The freight shipping industry in the UK could see some changes taking place over the next few years if the government has its way. These changes will be borne out of a desire to ensure that the UK's freight shipping industry remains profitable and competitive.

According to Stephen Ladyman, who is the minister responsible for freight shipping in the UK, global developments are making changes necessary. As world trading patterns alter he and the government believe that the British freight shipping industry needs to evolve to meet new demands.

As a result, all companies operating in the freight shipping sector have been given the opportunity to feed into a review of the industry. This feedback will enable them to have an influence on the UK's port policy for the next twenty or so years. The opportunity to feed into future government policy and current thinking presents a unique opportunity to the freight shipping industry.

The freight shipping review will examine a number of factors. For instance, it will look at whether new capacity is needed and if so where. It will also look at the issues of funding and the environment.

The government is keen to stress that they are open minded about whether they should intervene more or less in the freight shipping industry. Input from companies within the industry will help to determine how hands off they are as well as what is needed to drive the sector forward.

Over recent years the UK has performed well within the freight shipping sector. The valuation of port operators has increased substantially over the last couple of years owing to off shore investment. Indeed a number of British ports are being taken over by international investors.

The government wants to ensure that the UK freight shipping industry continues to grow. This is the key reason behind the industry review.