Page 42 - SMI Issue 62

ISSA and Ship Supply NewsChallenging year for British ship suppliersThe past year has been a challenging one for British ship suppliers, said BASS (British Association of Ship Suppliers) Chairman Bob Blake at the association’s AGM in June.The massive drop in the price of oil has hit offshore supplies dramatically with vessels laid up and jobs lost. This, together with exchange rate fluctuations and offshore wind farm projects placed on hold, have all contributed to the challenge faced by the Association’s members.Another problem facing British ship suppliers is customers “cherry picking” items from an RFQ, spreading the total supply between several suppliers.The AGM took place just prior to the UK voting to leave the EU. Nevertheless, despite the vote for ‘Brexit’, BASS continues its dialogue with Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs on the impact ofEU rules imposed upon the industry and HMRC’s interpretation thereof.One particular problem is the actions of Port Health when importing foodstuffs from other EU countries which have already been cleared in to the EU with all the correct paperwork and veterinary certificates present. Mr Blake revealed that in such cases the whole consignment has been delayed when picking on one particular item.The meeting was tinged with sadness due to the recent death of BASS Council member Peter Anderson as well as another former Council member, Erik Koren. A minute’s silence was observed to remember these two great friends of BASS.Geoff Marchant, BASS Treasurer, reported a slight decrease in membership but with cheering newsof replacements in the pipeline to maintain the roll. He also informed members of BASS’s continuing financial good health.The three retiring Council members, Bob Blake, John Davey and Bruce Hailey were re-elected unopposed.Finally lawyer Mr Hailey, at the Chairman’s invitation, drew members’ attention to the on-going problem of internet fraud. ISSA members have been victims of this fraud which relies on email as its vehicle.Following the AGM, members and guests enjoyed a fine luncheon below decks on HQS Wellington, the ever-popular floating venue for the BASS AGM.Since the AGM, members will also have been sad to hear of the death of the great Sir Trevor Jones, a well-known Liverpool maritime figure. u