ISLE of Wight boat owners are being warned that a ruling by the European Court of Justice could spell the end of the use of red diesel for private pleasure craft.

At the moment almost all diesel sold in British marinas is red diesel, taxed either at a lower rate if some of the fuel is used for heating the boat, or at 100% for the fuel that is used only for propulsion by the engine.

In a case launched last year however, the EU argued that the UK should not allow red diesel to be used in this way.

Under EU rules, member states must apply a "fiscal marker" (red dye in the UK) to diesel which is not taxed at the full rate.

The Court dismissed evidence from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) that ending the use of red diesel would be impracticable, with some of that evidence provided by the Cruising Association (CA) which looks after the interests of boat owners.

Judith Grimwade, CA President, said: "We are delighted that the Court has finally delivered a judgment in this case, but given the uncertainties of Brexit, it remains to be seen what the impact will actually be.

"Whatever the outcome, we will continue to campaign for cruising yachtsmen to be able to travel between countries without being penalised for buying a fuel which is very often the only option available."

No deadline is specified in the judgment and member states are usually given a reasonable period to make the adjustments necessary - which in this case could mean white diesel going on sale in UK marinas - bearing in mind many craft may continue to use red diesel for heating.

However, no-one knows what may happen as a result of Brexit. HMRC is examining this judgment and will announce how and when the UK will adjust its practices in due course.