London - in the early 1600's

THE NAVIGATION ACT OF 1660 -

    For the increase of shipping and encouragement of the navigation of this nation, wherein under the good providence and protection of God, the wealth safety, and strength of this kingdom is so much concerned; be it enacted by the King's most excellent majesty, and by the lords and commons in this present parliament, assembled, and by the authority thereof. That from and after the first day of December one thousand six hundred and sixty, and from thenceforward, no goods or commodities whatsoever shall be imported into or exported out of any lands, islands, plantations or territories to his Majesty belonging or in his possession, or which may hereafter belong unto or be in the possession of his Majesty, his heirs and successors, in Asia, Africa or America, in any other ship or ships, vessel or vessels whatsoever, but in such ships or vessels as do truly and without fraud belong only to the people of England.

    And be it enacted ....That no goods or commodities whatsoever of the growth, production or manufacture of Africa, Asia, or America, or of any part thereof, or which are described or laid down in the usual maps or cards of those places be imported into England...in any other ship or ships, vessel or vessels whatsoever, but in such as do truly and without fraud belong only to the people of England....

    And it is further enacted....that no goods or commodities that are of foreign growth, production or manufacture, and which are to be brought into England except in English built shipping or other shipping belonging to some of the aforesaid places and navigated by English mariners....