Posted on: 5 October 2016
A year on from the publication of the UK Maritime Growth Study and its Recommendations, stakeholders from government and across the UK’s maritime sector came together to examine how the Recommendations were being implemented and to consider the next steps required to achieve the maximum growth of the industry as a whole. Organised by Maritime London and the City Corporation the ‘Charting the way ahead to maritime growth’ event was held on 3 October at Mansion House and was hosted by the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Lord Mountevans.
Lord Mountevans, who continues to be Maritime London chairman, commented: “One year on from the Study’s publication, there has been progress.
My position as Lord Mayor probably hasn’t allowed me to keep as up-to-date as I’d like with the study’s progress. But it certainly has allowed me to meet a huge range of interlocutors, at home and overseas, and discuss the perception of the UK sector in great detail.
The good news is that our reputation remains high. From the Far East to South America I have heard people praise both the quality and the breadth of our services.”
Philip Rutnam, permanent secretary, Department for Transport said: “If there is one message I want to convey it is that the Government remains completely determined to take forward its role in implementing the Maritime Growth Study.
‘If anything events since publication have only heightened the significance of recognising and acting on it.”
David Dingle CBE, chairman of Maritime UK added: “Having taken on the mantle of the promotional body set out in the study, Maritime UK has expanded its membership and remit, bringing together for the first time all of the sectors of the maritime and marine industries under one umbrella. So too have we deepened the connection between the industries and social partners and strengthened our relationships with government.”
The second session of the conference focused on opportunities for maritime players arising from Brexit. Lord Mountevans commented: “The Brexit vote has sent shockwaves through many City sectors. But it also presents opportunities for those ready to grab them. For as long as London has existed as a commercial hub, its success has relied upon a strong maritime sector. 90% of world trade still moves by sea, and our sector supports around half a million jobs around the UK, many highly-skilled wand well-paid. By keeping the sector working smoothly, we will ensure that the country remains open for business.”
