6.—(1) In exercising functions under paragraphs 4 and 5, the council and the Policing Board shall have regard to any code of practice under this paragraph.
(2) The Department may issue, and from time to time revise, a code of practice containing guidance as to the exercise by the council and the Policing Board of their functions under paragraphs 4 and 5.
(3) Before issuing or revising a code of practice under this paragraph, the Department shall consult—
(a)the Policing Board;
(b)the council; and
(c)the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
(4) The Department shall arrange for any code of practice issued or revised under this paragraph to be published in such manner as appears to the Department to be appropriate.