References: Time Limits
4. (1) In respect of every reference, the WIC shall specify a period (not longer than 6 months beginning with the date of receipt of the reference) within which a report on the reference is to be made.
(2) A report of the Commission on a reference shall not have effect (and no action shall be taken in relation to it under article 8) unless the report is made before the end of the period specified in the reference, or such further period (if any) as may be allowed by the WIC under paragraph (3).
(3) The WIC may, if it has received representations from the Commission on the matter, and is satisfied that there is good reason why the report cannot be made within the period specified in the reference, extend that period by not more than 6 months; and no more than one extension is possible in respect of the same reference.
(4) The WIC shall, in the case of an extension made by it under paragraph (3)–
(a) serve notice of the extension on–
(i) all water services providers and sewerage services providers;
(ii) Scottish Water;
(iii) the Scottish Ministers; and
(iv) the Convener of the Water Customer Consultation Panels; and
(b) publish details of the extension in such manner as it considers appropriate for the purpose of bringing it to the attention of persons likely to be affected by it.