The UK’s marine industries contribute £3.7 billion to the UK economy each year, according to figures released by the Marine Industries Leadership Council. Comprising well over 5,000 companies, the marine industries employ around 120,000 people across the UK and have a combined turnover of £10 billion. With more than 20 per cent growth in shipbuilding and marine leisure between 2006 and 2008, future growth in the marine industries is expected to amount to billions of pounds for the UK through expanding international markets and marine renewable energy. "These figures highlight the importance of the marine industry to the UK economy and to the skills and jobs market.