Hostname: page-component-586b7cd67f-dsjbd Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-11-27T06:10:58.491Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Homing Devices in Choice of Tort Law: Australian, British, and Canadian Approaches

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 January 2008

Abstract

Since 1994, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia have adopted new choice of law rules for cross-border torts that, in different ways, centre on the application of the law of the place where the tort occurred (the lex loci delicti). All three countries abandoned some species of the rule in Phillips v Eyre, which required some reference to the law of the forum (the lex fori) as well as the lex loci delicti. However, predictions were made that, where possible, courts in these countries would continue to show a strong inclination to apply the lex fori in cross-border tort cases—and would use a range of homing devices to do so. A comprehensive survey and analysis of the cases that have been decided under the Australian, British and Canadian lex loci delicti regimes suggests that courts in these countries do betray a homing instinct, but one that has actually been tightly restrained by appeal courts. Where application of the lex fori was formally allowed by use of a ‘flexible exception’ in Canada and the United Kingdom, this has been contained by courts of first appeal. Indeed, only the continuing characterization of the assessment of damages as a procedural question in Canada and the United Kingdom, seems to remain as a significant homing device for courts in these countries.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © British Institute of International and Comparative Law 2006

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

References

1 (1870) LR 6 QB 1. In this article, ‘the rule in Phillips v Eyre’ is taken to refer to the family of choice of law rules (including the double actionability rule) that trace their origin to the decision in Phillips v Eyre itself. Each species of the rule, consistent with the structure of Phillips v Eyre, makes some reference to both the lex fori and the lex loci delicti in dealing with cross-border tort cases.Google Scholar

2 Liverpool, Brazil and River Plate Steam Navigation Co Ltd v Benham, ‘The Halley’ (1868) LR 2 PC 193.Google Scholar

3 [1971] AC 356, 391.Google Scholar

4 Morris, JC ‘The Proper Law of a Tort’ (1951) 64 Harvard Law Review 881.Google Scholar

5 Currie, BSelected Essays on the Conflict of Laws (Duke University Press Durham NC 1963) 177–87.Google Scholar

6 Red Sea Insurance Co v Bouyges SA [1995] 1 AC 190.Google Scholar

7 Carter, PB ‘Choice of Law in Tort: The Role of the Lex Fori’ [1995] CLJ 38, 40–1.Google Scholar See also Reed, AThe Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 and the Need for Escape Devices’ (1996) 15 Civil Justice Quarterly 305, 306.Google Scholar

8 Coupland v Arabian Gulf Oil Co [1983] 3 All ER 226Google Scholar; Armagas Ltd v Mundogas SA [1986] AC 717, 740–1, 752–3.Google Scholar

9 M'Elroy v M'Allister 1949 SC 110.Google Scholar

10 McLean v Pettigrew [1945] SCR 62, 78.Google Scholar

11 Grimes v Cloutier (1989) 61 DLR (4th) 505Google Scholar; Prefontaine Estate v Frizzle (1990) 65 DLR (4th) 275Google Scholar

12 See Davies, MExactly What is the Australian Choice of Law Rule in Torts Cases?’ (1996) 70 Australian Law Journal 711Google Scholar; Lindell, GRegie National des Usines Renault SA v Zhang’ (2002) 3 Melbourne Journal of International Law 362, 367–8.Google Scholar

13 Wilson v Nattrass (1995) 21 MVR 41, 51.Google Scholar

14 Blaikie, JChoice of Law in Delict and Tort: Reform at Last!’ (1997) 1 Edinburgh Law Review 361, 365–6CrossRefGoogle Scholar; Rodger, BJ ‘Ascertaining the Statutory Lex Loci Delicti: Certain Difficulties under the Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995’ (1998) 47 ICLQ 205, 205Google Scholar; Walker, J ‘Choice of Law in Tort: The Supreme Court of Canada Enters the Fray’ (1995) 111 LQR 397, 398.Google Scholar

15 Carter, PB ‘Choice of Law in Tort and Delict’ (1991) 107 LQR 405, 409Google Scholar; Carter (n 7) 41; Carter, PB ‘The Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995’ (1996) 112 LQR 190, 193Google Scholar; Kincaid, PJensen v Tolofson and the Revolution in Tort Choice of Law’ (1995) 74 Canadian Bar Review 537, 553.Google Scholar

16 Carter, PB, ‘The Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995’ (1996) 112 LQR 190, 193Google Scholar; Reed, (n 7) 320–1.Google Scholar

17 Carter, (n 16) 193–4.Google Scholar

18 Morse, CGJ ‘Torts in Private International Law: A New Statutory Framework’ (1996) 45 ICLQ 888, 895Google Scholar; Reed, (n 7) 321–1Google Scholar; Rodger, (n 14) 205.Google Scholar

19 Carter, (n 16) 194Google Scholar; cf Reed, (n 7) 313.Google Scholar

20 ibid 314–20.

21 cf Briggs, A ‘In Praise and Defence of Renvoi’ (1998) 87 ICLQ 877.Google Scholar

22 (1988) 169 CLR 41.Google Scholar

23 Followed in Byrnes v Groote Eylandt Mining Corporation (1990) 19 NSWLR 13, 23, 32–3Google Scholar, and Stevens v Head (1991) 14 MVR 327, 330.Google Scholar

24 McKain v RW Miller & Co (SA) Pty Ltd (1991) 174 CLR 1Google Scholar; Stevens v Head (1993) 176 CLR 433.Google Scholar

25 [1994] 3 SCR 1022.Google Scholar

26 ibid 1051–2, 1063–5.

27 ibid 1047.

28 ibid.

29 ibid 1050.

30 ibid 1054.

31 ibid 1061–2.

32 ibid 1078.

33 ibid 1071–2. Emphasis in the original.

34 ibid 1068–9.

35 ibid 1071–3.

36 Breavington v Godleman (1988) 169 CLR 41, 77–8, 84–5, 114Google Scholar; McKain v RW Miller & Co (SA) Pty Ltd (1991) 174 CLR 1, 18, 39.Google Scholar

37 (2000) 203 CLR 503.Google Scholar

38 (1991) 174 CLR 1.Google Scholar

39 ibid 44.

40 (1993) 176 CLR 433.Google Scholar

41 ibid 460.

42 (2000) 203 CLR 503, 544, 554, 570–5.Google Scholar

43 cf Davis, GJohn Pfeiffer Pty Ltd v Rogerson: Choice of Law in Tort at the Dawning of the 21st Century’ (2000) 24 Melbourne University Law Review 982, 986.Google Scholar

44 (2000) 203 CLR 503, 533–4.Google ScholarSee also 536–7, 551.Google Scholar That obliged States to surrender any attempt to apply their own policies to events that occurred in another State: ibid 533–4, 541. In addition the Court was influenced by factors like the legislative requirements for the exercise of federal jurisdiction, people's expectations to be subject to the law of the State they happen to be in, certainty and predictability, and the deterrence of forum shopping: ibid 532, 536, 538–40, 552–3, 560.

