The British government is sending a strong message for better working conditions for seafarers with the introduction of a new employment law. This aims to put an end to the controversial “fire and rehire” practices used by some shipping companies to enforce contract changes. In addition, collective dismissal protection regulations are to be tightened by requiring companies to make greater efforts if they plan to dismiss 20 or more employees. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stressed the importance of these changes, which will 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 on cost savings at the expense of employee rights. The background to this legislative initiative is the outcry following the controversial decision by the ferry company P&O to lay off hundreds of its seafarers and replace them with lower-paid agency workers – a case that made waves in 2022. 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 passed Seafarer’s Wages Act, which from December 1, 2024 requires foreign operators to pay seafarers who regularly call at British ports at least the national minimum wage. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh underlined the urgency of action following the “national scandal” of mass redundancies by P&O. The aim of the legislation is also 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 across the English Channel. The draft proposes the introduction of “powers” to facilitate international standard agreements on seafarers’ working conditions. The Nautilus union welcomed the initiative. Martyn Gray, director of organization at Nautilus, highlighted that this addresses long-standing issues in the industry. He promised to work closely with lawmakers to ensure the best possible protection for maritime professionals.
