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Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 July 2026. It was answered by Keir Mather (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Ferries: Safety and Standards

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the safety and reliability of the ferry network.

Answer

Communities throughout the UK depend on reliable ferry services. Ferry services largely operate in a commercial environment. While the Government does not formally assess their reliability, it works closely with the port and ferry sector to avoid disruption to passengers if possible and to mitigate it when necessary. If a journey is disrupted, passengers are entitled to claim compensation. This process is overseen by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency oversees a rigorous system for the survey and inspection of the safety and working conditions of all commercially operating vessels visiting UK ports.

Through the Employment Rights Act 2025, the Department has introduced new powers to regulate certain matters relating to safe working on services calling at UK ports at least 120 times a year.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
14829
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Ferries Standards Safety
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk