Commencement Information
I1Sch. 1 in force at 23.1.2003 for E.W. by S.I. 2003/189, art. 2(1)(a)
I2Sch. 1 in force at 1.6.2003 for S. by S.S.I. 2003/121, art. 2(h)
Prospective
1E+W+SThe functions of a Central Authority under this Chapter may be performed by public authorities or by bodies accredited under Chapter III, to the extent permitted by the law of its State.
2E+W+SAny Contracting State may declare to the depositary of the Convention that the functions of the Central Authority under Articles 15 to 21 may be performed in that State, to the extent permitted by the law and subject to the supervision of the competent authorities of that State, also by bodies or persons who—
(a)meet the requirements of integrity, professional competence, experience and accountability of that State; and
(b)are qualified by their ethical standards and by training or experience to work in the field of intercountry adoption.
3E+W+SA Contracting State which makes the declaration provided for in paragraph 2 shall keep the Permanent Bureau of the Hague Conference on Private International Law informed of the names and addresses of these bodies and persons.
4E+W+SAny Contracting State may declare to the depositary of the Convention that adoptions of children habitually resident in its territory may only take place if the functions of the Central Authorities are performed in accordance with paragraph 1.
5E+W+SNotwithstanding any declaration made under paragraph 2, the reports provided for in Articles 15 and 16 shall, in every case, be prepared under the responsibility of the Central Authority or other authorities or bodies in accordance with paragraph 1.