Future Strength
The Centre for Economics and Business Research think-tank has predicted that the amount of international trade Britain conducts by sea could soar as we forge stronger links with emerging markets.
It believes sea trade will grow in value by more than six times over the next 20 years – making Britain a ‘maritime nation’ once again. But industry experts warn this will only be possible if the Royal Navy is strong enough to cope with the challenge of keeping vital shipping lanes free of piracy and terrorism.