Section 8 – Subgroups
32.Section 8 provides the SPC with the power to create subgroups to carry out its functions or assist it in doing so. Each subgroup must be chaired by a member of the SPC but may include both SPC members and other individuals as members. A subgroup may only exercise functions or aspects of functions that have been delegated to it by the SPC. There is no limit to the number of subgroups the SPC may create.
33.The possibility of including non-SPC representatives as members of subgroups will allow subgroups to draw on the maximum possible range of expertise and knowledge. Among other things, subgroups could be used by the SPC to ensure its functions are carried out more efficiently, to provide advice to the Welsh Ministers on a discreet issue or to ensure that its functions can be carried out in the periods between meetings of the full SPC.
34.Although a subgroup will only be able to exercise those functions delegated to it by the SPC, there is no restriction on which functions of the SPC can be delegated. As a result, SPC subgroups may produce information or advice to the Welsh Ministers in much the same way as the SPC itself (provided the relevant functions have been properly delegated).
