Transitional arrangements N.I.

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—

  (a)

  beginning on 1st December 1999; and

  (b)

  ending on whichever is the earlier of—

  (i)

  31st March 2000; and

  (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—

  (a)

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

  (b)

  in force immediately before the beginning of the interim period.