HMRC Lodges Defence with Court of Justice over Red Diesel
 
Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has informed the RYA that it has lodged its defence of Case 503/17 with the Court of Justice of the European Union.
The case is about marked fuel being supplied for propelling private pleasure craft in the UK. If the UK were forced to change to unmarked ‘white’ diesel for recreational craft at the waterside, it is likely that suppliers would find it difficult to make the significant investment required to install additional tanks and pumps. The crux of the matter is ensuring the continued availability of diesel for the leisure boating community.
 
The European Commission’s view is that, by allowing the use of marked fuel for the purposes of propelling private pleasure craft, the UK has failed to fulfil its obligations under Council Directive 95/60/EC on fiscal marking of gas oils and kerosene.
 
In lodging its defence of the case, the government has reaffirmed its long-standing supportive stance toward ensuring the availability of diesel at the waterside for recreational boating.
 
The RYA will continue to monitor this matter closely and will keep boaters informed as the situation progresses.
 
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