05627. U.N. CONFERENCE OF THE LAW OF THE SEA. The growing importance of the sea, its resources and the related impace of the changing importance on the relationship between nations given the inadequacy of current international law. The historical development of that body of law is explained. The necessity of a new understanding due to technological innovation is emphasized. There follows a meticulous examination of the major issues raised in UNCLOS III -- continental shelf, rights of landlocked nations, the ocean floor. The central political issue was seen to be the establishment of an International Sea-Bed Authority with appropriate representation for special interest groups. Finally there is a statement on the future prospects of international sea law. 27 pages, 37 footnotes, 28 bibliographic sources.