I am shocked at the extreme and callous treatment demonstrated by P&O Ferries in its decision to make 800 employees redundant by pre-recorded video message. It is my understanding that ministerial colleagues are examining the actions of P&O Ferries to determine the legality of this action. Moreover, I am aware that the Secretary of State for Transport has announced the Government's intention to review all contracts it has with P&O Ferries and its parent company, DP World. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has also been instructed to inspect all P&O Ferries vessels prior to any return to sea.
I would like to assure you that the Government takes these matters very seriously. I am pleased it has confirmed its intention to bring forward an Employment Bill and create a new single enforcement body for employment rights which would bring together three existing workplace rights enforcement bodies into a single, recognisable organisation tasked with protecting workers from unlawful practices. I will continue to monitor this matter as it develops.