Keith Brown News

If the Scots vote for independence in September's referendum, it could hit the country's shipping and offshore maritime sector, according to a survey by leading international accountant and shipping adviser Moore Stephens, cited in Maritime London’s fortnightly news – ‘London Matters’. The survey of leading members of the shipping industry found that 55 per cent of respondents believed a yes vote damage the industry. However, 74 per cent said they had no plan of action if Scotland voted to abandon the Union, indicating a high level of confidence in a no vote on 18 September. According to the Moore Stephens survey, 74 per cent said they had no plan of action if Scotland voted to abandon the Union, indicating a high level of confidence in a no vote on 18 September.

A cutting edge ferry, which is the second of two hybrid vessels, was launched on the Clyde today at Ferguson's shipyard in Port Glasgow. The ferries are being built following a Scottish Government investment worth over £20 million, which has continued the proud heritage and tradition of shipbuilding on the Clyde. The hybrid ferry MV Lochinvar is one of only two passenger and vehicle roll-on, roll-off ferries in the world to incorporate a low-carbon hybrid system of diesel electric and lithium ion battery power. The innovative vessel was launched by Mrs. Patricia Platten, wife of Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) CEO, Guy Platten.