Establishment and functions of the Agency

4F1 Power of Secretary of State to give Agency directions. C1

1

After consulting with the Agency, the Secretary of State may give the Agency directions of a general or specific character as to the exercise of their functions; and it shall be the duty of the Agency to give effect to any such directions.

2

Subject to paragraph 9(3) of Schedule 2 to this Act, when the Secretary of State gives a direction under this section he shall either—

a

lay a copy of the direction before each House of Parliament within 28 days of giving it; or

b

lay a copy later, but lay with it a statement of the reason why a copy was not laid within 28 days.

3

The Agency’s report for any financial year shall set out any direction given under this section during that year.