§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had with the insurance industry about compulsory third party cover for jet skis operated in coastal waters. [12594]
§ Mr. Jamieson[holding answer 5 November 2001]: I have been asked to reply.
My Department takes the view that compulsory third party insurance is not an option that should be pursued and discussions with the insurance industry have therefore not been necessary.
It is the responsibility of UK local authorities and harbour authorities to regulate personal watercraft using local byelaw powers. However, the Department has produced a nationally distributed 'Voluntary Code of Practice for Leisure Users' which provides safety guidelines and encourages third party insurance.
§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had with her European counterparts about the regulation of jet skis operated in coastal waters. [12595]
§ Mr. Jamieson[holding answer 5 November 2001]: I have been asked to reply.
My Department has not consulted European colleagues about the regulation of jet skis operated in coastal waters as regulation through local byelaw powers is considered to be adequate. The Inter Departmental Review of byelaws in 1998 recommended that local authorities should be given more general powers to regulate activities affecting the wider environment and coastal zones, including the use of recreational craft.