Section 19 — Directions

(1) This section applies where the Conference of the Parties takes a decision under Article 24 of the Agreement (decisions to adopt measures to be applied on an emergency basis).

(2) The Secretary of State may by directions impose such requirements in respect of a UK craft as the Secretary of State considers appropriate for the purpose of meeting the obligation of the United Kingdom under Article 25(1) of the Agreement (implementing duty of states with respect to activities under their jurisdiction or control) as it applies in relation to the decision.

(3) A direction under this section must be—

(a) given in writing to the person or persons to whom it applies, or

(b) where it is not reasonably practicable to give it in writing, must be—

(i) read out to that person or those persons, and

(ii) confirmed in writing as soon as is reasonably possible.

(4) A direction under this section must be laid before Parliament.

(5) The Secretary of State may vary (by further direction) or revoke a direction under this section.

(6) A direction under this section (if it has not already been revoked) ceases to have effect upon the termination of the measure adopted under Article 24 of the Agreement to which it relates.

(7) A person commits an offence if the person fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a direction given to them under this section.

(8) A person who commits an offence under this section is liable—

(a) on summary conviction—

(i) in England and Wales, to a fine;

(ii) in Scotland or Northern Ireland, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum;

(b) on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years or a fine (or both).

(9) Proceedings for an offence under this section that is committed outside the United Kingdom may be taken, and the offence may for all incidental purposes be treated as having been committed, at any place in the United Kingdom.