Commentary on Sections Part 16: General and Miscellaneous Effect
638.This section sets out the procedure to be followed by a Minister following a consultation under section 203.
639.The Minister must lay an explanatory report on the consultation findings alongside any draft order being laid before each House of Parliament for debate and approval. The explanatory report must include the reasons for making harmonising provision, and why the conditions for using the power in section 203 are satisfied. It must also set out details of the consultation, the responses and any changes that were made in response to them. This section also provides protection against disclosure of information in representations provided on a confidential basis.
640.A Minister must not lay any instrument before Parliament until the minimum consultation period of 12 weeks has expired.