Red diesel and the honesty box
The news that Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) had decided how it would charge the higher rate of tax on red diesel was welcome.
However, after all the complicated options put to the industry, to hear the solution relies on honesty being the best policy seems a bit...unprofessional.
I expected some convoluted system that gave the taxman what he wanted to the detriment and confusion of all. And I can't help but think this is not the final solution.
There was always going to be burden on the Registered Dealer in Controlled Oils (RDCO) to collect the extra revenue and pass it on to the taxman.
But a government department simply asking the sailor to act as if there was an honesty box for the money is astonishing.
And, as red diesel used for non-propulsion remains at the derogated level, I feel sure there will be claims of some very large heating fuel tanks.
How can the government come up with a system that requires no proof to establish the status of the boat?
The sceptics among us suggest there are darker forces at work and that - following the 'consultation period' - maybe there will be the suggestion that each boat should have a piece of paper to declare its standing as commercial or private.
Some might even suggest this could be...a licence!
Let's hope this 'honesty is the best policy' will work out enough to the taxman's benefit to keep him happy.

BBEx - the meeting
We promised you a meeting on the future of BBEx - it's all set for 10.30 on Friday April 4 at the Royal Southern in Hamble.
And, if the demand is there, we'll run another meeting at the NEC for those from a more northerly section of the UK.
There will be sandwiches and coffee on arrival and everyone is welcome to stay for a light lunch.
The invitation is open to everyone with an opinion on the UK's trade show - exhibitors and visitors alike.
It'll be a no holds barred meeting. If you think the UK doesn't need a trade show, tell us.
But than ask yourself - what would the UK do without BBEx?
Email pnash@boatingbusiness.com to reserve your place at either meeting.