Scrutiny by the Supreme Court .

1 The Advocate General for Northern Ireland or the Attorney General for Northern Ireland may refer the question of whether a provision of a Bill would be within the legislative competence of the Assembly to the Supreme Court for decision. 2 Subject to subsection (3), he may make a reference in relation to a provision of a Bill at any time during— a the period of four weeks beginning with the passing of the Bill; and b the period of four weeks beginning with any subsequent approval of the Bill in accordance with standing orders made by virtue of section 13(6). 3 If he notifies the Presiding Officer that he does not intend to make a reference in relation to a provision of a Bill, he shall not make such a reference unless, after the notification, the Bill is approved as mentioned in subsection (2)(b). 4 If the Supreme Court decides that any provision of a Bill would be within the legislative competence of the Assembly, its decision shall be taken as applying also to that provision if contained in the Act when enacted.