The Department for Transport has laid a statutory instrument (SI) introducing minimum rest periods and protections for seafarers, and requiring operators to pay seafarers at least minimum wage for cross-channel services.
Maritime Minister, Keir Mather said:
"Seafarers spend weeks at a time away from their families, working through long nights and rough seas, so the rest of us can travel and have the food, medicine and goods we rely on. The least they can expect in return is fair pay and proper rest.
"That is what these new laws guarantee. Crews on Channel crossings will be legally entitled to at least the minimum wage for the whole of their journey, as well as time off the ship to ensure they get the rest they need. Seafarers have waited long enough for this, and I am proud that we have delivered it."