The UK maintains a set of guidelines for dealing with a request for a place of refuge from a vessel in distress. These guidelines, currently under review, complement European Union guidelines that cover cooperation between neighbouring Coastal States for maritime place of refuge incidents. The UK and EU guidelines are both consistent with International Maritime Organization resolution A.949 (23); Guidelines on Places of Refuge for Ships in Need of Assistance.

The UK has designated the Secretary of State’s Representative for Maritime Salvage and Intervention (SOSREP) as the Competent Authority concerning the accommodation of ships in need of assistance. Where a formal request is received by the UK from a vessel requiring provision of a place of refuge, in the first instance, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will conduct an assessment of potential locations. Areas considered may be ports, harbours or anchorages in sheltered areas. The UK does not maintain a prescribed list of places of refuge; anywhere may be considered for suitability, depending on the nature of the incident, not least the potential hazards presented by the vessel in question. The MCA will provide a list of options to the SOSREP who ultimately decides whether the UK is prepared and able to offer a place of refuge, and if so, where that place will be.

For a nuclear-powered vessel, the Office of Nuclear Regulation and the Civil Nuclear Constabulary would be contacted. During the process of considering place of refuge options, the MCA will consult with local stakeholders, including the local Environment Group and relevant local authorities. However, the extent to which consultation is possible would depend on the urgency of the situation and ultimately, the SOSREP has the delegated authority to direct where a vessel will go. This decision would be made based on the best interests of the UK as a whole with specific regard to safety and/or the environment.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) response planning to manage incidents involving dangerous cargo, including nuclear fuel, is contained in the ‘The National Contingency Plan - A Strategic Overview for Responses to Marine Pollution from Shipping and Offshore Installations’ and other operational response procedures.

Her Majesty’s Coastguard will provide an initial assessment and incident response within minutes of being made aware of any maritime incident. The timing of any subsequent response will depend on the nature, scope and scale of the incident and the risks to the public and the environment.

In the case of an incident involving a nuclear-powered vessel, Her Majesty’s Coastguard will seek technical support from a ship’s owners, classification society, naval architects and insurers. They would also seek the advice of International Nuclear Services, the Office of Nuclear Regulation and the Civil Nuclear Constabulary and other relevant experts.

Her Majesty’s Coastguard was aware of the routeing and passage plan of the SEVMORPUT through the English Channel on its way back to St Petersburg and was constantly monitored by both the UK and French Authorities. The ship arrived safely in Russia on 30 December 2020 without incident.