PART 3Nuclear Regulation
CHAPTER 4Functions of the ONR
Exercise of functions: general
I192Directions from Secretary of State
1
The Secretary of State may give the ONR a direction as to the exercise by it of—
a
its functions generally, or
b
any of its functions specifically.
2
A direction given by the Secretary of State under subsection (1)—
a
may modify a function of the ONR, but
b
must not confer functions on the ONR (other than a function of which it was deprived by a previous direction given under this section).
3
The Secretary of State may give the ONR such directions as appear to the Secretary of State to be necessary or desirable in the interests of national security.
4
A direction given by the Secretary of State under subsection (3) may—
a
modify a function of the ONR,
b
confer a function on the ONR.
5
A direction under subsection (1) or (3) must not be given in relation to the exercise of a regulatory function in a particular case.
6
If the Secretary of State is satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances relating to national security which justify giving a direction under this subsection, the Secretary of State may give the ONR a direction as to the exercise by the ONR of a regulatory function in a particular case.
7
A direction given under subsection (6) must be for the nuclear security purposes.
8
The Secretary of State must lay before Parliament a copy of any direction given under this section.
9
Subsection (8) does not apply to a direction under subsection (6) if the Secretary of State considers that publishing the direction would be contrary to the interests of national security; but, in that event, the Secretary of State must lay before Parliament a memorandum stating that such a direction has been given and the date on which it was given.