Health Service Commissioners Act 1993
1993 CHAPTER 46
An Act to consolidate the enactments relating to the Health Service Commissioners for England, for Wales and for Scotland with amendments to give effect to recommendations of the Law Commission and the Scottish Law Commission.
[5th November 1993]
F1Be it enacted by the Queen’s most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—
Textual Amendments
F1Act repealed (S.) (23.10.2002) by 2002 asp 11, s. 25(1), Sch. 6 para. 14 (with savings in Sch. 7); S.S.I. 2002/467, art. 2
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C1Act applied (1.4.1999) by S.I. 1999/686, art. 5(1), Sch. Pt. II
Act applied (with modifications)(1.4.1999) by S.I. 1999/726, art. 5(1)(2), Sch. Pt. II
Act applied (6.4.2001) by S.I. 2001/137, art. 5, Sch. Pt. II
Act applied (S.) (31.3.2002) by S.S.I. 2002/103, art. 6, Sch. Pt. II (with art. 4(4))
Act applied (S.) (27.6.2002) by S.S.I. 2002/305, art. 5, Sch. Pt. II (with art.4(4))
Commencement Information
I1Act not in force at Royal Assent; Act wholly in force at 5. 2. 1994 see s. 22(4).
Health Service [F2Commissioner] U.K.
Textual Amendments
F2Word in cross-heading substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 28 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
1[F3The Commissioner].E+W+S
(1)For the purpose of conducting investigations in accordance with this Act, there shall continue to be—
(a)a Health Service Commissioner for England [F4and]
F5(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F6(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(2)References in this Act to [F7the Commissioner] (or Health Service Commissioner) are, unless the context otherwise requires, to [F8the Health Service Commissioner for England].
(3)Schedule 1 has effect with respect to the appointment and remuneration of, and other administrative matters relating to, the Health Service Commissioner F9....
Textual Amendments
F3S. 1 heading substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 29 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F4Word in s. 1(1) inserted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(2)(a)(i)
F5S. 1(1)(b) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 30(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F6Words in s. 1(1) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(2)(a)(ii)
F7Words in s. 1(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 30(3)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F8Words in s. 1(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 30(3)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F9Words in s. 1(3) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 30(4), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Health service bodies subject to investigationE+W+S
2 The bodies subject to investigation.E+W+S
(1)The bodies subject to investigation by [F10the Commissioner] are—
[F11(a)Strategic Health Authorities,]
(c)Special Health Authorities to which this section applies [F12not exercising functions only or mainly in Wales],
(d)National Health Service trusts managing a hospital, or other establishment or facility, in England,
[F13(da)Primary Care Trusts F14. . .]
[F15(db)NHS foundation trusts,]
(e). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(f)the Dental Practice Board,F16...
F16(g). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F17(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F18(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4)References in this Act to a “health service body” are to any of the bodies mentioned above.
(5)The Special Health Authorities to which this section applies are those—
(a)established on or before 1st April 1974, or
(b)established after that date and designated by Order in Council as ones to which this section applies.
[F19(6)A designation made for the purposes of subsection (5)(b) shall be made by Order in Council; and a statutory instrument containing an Order in Council made by virtue of this subsection shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]
Textual Amendments
F10Words in s. 2(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 31(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F11S. 2(1)(a) substituted (E.W.) (1.10.2002) by 2002 c. 17, s. 1(3), Sch. 1 Pt. 2 para. 47; S.I. 2002/2478, art. 3(1)(a) (with savings in art. 3(3) and transitional provisions in art. 4)
F12Words in s. 2(1)(c) substituted (1.4.2004 for W., 1.4.2006 for E.) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 11 para. 61(a); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345); S.I. 2005/2925, art. 10(2)(j)
F13S. 2(1)(da) inserted (E.W.) (4.1.2000) by 1999 c. 8, s. 65, Sch. 4 para. 85(2)(a); S.I. 1999/2342, art. 2(3), Sch.
F14Words in s. 2(1)(da) repealed (E.W.) (1.10.2002) by 2002 c. 17, ss. 2(5), 37(2), Sch. 2 Pt. 2 para. 61(2)(a), Sch. 9 Pt. 1; S.I. 2002/2478, art. 3(1)(a) (with savings in art. 3(3) and transitional provisions in art. 4)
F15S. 2(1)(db) inserted (1.4.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 4 para. 94; S.I. 2004/759, art. 2
F16S. 2(1)(g) and preceding word repealed (1.4.2005) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 13 para. 7, Sch. 14 Pt. 7; S.I. 2005/457, art. 2(a)(b)
F17S. 2(2) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 31(3), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F18S. 2(3) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(3)
F19S. 2(6) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 31(4) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
[F20 Persons subject to investigation]E+W+S
Textual Amendments
F20Ss. 2A, 2B and crossheading inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 1; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
[F212AHealth service providers subject to investigation.E+W+S
(1)Persons are subject to investigation by [F22the Commissioner] [F23if they are [F24or were at the time of the action complained of]—
[F25(a)persons (whether individuals or bodies) providing services under a contract entered into by them with a Primary Care Trust under section 28K or 28Q of the National Health Service Act 1977]
(b)persons (whether individuals or bodies) undertaking to provide in England general ophthalmic services or pharmaceutical services under Part II of that Act; [F26or]
(c)individuals performing in England [F27primary] medical services or [F27primary] dental services in accordance with arrangements made under section 28C of that Act (except as employees of, or otherwise on behalf of, a health service body or an independent provider)]
[F28or
individuals providing in England local pharmaceutical services in accordance with arrangements made under a pilot scheme established under section 28 of the Health and Social Care Act 2001 (except as employees of, or otherwise on behalf of, a health service body or an independent provider).]
