(This note is not part of the Rules)
These Rules make a number of modifications to the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 (S.I. 1981/552) which are necessary in relation to the new procedure created by sections 51 and 52 of and Schedule 3 to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (c. 37) (no committal proceedings for indictable-only offences).
Rule 2(2), (3) and (8) modifies the 1981 Rules to make appropriate reference to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.
Rule 2(4), (5) and (8) modifies the 1981 Rules to make appropriate references to being “sent” as opposed to “committed” for trial in the Crown Court.
Rule 2(6) provides for a new Rule 11A of the 1981 Rules so as to specify the documents which the magistrates' court must send to the Crown Court within 4 days of sending a person for trial there.