The British Marine Federation has expressed some concerns over the implementation of a pleasure boating alcohol limit announced on Wednesday by the Department for Transport. The BMF has been in dialogue with the DfT on the issue since the Railways & Transport Act received royal ascent in 2003.

The BMF has been helping Government to understand the size and nature of the UK boating market and the need to exempt certain types of boat to avoid damage to a very successful sector of the UK economy. But doubts remain over both enforcement and the timetable for introducing the new limits.

Howard Pridding, Executive Director of the British Marine Federation said;

‘3.5 million people enjoy boating and watersports in the UK in all types of boat from sailing dinghys through narrowboats moving at 4 mph on the canals to large powerboats. Only an irresponsible minority create problems by going afloat whilst impaired through drink.

‘We are concerned that badly framed legislation that will be difficult to enforce will damage a very successful industry that generates annual revenues of £2.8 billion and employs 35,000 people.’