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Statutory instruments

Statutory Instruments (S.I.s) are what is known as secondary or subordinate legislation. They normally consist of an order, regulations, rules or a scheme and are made under powers conferred by primary legislation (an enabling Act). They are normally signed by a Minister and then laid before Parliament. On a given date they come into force and become law. In general, subordinate legislation makes detailed provisions, which supplement the enabling Act. Subordinate legislation is also used when frequent or speedy changes in the law are required.