3(1)Rule 12 (decisions as to validity of nomination papers) is amended as follows.
(2)At the beginning of paragraph (3) insert “Subject to paragraph (3A),”.
(3)After paragraph (3) insert—
“(3A)If in the returning officer’s opinion a nomination paper breaks rule 6A(1), he shall give a decision to that effect as soon as practicable after the close of the period for delivery of nomination papers set out in the Table in rule 1.”.
(4)In paragraph (4) for “Where he” substitute “Where the returning officer”.