Interpretation Act 2005 section 21

Interpretation of words and expressions in Schedule

Section 21 explains how certain words and expressions used in legislation are to be understood, by reference to standard definitions set out in the Schedule to the Interpretation Act 2005.

• When a word or expression is given a specific meaning in Part 1 of the Schedule, that meaning applies whenever the word or expression appears in any enactment.
• Part 2 of the Schedule contains additional defined words and expressions, but these only apply to enactments that come into operation after the Interpretation Act 2005 commenced.
• The Schedule essentially acts as a shared dictionary for legislation, ensuring consistent interpretation across all Acts and statutory instruments.
• The two-part structure of the Schedule allows newer definitions to be introduced without retrospectively changing the meaning of older legislation.

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