(1)Every assay office shall have power to make charges for assaying and hallmarking articles of precious metals not exceeding (in the case of articles manufactured in, or intended for sale or supply in, the United Kingdom) such charges as are for the time being directed in writing by the Council:
Provided that the Secretary of State may from time to time give to the Council and to assay offices such directions as he considers expedient in relation to charges made under this subsection.
(2)Subject to subsection (1) of this section, every assay office shall have power to make for services and facilities provided by them such charges as they from time to time think fit.