EXPLANATORY NOTE

This Order makes exceptions in the operation of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 which comes into force on 1st July 1975. The provisions of the Act affected are section 4(1) which relates to the way in which offenders whose convictions have become spent are to be treated and evidence about them in the course of proceedings, section 4(2) which relates to questions asked about them otherwise than in the course of proceedings, and section 4(3)(b) which relates to their work. The exceptions are concerned with various types of work (Schedule 1), licences, certificates and permits (Schedule 2) and proceedings (Schedule 3). Exceptions are also made in relation to action taken for the purpose of safeguarding national security (Articles 3(b) and 4(c)).