MP marks Merchant Navy Day by paying tribute to contribution to Britain
The Merchant Navy was vital during both world wars
A city MP marked Merchant Navy Day by paying tribute to its historic and continued contribution to the UK and its operations around the world.
Merchant Navy Day, which takes place every 3 September, was established in 2000 to recognise and spread awareness of the UK’s commercial shipping vessels, from cruise ships to tankers and cargo ships of all description.
According to the charity Seafarers UK, the maritime community charity, merchant seafarers are responsible for more than 90% of the UK’s imports and 95% of the UK’s traded goods
In 2015, the “Fly the Red Ensign” campaign was launched by the Seafarer’s Charity to address the lack of awareness about the contributions of merchant seafarers. Since its inception, the campaign has grown into a significant national event.
The Red Ensign, known affectionately as the ‘Red Duster,’ is flown at historic properties, political establishments, parish and town council offices, and village greens across the UK. This powerful symbol serves to highlight the indispensable role of merchant seafarers – past, present, and future.
The bravery of Merchant Navy seafarers has kept supply lines open during global conflicts, such as both world wars, along with global crises, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Merchant Navy has supported the UK through challenges faced as a result of recent closures of the Strait of Hormuz.
Marking Merchant Navy Day, Stephen Morgan, MP for Portsmouth South, said: “I pay tribute to the Merchant Navy for playing a crucial role in the UK’s history. By upholding our overseas trade, they have kept us going not only through World War One and World War Two, but also through the Covid-19 Pandemic.
“Merchant Navy Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of and give thanks for the major contributions of the Merchant Navy, ensuring that their efforts are understood and never taken for granted.
“That is why I continue to support Seafarers UK’s campaign for the Red Ensign to be proudly flown every year from civic buildings and landmarks across our country, including here in Portsmouth.”