(This note is not part of the Order)
Special provisions apply in relation to the disclosure and publication by the Electoral Commission of loans and donations made to political parties and other regulated recipients (such as members of political parties and holders of elective office) in Northern Ireland. The provisions apply for the duration of the period prescribed in the Northern Ireland (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2006 (“2006 Act”) (in relation to donations) and the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (Regulation of Loans etc: Northern Ireland) Order 2008 (“2008 Order”) (in relation to loans and regulated transactions within the meaning of the Electoral Administration Act 2006).
The period currently prescribed in both the 2006 Act and the 2008 Order expires on 31st October 2010 but may be extended by Order by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State has decided to extend the prescribed period in both the 2006 Act and the 2008 Order for a period of four months expiring on 1st March 2011. This Order therefore makes the relevant amendments to the 2006 Act and the 2008 Order. Article 2 amends the 2006 Act substituting 1st March 2011 for 31st October 2010 in the provision which describes the prescribed period and article 3 makes the same amendment to the 2008 Order.
A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no impact on the private or voluntary sector is foreseen.