New legislation aimed at protecting seafarers from unscrupulous employers is set to be introduced to Parliament this week, following outrage over the mass dismissal of nearly 800 staff by P&O Ferries two years ago. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh described the actions taken by P&O as "an outrageous example of manipulation by an employer," and she emphasized the government's commitment to prevent similar situations from recurring.
Under the proposed laws, operators planning to dismiss 20 or more employees will be legally required to notify the government beforehand, thereby allowing authorities to take action against rogue employers. Failure to comply could result in prosecution or unlimited fines. The government hopes to close the loophole exploited by P&O, where workers were dismissed without warning and replaced with agency staff earning significantly lower wages.
Haigh stated, "This issue has been ignored for over two years, but this new Government is moving fast and bringing forward measures within 100 days." She highlighted the importance of these changes, indicating they serve both workers by protecting their rights and responsible businesses competing fairly.
Critics of the previous administration have been vocal about the need for stronger workers' rights legislation. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner noted, "These long-overdue changes will shield workers from the mistreatment of having their terms and conditions ripped up before their eyes." The government's approach aims not only to safeguard jobs but also to improve job quality across the sector.
P&O Ferries' actions made headlines when the company announced its decision abruptly, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for regulation changes. This incident underscored the urgent need for new protections for workers within the maritime industry, spurring discussions about inadequate labor protections.
Josh Lansdown, one of the few former P&O workers to speak out, expressed frustration over what he perceives as the government backtracking on its promises. After refusing to accept £30,000 from P&O to go quietly, he raises concerns about the forthcoming legislation, expressing doubts about its sufficiency. Lansdown questioned the government’s commitment to upholding the rights of workers who had felt betrayed by P&O’s swift actions.
Lansdown articulated, "She’s nearly had her hands on the levers of power for approximately 100 days; why have these contracts with DP World not been suspended and reviewed? This is really upsetting to working people. They're meant to be the Labour Party, the party of working people." His sentiments resonate with many workers who feel overlooked and anxious about potential future job insecurity.
The government’s new Employment Rights Bill not only aims to address collective dismissals but also stipulates payment of the national minimum wage of £11.44 per hour for all crew working on UK waters. This new directive is under the Seafarers’ Wages Act, set to be enacted from December 1st.
Haigh stressed, "Make no mistake, this is good for workers and good for business." She added, “Cowboy operators like P&O Ferries will no longer be able to act with impunity, undercutting good employers.” This sentiment reflects the government's desire to cultivate a repeatable model of ethical employment practices.
P&O Ferries, facing severe backlash and legal scrutiny, expressed support for any legislation aimed at creating level playing fields among ferry operators. The company has undergone significant changes to its operational practices to comply with new legal standards.
While seafarer unions have lauded the government's initiative as necessary, they are urging extra measures to protect seafarer conditions. Union representatives have highlighted not only fair wages but also the importance of reasonable working hours and crew rotations.
Gemma Griffin, vice-president of global crewing at DFDS, another major ferry operator, celebrated the new regulations. She indicated it would help restore equity among ferry operators, allowing those who understand the value of good labor practices to thrive.
Currently, most cargo and cruise ships may not be significantly impacted due to operating primarily in international waters. Nevertheless, the government is pushing for broader regulations encompassing all forms of maritime work to guard against exploitation.
The Labour government has called for the maritime industry to embrace fair employment practices, as they look to cement fundamental worker protections. Alongside the immediate changes, Haigh admitted there would be challenges addressing the concerns raised within international maritime law.
Finally, three years post-scandal, it appears the UK government aims to turn tragedy to opportunity, implementing changes to safeguard workers’ rights and establishing firm standards across the maritime sector, all sparked by the staggering events at P&O Ferries. This marks not just policy adjustments but conveys to workers they are seen, heard, and prioritized within this newly committed framework.
