Among other topics scheduled for coverage, Andrew Burr, Head of the Regulatory Branch in the Ports Division at the Department for Transport and architect of the Port Marine Safety Code, will discuss how the Code is being implemented following an extensive review at the DfT.

He will also provide insights of the Port Division's plans for the future.

In another interesting presentation, Dr Mike Hadley, QinetiQ's EU Research Project Manager, and Jeff Walton of SML Technologies will outline developments in the support now becoming available to vessels from VTS Centres and other sources via either carry aboard or permanently fitted equipment. The concept has recently been the subject of an EU research project titled Innovative Portable Pilot Assistance (IPPA) and has led to a revised view of how Vessel Traffic Management might be conducted in the future.

Those interested in attending the UKHMA Spring Seminar should contact Julie Martin at IMarEST on Tel: +44 (0)207 382 2655 or Fax: +44 (0)207 382 2667. The registration fee is £100 (including VAT) for UKHMA/IMarEST/NI members and £120 for non-members.