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The alcohol limit for mariners on all types of civil water-borne transport in UK waters will be the same as that for road drivers - 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood.
Legislation will give police power to conduct tests on sailors and it will also be an offence to unreasonably refuse a test.
The tests could be given to both commercial and recreational mariners and will include craft operated on inland waters, fishing vessels, and foreign vessels in UK waters.
But the proposed limits will not apply to crew members who are off duty on long voyages unless they have a safety-critical function in the event of an emergency. And the limits will only apply when vessels are under way.
Shipping Minister Keith Hill says the plans follow a recommendation in Lord Justice Clarke's report into River Thames safety published in December 1999.
"These proposals demonstrate our commitment to setting strict standards on what is acceptable to ensure that safety is not compromised," said Mr Hill.
He added: "The Government applauds the fact that many reputable ship operators already have strict alcohol policies and some run 'dry' ships. Our proposals will not affect those policies."
The plans will involve police being assisted by maritime officials who will be given powers to detain vessels until police arrive and, where required, provide boarding facilities.
Reproduced from www.annanova.com 15:47 Monday 12th March 2001