LONDON: A State of Emergency was declared in Britain today [May 23] because of the week-long seamen’s strike.

Prime Minister Harold Wilson told Parliament the proclamation took effect immediately, and special powers were being taken to set maximum prices for goods.

Mr Wilson said the regulations under the Emergency power — which have to be approved by both Houses of Parliament within seven days — dealt with the control of port traffic, internal transport, and maintenance of essential supplies.

He said the Government did not consider any action under the regulations immediately necessary, but it would not hesitate to use its new powers if needed.

Mr Wilson added: “We are proclaiming an Emergency because the Government must protect the vital interests of the nation.”

In a bid to end the seamen’s strike, the Government intervened for the first time earlier today by calling shipowners and union leaders to separate conferences.

Labour Minister Ray Gunter made his peace move as the Government faced the prospect of declaring a national emergency and using the Royal Navy to clear congested ports unless a settlement is reached soon. —Agencies

[Meanwhile in Rawalpindi] the Official Secrets Act is likely to be amended during Budget session of the National Assembly, it was learnt today [May 23].

The proposed amendment will provide enhanced punishment for leakage of information pertaining to defence and for acts of sabotage and espionage.

Official Secrets Act will be divided into two distinct parts — one dealing with secrets of civil nature and the other pertaining to defence of the country. Punishment for divulging secrets of civil nature will remain three years but punishment for espionage and leakage of information relating to defence of the country would be enhanced to 10 years, it is learnt.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2016