SED Judicial Review

RMT have stated in correspondence;

Seafarers Earnings Deductions – Investigating possible Judicial Review.
I am writing to advise Branches and activists further regarding Seafarers Earnings Deductions (SED) for those employed in the offshore industry.
You will recall that I was taking advice from solicitors regarding the possibility of a Judicial Review on the new Guidelines from the Inland Revenue:
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/manuals/eimanual/EIM33000.htm

Unfortunately I have to advise you that the RMT has now been advised that there is no realistic prospect of success with a claim for a Judicial Review over the implementation of the changes on Seafarers Earnings Deductions and their impact on seafarers.

My Comment; basically the briefs said the union would loose in court.

We remain in dialogue with the Inland Revenue. In this connection it would be helpful if Branches could advise of any specific examples where the new Guidance is going to cause financial loss for a seafarer where previously there was an entitlement. I will keep you advised of any further developments but for the foreseeable future the revised Guidance as detailed applies.

My Comment; Not that it was that detailed in the first place.

Further to the above, the body representing UK Ship Owners has met with the Deputy Finance Minister Steven Timms along with shipping unions including the RMT to discuss the issues and the effects of the new guidance.

My Comment; The options now are to campaign through lobbying to Parliament for the definition of a seafarer in the ‘Income Tax Earnings and Pensions Act 2003’.