ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with the concept of the ship’s flag, the regulatory regime, safety and security standards, registration of British ships and ownership principles. It continues with management of ships and examines the effect of the ISM Code upon the liabilities of shipowners and ship-operators. The choice of a flag which a ship flies is of great importance, particularly, with regard to whether or not the international safety regulations are rigorously enforced, as will be seen later.