45 ibid 542.

46 ibid 544.

47 ibid 538.

48 ibid 533–4. Kirby, J (559, 562–3) concurred in the adoption of this choice of law regime. Callinan J (576) dissented on the choice of law point; expressing some preference for Phillips v Eyre and even allowing a public policy exception to the rule to the extent that it required actionability in the place of the tort.Google Scholar

49 Oz-US Film Productions Pty Limited v Heath [2001] NSWSC 298, [93], [105]–[110]Google Scholar; Zhang v Regie des Usines Renault SA [2000] NSWCA 188, [50]–[52].Google Scholar

50 (2002) 210 CLR 491.Google Scholar

51 Whether that meant the metropole or New Caledonia made no real difference. Kirby J suggested (539) that New Caledonia was the locus delicti.

52 (2002) 210 CLR 491, 520.Google Scholar

53 cf Smart, P St J ‘Foreign Torts and the High Court of Australia’ (2002) 118 LQR 512, 515.Google Scholar

54 (2002) 210 CLR 491, 516–17, 520, 528–9.Google Scholar

55 Blunden v Commonwealth of Australia (2003) 203 ALR 189.Google Scholar

56 Law Com No 193 (1990)Google Scholar; Scot Law Com No 129 (1990).Google Scholar

57 A Briggs ‘Choice of Law in Tort and Delict’ [1995] LMCLQ 519, 520.Google Scholar

58 Law Com No 193 (1990)Google Scholar; Scot Law Com No 129 (1990) 10 (para 3.2).Google Scholar

59 ibid at 10 (para 3.3).

60 Blaikie, (n 14) 366Google Scholar; Briggs, (n 57) 520Google Scholar; Carter, (n 16) 194Google Scholar; Morse, (n 18) 891–2.Google Scholar

61 Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 11(2)(a).

62 ibid s n(2)(b).

63 ibid s 11(2)(c).

64 ibid s 12(1).

65 ibid s 10.

66 ibid s 13.

67 Rogerson, P ‘Choice of Law in Tort: A Missed Opportunity?’ (1995) 44 ICLQ 650, 658.Google Scholar It appears that it is impermissible to use the pre-existing common law to identify where, under s 11 of the Act, a tort is deemed to occur: Protea Leasing Limited v Royal Air Cambodge Company Limited [2002] EWHC 2731 (Comm), at [78] [80]Google Scholar; Morin v Bonhams & Brooks [2004] 1 All ER (Comm) 880, 888.Google Scholar

68 Briggs, (n 57) 526.Google Scholar

69 Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 14(3)(b).

70 AE Anton with Beaumont, PPrivate International Law (2nd ednGreen Edinburgh 1990) 404–5.Google ScholarCf James Burrough Distillers pic v Speymalt Whiskey Distributors Ltd 1989 SLT 561, 563–4Google Scholar, where there is no mention of Boys v Chaplin's adjustments to the rule in Phillips v Eyre.

71 Foreign Limitation Periods Act 1984 (UK) ss 1(1), 7(4); Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1984 (UK) s 23A.

72 For a criticism of the judicial activism inherent in the Australian changes, see Amankwah, A, ‘Judicial Legislation: A New Phase?’ (2000) 7 James Cook University Law Review 254, 258.Google Scholar

73 See especially Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 13(1). This was the view taken of the Act's preservation of traditional concepts of procedural law in Harding v Wealands [2006] UKHL 32, [51].Google Scholar

74 [1995] 1 AC 190.Google Scholar

75 ibid 199, 202.

76 ibid 199.

77 [2002] 2 AC 883.Google Scholar

78 ibid 932.

79 Harding v Wealands [2005] 1 All ER 415.Google Scholar

80 ibid 444; Harding v Wealands [2006] UKHL 32, [36], [68]–[69], [83].Google Scholar

81 Kuwait Airways Corp v Iraqi Airways Co (No 3) [2000] 2 All ER (Comm) 360Google Scholar; [2002] 3 All ER 209, 215, 248.Google ScholarSee also Milne v Moores [1999] ScotCS 305Google Scholar; Pearce v Ove Orup Partnership Ltd [2000] Ch 403, 443Google Scholar; Al Sabah v Grupo Torras SA [2000] EWCA Civ 273Google Scholar; Ennstone Building Products Limited v Stanger Limited [2002] 2 All ER (Comm) 479Google Scholar; Base Metal Trading Ltd v Shamurin [2005] 1 All ER (Comm) 17.Google Scholar

82 Guardian of Stoeterau v Crow snest Air Ltd (1995) 5 BCLR (3d) 251, [6]–[7]Google Scholar; Perron v R.JR MacDonald (1996) 81 BCAC 303, [6]Google Scholar; Stewart v Stewart (1997) 145 DLR (4th) 228, 234–6Google Scholar; Dnistransky v Homer [1998] 3 WWR 37Google Scholar; Noël v Robichaud (1997) 193 NBR (2d) 10Google Scholar; Brill v Korpaach Estate (1997) 148 DLR (4th) 467Google Scholar; Gallant v Diocese of Labrador City-Schefferville (2001) 200 DLR (4th) 643, 650.Google Scholar

83 Dunn v Comalco Aluminium Limited [2002] TasSC 14, [14]Google Scholar; Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria Ltd [2002] WASC 231, [185], [196]Google Scholar, but cf Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria Ltd (2005) 221 ALR 213.Google ScholarCf Bakker v Adrichem [1997] 5 WWR 151, 157–8Google Scholar; Perron v RJR. MacDonald (1996) 81 BCAC 303, [5].Google Scholar

84 Dnistransky v Horner [1998] 3 WWR 37.Google Scholar

85 Stewart v Stewart (1997) 145 DLR (4th) 228, 234–6.Google Scholar

86 Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 626.Google Scholar

87 See also R v Kovacevic 2000 BCCA 161, [24]Google Scholar; Beadovin v Conley [2000] 11 WWR 436, 462–3.Google ScholarThe House of Lords reiterated a usual refusal to recognize prospective overruling in National Westminster Bank plc v Spectrum Plus Limited [2005] UKHL 41.Google Scholar

