THE "VALVERDA."

(1936) 56 Ll L Rep 179

COURT OF APPEAL.

Before Lord Justice Greer, Lord Justice Slesser and Lord Justice Scott.

Salvage-His Majesty's ships as salvors- Services rendered by his Majesty's ships Frobisher (cruiser), Guardian (cruiser), Sandboy (tug), Creole (yard craft) and Orangeleaf (fleet auxiliary) to motor vessel Valverda in Atlantic- Vessel towed 900 miles to Bermuda- Admiralty Form of Salvage Agreement entered into between Admiralty and owners of Valverda-Salvage services admitted-Award-Case stated-Question for opinion of Court: "Whether . . . the Admiralty are entitled in law to salvage remuneration in respect of the services of H.M.S. Frobisher, H.M.S. Guardian and R.F.A. Orangeleaf"- Whether Admiralty's right to salvage remuneration under agreement limited by reason of Sect. 557 (1) of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894, which provides that "where salvage services are rendered by any ship belonging to [his Majesty] or by the commander or crew thereof, no claim shall be allowed for any loss, damage, or risk caused to the ship or her stores, tackle, or furniture, or for the use of any stores or other articles belonging to [his Majesty], supplied in order to effect those services . . ."-Merchant Shipping (Salvage) Act, 1916, Sect. 1-Ambiguity- Validity of agreement-Whether contrary to public policy.