Explanatory note

This Order brings section 8 of the Employment Act 1988 into force on 5th December 1988. The section makes it unlawful for union property to be applied towards making any payment to any individual or indemnifying him in respect of a penalty imposed for an offence or for contempt of court.

The Order also brings into force on 5th December 1988 sections 19 to 21 of the Employment Act 1988. These sections establish the Commissioner for the Rights of Trade Union Members and provide for him, on application, to give financial and other assistance to members of trade unions taking or proposing to take certain legal proceedings against their unions.

The Order brings section 15 of the 1988 Act into force on 1st February 1989. The section requires certain ballots and elections which trade unions are required to hold by statute to be supervised by an independent scrutineer appointed by the trade union.

The Order contains transitional provisions.