion technology makes the new e-Skyactiv D unit one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world, achieving a thermal efficiency of over 40%.

Developed using the ‘right sizing’ concept which optimises displacement to improve both fuel and power efficiency, the all-new 3,283cc longitudinally installed common rail electric direct injection six-cylinder e-Skyactiv D unit will be offered with a choice of two power outputs: 200ps with rearwheel drive and 254ps with Mazda iActiv AWD (all-wheel drive). Featur-

ing a new 48v Mazda M Hybrid Boost system, the all-new diesel engine combines high output with excellent fuel economy. The new DCPCI technology improves engine efficiency, emissions and fuel economy. The combination of DCPCI and Mazda M Hybrid technologies contribute significantly to the CX-60’s outstanding driving range, performance, frugal fuel consumption and low emissions.

With an entry price of £42,990, the 200ps output engine is singularly offered in Exclusive-Line trim where it is matched to rear-wheel drive, additionally Exclusive-Line can also be specified with the higher-output 254ps version of the new engine for £45,630 and here features all-wheel drive. All Exclusive-Line CX-60s can be specified with the £1,400 Comfort Pack and £1,900 Convenience and Driver Assistance Pack ensuring there’s plenty of opportunity to tailor your CX-60. The £48,380 Homura is offered exclusively with the 254ps AWD drivetrain, as is the range-topping £50,730 Takumi grade – these cars can be specified with the optional Convenience and Driver Assistance Pack, while a Panoramic Roof is optional on Homura and

standard on Takumi.

As you’d expect from a Mazda, the new e-Skyactiv D powered CX-60 delivers an impressive blend of performance and efficiency, alongside the driver focused handling, impressive comfort and high-quality found across the CX-60 range.

The 200ps engine returns a WLTP average fuel consumption of 56.5mpg with CO2 emissions of only 129g/km in rear-wheel drive Exclusive-Line guise, while the AWD 254ps Exclusive Line, Homura and Takumi WLTP average fuel consumption is 53.3mpg with CO2 emissions from 137g/km. Refinement was also a key development goal of the all-new Mazda CX60 e-Skyactiv D diesel and the in-line six-cylinder configuration produces less vibration due to its characteristic ‘perfect balance’, for a smooth and quiet engine tone, whilst delivering a clean and engaging sound. The engine’s high torque delivery gives the CX-60 a 2,500kg trailer weight towing capacity, while as a result of its lightweight construction, the engine weighs similar to the 2.2-litre Mazda Skyactiv D four-cylinder diesel engine used in the Mazda CX-5, which helps

handling balance.

Commenting on the forthcoming Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D, Mazda Motors UK, Managing Director, Jeremy Thomson, said: “another demonstration of Mazda’s ‘Multi-Solution Approach’, the new diesel is designed to meet the needs of customers who want an efficient, long distance driving car with great towing capacity. The company’s multi-solution strategy offers different products and technologies – including more efficient internal combustion engines and a wide range of electrified powertrains, that best suit the local market and society’s demand for sustainability”

Adding, “while the PHEV will be the biggest selling CX-60 in the UK, the new six-cylinder diesel is a fantastic example of Mazda’s long-standing reputation for engine innovation and it will be a superb choice for many retail customers looking for a high-quality large premium SUV with a clean and efficient diesel engine”.

Additionally, an in-line straight-six 3.0-litre e-Skyactiv petrol engine will join the e-Skyactiv D and e-Skyactiv PHEV to complete the Mazda CX-60 powerplant line-up at a later date – of-

fering customers the wide choice of technologically advanced, highly efficient powertrains appropriate to the outstanding levels of craftsmanship and on-board technology offered by the CX-60 model range.

With the launch of the CX-60, Mazda takes another important step in its fleet’s emission reduction on its way to become entirely carbon neutral by 2050. In all, Mazda is launching five new electrified products in the next three years that feature its multi-solution platform architecture. After 2025, the company will launch its brand new Skyactiv EV Scalable Architecture, which will allow Mazda to efficiently build electric cars of all sizes using one common platform.

