314.This section provides a power for pilot schemes to be set up for specific elements of the child support provisions in the Act. This will enable the CSA to test discrete elements of the new scheme on a smaller scale before introducing them nationwide, or test operational provisions for limited periods of time and in limited geographical areas to establish the best way of delivering detailed aspects of the reforms.
315.At present, the Government has no specific plans to pilot any of the provisions. The intention is that all cases taken on by the CSA after the reforms have been implemented will have maintenance liability worked out using the new rules. However, the Government considers it prudent to provide for the option to pilot provisions if and when it appears necessary.
316.Subsection (1) provides that regulations made under provisions inserted or substituted in the 1991 Act by this Part of this Act, or under the Schedules relating to the Child Support provision, may be made so that they have effect for a specified period up to, but not exceeding, 12 months. Subsection (2) provides that any regulations made under the provisions of subsection (1) will be referred to as “a pilot scheme”. Subsection (3) allows for pilot schemes to have effect in one or more specified areas, to apply to one or more specified classes of person or to people selected by prescribed criteria or on a sampling basis.
317.Subsection (4) provides for a pilot scheme to be able to make consequential or transitional provision for the way that the pilot scheme would be wound up. Subsection (5) provides that a pilot scheme can be replaced by a further scheme making the same, or similar provisions.
318.Subsection (6) provides that any regulations providing for a pilot scheme will need to be approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament (the affirmative procedure).
Part 1: Child Support. Commentary on Sections Schedule 3 Section 28: Pilot schemes