[2003] 2 Lloyd’s Rep. 617

Timothy Saloman QC – Conflict of laws – Bill of lading – Limitation of time – London arbitration clause – Cargo-owners and insurers brought action in Chinese Courts – Shipowners brought London arbitration proceedings – Cargo-owners objected to arbitrator’s jurisdiction – Chinese Courts determined that they had jurisdiction – Arbitrator held that he had jurisdiction and made award on merits in shipowners’ favour – Cargo-owners did not seek to challenge award for jurisdiction – Chinese Court subsequently gave judgment in cargo-owners’ favour – Cargo-owners and insurers sought to extend time for challenging arbitration award – Whether time should be extended – Whether leave should be given to enforce award – Arbitration Act, 1996