PART 6INVESTIGATIONS: SUPPLEMENTARY

Consultation and co-operation

66Working jointly with specified persons

1

This section applies if it appears to the Ombudsman that—

a

there is a matter which the Ombudsman is entitled to investigate, and

b

the matter is one which could also be the subject of an investigation by a person specified in subsection (2) (“specified person”).

2

The following are specified persons—

a

the Children’s Commissioner for Wales;

b

the Commissioner for Older People in Wales;

c

the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales;

d

the Welsh Language Commissioner;

e

where the matter relates to health or social care, the Welsh Ministers.

3

Subject to subsection (4), where the Ombudsman considers it appropriate, the Ombudsman must—

a

inform the relevant specified person about the matter, and

b

consult the specified person in relation to it.

4

Where the Ombudsman investigates the matter under section 4 or 44, the Ombudsman must—

a

inform the relevant specified person about the matter, and

b

where the Ombudsman considers it appropriate, consult the specified person in relation to it.

5

Where the Ombudsman consults a specified person under this section, the Ombudsman and the specified person may—

a

co-operate with each other in relation to the matter,

b

conduct a joint investigation into the matter, and

c

prepare and publish a joint report in relation to the investigation.

6

The Welsh Ministers may by regulations amend subsection (2) by—

a

adding or removing a specified person to or from the list, or

b

varying a reference to a type or description of specified person for the time being contained in that subsection.

7

No regulations are to be made under subsection (6) unless a draft of the statutory instrument containing them has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, the Assembly.