UK ministers have criticised practices at DP World’s subsidiary P&O Ferries, leading to the pause of a 1 billion pound investment in Britain. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s pro-business initiative faces a test ahead of an investment summit. DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem has withdrawn from the summit, and the company is reassessing its planned investment.
P&O Ferries faced backlash in 2022 after making 800 staff redundant and suspending crossings. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and transport minister Louise Haigh announced new protections for seafarers, denouncing P&O Ferries’ actions. However, the opposition Conservative Party criticized Labour ministers for not understanding business.
The government welcomed P&O Ferries’ commitment to comply with new seafarers’ legislation. Despite the setback, Starmer highlighted other investments announced by the government. The dispute highlights challenges in balancing pro-business policies with worker protections in the UK.