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Merchant Shipping: Containers

Asked by Alison GriffithsConservativeDepartment for TransportTabled Answered 12 January 2026UIN 103590

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what oversight exists of compliance with cargo securing requirements for container vessels, including how such compliance is monitored and enforced.

Answered by Keir Mather

Foreign Flagged vessels in UK ports are subject to Port State Control Inspections in line with the Paris Memorandum of Understanding, an Inspection Regime to which the UK is a committed signatory. Cargo securing is subject to inspection at these attendances.

UK Flagged vessels to which the International Safety Management Code applies are audited in relation to vessel operations, including cargo stowage and securing. Vessels required to have Cargo Securing Manuals have these approved either by the MCA or by a Recognised Organisation authorised to do so on their behalf. UK vessels are also subject to general inspections.

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