Under legislative provision, DEFRA aim to ensure that the cost of the service is fully recoverable through licence fees. However, in 2004 it was identified that the FEPA system was operating at a significant loss.

After an immediate increase in fees in November 2004, an internal review was launched to identify the reasons contributing to the loss; the appropriate steps to rectify the situation; and methods to instill a more robust, flexible and appropriate system for the future.

The consultation paper and all associated documents can be downloaded at www. defra. gov. uk/ corporate/consult/fepafees06/ index. htm.

In summary DEFRA propose the following changes:

. Changes to the fee charging structure and charges.

. Disposal licence fees to be increased by 22 per cent to recover full cost.

. Second and third year disposal licence fees to be increased from 75 per cent to 90 per cent.

. Construction licence fees to be held at the current level for the next financial year.

. Approval of a 3 per cent increase in fees for oil spill treatment products.

'BMF is strongly of the opinion that this dramatic rise in charges is unjustified given the level of service provided and will make it known when responding to the consultation, ' said the Federation in the latest issue of its weekly e-mail bulletin.

If you wish to direct your comments and concerns to the BMF, please contact Brian Clark, Environment Executive, on 01784 223644 or bclark@britishmarine. co. uk.