Overview

The Marine Navigation Bill amends existing legislation concerning pilotage, harbour authorities, and manning requirements for merchant ships. It primarily focuses on providing the Secretary of State with powers to issue closure orders for harbours that are no longer commercially viable and to streamline the process for designating competent harbour authorities.

Description

Competent Harbour Authorities:

The bill modifies the Pilotage Act 1987, giving the Secretary of State (and relevant ministers in Scotland and Wales) the power to temporarily suspend a harbour authority's designation as "competent". This power requires consultation with the affected harbour authority and others deemed relevant. The process for amending or revoking such orders is also simplified.

Harbour Closure Orders:

The bill adds a new section to the Harbours Act 1964, allowing the Secretary of State (and relevant ministers in Scotland and Wales) to issue "closure orders" for harbours. These orders can relieve harbour authorities of all or specified statutory functions, potentially transferring these functions to other bodies. The orders can also address property transfer, liabilities, employment rights, and pension schemes. The Secretary of State must publish guidance on the circumstances for issuing such orders, focusing on the need to close commercially unviable harbours.

Manning Requirements:

The bill amends the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 to allow the Secretary of State to reference other documents when setting standards of competence for merchant ship crews. This allows for greater flexibility and easier updating of these standards.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify any direct figures for government spending. However, potential costs may arise from implementing closure orders (e.g., compensation, infrastructure work), and the ongoing administration of the new powers granted to the Secretary of State and devolved ministers.

Groups Affected

• Harbour Authorities: Potentially impacted by designation as incompetent or closure orders. This could lead to financial implications, job losses, and changes in operational responsibilities.
• Employees of Harbour Authorities: Risk of job losses or transfer of employment if a harbour closure order is issued. Pension scheme changes are also possible.
• Shipping Companies: May face disruptions or changes in pilotage arrangements if harbour authorities lose their "competent" designation.
• Local Communities: May experience economic consequences if a harbour closes, particularly in areas heavily reliant on port activities.
• Environmental Bodies: Involved in consultation processes, particularly regarding closure orders that impact environmentally sensitive areas.

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