Investigation of Complaints

F110BPublication of information about investigations

(1)

The Commissioner may publish information—

(a)

confirming that an investigation to which this section applies is being conducted;

(b)

identifying the Member of the Senedd who is the subject of the investigation;

(c)

describing in general terms the matter under investigation;

(d)

confirming that an investigation has been concluded, suspended or re-opened.

(2)

This section applies to—

(a)

an investigation under section 10 on which the Commissioner will report to the Senedd on the outcome of the investigation, and

(b)

an investigation under section 10A.

(3)

Information published under this section must not include—

(a)

the identity of the person who made the complaint or information that would allow the person to be identified,

(b)

any evidence obtained by the Commissioner in the course of the investigation, or

(c)

any opinion, inference or indication as to whether the complaint is well‑founded.

(4)

Before publishing information under this section, the Commissioner must have regard to—

(a)

the interests of fairness,

(b)

the need to avoid prejudice to any criminal investigation or proceedings, and

(c)

the need to avoid harm to any person.

(5)

The Standing Orders or rules relating to the consideration of complaints against Members of the Senedd which have been adopted by the Senedd under the Standing Orders may specify categories of investigation in respect of which information must not be published under this section.

(6)

Nothing in this section limits any other power of the Commissioner to publish or otherwise disclose information.