There are several bodies and their subordinate entities into which the UK maritime administration is divided. The maritime administrative branches of UK include the Department for Transport's, Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), Headquarters in Southampton and marine offices in Southampton and Belfast and also the port reception facilities, search and rescue facilities (SAR) and vessel traffic services (VTS) facilities. Maritime Policy Group is mainly a policy review group which is headed by the Director of Logistics and Maritime Transport All segments of the MCA’s policy responsibilities are governed by MPG. Where it is found appropriate, MPG considers demarcation issues between MCA and the centre of the Department and decides on major priorities. The responsibilities for the coastal State activities are executed by the Search and Rescue Response Branch and the Vessel Traffic Service Branch. The UK Government's maritime policies are set up under the direction and advice of the Secretary of State for Transport, through the Department for Transport. The domestic shipping, ports activities and strong global maritime influence protect the interests of United Kingdom by encouraging a competitive, safe, efficient and sustainable environment for maritime trade. The Logistics and Maritime Transport Directorate under the Department for Transport is responsible for shipping, ports and harbours.
