§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he is taking to standardise the lifebelt regulations for inshore fishing boats which also operate as pleasure boats. [41606]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonInshore fishing boats which also operate as boats used commercially for sport or pleasure must comply with safety requirements depending on the distance they operate from a safe haven.
Boats operating more than 3 miles out to sea or more than 15 miles from a nominated departure point must comply with a Code of Practice—The Safety of Small Commercial Motor Vessels, which sets out the standard safety requirements including those relating to the carriage of life jackets and lifebuoys.
Boats operating less than 3 miles out to sea and less than 15 miles from a nominated departure point must comply with safety requirements laid down by local authorities. A draft safety code which will standardise safety requirements for these vessels has been developed, and Ministers have agreed that public consultation on this code may take place.