48.Section 8 specifies a number of functions of the Secretary of State which will be exercisable only upon the recommendation of the Commission. Subsection (1) provides that one such function is that of giving directions to registration officers under section 52(1) of the Representation of the People Act; hitherto this power has not been exercised. Subsection (3) identifies a number of instrument-making powers to set limitations on expenses by candidates and parties at elections. The Secretary of State is empowered, by subsection (2), to vary the monetary limits to take account of inflation, but any more substantial variation can only be made on a recommendation of the Commission.
49.The extant instruments made under the statutory provisions listed in subsection (3) are:
Commentary on Sections Commission’s general functions Section 8 : Powers with respect to elections exercisable only on Commission’s recommendation