32. (1) A document may be executed in counterpart in accordance with this section.

(2) A document is executed in counterpart where—

(a) it is executed in 2 or more parts in like form, and

(b) no part is signed by both or all parties to the document.

(3) On such execution, the counterparts are to be treated as a single document.

(4) A document executed in counterpart becomes effective when—

(a) both or all the counterparts have been delivered in accordance with subsection (5), and

(b) any other step required by an enactment or rule of law for the document to become effective has been taken.

(5) Each counterpart shall be delivered to the party or parties who did not sign the counterpart concerned.

F10[(5A) This section is without prejudice to any other enactment or rule of law concerning—

(a) the execution of a document in counterpart,

(b) the treatment, on such execution, of documents executed in counterpart,

(c) the steps required for a document executed in counterpart to become effective, or

(d) the delivery of a document executed in counterpart.]

(6) In this section, “document” means a contract or deed.