(1)The CSCI has the function of conducting other reviews of, and investigations into, the provision of English local authority social services.
(2)The CSCI may in particular under this section conduct—
(a)a review of the overall provision of English local authority social services;
(b)a review of the provision of any English local authority social service of a particular description; or
(c)a review of, or investigation into, the provision of any English local authority social service by a particular person or persons.
(3)If the Secretary of State so requests, the CSCI must conduct—
(a)a review under subsection (2)(a);
(b)a review under subsection (2)(b) of an English local authority social service of such description as may be specified in the request; or
(c)a review or investigation under subsection (2)(c) in relation to the provision of such services as may be specified in the request by such person, or persons of such description, as may be so specified.
(4)In exercising its function under this section the CSCI must take into account guidance issued to local authorities under section 7 of the Local Authority Social Services Act 1970 (c. 42).
(5)In exercising its function under this section in relation to the functions referred to in section 43(3)(a) and (b) of the Care Standards Act 2000 (c. 14) (adoption and fostering functions), the CSCI must take into account the standards prepared and published from time to time under section 23 of that Act.
(6)For the purposes of this section, the CSCI may carry out an inspection of—
(a)any local authority in England;
(b)any other person providing an English local authority social service.
(7)Where the CSCI conducts a review or investigation under this section, it must publish a report.
(8)The Secretary of State may, after consulting the CSCI, by regulations make provision as to the procedure to be followed in respect of the making of representations to the CSCI before the publication of a report under this section.