1 The Conference of Contracting Governments to
the International Convention for the Safety of Lives
at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 (London, 9 to 12 December 2002), adopted
amendments to the Annex to the Convention, as amended, in particular
new chapter XI-2 on Special measures
to enhance maritime security; and, the new International Code for
the Security of Ships and Port Facilities (ISPS Code).
2 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its seventy-seventh
session (28 May to 6 June 2003), recognizing and considering the need
for additional information to assist Contracting Governments and the
industry with the implementation of, and compliance with new SOLAS chapter XI-2 and the ISPS
Code, directed its Maritime Security Working Group to examine
and provide additional guidance on specific aspects of the measures
to enhance maritime security.
3 The guidance relating to the implementation
of SOLAS chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code, as approved by the Committee, is given
at annex.
4 Reference is also made in this context to MSC/Circ.1067 on Early implementation of
measures to enhance maritime security regarding the importance of
early action by all parties to ensure that the new security regime
is implemented by 1 July 2004.
5 Member Governments and international organizations
are invited to bring this circular to the attention of national Designated
Authorities, Administrations and all parties concerned and responsible
for the implementation of maritime security measures.