17.—(1) In paragraph (1) of regulation 74, for the words “the Secretary of State may allow” there shall be substituted the words “the Secretary of State shall allow”.
(2) After paragraph (1) of regulation 74 there shall be inserted the following paragraph—
“(1A) For the purposes of these Regulations, the results of a verification or test shall be accepted if the verification or test is carried out—
(a)in accordance with these Regulations or with a standard, code of practice, specification or technical description of a member State other than the United Kingdom offering equivalent levels of safety, suitability and fitness for purpose; and
(b)by a body or laboratory of a member State other than the United Kingdom offering suitable and satisfactory guarantees of technical and professional competence and independence.”.