Report of the Bermuda Constitutional Conference, 1966,
where it is recorded that the U.K. Covernment would
consider the inclusion of a representative of the
Government of Bermuda in any U.K. Delegation attending
international discussions about civil aviation, shipping
or finance in which the interests of Bermuda were
materially involved). If ships under Bermudian registry
are not equipped with the necessary international con-
vention certificates they can incur serious delays and
serious expenses in ports round the world.
7.
Restrictions on Transfer and Mortgage
Under the Ships, and Aircraft (Transfer Restriction)'
Act, 1939 Her Majesty's Government has power to restrict
the sale and transfer of ships under certain circum-
stances. In cases where companies whose ultimate
ownership is not British (e.g. United States) wish to
register their ships under Bermuda flag the existence of
such a provision may be a deterrent.
The Government of Bermuda considers that it may be
desirable to work out arrangements (if such do not
already exist) whereby this power would not be exercised
by Her Majesty's Government in the case of ships whose
ultimate ownership lies in countries with whom the U.K.
has mutual defence arrangements.