- A group of MPs has launched a cross-party parliamentary group to champion the cruise sector
- The initiative aims to highlight the industry’s economic contribution
- The group is the first of its kind focused specifically on cruise
- Darren Paffey is chair of the group
- The cruise industry supports more than 69,000 jobs across England
A group of MPs has launched a cross-party parliamentary group to champion the cruise sector in England. The All-Party Parliamentary Group is the first of its kind focused specifically on the cruise sector. The group is designed to act as a link between parliamentarians, ministers, civil servants and industry leaders.
The group consists of more than 20 MPs and members of the House of Lords. Darren Paffey, Labour MP for Southampton Itchen, serves as chair. Lord Davies of Gower and Llinos Medi serve as vice-chairs. The Cruise Lines International Association will manage administrative support.
The group aims to capitalise on the cruise sector’s position at the intersection of England’s maritime and visitor economies. Primary priorities include boosting regional employment in the 50 plus ports visited by cruise ships, exploring policies for environmental sustainability targets and helping communities manage tourism flow. The cruise industry directly supports more than 69,000 jobs across England, which maintains its standing as the world’s third-largest source market for cruise passengers.
Darren Paffey shared “The group aims to capitalise on the cruise sector’s unique position at the intersection of the England’s maritime and visitor economies.”
