asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs how close naval vessels from other countries are permitted to approach our shores.
Written Answers. - Foreign Naval Vessels.
324.
Minister for Foreign Affairs (Professor Dooge)
The freedom of the high seas has always been a fundamental principle of international law. This principle recognises that the seas are open to ships of all states, whether coastal or landlocked, and protects the right of vessels to freely navigate the seas. This rule also applies within the territorial seas. In this area the coastal state has sovereign rights but these rights are subject to the freedom for all ships, including naval vessels, to traverse the territorial sea so long as they do not act in a manner prejudicial to the peace, good order or security of the coastal state.