The General Optical Council (Fitness to Practise) (Amendment in Relation to Standard of Proof) Rules Order of Council 2008

SCHEDULE The General Optical Council (Fitness to Practise) (Amendment in Relation to Standard of Proof) Rules 2008

The General Optical Council make the following Rules in exercise of their powers under sections 23C and 31A of the Opticians Act 1989.

Before making the Rules, in accordance with section 23C(10) of that Act, the General Optical Council consulted such organisations representing the interests of registrants as it appears appropriate to the Council to consult.

Citation and commencement

1.  These Rules may be cited as the General Optical Council (Fitness to Practise) (Amendment in Relation to Standard of Proof) Rules 2008 and come into force on 3rd November 2008.

Insertion of new Rule

2.  In the General Optical Council (Fitness to Practise) Rules 2005(1), after rule 50 (findings), insert—

“Standard of proof

50A.   The standard of proof applicable in any proceedings before the Fitness to Practise Committee where the Presenting Officer has addressed the Fitness to Practice Committee in relation to each allegation in accordance with rule 45 on or after 3rd November 2008 is the standard of proof applicable to civil proceedings.”

Given under the official seal of the General Optical Council on the 11th day of September 2008.

Rosie Varley

Member of Council

Geoff Harris

Member of Council

J Dian Taylor

Registrar

(1)

Scheduled to S.I. 2005/1475.