SMarT programme funding receives a boost
UK Government made clear their support for the maritime sector as theyannounced increased funding for training and a cross-departmental approach to policy – following asummit of shipping industry leadershosted by the Prime Ministerto discuss UK competitiveness – at the start ofLondon International Shipping Week.
Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said today that the 12 million a year budget for the government’s ‘Support for Maritime Training (SMarT)’ programme would receive a boost of up to 3 million a year, an increase of 25%, supporting up to an additional 200 trainees a year.
Government and MaritimeUKalso today published a booklet, ‘Open for maritime business‘ showcasing the depth of expertise and history offered by the UK across a full spectrum of maritime services and ‘Strategic partnership plans for ports and shipping’. These plans identify key priorities for maintaining a vibrant, quality and sustainable shipping industry and a thriving UK ports industry.
Kenneth MacLeod, President of the UK Chamber of Shipping said:
“This is a clear vote of confidence from Government on the ability of the maritime sector to create UK jobs. UK shipping supports 190,000 UK jobs and the wider maritime sector supports 540,000 jobs. UK employment has grown 6% since 2009.
“I started my career as a junior rating on a ship’s galley and I know first-hand that giving young people more opportunities to work at sea is vital to the continuing success of our maritime economy. As a result of today’s announcement, more young people will have the chance to follow in my footsteps and build a career in global trade.”
Mark Brownrigg, Director-General of the UK Chamber of Shipping said:
“The Strategic Partnership Plans announced by Government today show real confidence in the maritime services sector and its continuing growth.
“We welcome the plans for shipping and ports and – through Maritime UK – are now working on the one for business services.
“Working together across Government departments is creating a new focused, joined-up approach to maritime policy and further increase the sector’s contribution to the UK economy and jobs.
“The sector is already worth up to 32bn per year to the economy and is steadily growing. The full spectrum of maritime services provides 540,000 jobs.
“The UK is at the heart of the world’s maritime business and we will continue to work with Government to build a strong future.”
Source: UK Chamber of Shipping