New guidance has been released by the UK Government
Following the announcement that British merchant ships will be able to arm themselves against the piracy threat – new guidance has been released by the UK Government.
The UK Chamber of Shipping has welcomed the news.
Head of security and defence, Gavin Simmonds said: “Shipping minister Mike Penning has been the force behind this cross-departmental policy change on armed guards for ships which strikes a good and practical balance – we welcome this outcome.
“There is continued pressure for military and other complementary solutions to the piracy crisis and we need to be clear that arming our ships is only a small part of the wider solution.”
The new guidance includes the factors ship owners should take into account when conducting a risk assessment before a voyage and advice on choosing a private security company (PSC).
Companies wishing to use armed guards will need to submit a detailed counter piracy plan to the Department of Transport, according to the guidance.
Also, any PSC employed will need prior authorisation from the Home Office for possession of prohibited firearms.
This new guidance will be kept under review to ensure that it continues to meet anti-piracy efforts both nationally and globally.
Source: The Motorship
Also see relative article Guidance to UK Flagged Shipping on Measures to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery
