Conflict of precedent permits direct referral of a question of law to the highest judicial authority by appellate tribunal. If, on an application made under section 256 against an order made under section 254 before the 1st day of October, 1998, the Appellate Tribunal is of the opinion that, on account of a conflict in the decisions of High Courts in respect of any particular question of law, it is expedient that a reference should be made direct to the Supreme Court, the Appellate Tribunal may draw up a statement of the case and refer it through its President direct to the Supreme Court.