HUHNE BACKS RYA ON "UNNECESSARY" BOATERS' BREATH TEST

2.10.13pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 17th Aug 2007

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne today backed the Hamble-based Royal Yachting Association in arguing that new alcohol limits for boaters would be "unnecessary and unworkable".

Mr Huhne was shown around the RYA's offices in Ensign Way by chief executive Rod Carr and briefed about the organisation's growing activities on behalf of boaters.

"Of course people should not drink and sail a boat, but the Government's proposed legislation seems to be taking a sledgehammer to crack a nut. The figures suggest there is no significant problem of maritime drink-steering" said Mr Huhne.

"More people die in their bath each year than in boating accidents, and only a fraction of those boating accidents has anything to do with alcohol. This is a classic piece of Aunt Sally legislation, attacking a non-problem" said Mr Huhne.

"Putting in place a whole new offence would give one more thing for the police and coastguards to worry about which they do not need, given the tiny number of people affected. If someone steers a boat dangerously, there are already laws to punish them".

The RYA is based in Hamble, itself the mecca of yachtspeople all over the world and the English port with more sailing clubs than any other.

"The RYA has a membership of about 40,000 enthusiasts for boating both around our coasts and also on our inland waterways, and is a key organisation in sticking up for sailing interests" said Mr Huhne.

He pointed out that the RYA is crucial also in assuring maritime safety through its training courses and certificates like the Yachtmaster.