I was reminded of this recently when I attended an update briefing on the Recreational Craft Directive, given by the Technical Department. The RCD is a massive piece of European bureaucracy, that would have been impossible for small to medium-sized boatbuilders to cope with. But because BMF took a lead in its production, and has been part of its process ever since, we have a basically sensible piece of legislation, that few builders will argue with, and that ensures we are competing on a level playing field with the rest of Europe. But more importantly we have a onestop source of advice and help in applying it to our products.

The briefing was short, concise and targeted specifically at the day's audience, in this case inland boatbuilders.

We were able to ask detailed questions relating to our market, and given the contact for any follow-up problems. In the case of my company, the RCD benefit alone has more than repaid our subscription, and I know this is the case for the majority of inland builders.

Your latest issue highlights the ongoing saga of VAT on secondhand boats, which again we would have lost completely without the close attention of the BMF legal department.

In this and other matters, the Federation has always been highly respected by Whitehall and Westminster over the years, which has enabled us to punch way above our weight for a comparatively tiny industry when it comes to fending off legislation.

So let us give a salute to all the other staff of the Federation, whose names never make your front page.

Emrhys Barrell The Thames Electric Launch Company Very well put, Emrhys, and an opinion with which I wholeheartedly concur - Ed