The UK government is already back in the industry's market for Brexit back-up ferry capacity. Money is on the table for infrastructure port upgrades as part of a GBP 2.1 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) package to prepare the country for leaving the European Union with no deal.
The plans, which were announced on Monday, July 29, also include funds to pay for a larger number of border force officers and measures to ease traffic congestion in the hinterland of ro-ro port of Dover UK.
Medicines are planned to be stockpiled in order to ensure continued supplies. There will be a national program to help businesses, accompanied by an awareness advertising campaign.
Earlier attempts to procure the additional ferry capacity collapsed due to widespread public derision and costly litigation earlier in 2019, at a cost to the taxpayer of over GBP 80 million.
Ferry operators wishing to bid for the contracts are being invited to tender online.