Press Notice No: 39/10
Monday, February 08, 2010
Posted 18:14 GMT

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) today launched a six week public consultation on proposals for new legislation to regulate ship-to-ship transfers (STS) and bunkering operations of oil in UK waters.


The legislation will regulate transfers of cargo consisting wholly or mainly of oil, between ships in UK territorial waters so that:

- cargo transfers can only take place after an application to the Secretary of State by a harbour authority for an oil transfer licence.
- once the licence has been granted, cargo transfers which are within the scope of the oil transfer licence may be authorised by the harbour authority.
- bunkering operations can only take place in harbour areas (no requirement for an oil transfer licence).

Shipping Minister, Paul Clark, said:
The MCA works hard to keep our waters clean and safe.

These measures will ensure that the highest standards of safety and environmental protection are applied when oil is being transferred to or from a ship.

Interested parties should not hesitate to contact the MCA with their comments on this important consultation.
The consultation closes on 22nd March 2010. Full details of the consultation can be found on the MCA website, at:
http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/shipsandcargoes/consultations/mcga-currentconsultations/cp-con-sts2010.htm

Notes to Editors
1. The Regulations are made under section 130 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995. The aim of the Regulations is to control cargo transfers and bunkering operations of oil within the UKs territorial waters.

2. The harbour authority where the transfer will take place must apply for an oil transfer licence. This will require an assessment of the possible environmental impact of the transfer before consent can be given for the transfer.

3. The Regulations also implement the European Habitats Directive in respect of cargo transfers and this means that harbour authorities will also have to consider whether there will be a significant effect on any European designated conservation site.

4. Harbour authorities that currently carry out bunkering operations will not be required to apply for an oil transfer licence.

5. The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities. Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org

6. Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

7. Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media

For further information please contact
Maritime and Coastguard Agency Press Office, on:
(023) 8032 9401


Posted By: Maggie Hill

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Press Office
023 8032 9401