The United Kingdom Maritime Pilots’ Association (UKMPA) has appointed Lord John Hendy KC as its new Honorary President.
The appointment recognizes Lord Hendy’s lifelong dedication to workers’ rights, trade union advocacy, and his extensive involvement in the transport sectors. His expertise in employment law, industrial relations and workplace safety will support the UKMPA’s ongoing work to champion pilot welfare, safe operations and high professional standards across the maritime industry.
The UKMPA, which represents more than 500 highly skilled maritime pilots responsible for safely navigating ships through the UK’s complex waterways, looks forward to Lord Hendy’s leadership in promoting the vital role pilots play in keeping trade safe and efficient.
“Lord Hendy’s unparalleled expertise in employment law and his steadfast support for transport unions make him the ideal figure to support the UKMPA in advancing its mission,” said Chris Hoyle, Chair of the UKMPA.
Lord Hendy succeeds Lord Tony Berkeley OBE, who served the UKMPA with distinction for a remarkable 27 years.
“We are immensely grateful to Lord Tony Berkeley for his extraordinary tenure.” said Jason Wiltshire, Vice-Chair of the UKMPA.
“Under his presidency, the Association has grown in influence, advocating tirelessly for pilot safety, training, standards, and recognition of our profession’s critical contribution to the UK’s maritime economy. Tony’s engineering background and passion for ports and harbours have been instrumental in shaping policies that protect pilots and strengthen navigational safety. His legacy will endure, and we wish him every success in his continued work”.
Lord Tony Berkeley OBE has been a pillar of the UKMPA since 1998. During his presidency, he elevated the profile of maritime pilotage and fostered collaboration between government and industry stakeholders. His work has helped the sector to navigate challenges such as regulatory change, technological advancement, and the post-Brexit landscape for UK ports.
As a former board member of the Fowey Harbour Commissioners, Lord Berkeley also contributed to practical improvements in sustainable maritime operations and harbour management.
Lord John Hendy KC brings unmatched expertise in trade union law, industrial relations, and workplace health and safety to the role. As Standing Counsel for many years to the Transport and General Workers’ Union (now Unite the Union) and other major trade unions, he has represented workers in landmark disputes, and secured victories in industrial accident cases – including two that reached the Supreme Court.
Lord Hendy’s advocacy directly supports the UKMPA’s priorities of strengthening pilot protections and enhancing industry engagement. He said: “I am in awe of UKMPA members who work tirelessly to safeguard ships, ports and the marine environment.
“Their expertise protects 95 per cent of UK trade, worth billions to the economy. I am honoured to follow Lord Tony Berkeley and eager to advance pilot training, standards, and engagement across the wider industry.”
The UKMPA extends its heartfelt gratitude to Lord Tony Berkeley for his unwavering commitment over close to three decades. His leadership has safeguarded the profession, strengthened its voice, and inspired a new generation of pilots and advocates.
Source: United Kingdom Maritime Pilots’ Association (UKMPA)
