Stepping up its maritime business role

The London Shipping Law Centre will be placing even greater emphasis on its role in marine business, following its move to the City of London.

Inaugurated in 1997, the Centre has gained a reputation for addressing the legal, regulatory, commercial and political issues affecting merchant shipping. It has contributed to multidisciplinary education and the pursuit of quality shipping, largely through educational events and debates.

Founding Director Aleka Mandaraka Sheppard points out that the Centre has never regarded itself as a "lawyer's club." It plans a membership drive to enlist more brokers, insurers, bankers and ship owners. In line with its move to new offices within those of Reynolds Technological Inquiries at International House, 1, St. Katharine's Way. London E1, the Centre has just assumed a broader title: London Shipping Law Centre----Maritime Business Forum.

At a celebratory reception on November 18th, Dr. Sheppard reminded over 100 guests that the aim stated at the Centre's inauguration twelve years ago remained its raison d'etre. "We stated that there was a need for co-ordinated action in the exchange of maritime information and knowledge by bringing the various industry sectors together at a meeting place for structured as well as informal discussion. To a large extent, we have achieved that."

Since then, a range of organisations and initiatives had emerged in London and the rest of the UK to discuss maritime issues and promote London business. "All this amounts to a recognition that organisations need to work together and collaborate in matters that concern the industry."

Dr. Sheppard said the Centre "has led the way in raising awareness of the industry about the importance of risk management" while its events have been "the lifeblood of what we do. They have provided a forum for multidisciplinary education where we learn from each other.

"Our Cadwallader debates are internationally renowned. Our 'ISM on trial' sessions have raised awareness of safety and environmental issues. Our sessions on the pitfalls of conventions and European regulations, shipping and energy, piracy and the credit crunch have demonstrated unparalleled quality. The Baltic Accident session, staged in Greece last month, which concentrated on investigation and mediation, was an outstanding success."

Dr. Sheppard felt the move to the City brought the Centre closer to those using its services while the association with RTI enhanced its capability in multidisciplinary education. The Centre hoped to be associated with and to provide a London base for other maritime institutions committed to the advancement of maritime education and research.

"We blend the specialist knowledge of judges, lawyers, commercial operators, academics, regulators, insurers and ship professionals. By doing so, we promote the talents which exist across our industry."

The Centre's steering committee has been superseded by a council with more members elected to represent the Centre's widening membership. Sir Anthony Colman is its new chairman in succession to Archie Bishop.