Received from: Nautilus
This Congress notes with concern the continuing challenges in future-proofing and growing UK maritime skills and training. Currently, the government is falling short of the Maritime Skills Commission’s (MSC) recommendation for 100 per cent funding, which creates disincentives for shipowners and financial barriers for young people, leading to dropouts and a lack of diversity in the Maritime Industry.
Congress notes that the fragmentation of maritime training and a lack of direct accountability for training providers to the Maritime & Coastguard Agency and DfT further exacerbate these issues.
Congress believes that inadequate investment in our Merchant Navy’s skills base undermines national security and resilience.
Congress calls upon the TUC General Council to support Nautilus International’s campaign for:
i. 100 per cent SMarT funding and a minimum training allowance to support trainee maritime professionals, recognising the significant economic return (£4.80 to GDP for every £1 invested)
ii. the establishment of a single national maritime training provider accountable to the MCA and DfT to ensure consistent, high-quality training provision
iii. a comprehensive review and reform of the UK Tonnage Tax to incentivise shipowners to register vessels on the UK flag and provide quality onboard training and subsequent employment to British seafarers. These measures are crucial for securing a steady stream of highly skilled maritime professionals, supporting a just transition, and revitalising the nation’s maritime industry and its contribution to the nation’s security and resilience.
Nautilus International