255.This section requires bodies which the STRB deems it appropriate to consult to be notified of any referral to them by the Secretary of State. The 'relevant bodies' for consultation are LEA associations, LEAs, organisations representing governors of maintained schools, and bodies representing school teachers (teacher unions). These bodies must be given an opportunity to submit evidence and make representations. The STRB will be explicitly able to determine the way in which the relevant bodies are entitled to respond and may limit this as appropriate. For example, if the STRB considered it appropriate, some bodies could be permitted to respond in writing only.
256.The section also gives the Secretary of State a formal entitlement to submit evidence and make representations. This has been accepted practice hitherto.