88 El-Syoufi v Alcazar [2001] ACTSC 1.Google Scholar

89 Simonfi v Fimmel [2000] ACTSC 54, [4]Google Scholar; Fawcett v Oliver [2000] ACTSC 70, [1].Google Scholar

90 Hardham v Flood [2001] ACTSC 21, [11]Google Scholar; Hooper v Robinson [2002] QDC 80, [21].Google Scholar

91 Dyer v Dyno Nobel Asia Pacific Limited [2003] NSWSC 213, [4].Google Scholar

92 Union Shipping New Zealand Ltd v Morgan (2002) 54 NSWLR 690, 692.Google Scholar

93 Perron v RJR MacDonald (1996) 81 BCAC 303, [6].Google Scholar

94 Carter (n 16) 193.Google Scholar

95 Canada: Drews v Insurance Corporation of British Columbia [1] 55 BCLR (3d) 281, [28]Google Scholar; Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Co v Lindblom (2001) 200 DLR (4th) 123, 128Google Scholar; Kingsway General Insurance Co v Canada Life Insurance Co (2001) 149 OAC 303Google Scholar; Guardian of Matt v Barber (2002) 216 DLR (4th) 574, 582Google Scholar; cf. Yeung v Au 2004 BCSC 1648, [34]–[35].Google ScholarEngland: West Tankers Inc v Ras Riunione Adriatica Di Sicurta SpA [2005] EWHC 454 (Comm).Google Scholar

96 Kingsway General Insurance Co v Canada Life Insurance Co (2001) 149 OAC 303, [12]Google Scholar; West Tankers Inc v Ras Riunione Adriatica Di Sicurta SpA [2005] EWHC 454 (Comm), [28]–[31].Google Scholar

97 Collins, L (ed) Dicey and Morris on the Conflict of Laws (12th ednSweet & Maxwell London 1993) 1522Google Scholar; Castel, J-GCanadian Conflict of Laws (3rd ednButterworths Toronto 1994) 591–2.Google Scholar

98 Voyage Company Industries Inc v Craster (1998–08–11) BCSC C976871, [12].Google Scholar

99 (2002) 222 DLR (4th) 453.Google Scholar

100 Class Proceedings Act 1996 (BC) s 6(1).

101 (2002) 222 DLR (4th) 453, 462.Google Scholar

102 ibid 481.

103 ibid 473, 481, 483, 487, 490–2.

104 ibid 490.

105 ibid 492–3.

106 ibid 491–2.

107 eg Voyage Company Industries Inc v Craster (1998–08–11) BCSC C976871.Google Scholar

108 (2002) 222 DLR (4th) 453, 485. See also Voyage, where the British Columbia Supreme Court considered that the questions of company management were to be governed by the law of Yukon.Google Scholar

109 eg Guardian of Matt v Barber (2002) 216 DLR (4th) 574, where the Ontario Court applied Florida law.Google Scholar

110 Tolofson v Jensen [1994] 3 SCR 1022, 1050Google Scholar; John Pfeiffer Pty Limited v Rogerson (2000) 203 CLR 503, 538–9, 563Google Scholar; Regie National des Usines Renault SA v Zhang (2002) 210 CLR 491, 519, 539.Google Scholar

111 cf Georges v Basilique de Sainte-Anne-de Beaupre (2004–08–31) OSC 03-CV-258, [28]–[29].Google Scholar

112 Australia: Reid v AGCO Australia Ltd [2000] VSC 363, [4]Google Scholar; Simonfi v Fimmel [2000] ACTSC 54Google Scholar; Fawcett v Oliver [2000] ACTSC 70, [16]Google Scholar; Thompson v Evanoss [2000] ACTSC 73, [28]Google Scholar; El-Syoufi v Alcazar [2000] ACTSC 109, [1], [20]Google Scholar; Moon v Moon [2001] FCA 1712, [1]Google Scholar; Moon v Moon [2001] ACTSC 17, [114]Google Scholar; Bellotti v Stair [2002] QDC 161, [3]Google Scholar; El-Syoufi v Alcazar [2001] ACTSC 1Google Scholar; Kalsbeck v Williams [2001] ACTSC 5, [1]Google Scholar; Hardham v Flood [2001] ACTSC 21Google Scholar; Labuda v Langford [2001] ACTSC 108, [38]Google Scholar; Janetski v Janetski [2001] VSC 328, [27]Google Scholar; Hooper v Robinson [2002] QDC 80, [21]Google Scholar; FAI Allianz Insurance Ltd v Lang [2004] NSWCA 413, [23].Google ScholarCanada: Bakker v Adrichem (1997) 30 BCLR (3d) 199, [8]Google Scholar; Stewart v Stewart Estate (1996) 195 NBR (2d) 36, [29]Google Scholar; Ross v Ford Motor Co [1998] NWTR 175Google Scholar; Stewart v Stewart (1997) 145 DLR (4th) 228Google Scholar; Hrynenko v Hrynenko (B) Dnistransky v Homer [1998] 3 WWR 37Google Scholar; Leonard v Houle (D) 646Google Scholar; Hanlan v Sernesky (1997) 35 OR (3d) 603Google Scholar; Moxham v Canada (TD) [1998] 3 FC 441; Rivas v Damacio ( 226 AR 287, [29]Google Scholar; Estate of Throness 1998 ABQB 1132, [72]Google Scholar; Drews v Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (1998) 55 BCLR (3d) 281, [28]Google Scholar; Hrynenko v Hrynenko (1998) 168 DLR (4th) 437Google Scholar; Wong v Wei (1999) 65 BCLR (3d) 222Google Scholar; Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Co v Lindblom (2001) 200 DLR (4th) 123, 135Google Scholar; Gill v Gill 2000 BCSC 870Google Scholar; Manitoba (Workers' Compensation Board) v Kraynyk [2] 9 WWR 424, 431Google Scholar; Doiron v Hogan 2001 NBCA 97, [24]Google Scholar; Kingsway General Insurance Co v Canada Life Insurance Co (2001) 149 OAC 303, [12]Google Scholar; Day v Guarantee Co of North America 2002 NSSC 12, [14], [18]Google Scholar; Fortune v Reynolds 2002 NSSC 288, [10]Google Scholar; Castillo v Castillo (2002) 313 AR 189, [11]Google Scholar; Subramaniam v Shetler (2002) 61 OR (3d) 136, [11]Google Scholar; Wong v Lee (2002) 211 DLR (4th) 69Google Scholar; Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611Google Scholar; Guardian of Matt v Barber (2002) 216 DLR (4th) 574, 582Google Scholar; Britton v O'Callaghan (2002) 219 DLR (4th) 300, 305Google Scholar; Roy c Boucher (2002–09–30) QCCA 500–09–009731–001Google Scholar; Bezan v Vander Hooft (2003) 333 AR 215Google Scholar; Insurance Corporation of British Columbia v Unifund Assurance Company 2003 SCC 40, [25]Google Scholar; Brown v Flaharty (2004–12–02) ONSC 30895, [3]Google Scholar; Castillo v Castillo (2004) 244 DLR (4th) 603, 605, 609Google Scholar; Holomego v Brady (2004–12–16) ONSC 01-CV-203882CM, [1]Google Scholar; Bezan v Vander Hooft (2004) 346 AR 272, [11]Google Scholar; Soriano (Litigation Guardian) v Palacios (2004–05–19) ONSC 01–CV–220331CM3, [4]Google Scholar; Roy v North American Leisure Group Inc 2004 CanLH 3078 (ONCA), [2]Google Scholar; Yeung v Au 2004 BCSC 1648, [31]Google Scholar; Soriano v Palacios (2005–06–03) ONCA C42225, [14].Google ScholarUnited Kingdom: Edmunds v Simmonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003, 1005Google Scholar; Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812, 813Google Scholar; Harding v Wealands [2005] 1 All ER 415Google Scholar; Banks v CGU Insurance Plc [2004] ScotSC 241, [1]Google Scholar; Harding v Wealands [2006] UKHL 32.Google Scholar

