Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to ensure that the necessary licences for marine autonomy sea trials to take place can be granted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The MCA have engaged with Harbour Masters and the Defence Maritime Regulator to facilitate creation of maritime autonomy sea trial areas. MCA are also in discussions with the Government Legal Department to explore avenues for providing the necessary certification. Necessary guidance is also being drafted to communicate the requirements to all concerned, prior to any agreement.