(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.