UK maritime security experts have welcomed David Cameron’s announcement that UK registered ships will be allowed to carry armed guards in a bid to thwart piracy off the coast of Somalia.
Haymarket said the move will almost certainly lead to multi-million pound savings for businesses and economies.
John Bisseru, maritime specialist at risk consultancy Haymarket, said: “There has been a real desire across the maritime industry to make meaningful progress on this issue but there’s been more talk than action. Now we see some action and this announcement will be widely welcomed. It should also be followed by other countries.
“The facts are that as soon as a vessel is taken it’s generally a negotiation from there on in. We have even seen the absurd situation where even the threat of a vessel being boarded has been enough for negotiations to begin.
"Prevention is the way forward and qualified and trained armed guards will be a significant step. There will obviously have to be detailed discussions with the Home Office regarding the provision and security of weapons on board civilian vessels but this a welcome, logical and sensible development.”
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