(1)It is the duty of the master or other person for the time being in command of any vessel comprised in a convoy under the command of an officer of Her Majesty's naval forces, or of any person appointed in that behalf with the authority of the Admiralty, to obey, in all matters relating to the navigation or security of the convoy, any directions which may be given—
(a)where the convoy is escorted by any of Her Majesty's ships or vessels, by the commanding officer of any such ship or vessel;
(b)in any case, by the said officer or other person in command of the convoy,
and to take such precautions for avoiding the enemy as may be required by any such directions.
(2)If any such directions are not obeyed, any such commanding officer, or the said officer or other person in command of the convoy, may compel obedience by force of arms, and neither he nor any person acting under his orders shall be liable for any injury or loss of life or any damage to or loss of property resulting therefrom.