Debt of gratitude to our sailors

Sir, – Ships still carry the bulk of the UK’s requirements of food, fuel and raw materials and transport our vital exports.

Containerships, bulk carriers, tankers, reefers, fishing trawlers plus a large number of humble coasters and short sea traders have a part to play in the smooth working of the complicated international supply chain.

Britain no longer owns a large part of the world’s merchant tonnage and even part of what is still owned is flagged out for tax and other reasons.

This does not however diminish the work and responsibilities of UK seafarers which the current situation has tended to highlight, with crews stranded in foreign ports working far beyond their current contract terms.

With the uncertainty created by Brexit looming, plus the substantial reduction in passenger numbers due to coronavirus, an even greater reliance will be placed on Channel and North Sea ferries with their freight-carrying capacity.

Coronavirus has delivered a muchneeded wake-up call to politicians about the importance and fragility of supply chains, especially in a globalised just-in-time delivery infrastructure.

Is it too much to ask for a lasting recognition of the crucial and essential role of shipping and seafarers?

Let us remember the debt we owe to the personnel of the Merchant Navy who often work unseen and against the elements of nature to put food on our table.

I am sure many people will appreciate the flying of the Red Ensign from hundreds of local and national buildings throughout the UK on September 3, as we pause to remember their valiant efforts both past and present. John Aitken. Graham Crescent, Montrose, Angus.