(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations are made in exercise of the powers conferred by section 23(1) and (2) of, and paragraphs 21 and 26 of Schedule 7 to, the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (c. 16) ("the 2018 Act") and section 41(1) and (2) of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020 (c.1).

Regulation 2 amends the Interpretation Act 1978 (c. 30) and makes interpretative provision for references on or after IP completion day to EU instruments which form part of relevant separation agreement law (as defined in the 2018 Act). It also amends the Interpretation Act 1978 to make it clear that the new definition of "enactment" (i.e. including retained direct EU legislation) which was added by the 2018 Act [Paragraph 22(d) of Schedule 8 to the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 amended the definition of "enactment" in Schedule 1 to the Interpretation Act 1978.] applies to the interpretation of subordinate legislation (as well as Acts) made or passed before the Interpretation Act 1978 came into force.