VEXP60600 - Stores for use in ships, aircraft or hovercraft: Supplies of fuel for lifeboats

Since 1 August 2006 all types of fuel (including petrol) supplied to a charity for use in lifeboats providing rescue or assistance at sea is zero rated under the VAT Act 1994 schedule 8, group 8 item 3(e). Before 1 August 2006 lifeboat charities were entitled to relief under the marine fuel ESC (which excludes petrol) even though lifeboats operated by charities are not commercial vessels.