SMITH ADDS SUPPORT FOR OFCOM RETHINK

11.52.00am GMT Tue 28th Oct 2008

North East Fife MSP, Iain Smith has added his support to the campaign against Ofcom's proposals to increase the fees charged to the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI).

Currently organisations such as the RNLI and mountain rescue groups are licensed to use the airwaves at a discounted cost. Ofcom is consulting on proposals to increase the cost of using VHF radio frequencies, including the removal of this discount.

Last week Tavish Scott, the Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader, tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament opposing the plan and calling Ofcom to introduce free licences for all charities whose objective is the safety of human life. Mr Smith is amongst those to have supported the motion.

Iain Smith said: "The RNLI is a remarkable charity that provides a vital life-saving service in coastal communities like North East Fife where many people look to the sea for their livelihoods and for their pleasure.

"The proposal that their licensing costs should be increased is absurd and must not be allowed to proceed.

"That's why I'm adding my support to that of my colleague Sir Menzies Campbell and parliamentarians of all parties in calling for the RNLI to be exempted from licensing fees".