Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, following the entry into force of the International Maritime Organisation International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments on 8 September, what action they are taking to ensure compliance through Port State Control, including the issuing of guidance to port operators and shipowners, and the policing and monitoring of the regulations; and how they propose to fund those activities.

The Government is committed to implementing the Ballast Water Convention domestically and officials are currently working to develop appropriate legislation. Guidance has been issued by means of a Marine Information Note which is available to port operators and shipowners.

The UK implementation will include further guidance, alongside specific requirements for inspection and enforcement through Port State Control. It is expected that these activities will be delivered through the normal operating budget of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.