The government had intended to repeal requirements that ferries be fitted with lockers containing life-saving kit.
But following an eight-week consultation and talks between the union and shipping minister John Hayes, the government said “persuasive” arguments had been made in favour of retaining the regulations.
The rules were introduced following the Herald of Free Enterprise disaster in 1987.
Ferries will now continue to carry axes, crowbars, lifting gear and ladders on deck.
“We
