Introduction Section 8: Power to modify section 125 of the 2000 Act
31. Section 8 provides a power for the Minister, by regulations, to modify section 125 of the 2000 Act (as modified by paragraph 38 of Schedule 1 to the Act) for the purposes of the referendum to exclude from the section material published in a way, or by a kind of communication, specified in the regulations (subsection (2)(a)).
32. Subsection (2)(b) provides that other conditions may also be prescribed. This could, for example, be used to specify that material which had been paid for is not exempt from section 125.
33. Subsection (3) clarifies that the kinds of communications that may be prescribed include oral communications and communications with the media.
34. Subsection (4) requires the Minister to consult with the Electoral Commission prior to making regulations under this section. This consultation may be undertaken prior to commencement (subsection (5)).