Following the move, the current government will have overseen a 14% reduction in light dues, equivalent to GBP5600 per million metric tonnes of cargo, with shipping minister Stephen Hammond indicating further reductions in 2015-16.
“Whilst Light Dues themselves continue to be something of an anachronism by international standards, this reduction is a boost to competitiveness and a sign that the UK is committed to improving its offering to the global shipping industry,” said UK Chamber ceo Guy Platten. “The UK’s lighthouse authorities provide a vital service for the seafarers who move 95% of UK trade, and this show of support from government is welcomed by the industry.
Michael Everard, chairman of the Lights Advisory Committee, added: “The reduction of 1p in the Light Dues Rate is extremely positive, it is a small but important step in the right direction, it will help UK shipping, and is further evidence that ministers in this Government are committed to a pro-shipping agenda and reducing taxes.”
Further, Hammond indicates that the Commissioners for Irish Lights will become self-funding by 2015, and that a highly contentious pension deficit for the General Lighthouse Authorities has now been resolved.
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