Maritime Minister to address BPA 2023 in London

Baroness Vere, the UK Maritime Minister, will make the opening keynote address at the British Port Association (BPA) annual conference 2023, hosted by the Port of London Authority (PLA).

Over 400 delegates from across the country will gather by the Thames in the heart of the capital for the three-day event (17-19 October) to discuss the sector’s priorities, including policy, safety, innovation, skills, and the transition to Net Zero.

The conference, themed Navigating the Future, will feature expert speakers and panellists from around the world.

During the opening session, the Minister will highlight ports’ role in not only our economy but the UK as a whole and underline the need for sustainable development. She will also discuss the importance of developing talent and creating a new generation to lead in innovation within our ports.

Richard Ballantyne, BPA Chief Executive, said: "We are delighted to welcome the Minister to give her perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing ports up and down the country.

“Our conference is an important annual coming together of our members to listen and learn from each other and colleagues around the globe, boosting our collective ability to deliver growth and protect the environment.”

Robin Mortimer, PLA Chief Executive, who also chairs Maritime UK, said: “The development of port trade has shaped the modern face of London, making it the ideal location for us to consider how the sector can continue to play a pivotal role in the nation’s prosperity and well-being in coming decades.

"A big part of that will need to be working out together how we can make the vital transition to a Net Zero economy.

“I am looking forward to hearing the minister’s remarks, along with those of all our other distinguished contributors later in the week.”