Merchant Navy Day

That this House recognises 3 September as Merchant Navy Day, established to honour the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the Merchant Navy, past and present; notes the historic and continuing dedication of merchant seafarers, and their supportive families residing in Eastleigh; celebrates the crucial role of merchant seafarers, who today handle 95% of the UK's traded goods, keeping the nation supplied and connected to the world; acknowledges the bravery of Merchant Navy seafarers in keeping supply lines open during global conflicts, including the two world wars, and more recent crises such as the covid-19 pandemic; further notes that merchant seafarers continue to face serious and ongoing challenges, including in the Strait of Hormuz; and calls on hon. and Rt hon. Members to mark Merchant Navy Day by flying the Red Ensign and paying tribute to the service, courage and sacrifice of merchant seafarers.