Maritime Security re ferries

Dear DfT Marine Security,
just before the Christmas holiday period, l was in contact with your press department over an article l am writing about maritime security. This article is particularly re ferry companies operating from the UK. I had tried the Maritme Helpdesk but found the number was not recognised taken from your website.

I understand the ISPS Code and SOLAS, however I would like clarification on the following as l require my articles to be factually correct:-

Representatives of such as Profile Security Services have informed me that DfT Maritime Security impose a mandatory minimum search of foot passengers and passengers with vehicles. They say that the minimum search has to be 30%.

1. Are the searches mandatory as imposed by the DfT Maritime Security or is it only advisory?

2. If mandatory, what is the minimum percentage of searches required? ... 30%?

3. If it was 30% (or any other %), would this 30% figure apply to the total number of foot passengers plus passengers with vehicles or would it be 30% of foot passengers and 30% of passengers with vehicles?

Yours faithfully,

Steve Clark-Shepherd

Dear Paul Ravenscroft,
l am requesting an internal review of my FOI.

You say that the information l requested is being witheld due to security and yet the Profile Security at Hull freely give out this information. l merely requested clarification.

You also say that the UK is legally binded to Part A and Part B of the ISPS Code as it is law across the EU. However, l do not see Zeebrugge carrying out the same checks as they do in Hull on passengers ... and l come through Zeebrugge frequently. Could you clarify this please.

Also, are you aware that Profile Security are NOT doing checks for firearms and dangerous implements? Indeed one can legally carry onto the ship a full toolbox whether it be for electricians, joiners, techs and the like.

Profile Security are primarily interested in one thing only and that is alcohol ... a job that should be the responsibility of the ship's wardens.

Yours sincerely,

Steve Clark-Shepherd