(1)This section applies where the Secretary of State proposes to make an order under section 39(1)(a) specifying early learning goals or educational programmes.
(2)The Secretary of State must give notice of the proposal—
(a)to such bodies representing the interests of early years providers as the Secretary of State considers appropriate, and
(b)to any other persons with whom consultation appears to the Secretary of State to be desirable,
and must give them a reasonable opportunity of submitting evidence and representations as to the issues arising.
(3)When the Secretary of State has considered any evidence and representations submitted to him in pursuance of subsection (2), he must publish in such manner as, in his opinion, is likely to bring them to the notice of persons having a special interest in early years provision—
(a)a draft of the proposed order and any associated document, and
(b)a summary of the views expressed during the consultation.
(4)The Secretary of State must allow a period of not less than one month beginning with the publication of the draft of the proposed order for the submission of any further evidence and representations as to the issues arising.
(5)When the period so allowed has expired, the Secretary of State may make the order, with or without modifications.