In 2023, the company will launch a new model, the Mazda CX-80, which is larger than the Mazda CX-60 and features three rows of seating. With the Mazda CX-60 PHEV in dealerships now with strong current availability, the all-new Mazda CX-60 diesel will arrive in the UK in the first quarter of 2023.

AUTO TRADER

COSTS DOwN

Prices at fuel pumps hit record highs across the UK, with the cost-ofliving crisis continuing at speed. In response to the eye-watering prices that show no sign of easing, Auto Trader, the UK’s largest marketplace for new and used cars, has provided consumers with a list of vehicles that will help keep their daily running costs down.

Erin Baker, Editorial Director, at Auto Trader, said: “Yesterday, the cost-of-living crisis hit new lows as fuel prices reach record highs. With little to no indication of when they’ll fall its reason enough to look at the fuel efficiency in your current and next car. Electric vehicles are a great option to keep daily running costs down, but the upfront cost of them is still a barrier for many. Therefore, we’ve highlighted some of the most efficient fully hybrid and mild hybrid cars that will help consumers keep those daily running costs down and capitalise on some seriously impressive MPGs.”

WALSALL SUCCESSFUL IN BID FOR EV CHARGEPOINT FUNDING

Walsall Council has been successful in securing £254k of grant funding from the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) as part of their On-street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) programme. This funding will be supported by £85k of match funding from the Council in order to deliver approximately 35 chargepoints across the borough. These chargepoints will be located in residential areas, allowing households without off-street parking to charge electric vehicles while their vehicle is at home. The council is asking residents for their views on the possible siting of the chargepoints in an online survey.

The chargers are expected to be used mostly for overnight charging, with a power of 7kW (see table below). Currently around 80% of all EV charging takes place at home, showing the critical importance of residential charging to the adoption of EVs.

These initial installations are part of delivering the Black Country UltraLow Emission Vehicles (ULEV)

Strategy which was consulted on in 2020. This bid is part of a larger Black Country ORCS bid securing £1.15m of grant funding, to deliver approximately 317 chargepoints at 158 locations across the region. Further installations will continue over the coming years, aiming to meet targets identified in the ULEV strategy of 761 Standard, 214 Fast and 19 Rapid and Ultra-Rapid chargers across the Black Country, in order to provide our residents with

a chargepoint within 500m of 95% of the Black Country.

Uptake of electric vehicles is already on a steep upward trajectory, exceeding 25% of new car sales in December 2021, but the Black Country is currently lagging behind the national averages for uptake. Lack of publicly available chargers is repeatedly cited as one of the key reasons for not switching to electric vehicles, so it is incredibly important that we increase the numbers of chargepoints available to residents across the region.

Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, Cllr Adrian Andrew said:

“The transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles is a key component of meeting the Council’s climate targets, as well as helping to improve air qual-

ity. The ULEV strategy also stresses the importance of transitioning the council’s own fleet away from combustion engines, as well as measures to reduce the overall number of vehicles in the region and the number of miles they cover which includes encouraging more walking, cycling and use of public transport.”

The chargepoints will be operated by a third-party chargepoint operator (CPO) who will collect the fees for usage from customers. The operator will be selected through a competitive process to ensure best value for residents. Anyone wishing to take part in the consultation can log on to www.walsall.gov.uk/EVcharging-consultation

be huge!

The show is always an extremely popular event for classic car enthusiasts and attracts a large audience from all parts of the UK, as well as international visitors. It follows a two-year hiatus for the show, having been forced to cancel in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic restrictions.

This year, not only is the show making a comeback, but it looks set to be bigger and better than ever before, and Classic Car Auctions Sales Manager, Gary Dunne believes this might be their largest auction yet; “When Covid-19 took hold in Spring 2020, one of the very first events to be cancelled was this event. Many of us remember the effects of lockdown, but very few people outside of the Classic Car world would have realised then the impact the pandemic would have upon our industry. Our trade has changed beyond recognition, with much more business being conducted online now than ever before, however there is a massive desire for customers to get back to normal. We can’t wait to get to the NEC, and it would appear our clients agree.