113 Union Shipping New Zealand Ltd v Morgan (2002) 54 NSWLR 690, 730–3, 736Google Scholar; Booth v Phillips [2004] EWHC 1437 (Admlty), [57].Google Scholar

114 Australia: Hatfield v Agtrack (NT) Pty Ltd (2001) 162 FLR 97, [29].Google ScholarCanada: Guardian of Stoeterau v Crowsnest Air Ltd (1995) 5 BCLR (3d) 251, [7]Google Scholar; Gal v Northern Mountain Helicopters Inc (1998) 54 BCLR (3d) 87, [29]Google Scholar; Herman v Alberta (Public Trustee) (2002) 308 AR 320, [1].Google ScholarUnited Kingdom: Bristow Helicopters Ltd v Sikorksy Aircraft Corporation [2004] 2 lloyd's Rep 150, 153, 156.Google Scholar

115 Shane v JCB Belgium NV (2003–11–14) ONSC 02–CV–19871, [1], [22], [51]Google Scholar; British Columbia v Imperial Tobacco Canada Ltd (2004) 239 DLR (4th) 412, 431, 434–5, 462, 489Google Scholar; Davey v Medtel Pty Limited (No 3) [2004] FCA 807, [19]–[20]Google Scholar; cf Regie National des Usines Renault SA v Zhang (2002) 210 CLR 491Google Scholar; Nicholls v Brisbane Slipways and Engineering Pty Ltd [2003] QSC 193, [8]–[10].Google Scholar

116 Shane v JCB Belgium NV (2003–11–14) ONSC 02–CV–19871.Google ScholarThe ascription of the locus in Nicholls v Brisbane Slipways and Engineering Pty Ltd [2003] QSC 193Google Scholar, [8]–[10] to the forum, Queensland, where defective installation occurred, rather than Western Australia, where the injury was sustained, is consistent with the method of the Australian High Court in Renault, where the joint majority considered that the locus was where the defective manufacture took place (France) rather than where the injury occurred (New Caledonia). In neither case were the laws of the different places different.

117 The principles used were those of Moron v Pyle National (Canada) Ltd [1975] 1 SCR 393Google Scholar and Distillers Co (Bio-Chemicals) Ltd v Thompson [1971] AC 458.Google Scholar

118 Integral Energy & Environmental Engineering Limited v Schenker of Canada Limited (2001) 206 DLR (4th) 265, 269Google Scholar; Shane v JCB Belgium NV (2003–11–14) ONSC 02–CV–19871.Google Scholar

119 Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 11(2)(a)–(b).

120 Tolofson v Jensen [1994] 3 SCR 1022, 1050.Google ScholarSee also John Pfeiffer Pty Limited v Rogerson (2000) 203 CLR 503, 560.Google Scholar

121 See OT Africa Line Limited v Magic Sportswear Corporation [2005] 1 Lloyd's Rep 252, 256–7Google Scholar, where legal proceedings alleged to have amounted to procuring a breach of contract were held to have occurred in Ontario, where the proceedings were issued. See also Equitas Ltd v Wave City Shipping Company Ltd [2005] EWHC 923 (Comtn), [18]–[20].Google Scholar

122 Coffins, L (ed) Dicey and Morris on the Conflict of Laws (13th ednSweet & Maxwell London 2000) 1547–8, 1567Google Scholar; North, P and Fawcett, JCheshire and North's Private International Law (13th ednButterworths London 1999) 659Google Scholar; Nygh, P and Davies, MConflict of Laws in Australia (7th ednButterworths Sydney 2002) 423Google Scholar; cf Castel, (n 97) 651.Google Scholar

123 Barclay's Bank Plc v Inc Incorporated [2000] 6 WWR 511, 523, 523–4Google Scholar; Morin v Bonhams & Brooks Ltd [2004] 1 All ER (Comm) 880, 888Google Scholar; Kvaerner US Inc v AMEC E & C Services Limited 2004 BCSC 635, [26]Google Scholar; Cresbury Screen Entertainment Ltd v Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce 2004 BCSC 349, [28], [55], [56]Google Scholar; Cultivaust Pty Ltd v Grain Pool Pty Ltd [2004] FCA 638, [273].Google Scholar

124 Morin v Bonhams & Brooks Ltd [2004] 1 All ER (Comm) 880, 888.Google ScholarThis parallels the principles of Voth v Manildra Flour Mills Pty Ltd (1990) 171 CLR 538, 569.Google Scholar

125 (2002) 210 CLR 575.Google Scholar

126 ibid 606–7, 640, 649.

127 The scholarly criticism of Gutnick has largely concerned the different issue that the old rule is just inappropriate for online defamations: eg Briggs, A ‘The Duke of Brunswick and Defamation by Internet’ (2003) 119 LQR 210Google Scholar; Garnett, RDow Jones & Company v Gutnick: An Adequate Response to Transnational Internet Defamation?’ (2003) 4 Melbourne Journal of International Law 196, 212–16Google Scholar; Richardson, M and Garnett, RPerils of Publicity on the Internet: Broader Implications of Dow Jones v Gutnick’ (2004) 13 Griffith Law Review 74, 90–1.Google Scholar

128 (2002) 210 CLR 575, 606, 639–40.Google Scholar

129 Randwick Labor Club Limited v Amalgamated Television Services Pty Ltd [2000] NSWSC 906, [190]Google Scholar; Meriton Apartments Pty Ltd v SBS Corporation [2002] NSWSC 915, [12]Google Scholar; Jackson v TCN Channel 9 Pty Ltd [2002] NSWSC 1229, [91]Google Scholar; Hewitt v ATP Tour Inc [2004] SASC 286, [73]–[77].Google Scholar

130 Caribbean Clear Beverages Corporation Limited v Coopers & Lybrand Vancouver Limited (1998–07–03) BCSC C965097, [2].Google Scholar

131 (1995) 179 AR 81.Google Scholar

132 ibid [11].

133 [1999] 12 WWR 408.Google Scholar

134 ibid 422.

