Appointment and composition of adoption panels
3.—(1) Each–
(a)local authority; and
(b)registered adoption service which is carrying out or proposes to carry out functions specified in these Regulations,
must appoint a panel to be known as the “adoption panel” for the purpose of carrying out the functions conferred on it by regulation 6.
(2) The adoption panel must consist of at least 6 members.
(3) An adoption panel may be established jointly by any 2 or more adoption agencies which panel shall be known as a “joint adoption panel” and any reference to an adoption panel in these Regulations shall include a reference to a joint adoption panel.
(4) The persons appointed to an adoption panel shall include–
(a)a medical adviser; and
(b)a legal adviser.
(5) The adoption agency must–
(a)be satisfied that the number of members and qualifications and experience of individual members of an adoption panel will enable it effectively to discharge its functions; and
(b)review the membership of the panel from time to time.
(6) Where the adoption agency is of the opinion that any member of the adoption panel is unsuitable or unable to remain as a member it may terminate membership at any time by giving notice in writing with reasons.