Make your view count.

UK Shipping Minister Stephen Ladyman is seeking views on the paper, entitled: “Towards a future Maritime Policy for the Union: A European vision for the Oceans and Sea.” Reports on the paper could mould the future direction of EU policy on a number of maritime issues.

Dr Ladyman said: “The European Commission intends to develop formal proposals based on the outcome of a Europe-wide consultation and it is vital that the UK has a strong, informed voice in this process. So it’s important that all UK maritime interests reflect on the document and send us their comments.” Interested parties have until February 28 to deliver their views.

Questions raised in the EU Maritime Green Paper range from views on the need for an integrated EU maritime policy, to how best to tackle the shortage of Europeans entering maritime professions. Specifically covering ports, the consultation paper asks how the EU can best ensure the continued sustainable development of ports.

Further information on the consultation and the Maritime Green Paper are available from the DfT website:www.dft.gov.uk.