The M1Army Act 1955, the M2Air Force Act 1955 and the M3Naval Discipline Act 1957 shall, instead of expiring at the end of the year 1976, continue in force until 31st August 1977, and shall then expire unless continued in force in accordance with the following provisions of this section.

Subject to subsection (3) below, Her Majesty may from time to time by Order in Council provide for any of the said Acts to continue in force for a period not exceeding twelve months beyond the day on which it would otherwise expire.

No Order in Council shall be made under subsection (2) above so as to continue any of the said Acts beyond the end of the year 1981.

No recommendation shall be made to Her Majesty in Council to make an order under subsection (2) above unless a draft thereof has been laid before Parliament and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament.

Section 1 of the M4Armed Forces Act 1971 shall be repealed at the end of the year 1976.