Before the Scottish Ministers make an order varying a protection order, they shall by notice make such publication as they think fit of the general effect of the proposed variation and specify a time within which, and the manner in which, representations or objections with respect to the proposed variation may be made.

The Scottish Ministers may cause a copy or copies of the notice referred to in sub-paragraph (1) above to be affixed by a person duly authorised by them in writing to some conspicuous object or objects on the banks of such waters at such places as the Scottish Ministers may direct.

If no representations or objections are duly made, or if any so made are withdrawn, the Scottish Ministers may make an order varying the protection order.

If any representation or objection duly made is not withdrawn, the Scottish Ministers may forthwith make an order or may cause a local inquiry to be held.

Sub-paragraphs (2) to (8) of paragraph 5 above shall apply in relation to an inquiry under this paragraph as they apply in relation to an inquiry under that paragraph, but as if in sub-paragraph (3) of that paragraph for the word “proposals” there were substituted the words “proposed variation”.

Paragraph 6 and 7 above shall apply in relation to an order varying a protection order as they apply in relation to a protection order, but as if in paragraph 6 for the reference to paragraph 5 above there were substituted a reference to this paragraph.