In this Order—

• “the Act” means the Local Government Act 1992;

• “the 1972 Act” means the Local Government Act 19723;

• “the 1990 Act” means the Town and Country Planning Act 19904;

• “existing”, in relation to an area, means that area as it exists on the date this Order is made;

• “the relevant date” means 5th May 1997;

• “relevant provision” means a provision in any subordinate legislation made under the Act or made, in connection with the Act or such provision, under any other enactment;

• “the reorganisation date” means 1st April 1998; and

• “subordinate legislation” has the same meaning as in section 21 of the Interpretation Act 19785

The period beginning with the relevant date and ending immediately before the reorganisation date is specified as the preliminary period for the purposes of this Order and any other statutory instrument made under the Act.