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Royal Fleet Auxiliary: Conditions of Employment

Asked by John McDonnellLabourMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 2 March 2026UIN 113440

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will provide an update on the implementation of the (a) Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2024 and (b) Employment Rights Act 2025 for merchant seafarers in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones

RFA seafarers already receive the full statutory rights provided under the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2024 and the Employment Rights Act 2025. Since September 2025, the RFA has operated an independent assessment system, supported by external advocacy and assurance, to ensure all applications for flexible working are handled fairly. These robust arrangements place the RFA at the forefront of best practice across the maritime industry.

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