ShippingSir,I would like to defend my article concerning the political economy of Flag of Covenience ships (FOCs) against recent criticism from R. J. F. Hudson (NW, August 26). The fact that many shipping companies using FOC run vessels at “world’s best practice” (if there is such a standard) does not mean that problems within the industry should be ignored. Data concerning the adverse impact of FOCs upon national economies and seafarer working conditions is in the possession of the Intern…
