Protection of Children Act Tribunal Regulations 2000

Directions

17.—(1) The President may no earlier than five, and (subject to the following provisions of this regulation) no later than ten, working days after the parties have complied with directions under regulations 9 and 10, exercise on his own initiative any of his powers under this Part, or give any other direction he sees fit.

(2) The Secretary shall notify the parties in writing of any directions the President gives under paragraph (1).

(3) A party may within five working days after he receives notification under paragraph (2) apply in writing to the Secretary—

(a) for any direction the President has given to be varied or set aside, or

(b) for a further direction to be given,

and the applicant may in addition request an opportunity to make representations at a preliminary hearing.

(4) Before varying or setting aside any direction he has made, or giving any other direction, at the request of either party, the President must—

(a) if the applicant has requested one, afford the parties an opportunity to make representations at a preliminary hearing; and

(b) in any event, give the other party an opportunity to make written representations on the matter.

(5) The parties may be represented or assisted at the preliminary hearing by any person.

(6) The President may postpone a decision whether to give, vary or set aside any direction on such terms as he may determine, and the Secretary shall notify the parties in writing accordingly.