Overview

The Marine Navigation Aids Bill establishes two new bodies: the Marine Navigation Aids Commission (the Commission) to operate and maintain navigation aids, and the Office of Marine Navigation Aids Regulation (the Office) to regulate the Commission. The bill also amends the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 to transfer responsibilities for marine navigation aids from existing authorities to the new bodies.

Description

The bill creates the Commission, a corporate body funded by the General Lighthouse Fund, responsible for operating and maintaining navigation aids (lighthouses, buoys, beacons, etc.) across UK waters, including collecting light dues. The Secretary of State appoints the Commission's members and chairperson.

The Office, also a corporate body funded by the General Lighthouse Fund, will regulate the Commission, ensuring safe and efficient operation of navigation aids, setting light due charges, and administering the fund. The Secretary of State appoints the Office's members and chairperson.

The bill transfers responsibilities for operating and maintaining marine navigation aids from existing general lighthouse authorities and the Secretary of State to the Commission and the Office. It makes numerous consequential amendments to the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 to reflect this transfer and clarify the powers and responsibilities of the new bodies. This includes provisions regarding commercial activities of the Commission, control over local lighthouses, and administration of the General Lighthouse Fund, including pensions.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly increase or decrease overall government spending. The Commission and Office are funded by the General Lighthouse Fund, which is financed by light dues paid by ships. However, there may be transitional costs associated with the transfer of responsibilities and establishment of the new bodies.

Groups Affected

• Shipping companies: Will be affected by the new system for collecting light dues, potentially leading to changes in fees.
• General Lighthouse Authorities: Will have their responsibilities transferred to the Commission and Office.
• Local Lighthouse Authorities: Will be subject to directions from the Commission regarding the operation and maintenance of lighthouses, buoys, and beacons.
• Employees of General Lighthouse Authorities: May experience changes in employment, including pension arrangements.
• The Secretary of State: Will have a reduced role in the management of marine navigation aids, but retains responsibility for appointing members of both new bodies and for overseeing the Office's annual report.

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