135 Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961, 963, 965Google Scholar; Roy v North American Leisure Group Inc (2004) 246 DLR (4th) 306, 307.Google Scholar

136 Blunden v Commonwealth of Australia (2003) 203 ALR 189, 200, 213, 215.Google Scholar

137 Commonwealth of Australia v Stankowski; Commonwealth of Australia v May [2002] NSWCA 348Google Scholar; Burk v Commonwealth of Australia [2002] VSC 453.Google ScholarBlunden v Commonwealth of Australia (2003) 203 ALR 189, 200, 213, 215 invoked federal jurisdiction, which meant there was less of a need to refer to choice of law rules.Google Scholar

138 Limitation Act 1985 (ACT).

139 21 Jas I c 16.

140 Commonwealth of Australia v Stankowski; Commonwealth of Australia v May [2002] NSWCA 348, [33].Google Scholar

141 ibid [29].

142 Burk v Commonwealth of Australia [2002] VSC 453, [40].Google Scholar

143 ibid [35]–[39].

144 ibid [22].

145 ibid [24]. Unfortunately, the attempt to impugn the Naval Board's decisions in the Voyager litigation brings us no closer to identifying the locus where all acts of alleged negligence occur on the high seas.

146 cf Reed, (n 7) 312Google Scholar, where the impact that any Australian adoption of the 1995 Act would have had on Stevens v Head (1993) 176 CLR 433 is probably misconceived.Google Scholar

147 Morse, (n 18) 895.Google Scholar

148 (1991) 174 CLR 1.Google Scholar

149 (1993) 176 CLR 433Google Scholar

150 Foreign Limitation Periods Act 1985 (UK) s 1(1) (a); Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1984 (UK) s 23A.

151 [1994] 3 SCR 1022, 1070Google Scholar; Walker (n 14) 398.Google Scholar

152 Mortensen, RPrivate International Law (Butterworths Sydney 2000) 100. See eg Choice of Law (Limitation Periods) Act 1993 (NSW), and comparable legislation in other States and Territories.Google Scholar

153 (2000) 203 CLR 503, 542–3.Google Scholar

154 (1991) 174 CLR 1, 22–7, 53, 62Google Scholar; (1993) 176 CLR 433, 445, 469–70.Google Scholar

155 (2000) 203 CLR 503, 543.Google Scholar

156 ibid 574.

157 ibid.

158 ibid 554.

159 ibid 544.

160 (2002) 210 CLR 491, 520.Google Scholar

161 The opportunity to treat damages as a question of procedure in a foreign tort case was nevertheless not taken in Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria (2005) 221 ALR 213.Google Scholar

162 Canada: Guardian of Stoeterau v Crowsnest Air Ltd (1995) 5 BCLR (3d) 251Google Scholar; Syvertsen v Toope (1995) 5 BCLR (3d) 174, [42]Google Scholar; Perron v RJR MacDonald (1996–10–07) BCCA CA016982, [6]Google Scholar; Bakker v Adrichem [1997] 5 WWR 151, 157–8Google Scholar; Stewart v Stewart Estate (1996) 195 NBR (2d) 36, [44]Google Scholar; Stewart v Stewart (1997) 145 DLR (4th) 228, 229, 235Google Scholar; Harrington v Dow Corning Corp (1997) 29 BCLR (3d) 88, [14]Google Scholar; Hrynenko v Hrynenko (1997) 37 BCLR (3d) 35Google Scholar; Dnistransky v Homer (1997–11–06) MBCA Al 97–30–03304Google Scholar; Noël v Robichaud (1997) 193 NBR (2d) 10Google Scholar; Brill v Korpaach Estate (1997) 148 DLR (4th) 467Google Scholar; KC v College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (1998) 157 DLR (4th) 31, 3637Google Scholar; Attorney-General of Canada v Nalleweg (1998) 165 DLR (4th) 606, 616Google Scholar; Hrynenko v Hrynenko (1998) 168 DLR (4th) 437Google Scholar; Scandsea Canada Ltd v Emberley's Transport Ltd (1999) 178 NSR (2d) 134, [12]Google Scholar; Holgate v Swimmer (1999) 46 OR (3d) 599Google Scholar; Banque Nationale de Paris (Canada) v Opiola [2000] 6 WWR 502, 507508Google Scholar; MGL v SJL 2000 BCPC 138Google Scholar; Girsberger v Kresz (2000) 47 OR (3d) 145, [41]Google Scholar; Paulus v Banque Nationale de Paris (Canada) [2001] 6 WWR 95, 102Google Scholar; Pearson v Boliden Limited (2002) 222 DLR (4th) 453, 473–4, 485, 490–1Google Scholar; Gallant v Diocese of Labrador City-Schefferville (2001) 200 DLR (4th) 643, 650–1Google Scholar; Day v Guarantee Co of North America 2002 NSSC 12, [14], [18]Google Scholar; Desautels v Katimavik (2003) 175 OAC 201, [48], [51]Google Scholar; Caspian Construction Inc v Drake Surveys Ltd (2004) 184 Man.R. (2d) 284, [19].Google ScholarAustralia: Brear v James Hardie & Coy Pty Ltd (2000) 50 NSWLR 388, 396Google Scholar; Reid v AGCO Australia Ltd [2000] VSC 363, [4]Google Scholar; KBRV Resort Operations Pty Ltd v Chilcott (2001) 51 NSWLR 516, 518Google Scholar; Henry v Commonwealth [2001] NSWSC 971, [3]Google Scholar; Morris v Kriziac [2001] ACTSC 117, [4]Google Scholar; McKenzie v Commonwealth [2001] VSC 361, [54]–[57]Google Scholar; Burk v Commonwealth [2002] VSC 453, [19]Google Scholar; Commonwealth v Starkowski [2002] NSWCA 348, [28]–[29]Google Scholar; Dunn v Comalco Aluminium Limited [2002] TasSC 14, [1]Google Scholar; Bradford v Commonwealth [2002] FCA 1489, [20]Google Scholar; Wright v Central Coast Area Health Service [2002] NSWSC 800, [13]Google Scholar; Agtrack (NT) Pty Ltd v Hatfield (2004) 7 VR 63, 90, 92, 95–6, 101Google Scholar; Pulido v RS Distribution Pty Ltd (2003) 177 FLR 401, 408Google Scholar; Air Link Pty Limited v Paterson (No 2) (2003) 58 NSWLR 388, 398, 434Google Scholar; Blunden v Commonwealth of Australia (2003) 203 ALR 189, 212Google Scholar; Cultivaust Pty Ltd v Grain Pool Pty Ltd [2004] FCA 638, [273]Google Scholar; Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria (2005) 221 ALR 213, 215, 258–9, 267, 275.Google Scholar

