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Part IS [F1Scottish Natural Heritage's deer functions]

4 Appointment of panels.S

(1)Subject to the approval of the Secretary of State, [F2SNH] may appoint for any locality a panel for the purposes of this section consisting of such number of persons F3... as [F4it considers ] appropriate, one of whom shall act as chairman.

(2)Before making an appointment under subsection (1) above, [F2SNH] may afford to such persons or organisations as [F5it thinks] fit an opportunity to suggest the name of any person who would in [F6its] view be an appropriate person for such an appointment.

(3)Where [F2SNH] [F7has] sought suggestions as mentioned in subsection (2) above, [F8it] shall consider any such suggestions before making an appointment under subsection (1) above.

(4)[F2SNH] may appoint a member of [F2SNH] or a member of [F2SNH's ] staff to act as observer to the panel for the purposes of—

(a)sitting with the panel at any meeting;

(b)taking part in their discussions; and

(c)informing [F2SNH] of information arising during and decisions taken at such meetings.

(5)An observer appointed under subsection (4) above shall not be a member of the panel.

(6)[F2SNH] may refer to any such panel any matter relating to the [F9deer] functions of [F2SNH], and it shall be the duty of the panel to advise [F2SNH] on the matter.