Yes, I agree with you in lots of ways Mark. It's like a lot of things in life where it would be cheaper to do away with the charge than to keep it, you rightly refered to dog licences. I have written so many times to the EA politicos in Bristol in the past over year on year increases, which were and still are higher than the rate of inflation, and each time I received the standard letter back that simply explained why I should have a licence (or we'll prosecute you).
I have asked them to be more accountable, explain where our money is spent. Not just in general terms, but ?s on admin, ?'s on fish stocks, ?s on fisheries staff, ?s on upkeep of premises, ?s on bailiffing, ?s on prosecutions and so on. NOTHING!!!!! and it's infuriating.
So I would agree with you, it's simply a tax - SCRAP IT NOW.
Except that - I buy a licence and I feel it not only gives me a say, it gives me a RIGHT to a say. Bit like the cyclist should keep his gob shut until he pays Road Fund - see my point? And I do know that in our area, we get very good value for money from the Fisheries Department.
So I will disagree with you - KEEP IT - until such time as we live in a fairer world.
PS Graham, the EA would continue to exist if fishing were banned, but it wouldn't be the size it presently is. There would be no need for Fisheries, Polutions, River levels (yes someone does check them), or Waste Disposals. The rivers would become Britain's main sewerage system.