asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether it continues to be the policy of Her Majesty's Government to protect the rights of third flag carriers, whether British or foreign, to seek whatever legitimate trading opportunities they can find between foreign harbours or airports.

The policy of Her Majesty's Government on shipping matters continues to be based on the principle that ships of all nations, irrespective of flag, should be equally free to compete for the international carriage of cargo or passengers. A different international régime governs rights at airports.