Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, If he will take steps to protect employment for UK (a) Ratings and (b) Officers as a result of P&O Ferries’ decision to register its short sea fleet between Dover and Calais under the Cypriot flag.

While I am disappointed that P&O have taken this decision I understand that it is for commercial reasons and that the company will not be changing the terms and conditions of seafarers or making any seafarer redundant. I am expecting to meet with senior members of P&O in the New Year.

UK ratings and officers working on P&O ferries and who have a contract of employment under GB or UK law will have their employment rights protected under UK employment legislation.