7.—(1) The functions of the vetting panel established by the Chief Constable under regulation 12(1) of the police recruitment regulations shall include, in relation to any candidate for appointment under section 4(3) of the Act to a post in the police support staff whose case is referred to it, deciding on behalf of the Chief Constable and subject to his direction and control, on the suitability of the candidate for appointment to the post.
(2) No decision may be made that a candidate is unsuitable for appointment under section 4(3) of the Act to a post in the police support staff, except –
(a)by the vetting panel, or
(b)in accordance with regulation 13(7) of the police recruitment regulations.
(3) The functions of the Independent Assessor appointed by the Secretary of State under regulation 13(1) of the police recruitment regulations shall include reviewing decisions of the vetting panel as to the suitability of any candidate for appointment under section 4(3) of the Act to a post in the police support staff.
(4) Regulations 12 and 13 of the police recruitment regulations shall apply in relation to any such candidate as they apply in relation to a candidate for appointment as a police trainee.
(5) Any reference in regulation 14 or 15 of the police recruitment regulations to –
(a)information received under Part III of those regulations, or
(b)functions under that Part of those regulations,
shall include a reference to information received or (as the case may be) functions conferred, by virtue of this regulation.