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Britain's maritime sector needs better treatment for workers and investment in new technology and cleaner fuels to compete internationally, MPs said. According to a report by the Transport Select Committee (TSC), there is a "huge business opportunity" in the development of intelligent and autonomous ships for the UK. He urged the Department for Transport (DfT) to publish the result of a consultation on the regulation of innovative technologies so that 'momentum' is not lost.
The sector will need sustained support
There is a need for "great clarity" on how the government's vision of the UK being a world leader in zero-emission shipping will be achieved, the committee found.
This includes a "defined plan to decarbonise the maritime sector with clear and measurable objectives for the country and abroad," he said.
The maritime industry "needs certainty" about the fuels and types of vessels that will be supported as part of efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions.
The report warned that the government's response to P&O Ferries' decision to lay off nearly 800 seafarers without notice in March last year "will not be enough to ensure proper treatment" of workers still in this role.
The measures announced by the DfT included plans to enforce minimum wage requirements.
The TSC called for the promised social charter to be introduced “as soon as possible” and made mandatory.
This must include "concrete actions to hold employers to high standards and support better mental health," the committee said.
Iain Stewart, who chairs the TSC, said: "There are a range of things the government should be doing to support the sector and help it achieve its decarbonisation ambitions and remain a positive force on the global stage and for the UK economy.
“The sector will need sustained support to meet the challenge of drastically reducing carbon emissions.
“Many will support government plans to apply the equivalent of the UK minimum wage for seafarers who frequently work here, even on overseas registered vessels, but that will not be enough to ensure that seafarers receive the proper treatment.
“We urge the government to come forward with their promised social charter as soon as possible and make it mandatory for UK operators.
"And while fairer wage enforcement should help repair the industry's reputation after the shocking practices witnessed by P&O Ferries, we heard there was much to be done to raise the industry's profile as a career option among young people. , women and people of diverse origins".
A DfT spokesperson said: “We are delighted that the Transport Select Committee recognizes the important contribution of the UK maritime sector and the work that has gone into developing the strategy.
“We want to build on the good progress made to achieve Maritime 2050 and look forward to responding to the report in due course. »
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