A time-limitation wrangle at London arbitration has revealed a costly mix-up over which broker was working for which party.

Financing company C Demurrage said the case offered an insight into differing roles within a familiar broking structure and a look at the law of agency.

A contract of affreightment (COA) on an amended Asbatankvoy form had been fixed through brokers known only as A, B, C and D.