Brexit: UK Strengthens Workers' Rights for Seafarers

The British government is making a strong statement for better working conditions for seafarers with the introduction of a new employment law. This aims to end the controversial practices of "fire and rehire" used by some shipping companies to enforce changes to contracts. Additionally, collective redundancy protection regulations are to be tightened by requiring companies to make greater efforts when planning the dismissal of 20 or more employees. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasized the importance of these changes, which aim to allow workers to resist abrupt changes to their working conditions. She also sees this as an opportunity for exemplary employers to focus on quality and innovation, rather than cost-cutting at the expense of workers' rights. The background of this legislative initiative is the outcry following the controversial decision by ferry company P&O to dismiss hundreds of their seafarers and replace them with lower-paid agency staff—an incident that caused a significant stir in 2022. The cruise company Carnival UK also came under pressure and withdrew its plans to take similar measures after criticism and discussions with the Nautilus union. The law complements the previously enacted Seafarer's Wages Act, which from 1 December 2024 will require foreign operators regularly calling at British ports to pay seafarers at least the national minimum wage. Transport Minister Louise Haigh underlined the urgency of the measures following the "national scandal" of mass dismissals by P&O. The legislation also aims to improve working conditions for seafarers internationally. Together with the French government, the UK has already taken steps to protect the rights of ferry workers beyond the English Channel. The draft includes the introduction of "powers" to facilitate international standard agreements for seafarers' working conditions. The Nautilus union welcomed the initiative. Martyn Gray, Director of Organization at Nautilus, highlighted that it addresses long-standing issues within the industry. He pledged to work closely with lawmakers to ensure the best possible protection for maritime professionals.