Explanatory note

The Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023 (S.I. 2023/35) provides for certain provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (c. 21) (and of instruments made, or treated as made, under that Act) and of the Harbours Act 1964 (c. 40) as they apply in relation to ships to apply, in some cases with modifications, in relation to watercraft (as defined in article 3 of that Order).

This Order amends the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023 to provide for section 267 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (which relates to investigations of marine accidents), and regulations made under that section, to apply, with modifications, in relation to watercraft (articles 4 and 6). It also makes minor corrections (articles 3 and 5).

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant, impact on the private, voluntary or public sector is foreseen. Instead, a de minimis assessment has been prepared and has been published, with an Explanatory Memorandum, alongside this Order at www.legislation.gov.uk.