2

Where—

a

the returning officer (“R”), fails or neglects to perform his or her functions in relation to an election under this Act, but

b

remedies that failure or neglect in full by taking steps under section 57A(1),

R shall not be guilty of an electoral offence under sub-paragraph (1).

3

Sub-paragraph (2) does not affect any conviction which takes place, or any penalty which is imposed, before the date on which the failure or neglect is remedied in full.