(1) The Minister may—
(a) give directions in relation to any salvage operation; and
(b) take measures in accordance with generally recognised principles of international law to protect the environment from pollution following a maritime casualty or acts relating to such casualty which may reasonably be expected to result in harmful consequences.
(2) The Minister shall, in giving directions and taking measures under subsection (1), take into account the need for co-operation between salvors, other interested parties and the administration, in order to ensure the efficient and successful performance of salvage operations for the purpose of saving life or property in danger, as well as preventing damage to the environment in general.
(3) Any public officer or person acting under the directions of the Minister under this section shall exercise due care in preventing or minimising damage to the environment.
(4) Any public authority or an officer thereof who is within the vicinity of a vessel or person in distress or danger of being lost at sea shall render assistance to save the vessel and life by co-operating in—
(a) the procurement and provision of facilities to salvors;
(b) the admittance to any port of vessels in distress;
(c) ensuring the efficient and successful performance of the salvage operation for the purpose of saving life or property; and
(d) preventing or minimising damage to the environment.