Exam Question

### (a) Principles of Modern Salvage Law
Modern salvage law is primarily governed by the International Convention on Salvage 1989, which updated the 1910 Brussels Convention. Its principles are founded on encouraging mariners to render assistance to vessels in distress, while balancing the interests of property owners and the environment. The core principles are:
1. **Voluntary Service**: The assistance rendered must be voluntary, meaning the salvor has no pre-existing legal or contractual duty to assist. For example, a tugboat already contracted to escort a vessel cannot claim salvage for routine assistance. The crew of the vessel in distress cannot be salvors as it is their duty to protect their vessel.
2. **Recognised Subjects of Salvage**: The service must be rendered to recognised maritime property (`res`). This includes the vessel, its apparel, bunkers, cargo, and freight at risk. It does not typically apply to persons (life salvage), although saving life can enhance a property salvage award.