Modifications etc. (not altering text)
(1)This section applies if, in making a decision under section 2(5) or conducting an investigation, the Ombudsman forms the opinion that any matter which is the subject of the complaint or investigation could be the subject of an investigation by an ombudsman mentioned in subsection (7).
(2)The Ombudsman must consult that ombudsman about the matter.
(3)The Ombudsman may co-operate with that ombudsman in relation to the matter.
(4)Consultation under subsection (2), and co-operation under subsection (3), may extend to anything relating to any matter the subject of the complaint or investigation, including in particular—
(a)the conduct of an investigation into the complaint;
(b)the form, content and publication of a report of the investigation.
(5)If the Ombudsman consults an ombudsman about a matter under subsection (2), the Ombudsman and that ombudsman may—
(a)conduct a joint investigation into the matter;
(b)prepare a joint report in relation to the investigation;
(c)publish the joint report.
(6)Subsection (5) does not apply if the ombudsman consulted under subsection (2) is the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman.
(7)The ombudsmen referred to in subsection (1) are—
(a)the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration;
(b)the Health Service Commissioner for England;
(c)a Local Commissioner;
(d)the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman;
(e)a housing ombudsman appointed in accordance with a scheme approved under section 51 of the Housing Act 1996 (c. 52);
(f)the Children's Commissioner for Wales.
(8)The Assembly may by order amend subsection (7) by—
(a)adding a person;
(b)omitting a person;
(c)changing the description of a person.
(9)An order under subsection (8) may add a person to subsection (7) only if the person appears to the Assembly to have functions relating to the investigation of complaints.
Commencement Information
I1S. 25 wholly in force at 1.4.2006; s. 25 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 40; s. 25(7)-(9) in force for certain purposes at 12.10.2005 and s. 25 wholly in force at 1.4.2006 by S.I. 2005/2800, arts. 3(a), 5(1)(3), Sch. 1 Pt. 1