Category: Policy

MobilityPolicy

Cumbria Launches Rural Bus Franchising Initiative Backed by £500K Government Funding

Cumbrian councils have secured approximately £500,000 in government funding to explore bus franchising models for rural areas. The initiative aims to address declining services and improve regional connectivity. Officials indicate this pilot could establish new standards for rural transportation systems nationwide.

Government Backs Rural Transportation Study

Cumbria is set to become a testing ground for innovative rural transportation solutions with a new bus franchising study, according to reports. The government has provided approximately £500,000 to Cumbrian councils to manage the pilot program, which aims to explore how franchising models could revitalize rural bus services. Sources indicate the study will focus on improving connectivity, boosting passenger satisfaction, and driving economic growth throughout the region.

by Natalie Brooks
PolicyTechnology

Meta Introduces Enhanced AI Safety Features for Teen Users Amid Regulatory Scrutiny

Meta is developing new parental controls that will enable restrictions on teen interactions with AI characters across its platforms. The announcement comes as federal regulators examine potential risks of AI chatbots for younger users. Company officials indicate the features will begin rolling out early next year.

Enhanced Parental Oversight for AI Interactions

Meta Platforms is developing new parental control options that will allow parents to restrict their teenagers’ interactions with artificial intelligence characters, according to reports. The upcoming features will enable parents to completely disable one-on-one chats with AI characters and block specific AI personas their children might encounter. Sources indicate parents will also gain visibility into the topics their teens discuss with these chatbot systems.

by Darren Holt
PolicyTrade

China’s Central Bank Announces New Measures to Boost Global Yuan Usage

Chinese monetary authorities are implementing new measures to promote the yuan’s global usage, according to central bank sources. The initiatives aim to streamline cross-border trade and expand financial market access for foreign institutions. These developments signal Beijing’s continued commitment to internationalizing its currency.

China Expands Yuan Internationalization Efforts

Chinese monetary authorities have announced new steps to facilitate global usage of the yuan, according to reports from central bank sources. The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) pledged to make it easier for both domestic and international institutions to utilize the Chinese currency in cross-border transactions.

by Sarah Collins