Merchant Navy Day 2026

That the Parliament celebrates Merchant Navy Day on 3 September 2026; recognises that the occasion provides an important opportunity to honour the historic and ongoing contributions of those serving in the UK Merchant Navy and fishing fleets; pays tribute to the profound sacrifices made by merchant seafarers during wartime, remembering the tragic loss of the SS Athenia on 3 September 1939, hours after the outbreak of the Second World War; recognises the continued importance of merchant seafarers to the UK economy and to the safe delivery of essential goods, fuel and supplies; praises the efforts of organisations like The Seafarers’ Charity in promoting Merchant Navy Day and supporting retired and active seafarers; welcomes the decision of local authorities across the Highlands and Islands region, including Moray Council, to fly the Red Ensign, affectionately known as the Red Duster; notes the calls on the Scottish Parliament to amend its flag-flying policy to permit the flying of the Red Ensign on Merchant Navy Day in the future, and thanks the country's seafarers for all that they do.