Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 90
There is a fine balance that needs to be struck when it comes to regulating...
Conclusion
There is a fine balance that needs to be struck when it comes to regulating for smart shipping and autonomous vessels. It is important that innovation is able to flourish whilst ensuring that safety standards are maintained and that there is a measure of certainty to guide investment. Leadership and coordination—of the kind promised by the proposed Centre for Smart Shipping—are also crucial. There is a major commercial opportunity for UK innovators, who have been at the forefront of developing marine and maritime autonomy to date. This momentum must not be lost.
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee. Funding has been devoted to the Centre for Smart Shipping with an aim to launch the scheme before the end of 2023 and provide a coordinating function in new and emerging technologies.
Paragraph Reference:
90
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government agrees. As noted in the response to recommendation 7, the £206m UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) was announced as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh on 10 March 2022. A portion of this funding has been devoted to the Centre for Smart Shipping with an aim to launch the scheme before the end of 2023.The Centre will aim to provide a coordinating function in new and emerging technologies, building on the UK’s strengths in smart shipping systems.