To ask Her Majesty's Government what measures are in place for when Royal Navy vessels interdict pirate craft in international waters. [HL6295]

Royal Navy vessels participating in counterpiracy operations are provided with the required rules of engagement to conduct deterrence and disruption operations. The Royal Navy can seize and dispose of suspected piratical equipment. If it is considered that there is sufficient evidence on which to charge suspected pirates they will be detained and transferred to a regional state for prosecution. The UK has a transfer arrangement with the Kenyan and Seychellois Governments. The guidance given to ships draws on UK and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.