3.—(1) In relation to the interim period the existing arrangements shall have effect as if contained in a scheme in force under section 2.
(2) In this section—
“the interim period” means the period—
beginning on 1st December 1999; and
ending on whichever is the earlier of—
31st March 2000; and
the day immediately before that on which the first scheme under section 2 comes into force;
“the existing arrangements” means the arrangements which were—
made by the Secretary of State for the funding of political parties in the Assembly; and
in force immediately before the beginning of the interim period.