Report No. 60
Chapter 3
Definitions
3.1. Introductory.-
Three sections of the General Clauses Act,-sections 3, 4 And 4A,-contain general definitions. Not many general observations as to these definitions are required, since most of the points which we have to deal with, concern matters of detail pertaining to particular words and expressions defined in the various clauses of these sections. In general, however, it may be observed that when a particular word or expression which has not been defined in the General Clauses Act, comes to be used with increasing frequency so as to become the current coin of the legislature, opportunity should be taken to consider whether it should not be defined in the Interpretation Act, so as to ensure uniformity,-provided, of course, it is first assured that the expression is used in a broadly uniform sense and has thus become a term of art. We have, in suggesting amendments in these sections, kept this consideration in mind.
3.1A. Section 3-opening line-amendment regarding.-
It may be noted that section 3, which is the principal section containing definitions, applies to the General Clauses Act itself and to post-1897 Central Acts and Regulations. Now, we are recommending the insertion, in the section, of a few new definitions, and some of them may not be appropriate for applying to existing Central Acts and Regulations. These will be enumerated in a separate section,1 and it is desirable to make it clear that section 3 will be subject to that section. Accordingly, we recommend an amendment of the opening line of section 3, as follows:-
1. See section 3A (proposed), para. 3.96, infra.
Section 3 (opening lines)
In section 3, before the words, "In this Act," the words, figure and letter "subject to the provisions of section 3A," shall be inserted1
1. See new section 3A.
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