33. The Courts of Justice Act 1953 is amended by the insertion of the following section after section 26:

“26A. (1) Notwithstanding the making of an order under section 26(1)(f), the Courts Service may, following consultation with, and with the consent of, the President of the District Court, and by notice made in accordance with this section, alter the places or vary the days or hours for the time being appointed for holding the District Court in or for any district court area, where it is of the opinion that such alteration is necessary to ensure the efficient operation and continuation of the business of the court.

(2) The Courts Service may by order specify the form of, and particulars to be included in, a notice under this section.

(3) A notice under this section shall be published on the website of the Courts Service and shall—

(a) have effect from the date of its publication or such other date as is specified in the notice, and

(b) remain in effect until the expiry of such period as is specified in the notice.”.