Scottish Offshore Wind Supply Chain Readies
International energy consultancy Xodus Group is working with Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Development International (SDI) to showcase the expertise of Scottish supply chain companies in the global offshore wind sector.The aim of the collaboration is to create a directory and gap analysis which helps Scotland-based suppliers capture a greater share of the burgeoning offshore wind market — forecast to be worth an estimated GBP 30 billion per annum by 2030 — by advertising their experience and capabilities on the new Scottish Industries Directories platform.Due to launch later in 2019, it is hoped the website will become a one-stop…
Cancelled Ferry Contracts Renew Push for Grayling's Resignation
Britain's transport minister was under fresh pressure to resign after the government stacked up a 50 million pound ($65 million) loss for cancelling contracts to charter extra ferries to bring in essential supplies in the event of a no-deal Brexit.The decision to award the contracts has been a major political embarrassment after it emerged the government handed out a 14 million pound contract for extra ferries to a company that owned no ferries and published terms and conditions on its website that appeared to be for a takeaway food business.Then…
UK Opposition Party Chides Government Over Ferry Contract
Britain's opposition Labour Party on Monday criticized the government for awarding a 14 million pound ($18 million) contract to a ferry company with no ships to provide backup freight cover in the event of a no-deal Brexit.Labour's transport spokesman, Andy McDonald, said the transport ministry had failed to carry out proper checks on the company, Seaborne Freight."The Department for Transport's claim that it carried out due diligence is increasingly incredible given the mounting evidence of a lack of relevant expertise or experience," McDonald said."Our economy depends on these trading routes continuing to function yet [Transport Secretary] Chris Grayling is prepared to rely on amateurs in the event of a no deal…
British Ports Association Comments on UK’s Future Border Arrangements
The British Ports Association has consistently supported the Government’s ambition for frictionless trade with the EU post-Brexit, said Mark Simmonds, Policy Manager at the British Ports Association. In that regard we welcome the debate prompted by the speech made by the Labour Leader, Jeremy Corbyn, this week supporting a form of customs union with the EU as a step towards avoiding potential disruption at ports. Many of the checks done on goods at the border are non-customs checks and we will continue to make the case for avoiding stoppages at ports, including veterinary and plant health standard inspections in order to avoid disruption to supply chains. This is particularly true at Roll-on Roll-off ferry ports which support many in ‘just-in-time’ logistics chains.
Northern Marine Lands Commercial Contract
Northern Marine, known for its long-range expedition yachts and luxury craft, has stepped into the commercial market with a recent multi-vessel contract. The Anacortes, Washington-based builder has already begun construction on the first two boats, which are slated for completion in 2013. Details of the agreement are private, but Northern Marine president Andy McDonald said the vessels will be based in the United States. "We've been looking to the commercial market as a growth opportunity, and are pleased that we can now utilize our experience and craftsmanship in a new vein," he said. Northern Marine's recreational yachts are known for their rugged construction.
