Navigating the New UK Red Diesel Duty Regulations

Apr 6
22:49

2024

Keith McGregor

Keith McGregor

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Starting from November 1st, 2008, the United Kingdom's private pleasure craft owners faced a new method of fuel duty collection, as announced at the Southampton Boat Show. This change primarily impacts the cost of red diesel used for propulsion, with a secondary effect on fuel used for heating. The new system requires owners to declare the intended use of the fuel at the time of purchase, which will determine the duty rate applied.

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Understanding the Duty Adjustment Mechanism

Private pleasure craft owners in the UK are now subject to a revised duty rate for red diesel used for propulsion. At the point of sale,Navigating the New UK Red Diesel Duty Regulations Articles they must specify the proportion of fuel allocated for propulsion versus domestic purposes, such as heating and cooking. The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has indicated that a typical split, based on industry and HMRC analysis, is 60% for propulsion and 40% for domestic use. This apportionment is expected to be commonly declared by users.

For example, if a pleasure craft owner purchases 100 litres of marine fuel:

  • 40 litres will be taxed at the current rebated rate of 9.69 pence per litre (ppl) plus 5% VAT.
  • 60 litres will be taxed at the full duty rate of 50.35ppl plus 17.5% VAT.
  • This could increase the cost of fuel for propulsion from approximately 70p per litre to around £1.27.

Registered Dealers in Controlled Oils (RCDOs) are responsible for remitting the additional duty collected from recreational boaters to HMRC. RCDOs must ensure that supplies of controlled oil are used for legitimate purposes.

Special Considerations for Residential Boat Owners

Boat owners who use their vessel as their primary residence can still purchase fuel at the rebated rate, provided they have the appropriate documentation. This includes a Houseboat Licence, Residential Mooring Licence, a Council Tax Bill for the mooring, or other evidence of permanent residency.

Impact on the Boating Industry

The availability and supply of red diesel remain unchanged, but the industry is bracing for the impact of increased fuel costs. Over the past year, fuel prices have risen significantly, and the new duty regulations may further affect leisure boating. With boat owners potentially reducing their usage below the average of 50 hours per year, especially in the context of an economic downturn, the full effect on the UK boating industry remains to be seen.

Statistical Insights and Industry Trends

While specific data on the immediate impact of the duty change is not readily available, the broader trends in the boating industry can provide context. According to British Marine, the leisure, superyacht, and small commercial marine industry contributed £1.4 billion to the UK economy in 2018/19. The sector has shown resilience, but changes in operating costs, such as fuel duty, can have ripple effects.

For instance, a survey by The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) might reveal shifts in boating habits due to increased costs. Additionally, the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) publishes annual statistics that could highlight the influence of policy changes on global boating activities.

For further information on the UK's red diesel regulations and their implications, you can visit the HMRC website or consult resources provided by British Marine, the membership organization for the leisure, superyacht, and small commercial marine industry in the UK.