Article 53 Framework document

(1)

The Department shall prepare a document—

(a)

setting out priorities and objectives for the Board in connection with the carrying out of its functions; and

(b)

containing—

(i)

such guidance in connection with the carrying out of any of those functions; and

(ii)

such other matters relating to the Board or those functions,

as the Department considers appropriate.

(2)

The Department—

(a)

shall keep the document prepared under paragraph (1) under review; and

(b)

may from time to time revise it.

(3)

The Department shall carry out its functions under paragraphs (1) and (2) in the manner and to the extent that appear to it to be best calculated to promote—

(a)

public safety;

(b)

the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of the Board; and

(c)

economy, efficiency and effectiveness in connection with the matters in relation to which the Board has functions.

(4)

In preparing the document mentioned in paragraph (1), or any revision of it which appears to the Department to be significant, the Department—

(a)

shall consult the Board or persons considered by the Department to represent the Board; and

(b)

may consult any other persons the Department considers appropriate.

(5)

The Board shall have regard to the document prepared under paragraph (1) in carrying out its functions.