Explanatory note

Under section 215 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (“the 1995 Act”), general lighthouse authorities may borrow money for certain purposes and subject to obtaining the necessary consents. Under section 216(1) of the 1995 Act, the aggregate amount that may be outstanding in respect of the principal of any sums borrowed is limited to £100 million. This limit was increased to £133 million on the 31st December 2024 by the Merchant Shipping (General Lighthouse Authorities) (Increase of Borrowing Limit) Order 2024 (S.I. 2024/1274).

This Order increases that limit by a further £33 million, i.e. to £166 million, with effect from 31st March 2026, in accordance with section 216(2) of the 1995 Act.

No impact assessment has been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant, impact on the private, voluntary or public sector is foreseen.

An Explanatory Memorandum and a de minimis assessment have been prepared and are published alongside the instrument on www.legislation.gov.uk.