Omicron

This last week has again brought into focus the difficulties the world faces dealing with Covid-19. The recent discovery of the Omicron strain has seen a tightening of rules here in the UK as well as the speeding up of the roll out of booster jabs.

We also know that more than 50 countries have reinstated travel restrictions and for the shipping industry there are real worries that this will impact both passengers and seafarers. The crew change crisis continues to be a huge issue and seafarers will once again fall victim to these new, tighter restrictions. The team at the Chamber are in close contact with stakeholders including the International Chamber of Shipping and we will monitor the situation closely. Should any members have any queries on this, please do get in touch with our Policy Director Tim Springett who will be happy to assist.

International Trade Select Committee

On Wednesday, our Policy Director Gavin Simmonds gave evidence to the International Trade Select Committee on the global supply chain crisis. The Committee explored the impact the coronavirus has had on supply chains, the issues facing UK ports, and the impact on importers, exporters and consumers. It is recognition of the expertise of the Chamber that we were asked to appear in front of the Committee and you can watch the session back here.

ICS survey

The International Chamber of Shipping has launched its first annual ICS Maritime Barometer Survey. The survey, which contains multiple choice questions and can be completed in less than 15 minutes, gathers the views of those holding senior leadership roles (c-suite or c-suite equivalent) on issues such as risk resilience, future proofing, and decarbonisation. The survey closes on 10^th December and the information you share is completely anonymous. The survey will be used to create an annual report which will be distributed to stakeholders early in 2022. If you can, please do take the time to fill out this important survey.

We are also running our annual Survey to ensure we are providing members with the very best service. If you haven’t completed it yet there is still time, and it shouldn’t take more than 5-10 minutes. You can complete the survey by clicking this link.

Members drinks

Next Tuesday we will be holding our Supervisory Board meeting. Following the meeting we will be hosting a members Christmas drinks reception at 30 Park Street. This is open to all members, and it is our opportunity to thank you for your kind support this year and a chance for you to meet some of the Chamber’s Supervisory Board, staff, and other members of the UK Chamber of Shipping.

We have limited places, so if you would like to attend then please do register as soon as possible here. The government has been clear that Christmas plans should carry on as normal and we are looking forward to seeing many of you on Tuesday. If you do plan to attend, please consider completing a rapid lateral flow test within 48 hours before the event.

Annual Dinner

Finally this week I am delighted to confirm Denholm Shipping as the sponsor for our President’s Reception at our Annual Dinner. The President’s Reception will host a small gathering of VIP’s ahead of the main dinner and we thank them for their ongoing support. The Annual Dinner is taking place on 7^th February and to book your table please contact Donna Stevens.

Sarah