BIFA disappointed with increase in UK Light Dues

BIFA had hoped that the Department for Transport (DfT) would re-think the proposed increases, fearing that such a decision would force shipping lines to bypass UK calls, resulting in port job losses and poorer services for UK importers and exporters.

Light dues will rise to 39p per net registered ton (nrt) from 1 July this year, with a further increase to 43p on 1 April 2010. At the same time, the maximum number of chargeable voyages each year will also rise from seven to nine, with the upper tonnage threshold of 35,000 nrt increasing to 40,000 nrt in 2010-11. The increase in the voyage cap will mean that the short-sea and ferry industries will see a 43% increase in light dues.

Commenting on the decision, Peter Quantrill, BIFA director general, said, “BIFA recognises that the government has made some concessions following sustained opposition from many in the shipping industry and we acknowledge the absolute importance of maintaining such a significant service for the shipping industry. However, we still feel these increases are excessive, particularly in the current economic conditions”.