After subsection (2) insert—

“(2A)

Subsection (2B) applies if—

(a)

the application for a variation is made by the person with care or (in the case of an application for a maintenance calculation under section 7) the person with care or the child concerned, and

(b)

it appears to the F1Secretary of State that consideration of further information or evidence may affect F2the decision under subsection (1)(a) whether or not to agree to a variation.

(2B)

Before making the decision under subsection (1)(a) the F3Secretary of State must—

(a)

consider any such further information or evidence that is available to F4the Secretary of State, and

(b)

where necessary, take such steps as the F3Secretary of State considers appropriate to obtain any such further information or evidence.”