MBM GreenlineHybrid Article

[Andrew_Fanner]

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In parallel there will be lobbying of governments from those who feel they have a right to travel (car, rail, plane etc) but for whom it is getting too expensive.
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I suspect that this right is enshrined in rights legislation and constitutions here and there, it would be a bold government that rescinded this one...

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

A step back from installing ever larger engines into motorboats, this I believe makes us a prime target for the green brigade, and, lets face it uses up dwindling resources faster. The arguement that 'If I can afford it I should be allowed the freedom to do it', and 'I need to cruise at 35knots as opposed to 30'. This is likely to play into the hands of those who consider that we need regulating in what we do, use, etc.

If we are to preserve our passion for motorboating then I believe we need to have a series of 'countermeasures' to derail the ambition of the increasingly powerful green lobby. The best approach to this will be to show our 'green credentials' before something unacceptable is imposed upon us.

Personally and sadly, I think it's only a matter of time before the UK has a formal boat licencing scheme. IMHO, the ever increasing pressure for legislation on issues such as drink/boating and light dues will probably result in some form of licencing. Obviously, if they want to take money from you, they first have to know who you are and where you live and that means a licence or registration.
Of course, once they know who you are and what boat you have, it's a very easy step to start taxing you as well and you can bet that they will dress it up as a green tax too so that would probably mean taxation on a horsepower basis. Never mind that there is effectively a horsepower tax already in the form of duty and VAT on fuel but I fear it won't be long before some bright spark in the Treasury realises that there are several hundred thousand powered boats in the UK which are a potential source of tax income and I don't think a few people buying hybrid boats is going to make the slightest difference to that