It is essential to ensure that their legitimacy is enshrined in law
Officers union Nautilus International has given support to the UK government over its plans to establish a legal framework for armed guards on ships.
While accepting that armed protection is now widespread, with UK flagged vessels among the growing number that routinely employ private security personnel on ships that sail through waters where pirates operate, Nautilus nevertheless says it is essential to ensure their legitimacy is enshrined in law.
Amending existing statutes to allow for firearms on merchant ships is absolutely essential, said Andrew Linington , the Anglo-Dutch unions campaigns and communications director.
