Palmer view on Libya clash

Press, 26 March 1986, Page 1

Palmer view on Libya clash

Wellington reporter

The Government last evening expressed concern about the clash between the United States Sixth Fleet and Libyan forces in the Gulf of Sirte.

The Government had no doubt that American ships were entitled under the International Law of the Sea to be in the gulf, outside Libyan territorial waters, in spite of Colonel Gadaffi’s threat of attack, said the Acting Prime Minister, Mr Palmer.

“However, . the most serious consideration must always be given to exercising legal rights in a way that will almost inevitably lead to the use of armed force, with all the uncertainties and dangers to which this can give rise,” Mr Palmer said. New Zealand did not yet have details of yesterday’s incident, he said.

He said he noted the American announcement last week on the intention to include the gulf in Mediterranean exercises of the United States SixthFleet. “It was also made clear that if American ships or aircraft were attacked by Libya they would retaliate.” Mr Palmer also pointed out that Libya, like all other countries, could claim only up to 12 miles from its shore as territorial waters and that beyond that limit all ships had freedom of passage.