4.—(1) No disciplinary action (within the meaning of Part II of the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) Regulations 1992) in respect of the head of the authority’s paid service, except action described in paragraph (2), may be taken by an authority, or by a committee, sub-committee, relevant joint committee or any other person acting on their behalf, other than in accordance with a recommendation in a report made by a designated independent person under regulation 3 of those Regulations.
(2) The action mentioned in paragraph (1) is suspension of the officer for the purpose of investigating the alleged misconduct occasioning the action; and any such suspension shall be on full pay and terminate no later than the expiry of two months beginning on the day on which the suspension takes effect.