New Honorary President of the British Maritime Pilots Association
The British Maritime Pilots Association (UKMPA) has appointed Lord John Hendy KC as its new Honorary President.
This appointment recognizes Lord Hendy’s lifelong dedication to workers’ rights, trade union advocacy and extensive involvement in the transport sector. His expertise in employment law, industrial relations and workplace safety will support UKMPA’s efforts to champion pilot welfare, safe operations and high professional standards in the maritime industry.
UKMPA, which represents more than 500 highly skilled maritime pilots responsible for safely navigating ships through the UK’s complex waters, looks forward to Lord Hendy’s leadership in promoting the vital role pilots play in keeping trade safe and efficient.
“Lord Hendy’s unrivaled expertise in employment law and his unwavering support for transport unions make him the ideal person to support UKMPA in advancing its mission,” said Chris Hoyle, Chair of UKMPA.
Lord Hendy succeeds Lord Tony Berkeley OBE, who served the UKMPA with distinction for 27 extraordinary years.
“We are very grateful to Lord Tony Berkeley for his extraordinary tenure.” said Jason Wiltshire, Deputy Chair of UKMPA.
“Under his presidency, the Association has grown in influence, advocating tirelessly for pilot safety, training, standards and recognition of our profession’s important contribution to the UK maritime economy. Tony’s engineering background and passion for ports and harbors have been instrumental in shaping policies that protect pilots and strengthen the safety of navigation. His legacy will be long-lasting, and we wish him success in his continued work.”
Mr Hendy
Lord Tony Berkeley OBE has been a pillar of the UKMPA since 1998. During his tenure, he raised the profile of maritime pilotage and fostered collaboration between government and industry stakeholders. His work has helped the sector to meet challenges such as regulatory change, technological advances and the post-Brexit UK port landscape.
As a former member of the board of Fowey Harbor Commissioners, Lord Berkeley also contributed to practical improvements in sustainable maritime operations and port management.
Lord John Hendy KC brings unrivaled expertise in the areas of trade union law, industrial relations and workplace health and safety. As Standing Counsel for many years at the Transport and General Workers Union (now Unite the Union) and other major unions, he has represented workers in important disputes, and achieved victories in industrial accident cases – including two cases that reached the Supreme Court.
Lord Hendy’s advocacy directly supports UKMPA’s priorities of strengthening pilot protection and increasing industry engagement. He said: “I am amazed by UKMPA members who work tirelessly to protect ships, ports and the marine environment.
“Their expertise protects 95 per cent of UK trade, which is worth billions of dollars to the economy. I am honored to be following in Lord Tony Berkeley’s footsteps and excited to advance pilot training, standards and engagement across the wider industry.”
UKMPA extends its sincere thanks to Lord Tony Berkeley for his unwavering commitment over nearly three decades. His leadership has safeguarded the profession, amplified its voice, and inspired a new generation of models and advocates.
Source: British Maritime Pilots Association (UKMPA)
