Meths.................IDA............... HMRC

[Fascadale]

I have just bought an Origo cooker for the now gas free boat.

I understand that IDA is a preferable fuel than meths, fewer noxious fumes etc

I also understand that were I to re-engage in my childhood passion for the hobby of Mammod type "live steam" engines I might have some success in getting permission from HMRC to purchase IDA

On the application form they ask you how much IDA you want to hold.

In my last, unsuccessful, application I said 15 litres and stupidly said it was for a stove.

What does the panel think would be an appropriate quantity of IDA to apply for in an application which might succeed?

What other legitimate uses are there for IDA ?

 

[Norman_E]

If you go to France, the DIY stores there sell "Alcool a Bruler",
Literally, burning alcohol, which is like meths but without the dye, or as much smell.

 

[markpageant]

I'll ask my friendly local pharmacist if you remind me by calling me mid morning tomorrow.

 

[VicS]

The approved uses of IDA are listed on the Revenue and Customs website. The relevant section reads:

1 For use in the manufacture of any article which in the final form is entirely free of alcohol.


2 For use in the manufacture of medical, veterinary and pharmaceutical products for external use only.


3 For use in the manufacture of any pharmaceutical product or preparation where no alcohol remains in the final product.


4 For dispensing on prescription.


5 For use, where not elsewhere authorised, in the manufacture of any product which contains alcohol but is not, or is not intended or held out to be, a beverage or an article intended for consumption.


6 For use in the manufacture of analytical reagents.


7 For use in any industrial or commercially operated cleaning process.


8 For use in small quantities (no greater than 20 litres per annum) in any specialised hobby or pastime where:
the use of IDA is specified in technical or trade literature; and
the quantities received are reasonable having regard to the nature of the pursuit involved.

9 For use by, or under the supervision of, qualified persons in medical, scientific (including photographic) or educational activities.


10 For use in the manufacture of any article for exportation.


11 For onward supply in quantities of 20 litres or less to another authorised user.


12 For dealing wholesale i.e. in quantities greater than 20 litres (distributors only)


Number 8 above is the one that you may be able to use. As the fuel for model steam engines is the only use that I actually know of that is approved.

So buy yourself a fleet of Mamods and apply for 20 litres.

 

[Gordonmc]

I would agree you might be able to get away with an interpretation of point 8 for use in a stove if the user manual specifies fuel type as IDA or even spirit. That would cover the "trade manual" bit.
Nevertheless, the interpretation that counts is the HMCR's.
I have had no problems obtaining clear IMS in five litre cans for several years. I have an American made spirit cooker, three burner and oven. I use about ten litres a year using the boat every other weekend in winter and more often when the ice melts.
The vendor never asks what use I am putting the spirit to nor do I have to sign the poison book.
At the same time I am not volunteering information about the source on a public forum!

 

[Chrusty1]

Great stuff, but I'm afraid that if anyone tries to buy IDA from a pharmacy, the pharmacist will want to see your licence to purchase. It's completely mad in my opinion, it is beginning to seem that just about everything has to be controlled in some way! In most other civilised countries, you don't have to put up with all this "nanny state bollix"

I have an IDA licence, and to be honest, HMRC were very helpful, I just have a load of choo-choos to run /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif.....

Well not really, but it keeps the dear HMRC folks happy.

 

[Andrew_Fanner]

I have, somewhere, a licence. When I applied I specified meths fired steam locomotives (I have several 16mm/ft ones) and got, ISTR, an allowance per loco. Works out at about 30l pa. I had an Origo and that should do you pretty well.

 

[Chrusty1]

Not sure I'm right, but I think the limit is now 20 litres pa for that usage? Mind you plenty enough for an Origo pa for most folks I would think?

 

[VicS]

[ QUOTE ]
Not sure I'm right, but I think the limit is now 20 litres pa for that usage

[/ QUOTE ] Read my post above! /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif