In relation to the interim period the existing arrangements shall have effect as if contained in a scheme in force under section 2.

In this section—

• “the interim period” means the period—

  1. a

     beginning on 1st December 1999; and

  2. b

     ending on whichever is the earlier of—

     1. i

        31st March 2000; and

     2. ii

        the day immediately before that on which the first scheme under section 2 comes into force;

• “the existing arrangements” means the arrangements which were—

  1. a

     made by the Secretary of State for the funding of political parties in the Assembly; and

  2. b

     in force immediately before the beginning of the interim period.