2(1)Where the weekly rate of benefit is altered to a fixed amount higher or lower than the previous amount, and before the commencing date an award of that benefit has been made (whether before or after the passing of the relevant Act or the making of the relevant order), then subject to such exceptions or conditions as may be prescribed the benefit shall, except as respects any period falling before the commencing date, become payable at the altered rate without any claim being made for it in the case of an increase in the rate of benefit or any review of the award in the case of a decrease, and the award shall have effect accordingly.
(2)Where the weekly rate of benefit is altered, and before the commencing date (but after that date is fixed) an award is made of the benefit, the award either may provide for the benefit to be paid as from the commencing date at the altered rate or may be expressed in terms of the rates appropriate at the date of the award.