Decision to retain Coastguard Rescue Officer remuneration

I welcome the announcement by the Department for Transport that it is abandoning plans to remove financial remuneration for Coastguard Rescue Officers (CROs). This is a victory for the dedicated volunteers who keep our coastal communities safe.

I have been a consistent and vocal opponent of the proposed changes, arguing that removing remuneration would have undermined recruitment and retention, devalued the commitment of volunteer CROs, and risked weakening the resilience of the UK's maritime search and rescue capability. 

As Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Voluntary Search & Rescue, I played a leading role in the campaign to persuade the Government to reverse its plans and worked closely with island Coastguard Rescue Officers, the GMB, fellow parliamentarians and Government Ministers to highlight the vital contribution CROs make in responding to emergencies around the UK's coastline. 

I am delighted that the Department for Transport has listened to the concerns of Coastguard Rescue Officers and the many people who supported this campaign. This is the right decision. 

Coastguard Rescue Officers give up countless hours to protect lives in often dangerous and demanding circumstances. The modest financial remuneration they receive recognises the significant commitment they make and helps ensure that this vital volunteer service remains sustainable. 

This announcement demonstrates what can be achieved when volunteers, parliamentarians and communities work together. I pay tribute to every Coastguard Rescue Officer who spoke out, shared their experiences and stood up for the future of the service. I also thank colleagues from across Parliament who supported our efforts through the APPG on Voluntary Search & Rescue. 

I will continue working with Coastguard Rescue Officers and the UK Government to ensure the long-term sustainability of the volunteer Coastguard Rescue Service and to support those who dedicate their time and expertise to keeping the public safe. 

In a statement issued to Parliament, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, Keir Mather MP outlined: 

“On 1 June, it was communicated that the Coastguard Rescue Service would change to an expenses-only volunteer model from September 2026. 

“I have listened to the views and testimonies of Coastguard Rescue officers about how these changes might affect them. 

“MPs across the House, on behalf of their constituents, have raised concerns through parliamentary questions, a Westminster Hall debate and an Urgent Question. This engagement has been invaluable. I have also heard the deep concerns from many in the Coastguard Officer Community about this change. 

“I can therefore confirm that plans to move to the expenses-only volunteer model in September will not go ahead, and current arrangements will remain in place.”