3. In Article 28 of the Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 1981(1)—
(a)in paragraph (8) (firearm certificate unless previously revoked or cancelled continues in force and may be renewed for three years or such shorter period as may be prescribed), the words “or such shorter period as may be prescribed” in both places where they occur shall cease to have effect;
(b)after that paragraph there shall be inserted the following paragraphs—
“(8A) The Secretary of State may by order substitute for references in paragraph (8) to three years references to such other period as is specified by the order.
(8B) An order made under paragraph (8A) shall apply only to certificates granted or renewed after the date on which the order comes into operation.
(8C) An order made under paragraph (8A) shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament in like manner as a statutory instrument and section 5 of the Statutory Instruments Act 1946(2) shall apply accordingly.”.