48. (1) F83[…]

(2) F83[…]

(3) Where a poll is to be taken F84[at a European election] in a constituency, notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the following provisions shall have effect in relation to a polling station on an island, whether the poll at such station is taken on the polling day appointed by the Minister or otherwise —

(a) where, owing to F84[sudden onset of] stress of weather or F84[unforeseen] transport difficulties, the poll cannot begin at the hour fixed by the Minister for the commencement of the poll, it shall begin as soon as possible after that hour,

(b) where, after the poll has continued for not less than four hours, the presiding officer is of opinion that if the poll were further continued the ballot boxes could not reach the place for the counting of the votes at or before the time fixed for the commencement of the count under section 10, the presiding officer may then close the poll.

(4) F83[…]