The consultation asks for responses by the end of October. HMRC will then develop legislation based on a preferred option to implement the decision by November 1, 2008.

‘It’s obvious from yesterday’s meeting that customs officials have put in a lot of hard work over recent months to develop workable options for implementation,’ commented BMF executive director Howard Pridding. ‘They appear to have listened hard to the concerns that have been put forward by the BMF, RYA and our partner representatives of the industry and boat users.’

Pridding says he’s confident the consultation document will contain options that will look to minimise the impact and potential for financial burden on the industry.