The Hallmarking (International Convention) (Amendment) Order 2011

EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order amends the Hallmarking (International Convention) Order 2002 (“the 2002 Order”).

Article 3 amends article 3 of the 2002 Order to provide for the correct standards of fineness to be applied to palladium items and updates the lists in respect of other precious metals. Article 4 makes amendments to article 6 of the 2002 Order which are consequential on the amendments made by article 3 of this Order. Article 5 adds in the shield to be used for palladium articles and article 6 adds an illustration of the Common Control Mark for a palladium article. The remainder of the order amends Schedule 2 to bring up to date the list of foreign assay office marks.

This Order was notified in draft to the European Commission in accordance with Directive 98/34/EC of the Parliament and of the Council of 22 June 1998 laying down a procedure for the provision of information in the field of technical standards and regulations (OJ No L204, 21.7.98, p 37) as amended by Directive 98/48/EC (OJ No L217, 5.8.98, p 18).

A full impact assessment of the effect that this Order will have on the costs of business is available from the National Measurement Office and is available alongside the instrument at www.legislation.gov.uk. Copies have been placed in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament.