Explanatory note

The Order brings into force on 10th November 1989 section 35(2) of the Merchant Shipping Act 1979 so far as it is not in force—i.e. for fishing vessels. Section 35(2) prevents any person limiting his liability under section 17 of the Act for loss of life or personal injury or other damage caused to a person on a ship who is employed in connection with the ship or with salvage operations. By virtue of section 17 shipowners and salvors can limit their liability in accordance with the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1976 (set out in Schedule 4 to the 1979 Act).

The Order also brings into force on 10th November 1989 section 14 so far as it is not already in force and Part III of Schedule 3 to the 1979 Act, primarily as a consequence of the coming into force of the 1976 Protocol to the Athens Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage 1974. The Protocol substitutes references to Special Drawing Rights for references to gold francs. NOTE AS TO EARLIER COMMENCEMENT ORDERS (This note is not part of the Order)

The following provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act 1979 have been or are being brought into force by commencement orders made before the date of this Order:–