Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations amend the Merchant Shipping (Light Dues) Regulations 2025 (S.I. 2025/278) (the “Principal Regulations”).

Regulation 1 provides that these Regulations come into force on 31st March 2025. The amendments to the Principal Regulations therefore come into effect before the Principal Regulations come into force on 1st April 2025.

Regulation 2 amends Schedule 1 to the Principal Regulations. Schedule 1 specifies certain vessels which are exempt from light dues under the Principal Regulations. Regulation 2 of these Regulations amends one of these exemptions so that it is expressed by reference to the weight, rather than the length, of the vessel. Regulation 2 also corrects a minor typographical error in the Principal Regulations. 

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant impact on the private, voluntary or public sectors is foreseen. The Explanatory Memorandum is published alongside these Regulations at www.legislation.gov.uk.