UK Branch Conference: Members agree that private healthcare motion needs a second look

A motion on negotiating private healthcare for members has been remitted for further consideration through a vote at the 2025 Nautilus UK Branch Conference.

The member-led proposal aimed to get private healthcare on the table in all the Union's collective bargaining negotiations.

However, the Nautilus UK National Committee (UKNC) successfully argued for remittance, to ensure the motion does not conflict with the Union’s broader strategic objectives on state-run healthcare.

The move will allow the Nautilus secretariat time to investigate the Union's position fully and make sure that any move towards a private healthcare mandate aligns with the Union’s long-standing campaign work to improve NHS access for merchant seafarers and safeguard the Dreadnought Medical Service.

Speaking on behalf of the UKNC, Nautilus director of organising Martyn Gray cautioned delegates on the specific wording of the motion. He described the proposed obligation to press for private healthcare as potential 'shackles' that might restrict the Union's negotiating position.

Mr Gray argued that forcing a conversation on private healthcare could be counter-productive at a time when public provision campaigns are yielding results. He noted that the Union's work on securing access to Dreadnought services in Scotland and Northern Ireland is currently 'advancing at pace'.

Members voted 9-1 for remittance, after which Mr Gray commented: 'By remitting the motion, Conference has empowered the Union to seek a path that enhances medical access for members without jeopardising these significant advancements in public provision.'