Overview

This bill establishes a Marine Navigation Aids Commission and an Office of Marine Navigation Aids Regulation to take over responsibility for the operation and maintenance of marine navigation aids in the UK from the current general lighthouse authorities. It also makes amendments to the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 to reflect these changes.

Description

The bill creates two new bodies:

• The Marine Navigation Aids Commission: This body will be responsible for operating and maintaining navigation aids (lighthouses, buoys, beacons, etc.) and collecting light dues from ships entering UK waters. It will be funded by the General Lighthouse Fund and will be independent of the Crown. The Secretary of State will appoint the Commission's chairperson and other members.
• The Office of Marine Navigation Aids Regulation: This body will regulate the Commission's work, ensuring safety and efficiency. Its responsibilities include setting light due charges, administering the General Lighthouse Fund, and commissioning relevant research. The Secretary of State will also appoint this body's chairperson and other members.

The bill also amends the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 to transfer responsibilities from the Secretary of State and general lighthouse authorities to the new Commission and Office. This includes transferring the administration of the General Lighthouse Fund to the Office and making provisions for commercial activities by the Commission with the consent of the Office.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly increase or decrease overall government spending. The funding for both the Commission and the Office will come from the existing General Lighthouse Fund, which is financed by light dues collected from ships. However, the bill alters the administration of this fund, which may indirectly impact government resources depending on the efficiency of the new system.

Groups Affected

• Shipping companies: Will continue to pay light dues, but the amount may change as set by the Office of Marine Navigation Aids Regulation.
• General lighthouse authorities: Will lose their responsibilities for operating and maintaining navigation aids.
• Marine Navigation Aids Commission and Office of Marine Navigation Aids Regulation employees: Their employment will transfer to either the newly created Commission or Office.
• Secretary of State: Will have less direct involvement in the day-to-day operations of marine navigation aids but will retain oversight responsibilities.

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