These Regulations commence section 99 of the Digital Economy Act 2017 (c. 30) (“the 2017 Act”) relating to Northern Ireland and the Office of Communications (OFCOM). They are the eighth commencement regulations made under the 2017 Act.

Section 99 amends the Office of Communications Act 2002 (c. 11) (“the 2002 Act”). Section 99(2) provides for the appointment of a member of the board of OFCOM by the Minister for the Economy in Northern Ireland. Section 99(3) creates a requirement that before such an appointment may be made, the Minister for the Economy must consult the Secretary of State. Section 99(4) and (5) make some amendments consequential upon the new appointment provisions. Section 99(6) – (8) amends the Schedule to the 2002 Act to provide that a copy of OFCOM’s accounts and the related report as well as OFCOM’s annual report must be laid before the Northern Ireland Assembly. Section 99(9) relates to the power of the Northern Ireland Assembly to call for witnesses and documents and is also commenced by these Regulations.

An impact assessment has not been prepared in relation to these Regulations.