21.Section 15 sets out the regulator’s general powers. Subsection (1) allows the regulator to do anything it thinks necessary or advisable for the purpose of or in connection with the performance of any function conferred on it by this Act. Subsection (2) prevents the regulator from borrowing money. The regulator must also have the consent or approval of Scottish Ministers before it can:
acquire or dispose of land;
give guarantees; or
determine the location of its office premises.
22.Section 16 provides for the regulator, at its discretion, to authorise anyone to carry out any of its functions and to determine the extent to which they can carry out such a function. The regulator can authorise both members of its staff and people who are not members of its staff to carry out its functions.