The Department for Transport is responsible for the security of ports, shipping and cargo. This section provides details of the work undertaken and information on key programmes, initiatives and guidance for industry personnel. There are also details on security training for people working in the maritime sector.

• UK’s national maritime security programme
• Best management practices for protection against Somalia based piracy
• Port security approved training providers
• Maritime security training aids
• Port Facility Security Assessments (PFSA) and plans (PFSP) – flowchart
• Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP) – template
• Model Ship Security Plan – template
• Pre-arrival notification procedure in UK ports
• Vessels outside the scope of the ISPS code – guidelines

Piracy

• Guidance to UK flagged shipping on measures to counter piracy, armed robbery and other acts of violence against merchant shipping
• Interim guidance to UK flagged shipping on the use of armed guards to defend against the threat of piracy in exceptional circumstances
• Best Management Practices
• Written ministerial statements: The Use of Private Armed Guards on board UK Registered Ships under Exceptional Circumstances to defend against Piracy
• Press releases: Change in UK policy on employing armed guards to protect against Somali piracy
• Speeches: Chamber of Shipping Annual Dinner