163 Canada: Alberta Mortgage and Housing Corporation v Klapstein [1999] 1 WWR 355, 360Google Scholar; Deuruneft Deutsche-Russische Mineralol Handelsgesellschaft mbH v Bullen (2002) 310 AR 164, [52]Google Scholar; Castillo v Castillo (2002) 313 AR 189, [11], [32]Google Scholar; Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 625–6Google Scholar; Roy v North American Leisure Group Inc (2004) 246 DLR (4th) 306, 309Google Scholar; Castillo v Castillo (2004) 244 DLR (4th) 603, 609, 610–11.Google ScholarAustralia: Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria Ltd [2002] WASC 231, [185]Google Scholar; Griffith v Australian Broadcasting Corporation [2002] NSWSC 86, [403]Google Scholar; Dyer v Dyno Nobel Asia Pacific Limited [2003] NSWSC 213, [24]–[25]Google Scholar; Dyno Wesfarmers Ltd v Knuckey [2003] NSWCA 375, [37]Google Scholar; Fullford v Pearson [2004] NSWCA 150, [5]Google Scholar; Darcy v Medtel Pty Limited (No 3) [2004] FCA 807, [17]–[20].Google Scholar

164 Reid v AGCO Australia Ltd [2000] VSC 363, [6]Google Scholar; Henry v Commonwealth [2001] NSWSC 971, [17]Google Scholar; Morris v Kriziac [2001] ACTSC 117, [4]Google Scholar; Dunn v Comalco Aluminium Limited [2002] TasSC 14, [14]Google Scholar; Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria Ltd [2002] WASC 231, [185], [196]Google Scholar; cf Bradford v Commonwealth [2002] FCA 1489, [71], [73]Google Scholar; Wright v Central Coast Area Health Service [2002] NSWSC 800, [21], [33]Google Scholar; Pulido v RS Distribution Pty Ltd (2003) 177 FLR 401, 409–10Google Scholar; Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria (2005) 221 ALR 213.Google ScholarCf Bakker v Adrichem [1997] 5 WWR 151, 157–8.Google Scholar

165 Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1984 (UK) s 23A.

166 Milne v Moores [1999] ScotCS 305Google Scholar; cf Barks v CGU Insurance Plc [2004] ScotCS 241, [3].Google Scholar See also, for England and Wales, Foreign Limitation Periods Act 1985 (UK) s 7(4). Keene LJ's belief in Ennstone Building Products Limited v Stanger Limited [2002] 2 All ER (Comm) 479, 491 that the Scots limitation period was procedural appears to be a misreading of s 1 (2) of the Act, which required both the English and the foreign limitation period to be treated as substantive when applying the rule in Phillips v Eyre.Google Scholar

167 CSR Limited v Thompson (2003) 59 NSWLR 77, 7980Google Scholar; Hobson v Queanbeyan Australian Football Club [2003] ACTSC 8, [22]Google Scholar; Routley v Bridgestone Australia Limited [2004] NSWDDT 4, [20]–[21]Google Scholar; Hoey v Martin's Stock Haulage (Scone) Pty Ltd [2003] ACTSC 41, [44].Google Scholar

168 Simonfi v Fimmel [2000] ACTSC 54, [4]Google Scholar; Fawcett v Oliver [2000] ACTSC 70, [16]Google Scholar; Thompson v Evanoss [2000] ACTSC 73, [28]Google Scholar; El-Syoufi v Alcazar [2000] ACTSC 109, [1], [20]Google Scholar; Kalsbeek v Williams [2001] ACTSC 5, [1]Google Scholar; Moon v Moon [2001] ACTSC 17, [114]Google Scholar; Bellotti v Stair [2002] QDC 161, [3]Google Scholar; Andrews v Traynor [2003] QSC 292, [3]Google Scholar; Zardo v Ivancic (2003) 149 ACTR 1, 24Google Scholar; FAI Allianz Insurance Ltd v Lang [2004] NSWCA 413, [23]Google Scholar; Ivancic v Zardo [2004] ACTCA 11, [4].Google Scholar

169 Randwick Labor Club Limited v Amalgamated Television Services Pty Ltd [2000] NSWSC 906, [190]Google Scholar; Jackson v TCN Channel 9 Pty Ltd [2002] NSWSC 1229, [91].Google Scholar

170 Edmunds v Simmonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003Google Scholar; Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812Google Scholar; Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961.Google Scholar

171 Wong v Wei (1999) 65 BCLR (3d) 222Google Scholar; Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611.Google Scholar

172 Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961, 970–1Google Scholar; Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 629.Google ScholarWaller LJ admitted that, in Roerig, Pfeiffer was not referred to the Court: Harding v Wealands [2005] 1 All ER 415, 426–7, 446.Google Scholar

173 Wong v Wei (1999) 65 BCLR (3d) 222Google Scholar; Edmunds v Symonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003, 1011Google Scholar; Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812.Google Scholar

174 In Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812, 815–18Google Scholar, Holland, J cited Cope v Doherty (1858) 4 K & J 367, 384Google Scholar; Kohnke v Karger [1951] 2 KB 670Google Scholar; and Edwards v Simmonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003Google Scholar in support. In relation to the Commonwealth authorities, his Lordship recognized that Livesley v Horst & Co [1925] 1 DLR 159, 164Google Scholar was contra his position but made no reference to Stevens v Head (1993) 176 CLR 433.Google Scholar A more specious reason given in Hulse v Chambers was that, in England, the assessment of damages was technically a jury question, even if in practice a judge always answered it: [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812, 818.Google Scholar

175 [2002] 1 All ER 961.Google Scholar

176 [2005] 1 All ER 415.Google Scholar

177 ibid 435–6, 447.

178 Arden, LJ, 433–4, interpreted Pfeiffer's conclusions on substance and procedure as being directed by Australian constitutional considerations, which was not the case, and underestimated the extent to which Pfeiffer settled the characterization question in Australia.Google Scholar

179 ibid 435–6.

180 ibid 447.

181 ibid 431–2.

182 Harding v Wealands [2006] UKHL 32, [36], [39]–[41], [48], [51].Google Scholar

183 ibid [48], [68].

184 (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611.Google Scholar

185 ibid 629.

186 cf Craig v Allstate Insurance Co of Canada (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 103, 113Google Scholar; Brown v Flaharty (2004–12–02) ON SC30895, [9].Google Scholar

187 Chomos v Economical Mutual Insurance Co (2002) 216 DLR (4th) 356, 368–9, 370.Google Scholar

188 Anderson, RInternational Torts in the High Court of Australia’ (2002) 10 Torts Law Journal 132, 140–1Google Scholar; Davis, (n 43) 1014–15Google Scholar; Gray, AFlexibility in Conflict of Laws Multistate Tort Cases: The Way Forward in Australia’ (2004) 23 University of Queensland Law Journal 435, 462–3Google Scholar; James, EJohn Pfeiffer Pty Ltd v Rogerson: The Certainty of ‘Federal’ Choice of Law Rules for Intranational Torts: Limitations, Implications and a Few Complications’ (2001) 23 Sydney Law Review 145, 146, 163Google Scholar; Lindell (n 12) 372–3.Google Scholar

189 (2002) 210 CLR 491, 519–20.Google Scholar

190 ibid 535.

