asked the Minister for Trade whether procedures exist for requisitioning British-owned merchant ships now flying flags of convenience should they be needed in future to support military operations; and if he will set out such procedures in the Official Report.

[pursuant to his reply, 29 April 1982, c. 311]: There is a prerogative power to requisition in times of war or acute national emergency any merchant ship within United Kingdom jurisdiction. The Order in Council made on 4 April applies only to British ships—as defined in the order—though it does so whether or not they are within United Kingdom jurisdiction.