15.—(1) This Article applies to—
(a)proceedings involving law or practice concerning the rights or welfare of children or young persons which a child or young person has commenced, or wishes to commence; or
(b)proceedings in the course of which a child or young person relies, or wishes to rely, on such law or practice.
(2) Where the child or young person applies to the Commissioner for assistance in relation to proceedings to which this Article applies, the Commissioner may, subject to paragraph (3), grant the application if he is satisfied that—
(a)the case raises a question of principle;
(b)it would be unreasonable to expect the child or young person to deal with the case without assistance because of its complexity, or because of his position in relation to another person involved, or for some other reason; or
(c)there are other special circumstances which make it appropriate for the Commissioner to provide assistance.
(3) The Commissioner shall not grant an application for assistance under paragraph (2) unless it appears to him that there is no other person or body likely to provide such assistance.
(4) Where the Commissioner grants an application under paragraph (2) he may arrange for the provision of legal advice or representation and any other assistance which he thinks appropriate.
(5) Arrangements made by the Commissioner for the provision of assistance to a child or young person may, if the Commissioner thinks it reasonable in the circumstances, include provision for recovery of expenses from the child or young person.