Explanatory note

This Order amends the Hallmarking Act 1973 by extending the scope of the exemption from hallmarking of articles of minimum fineness. The exemption now applies to any article of minimum fineness manufactured before 1920, instead of before 1900, as previously provided. The exemption remains subject to the condition that the article has not been the subject of any alteration since the beginning of 1920, which would be an improper alteration if the article had previously borne approved hallmarks.

The Order will come into force on 1st January 1999. A Regulatory Impact Assessment has been drawn up by the Department of Trade and Industry and is available from Consumer Affairs Directorate 1e, Bay 464, 1 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0ET (Tel: 0171 215 0328). Copies have been placed in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament.