Provided that nothing in this section shall apply to any fishing vessel which was being used for fishing immediately before the commencement of this Act, for such period as may be prescribed.

Cancellation, suspension and amendment of licence Cancellation, suspension and amendment of licence:

1. (1) If the authorised officer, either of his own motion or on any representation made to him, is satisfied that the licencee has contravened any of the provisions of this Act or any of the terms and conditions of the licence or any rules made under this Act, he may, after giving the licencee a reasonable opportunity of being heard, cancel or suspend the licence for such period as he may deem fit: Provided that where the contravention is the first one, the licence shall not be cancelled or suspended for more than such period as may be prescribed.
2. (2) If the authorised officer is satisfied that any licence was issued on the strength of any misrepresentation or fraud, he may, after giving the licencee a reasonable opportunity of being heard, cancel the licence.
3. (3) The authorised officer may, either of his own motion or on an application by the licencee, and after giving the licencee a reasonable opportunity of being heard, amend the licence.