European Parliament
Gerard Batten (IND/DEM ). –
Mr President, Britain currently enjoys a tax derogation on red diesel that applies to leisure boating. That derogation expires in December 2006. If the derogation is not extended, the price of fuel for motorboats could treble. If this happens there will be an inevitable decline in leisure boating. The Exchequer will receive less tax revenue, not more, and economic damage will be done to local communities. The continuation of the derogation is a matter between the Council and the Commission, but tax policy should be the sole prerogative of sovereign national governments.
All British MEPs should lobby the Minister responsible to ensure that the derogation continues. They should also join the campaign to save the derogation started by
Motorboat Monthly
magazine. I will be pleased to supply them with details of how to do so.

