Ferry services (Integration and Regulation) Bill

The Ferry Services (Integration and Regulation) Bill establishes a new regulatory framework for ferry operators across UK waters, requiring them to meet standardised safety, environmental, and service quality standards. It creates mechanisms for integrating ferry services with other transport networks (such as buses and trains) to improve journey planning and ticketing. The bill grants the relevant transport authorities powers to set service requirements, monitor compliance, and potentially subsidise routes deemed socially necessary but commercially unviable. This represents a shift toward treating ferries as part of integrated public transport systems rather than standalone commercial operations.