23(1)For each financial year, Natural England must—E+W
(a)prepare an annual report on how it has discharged its functions during the year, and
(b)send a copy of the report to the Secretary of State within such period as the Secretary of State directs.
(2)In this paragraph and paragraph 24, “financial year” means—
(a)the period beginning with the day on which Natural England is established and ending with the next 31st March, and
(b)each subsequent period of 12 months ending with 31st March.
Commencement Information
I1Sch. 1 para. 23 in force at 2.5.2006 by S.I. 2006/1176, art. 4
24(1)Natural England must keep proper accounts and proper records in relation to the accounts.E+W
(2)For each financial year, Natural England must—
(a)prepare a statement of accounts in respect of that financial year, and
(b)send copies of the statement to the Secretary of State and the Comptroller and Auditor General within such period as the Secretary of State directs.
(3)The statement must be in such form as the Secretary of State may direct.
(4)The Comptroller and Auditor General must—
(a)examine, certify and report on the statement, and
(b)send a copy of the certified statement and of his report to the Secretary of State as soon as possible.
Commencement Information
I2Sch. 1 para. 24 in force at 2.5.2006 by S.I. 2006/1176, art. 4
25E+WThe Secretary of State must lay before each House of Parliament a document consisting of—
(a)a copy of the report sent under paragraph 23(1), and
(b)a copy of the statement and report sent under paragraph 24(4).
Commencement Information
I3Sch. 1 para. 25 in force at 2.5.2006 by S.I. 2006/1176, art. 4
26(1)Natural England must provide the Secretary of State with such information as he may require relating to Natural England's property or to the discharge or proposed discharge of its functions.E+W
(2)Natural England must also—
(a)permit any person authorised by the Secretary of State to inspect and make copies of any accounts or other documents of Natural England, and
(b)provide such explanation of them as that person or the Secretary of State may require.
Commencement Information
I4Sch. 1 para. 26 in force at 2.5.2006 by S.I. 2006/1176, art. 4