1(1)The OfS may consult in accordance with sub-paragraph (3) about whether there is a body that is suitable to perform the assessment functions.
(2)The Secretary of State may direct the OfS to consult in accordance with sub-paragraph (3) about whether there is a body that is suitable to perform the assessment functions.
(3)The OfS consults in accordance with this sub-paragraph if it consults—
(a)a number of registered higher education providers that, taken together, appear to the OfS to comprise a broad range of the different types of such providers,
(b)a number of persons that, taken together, appear to the OfS to represent, or promote the interests of, a broad range of students on higher education courses provided in England by registered higher education providers,
(c)a number of persons that, taken together, appear to the OfS to represent, or promote the interests of, a broad range of employers of graduates, and
(d)such other persons as the OfS considers appropriate.