In relation to the threat of cost implications by Ofcom for radio licencing of the RNLI I have started a petition to the Prime Minister.
I appeal to all boat owners and supporters of the RNLI to append their support to this cause.
The link to the petition is here.
Please publicise the details wherever you can. I'm going to contact a colleague at BBC radio and sea angling mag's to try to gain momentum. http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/RNLI2009
As a boat owner and a regular at sea i have signed the petition i dont want my life putting at risk through the closure of any RNLI stations however small
A vhf licence for a private vessel is currently free. You will require a personal qualification to actualy operate the radio. Many courses are run throughout the UK by the RYA and various marine colleges. To obtain the boat/handheld radio licence use the attached ofcom link and follow the link for licensing. http://www.ofcom.org.uk/