Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether key worker status remains available for all foreign crews of ships visiting UK ports; and whether those crews will be allowed to go ashore unless there are known specific health risks.

The Government has ensured the UK has remained open for seafarers of all nationalities throughout and post pandemic – whether that’s to take shore leave, receive vaccines, or be repatriated. The UK is proud that it has treated all seafarers properly in line with established international conventions. The government remains committed to the welfare of seafarers, and work continues to strengthen legislation in this area.

Key workers provide essential services which keep the country functioning. Seafarers are regarded as key workers due to the critical work they carry out to keep our maritime trading routes open. Whilst COVID related restrictions in the UK ended in April 2022, seafarers retain key worker status.