§ Mr. OttawayTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to restrict the use of personal watercraft(a) along Britain's beaches and (b) on inland waters. [6321]
§ Angela Eagle[holding answer 2 July 1997]: Section 76 of the Public Health Act 1961 provides for local authorities to make byelaws to regulate seaside pleasure boats for the prevention of danger, obstruction or annoyance to persons bathing in the sea or using the seashore. It is likely that personal watercraft can be regulated as pleasure boats under this Act, although a definitive interpretation is a matter for the courts.
My Department is leading an inter-departmental working party which is undertaking a review of byelaw powers for the coast. A discussion document issued in December 1996 identified coastal recreation management as a major issue and the many responses to this document are being analysed. The working party will meet again before the end of the year to consider this analysis and agree an appropriate way forward.
Local authorities, water companies and some navigation authorities have powers to regulate the use of inland waters to ensure their safe use and enjoyment. There are no plans to amend the powers.