There are a variety of methods through which the UK has given effect to directives. The main methods are as follows:

     a. Primary legislation. For example, the Equality Act 2010 contains provisions which give effect to various directives including Council Directive 2000/78/EC, which establishes a general framework for equal treatment in employment and occupation and Council Directive 2000/43/EC which implements the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin.

     b. Secondary legislation made under section 2(2) of the ECA. For example, the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/3118), which give effect to parts of Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on the energy performance of buildings.

     c. Secondary legislation made under other primary legislation. For example, the Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006, which contain provisions implementing certain aspects of Directive 2004/49/EC (the Railway Safety Directive), are made under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 rather than under section 2(2) of the ECA.