Registry of Ships Act 1787

Persons who shall not be deemed owners of British or Irish vessels.

X. And be it further enacted, That no subject of his Majesty, his heirs and successors, whose usual residence is in any country not under the dominion of his Majesty, his heirs and successors, shall be deemed or intitled during the time he shall continue so to reside, to be the owner in whole or in part of any British or Irish ship or vessel, required and authorized to be registered by virtue of this act, unless he be a member of some British or Irish factory, or agent for or partner in any house or copartnership actually carrying on trade in Great Britain or Ireland.