Shadow Secretary of State criticises Labour’s ‘big mistakes’

1 February 2010

Shadow Cabinet member Theresa Villiers addressed the Chamber of Shipping annual dinner last night, strongly criticising Labour’s record on maritime policy.

Mrs Villiers said:

 'Shipping has been an important part of our economy for centuries and the UK's remains a global centre for maritime services.

“But the industry faces grave challenges--both economically and environmentally--and Labour's big mistakes on light dues, ports rates, and spectrum pricing are not helping this vitally important industry to get back to its feet. 

“Conservatives are committed to creating the right climate to help maritime businesses grow in the UK and ensure that this country's shipping prowess remains world-class.'

In his speech, Chamber President Jesper Kjaedegaard defended elements of the Government’s work, such as the tonnage tax – a policy which he said was to the “lasting credit” of the Labour Government, but expressed his frustration at the regular change in Ministerial personnel.

“Don’t get me wrong. We have had some good and committed Secretaries of State and indeed Shipping Ministers as well. The problem is, we have had too many, in too short a time.

“Over the past 5 years we have had no less than 5 different Secretaries of State and 3 different shipping ministers. It seems that every time the incumbent minister begins to get on top of the issues, No 10 decides that it’s time to move on to something more sexy than shipping.  What we need is for any UK Government to recognise – actively – the value and importance of shipping and the maritime services sector by making sure that we receive direct and consistent attention from senior ministers.

 Click here to read Mr Kjaedegaard’s speech in full.

The Chamber of Shipping Annual Dinner hosted approximately 500 guests from the UK maritime industry, Westminster and the City of London.  The event took place at the Hilton, Park Lane, London.

ENDS