Subject to paragraph (2), sections 2 (dates of birth and ballot papers), 3 (absent votes and declarations of identity) and 4 (electoral identity card) of the Act shall come into force on 1st December 2002.

The coming into force of the amendments made by section 3 of the Act shall not apply in respect of an election where the last day for the publication of the notice of election is before 1st December 2002.