Published on: 21 October 2021
The Department of Transport has released a consultation on strengthening the scope of enforcement measures with the aim of preventing the dangerous use of Recreational and Personal Watercraft.
We would urge all members to read through these proposed changes and respond to the consultation.
In brief, due to legal interpretations of the definitions of Ships and Navigation, certain types of vessel in certain circumstances find themselves outside of the Merchant Shipping Act and therefore related enforcement action. This consultation is proposing to ensure all recreational and personal watercraft fall within these and other requirements.
There are fundamental changes that will affect how recreational boaters are regulated if this consultation passes as proposed. It is important for stakeholders to understand what is being proposed and the effects that it will have.
The consultation can be found here and closes on the 1 November 2021.
If you would like to talk to someone at British Marine about this proposal please contact Etuite@britishmarine.co.uk.