A proposed bill in the UK's House of Lords seeks to grant new rights to individuals living on boats, addressing concerns that these individuals are often excluded from essential services and housing protections.
Baroness Bakewell of Hardington Mandeville introduced the Rights of Boat Dwellers Bill, which has passed its second reading. The legislation aims to ensure that boat dwellers have equal access to services such as healthcare, education, financial services, and the right to vote. A key issue highlighted is the lack of a permanent address, which prevents many boat dwellers from registering with General Practitioners (GPs) or receiving mail.
"Boat dwellers who travel have no access to health services," Baroness Bakewell stated. "As you need a permanent postcode to register with a GP, a marina or canalside address is not accepted."
Supporters of the bill argue that while boat dwellers may not represent a traditional housing issue, their accommodation needs should not be overlooked. The bill also intends to prevent marina, port, and river authorities from seizing boats if such actions would infringe upon a boat dweller's right to a secure home.
However, the bill faces opposition and concerns from various sides. The Conservative frontbench, while supporting the objective of ensuring access to public services, expressed worries that the bill could hinder the ability of mooring operators to enforce rules on boaters who fail to comply with license conditions or mooring regulations. "Where boaters fail to comply with licence conditions or mooring anchorage regulations, the relevant authorities must be able to take appropriate enforcement action," a Conservative spokesperson noted, adding that the bill "would impede their ability to do so."
Concerns were also raised about potential legal uncertainty, with the bill potentially elevating a boat dweller's right to a secure home above existing waterway management responsibilities. This, it is feared, could lead to congestion, tension between users, and unintended consequences for the communities the bill aims to assist.
The legislation does not address council or second home tax rules, raising questions about potential tax liabilities if boats are granted a right of residence.
Government ministers acknowledged the aim of tackling insecurities across housing sectors but expressed doubts about the bill's effectiveness. Housing minister Baroness Taylor of Stevenage stated, "The Government does not consider that the proposed legislation would achieve its intended outcome." She also pointed out that there is no regulatory requirement to prove identity, address, or an NHS number for GP appointments, and that advice is available on the NHS website for those denied registration. Despite this, she indicated a willingness to continue discussions with Baroness Bakewell to improve the situation for boat dwellers.