Overview

The Marine Navigation Bill aims to improve safety and efficiency in UK waters by updating regulations concerning pilotage, harbour authorities, and general lighthouse authorities. It introduces new qualification requirements for pilots and harbour masters, strengthens harbour authority powers, and allows general lighthouse authorities to engage in commercial activities under specific conditions.

Description

Pilotage

The bill amends the Pilotage Act 1987, introducing new requirements for pilot qualifications, set by the relevant national authority (Secretary of State for England and Wales, Scottish Ministers for Scotland, and the Department for Regional Development for Northern Ireland). It also clarifies pilotage notification procedures and strengthens the ability to suspend or revoke pilotage exemption certificates.

Harbour Authorities

The bill amends the Harbours Act 1964, granting designated harbour authorities the power to issue directions regarding ship movement, mooring, equipment, and manning within their harbours. It also introduces a process for harbour closure orders, allowing the cessation of harbour maintenance when no longer commercially viable or necessary.

General Lighthouse Authorities

Amendments to the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 allow general lighthouse authorities to enter into commercial agreements (hire and service agreements) with the consent of the Secretary of State, provided these do not jeopardize their primary functions.

Miscellaneous Provisions

The bill includes consequential amendments to existing legislation and introduces a commencement order, allowing the Secretary of State to determine the date of implementation. It also sets out new manning requirements for ships.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not explicitly detailed. However, potential costs could arise from the implementation of new regulations, the processing of applications, and potential compensation payments related to harbour closures or certificate revocations.

Groups Affected

• Pilots: Subject to new qualification requirements.
• Harbour Masters: Subject to new qualification requirements.
• Harbour Authorities: Gain new powers (directions, closure orders) and responsibilities.
• General Lighthouse Authorities: Can engage in commercial activities under specified conditions.
• Ship Masters: Affected by new pilotage notification requirements and harbour directions.
• Ship Owners: Potentially impacted by cost changes relating to pilotage, harbour fees, and new qualifications.
• Environmental Groups: May be consulted in relation to harbour closure orders that have environmental impacts

Powered by nyModel