EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Order extends to the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia certain provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act 1979, with the necessary modifications. The extension of sections 17, 18 and 19(1) and Schedules 4 and 5 enables effect to be given to the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims opened for signature in London on 19th November 1976 (Cmnd. 7035). The extension of section 51 enables the Administrator of the Sovereign Base Areas to charge for certificates issued in pursuance of the provisions of the Act. The Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims lays down uniform rules relating to the liability of shipowners and salvors in respect of certain maritime claims.
The Act will come into force in respect of the Sovereign Base Areas on a date to be appointed by the Administrator in accordance with section 52(2).