How regulations are considered
How regulations and other statutory instruments made under an Act are scrutinised by Parliament.
1. Drafting and consultation
Regulations, rules and similar statutory instruments are made by a Cabinet Secretary or other authority using a power given by an Act of Parliament. Under the Statutory Instruments Act, 2013, the regulation-making authority should consult people likely to be affected before making the instrument.
Where a proposed instrument is likely to impose significant costs on the community, the authority is expected to prepare a regulatory impact statement explaining its effects.
Key points
- Regulations must stay within the power granted by the parent Act.
- Consultation with affected people is expected before the instrument is made.
- An explanatory memorandum accompanies the instrument.
Who is involved?
- Cabinet Secretary or regulation-making authority
- Affected members of the public and stakeholders
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