191 ibid 516.

192 Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria (2005) 221 ALR 213, 236, 255.Google Scholar

193 [1971] AC 356.Google Scholar

194 A Briggs ‘The Halley: Holed, but Still Afloat’ (1995) 111 LQR 18, 21.Google Scholar

195 Red Sea Insurance Co v Bouyges SA [1995] 1 AC 190Google Scholar was an appeal to the Privy Council from Hong Kong. An English trial court attempted to invoke Red Sea Insurance in Ennstone Building Products Limited v Stanger Limited [2002] 2 All ER (Comm) 479, 484, 491 so as to apply Scots law alone, but this was overturned on appeal.Google Scholar

196 private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 12(2): ‘The factors that may be taken into account … include, in particular, factors relating to the parties, to any of the events which constitute the tort or delict in question or to any of the circumstances or consequences of those events.’

197 Private International law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 12(1).

198 Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961, 966Google Scholar; Harding v Wealands [2005] 1 All ER 415, 425–6.Google Scholar

199 Cf Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961, 967.Google Scholar

200 It was also applied in Bici v Ministry of Defence [2004] EWHC 786, [2], by agreement of the parties.Google Scholar

201 [2001] 1 WLR 1003Google Scholar; and see Anderson, (n 186) 142.Google Scholar

202 [2001] 1 WLR 1003, 1010, 1011.Google Scholar

203 ibid 1011.

204 [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812.Google Scholar

205 ibid 813–14.

206 ibid 814–15. Damages were still assessed by reference to English awards, as Holland J found that the assessment of damages was a question of procedure: ibid 815–18. The same agreement for application of the lexfori was made in Bid v Ministry of Defence [2004] EWHC 786, [2].Google Scholar

207 [2002] 1 All ER 961, 967–8.Google Scholar

208 [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812.Google Scholar

209 [2002] 1 All ER 961, 967–8.Google Scholar

210 [2005] 1 All ER 415.Google Scholar

211 ibid 432, 440. This approach was not challenged in the appeal to the House of Lords.

212 ibid 423, 424–6.

213 ibid 425–6.

214 [1994] 3 SCR 1022, at 1078.Google Scholar

215 ibid 1054.

216 Lee v Li (2001) 53 OR (3d) 727.Google Scholar Under the rule in Phillips v Eyre, Australian courts had also invoked the flexible exception in interstate cases, despite the ban on doing so: see Woodger v Federal Capital Press Pty Ltd (1992) 107 ACTR 1, 37Google Scholar; Nalpantidis v Stark (1995) 65 SASR 454, 472–3.Google Scholar

217 Wong v Wei (1999) 65 BCLR (3d) 222.Google Scholar

218 cf Wong v Lee (2002) 211 DLR (4th) 69, 76–7.Google Scholar

219 Hanlan v Sernesky (1997) 35 OR (3d) 603, 605–6Google Scholar; (1998) 38 OR (3d) 479, 480Google Scholar; Gill v Gill 2000 BCSC 870, [5], [17]–[19].Google Scholar

220 cf Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 625.Google Scholar

221 2000 BCSC 870.Google Scholar

222 ibid [16]–[19].

223 (2002) 211 DLR (4th) 69.Google Scholar

224 ibid 75.

225 ibid 77.

226 (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611.Google Scholar

227 ibid 624.

228 ibid 625–6; see also Roy v North American Leisure Group Inc (2004) 246 DLR (4th) 306, 309–10.Google Scholar

229 cf Britton v O'Callaghan (2002) 219 DLR (4th) 300, 303Google Scholar; Roy v North American Leisure Group Inc (2004) 246 DLR (4th) 306, 309–10.Google ScholarSee also Castillo v Castillo (2002) 313 AR 189, [12], [32]Google Scholar; Soriano v Palacios (2005–06–03) ONCA C42225, [14].Google Scholar

230 The exception was applied at first instance to avoid a short limitation period in Roy v North American Leisure Group Inc (2003–12–15) ONSC 01–CV–1778, but the decision was reversed on appeal: (2004) 246 DLR (4th) 306.Google Scholar

231 See PB Carter ‘The Role of Public Policy in English Private International Law’ (1993) 42 ICLQ 1.Google Scholar

232 See Juenger, FChoice of Law and Multistate Justice (Martinus Nijhoff Dordrecht 1993) 106–9, 117–18.Google Scholar

233 Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 14(3)(a)(i).

234 [1994] 3 SCR 10221054.Google Scholar

235 (2002) 211 DLR (4th) 69.Google Scholar

236 (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611.Google Scholar

237 Gill v Gill 2000 BCSC 870, [18].Google Scholar

238 Castel, (n 97) 164–5.Google Scholar

239 (2000) 203 CLR 503, 533–4.Google ScholarSee also Merwin Pastoral Co Pty Ltd v Moolpa Pastoral Co Pty Ltd (1933) 48 CLR 565, 577, 587–8.Google Scholar

240 (2002) 210 CLR 491, 519–20, 535.Google Scholar

241 Mortensen, (n 152) 120.Google Scholar

242 2002) 210 CLR 491, 512, 513.Google Scholar

243 Private International Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1995 (UK) s 9(5); eg Mattos v Macdaniels Limited [2005] EWHC 1323 (Ch), [48].Google Scholar

244 Collins, (n 97) 80–2Google Scholar; North, P and Fawcett, JCheshire and North's Private International Law (12th ednButterworths London 1992) 72.Google Scholar

245 In general, by discountiung its use in all but named property and matrimonial claims. Canada: Falconbridge, JDSelected Essays on the Conflict of Laws (2nd ednCanada Law Book Co Toronto 1954) 141–2; Castel (n 97) 115–16.Google Scholar Australia: Nygh, PConflict of Laws in Australia (6th ednButterworths Sydney 1995) 240.Google Scholar

246 Yezerski, RRenvoi Rejected? The Meaning of ‘the Lex Loci Delicti’ After Zhang’ (2004) 26(2) Sydney Law Review 273, 282–5Google Scholar; Lu, A, ‘Ignored No More: Renvoi and International Torts in Australia’ (2005) 1 Journal of Private International Law 35, 38–9.CrossRefGoogle Scholar

247 McElroy v McAllister 1949 SC 110, 126.Google Scholar

248 Keyes, MThe Doctrine of Renvoi in International Torts: Mercantile Mutual Insurance v Neilson’ (2005) 13 Torts Law Journal 1, 10.Google Scholar

249 (2005) 221 ALR 213.Google Scholar

250 Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria Ltd [2002] WASC 231, [106].Google Scholar

251 ibid [122]–[123].

252 ibid [200].

253 ibid [208]. If domestic Chinese law applied, McKechnie J was prepared to exercise the Chinese power to extend the limitation period: ibid [191].

254 Mercantile Mutual Insurance (Australia) Ltd v Neilson (2004) 28 WAR 206, at 213.Google Scholar

255 ibid 222.