Our catalogue is bursting at the seams and our phones have been ringing off the hook with more entries to be considered. Everybody wants to be part of a winning formula and the thought of a great audience, with an appetite to catch up with friends old and new is almost certainly going to mean we have the biggest consignment of cars for one sale that we have had in years – possibly ever! We will have over

200 cars to offer, over two days of auctions, and may need to acquire more space given the number of cars being offered to us.”

Classic Car Auctions already have every type of Everyman Classic being offered in the sale, a large number of Porsches, BMWs and Mercedes-Benz, British Classics like MG, Triumph and Rolls Royce, Continental Classics by Lancia, Alfa Romeo and even an Australian Holden! There are American Classics, Campers Vans, and even a couple of complete originals that will not be repeated anywhere else. At the PCCCRS show there will be Barn Finds and Restoration Projects of course, but CCA will also have some show-winning cars and Concours standard vehicles that would be enjoyed by many a customer. With cars priced between £5,000 and £75,000 typically, CCA is hoping that customers come along in their thousands to enjoy being back out in the NEC.

Despite the volume of vehicles already consigned, there are still cars coming in and CCA have disclosed that there are three individual collections just in the process of being listed that amount to 50 cars between them – the details of which cannot be disclosed until next week, but they consist of a mix of British Classics, pre-War vintage and Americana. Watch this space!

To view the list so far, and for further details about all the lots under the hammer, refer to the Classic Car Auctions website, or to find out more about attending the show, visit www. necrestorationshow.com

Bidding for the sale can be done in person, online, by phone or via commission (pre-bid). For absentee bidding, please register online at least 48 hours before the auction day.

Classic Car Auctions (CCA) is getting set for their first auction of the year at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show which returns to the NEC, Birmingham from Friday 18th March to Sunday 20th March 2022, and it’s going to

LISTS THE MOST FUEL EFFICIENT CARS TO KEEP DAILY RUNNING

hIGh-FLyING BANGLADESh NOw ONE OF THE CONTENDERS IN U19 wC

Bangladesh U-19 women’s team’s victory against tournament favorites Australia was not an upset as the young Tigresses exhibited a dominating performance in their second match of Group A and clinched a 10-run win to secure a spot in the Super Six stages. Although they were not in contention as one of the favorites, this Bangladesh side look promising. Particularly their performance against Australia and Sri Lanka in the first two games and wins against South Africa and India in warm-up matches have made Bangladesh a side to watch out for. Marufa Akter and Disha Biswas, they have a pair of quicks who will cause top players plenty of problems, and the batting line-up appears to have plenty of strength in depth.

‘K I ng Ko H I s b ACK ’

India’s Virat Kohli won praise from the cricketing world on Monday after his third one-day international century in four matches silenced critics doubting his place in the team.

Kohli, 34, smashed an unbeaten 166 to lead India to the biggest-ever ODI win by 317 runs against Sri Lanka on Sunday, his 46th ODI ton and 74th in all formats.

The former captain ended last year with an ODI century against Bangladesh and began 2023 with another 113 in the Sri Lanka opener to announce his return as a run machine in style.

Kohli went through an extended lean patch last year, failing to reach three figures in over 1,000 days.

He quit as T20 skipper in late 2021 and in January 2022 was sacked from the ODI captaincy and gave up leading the Test side too.

“King Kohli” last week spoke again about his mental struggles during his dry phase, including how he had been “snappy” around his Bollywood actress wife Anushka Sharma.

“It’s wonderful to see Virat Kohli back

at his best in white-ball cricket, this unbeaten 166 was special even by his lofty standards,” batting great VVS Laxman wrote on Twitter.

Sri Lanka batsman An gelo Mathews called Kohli a “modern great” and Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kam ran Akmal said “he is the boss of this era”.

Senior Indian journalist Rajdeep Sardesai, son of former India cricketer Dilip Sardesai, hailed Kohli as the greatest ever ODI player.

“Recall how only a few months ago there were those questioning @ imVkohli future, esp (especially) in white ball cricket,” Sardesai wrote on Twitter.

But citing Kohli’s tournament-leading run tally at the T20 World Cup and two ODI centuries against Sri Lanka, Sardesai wrote: “the King is back”.