256 ibid 213.

257 ibid 215.

258 ibid 215–16.

259 ibid.

260 ibid 216.

261 ibid 220.

262 Neilson v Overseas Projects Corporation of Victoria Ltd (2005) 221 ALR 213, 217–18, 239, 281–2. Callinan J seemed to adopt the doctrine of single renvoi: ibid 278–9.Google Scholar

263 ibid 260.

264 ibid 218–19.

265 ibid 223–4, 266. Even if a reference by Chinese law to the lex patriae were proved, McHugh J believed that the renvoi should be ignored: ibid 229.

266 ibid 242–3, 275–6, 280.

267 Yezerski (n 246) 289–90.Google Scholar

268 The forum preference is also evident in the fact that the law of Western Australia, the forum, was applied as the national law, even though the defendant was a Victorian company. In Neilson, Callinan J openly preferred the use of renvoi when it led to the application of the lex fori: (2005) 221 ALR 213, 278–9.Google Scholar

269 Keyes, (n 248) 1415.Google Scholar

270 Lu, (n 246) 64, 66–7.Google Scholar

271 Shane v JCB Belgium NV (2003–11–14) ONSC 02–CV–19871 and Nicholls v Brisbane Slipways and Engineering Pty Ltd [2003] QSC 193 are possible exceptions, but also use principles that were current before the lex loci delicti regimes were adopted.Google Scholar

272 [1999] 12 WWR 408.Google Scholar

273 [2002] WASC 231Google Scholar; (2005) 221 ALR 213.Google Scholar

274 Briggs (n 21).

275 Burk v Commonwealth of Australia [2002] VSC 453, [24].Google Scholar

276 Lee v Li (2001) 53 OR (3d) 727Google Scholar; Wong v Wei (1999) 65 BCLR (3d) 222Google Scholar; Hanlan v Sernesky (1997) 35 OR (3d) 603, 605–6Google Scholar; (1998) 38 OR (3d) 479, 480Google Scholar; Gill v Gill 2000 BCSC 870, [5], [17]–[19]Google Scholar; cf Wong v Lee (2002) 211 DLR (4th) 69, 76–7.Google Scholar

277 Edmunds v Simmonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003, 1010, 1011Google Scholar; Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812, 813–4Google Scholar; Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 61, 967–8.Google Scholar

278 Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 629Google Scholar; Craig v Allstate Insurance Co of Canada (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 103, 113.Google Scholar

279 Edmunds v Simmonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003Google Scholar; Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812Google Scholar; Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961Google Scholar; Harding v Wealands [2006] UKHL 32.Google Scholar

280 Harding v Wealands [2005] 1 All ER 415, 425–6, 435–6, 447Google Scholar; Wong v Lee (2002) 211 DLR (4th) 69, 75, 77Google Scholar; Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 624.Google Scholar

281 Wong v Wei (1999) 65 BCLR (3d) 222Google Scholar; Edmunds v Simmonds [2001] 1 WLR 1003Google Scholar; Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812.Google Scholar

282 Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961.Google Scholar

283 Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611Google Scholar; Harding v Wealands [2006] UKHL 32.Google Scholar

284 Hulse v Chambers [2002] 1 All ER (Comm) 812.Google Scholar These were still regarded as procedural in Harding v Wealands [2005] 1 All ER 415, 436–7Google Scholar, but cf BHP Billiton Ltd v Schultz (2004) 211 ALR 523, 578–9.Google Scholar

285 Briggs, (n 57) 522Google Scholar; Rodger, (n 14) 210Google Scholar; Harris, J ‘Choice of Law in Tort—Blending in with the Landscape of Conflict of Laws?’ (1998) 61 MLR 33.Google Scholar

286 Mitchell v McCulloch 1976 SLT 2.Google Scholar

287 cf Kincaid (n 15) 556–7, 562.Google Scholar

288 Somers v Fournier (2002) 214 DLR (4th) 611, 629.Google Scholar

289 cf BHP Billiton Ltd v Utting [2005] NSWSC 260, [8]–[9], [24]Google Scholar; BI(Contracting)Pty Limited [2005] NSWSC 592, [17]–[20].Google Scholar

290 Flockhart v Flockhart [2002] 4 WWR 669, 678.Google Scholar

291 KC v College of Physical Therapists of Alberta (1998) 157 DLR (4th) 31, 36.Google Scholar

292 cf Alberta Mortgage and Housing Corporation v Kalpstein [1999] 1 WWR 355, 361.Google Scholar

293 For instance, in Guardian of Stoeterau v Crowsnest Air Ltd (1995) 5 BCLR (3d) 251, [19]–[23]Google Scholar, it was held a claim under the Saskatchewan Fatal Accidents Act 1965 could be brought in the Supreme Court of British Columbia, even though the Act, section 3(2), stated that ‘The action shall be brought in the [Saskatchewan] Court of Queen's Bench’. As a procedural law, it could be ignored by the British Columbia Court. In Pfeiffer (2000) 203 CLR 503, 548–9, Kirby J called this particular issue ‘procedural enforceability’ and suggested that the lex loci delicti's nomination of a specific tribunal to deal with the claim might mean that the forum either has no power to deal with it, or is best not to. This approach would also curb application of the lex fori. But in many cases the specification in the lex loci delicti of a tribunal to deal with the claim could be sensibly drawn as relating to the conduct of proceedings and, thus, as procedural. Stoeterau would therefore appear to be compatible with a narrow approach to procedure. However, in Voyage Company Industries v Craster (1998-08-11) BCSC C976871, [12]–[13], Harvey J did take the view that it was best that the British Columbia Court not deal with claims for oppression that had been expressly invested by the Yukon Business Corporations Act in the Supreme Court of Yukon.Google Scholar

294 John Pfeiffer Pty Limited v Rogerson (2000) 203 CLR 503, 574.Google Scholar

295 See Roerig v Valiant Trawlers Ltd [2002] 1 All ER 961, 967Google Scholar; Pulido v RS Distributions Pty Ltd (2003) 177 FLR 401, 407Google Scholar; James, (n 186) 158.Google Scholar

296 (2000) 203 CLR 503, 539.Google Scholar

297 ibid 539.

298 Law Com No 193 (1990)Google Scholar; Scot Law Com No 129 (1990) 10 (para 3.2).Google Scholar

299 Tolofson v Jensen [1994] 3 SCR 1022, 1050–1Google Scholar; John Pfeiffer Pty Limited v Rogerson (2000) 203 CLR 503, 540Google Scholar; Regie National des Usines Renault SA v Zhong (2002) 210 CLR 491, 537.Google Scholar See also PB, Carter ‘Torts in English Private International Law’ (1982) 52 BYIL 9, 10.Google Scholar

300 This was Mason CJ's observation in Breavington v Godleman (1988) 169 CLR 41, 78.Google Scholar