F29(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F30(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4)In this Act—
(a)references to a family health service provider are to any person mentioned in [F31subsection (1)];
(b)references to family health services are to any of the services so mentioned.]
Textual Amendments
F21S. 2A and sidenote inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 1; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F22Words in s. 2A(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 32(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F23S. 2A(1)(a)(b)(c) and words in s. 2A(1) substituted for words in s. 2A(1) (1.4.1998 with effect as mentioned in art. 3(3) of S.I. 1998/631) by 1997 c. 46, s. 41(10), Sch. 2 Pt. I para. 68(2); S.I. 1998/631, art. 2(1)(b), Sch. 2
F24Words in s. 2A(1) inserted (23.2.2001) by 2000 c. 28, ss. 1(1)(2)(a), 4(2) (with s. 3)
F25S. 2A(1)(a) substituted (1.4.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 11 para. 62(2)(a); S.I. 2004/288, art. 5(2)(w) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345); S.I. 2004/288, art. 5(2)(w) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345)
F26Word in s. 2A(1)(b) repealed (E.) (12.12.2002) by S.I. 2002/2861, art. 26(a)
F27Word in s. 2A(1)(c) substituted (1.4.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 11 para. 62(2)(b); S.I. 2004/288, art. 5(2)(w) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345); S.I. 2004/288, art. 5(2)(w) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345)
F28S. 2A(1)(d) and the word preceding it inserted (E.) (12.12.2002) by S.I. 2002/2861, art. 26(b)
F29S. 2A(2) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 32(3), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F30S. 2A(3) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(4)(a)
F31Words in s. 2A(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 32(4) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C2S. 2A savings for effects of 2003 c. 43, Sch. 11 para. 62-68 (E.S.) (1.4.2004) by The General Medical Services and Personal Medical Services Transitional and Consequential Provisions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/865), arts. 1(1), 113 (with art. 1(3))
C3S. 2A applied (with modifications) (E.) (1.4.2006) by The National Health Service (Local Pharmaceutical Services etc.) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/552), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 11
C4S. 2A(1)(a)(2)(a) modified (E.) (1.4.2004) by The General Medical Services and Personal Medical Services Transitional and Consequential Provisions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/865), arts. 1(1), 109(2)(e)
2B Independent providers subject to investigation.E+W+S
(1)Persons are subject to investigation by [F32the Commissioner] if—
(a)they are [F33or were at the time of the action complained of] persons (whether individuals or bodies) providing services in England under arrangements with health service bodies or family health service providers, and
(b)they are not [F34or were not at the time of the action complained of] themselves health service bodies or family health service providers.
F35(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F35(2A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F36(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4)The services provided under arrangements mentioned in [F37subsection (1)(a)] may be services of any kind.
(5)In this Act references to an independent provider are to any person providing services as mentioned in [F38subsection (1)].
Textual Amendments
F32Words in s. 2B(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 33(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F33Words in s. 2B(1)(a) inserted (23.2.2001) by 2000 c. 28, ss. 1(1)(3)(a), 4(2) (with s. 3)
F34Words in s. 2B(1)(b) inserted (23.2.2001) by 2000 c. 28, ss. 1(1)(3)(b), 4(2) (with s. 3)
F35S. 2B(2)(2A) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 33(3), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F36S. 2B(3) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(5)(a)
F37Words in s. 2B(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 33(4) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F38Words in s. 2B(5) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 33(5) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Matters subject to investigationE+W+S
3 General remit of [F39Commissioner].E+W+S
(1)On a complaint duly made to [F40the Commissioner] by or on behalf of a person that he has sustained injustice or hardship in consequence of—
(a)a failure in a service provided by a health service body,
(b)a failure of such a body to provide a service which it was a function of the body to provide, or
(c)maladministration connected with any other action taken by or on behalf of such a body,
the Commissioner may, subject to the provisions of this Act, investigate the alleged failure or other action.
F41(1YA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
[F42(1ZA)Any failure or maladministration mentioned in subsection (1) may arise from action of—
(a)the health service body,
(b)a person employed by that body,
(c)a person acting on behalf of that body, or
(d)a person to whom that body has delegated any functions.]
[F43(1A)Where a family health service provider has undertaken to provide any family health services and a complaint is duly made to [F44the Commissioner] by or on behalf of a person that he has sustained injustice or hardship in consequence of—
(a)action taken by the family health service provider in connection with the services,
(b)action taken in connection with the services by a person employed by the family health service provider in respect of the services,
(c)action taken in connection with the services by a person acting on behalf of the family health service provider in respect of the services, or
(d)action taken in connection with the services by a person to whom the family health service provider has delegated any functions in respect of the services,
the Commissioner may, subject to the provisions of this Act, investigate the alleged action.
F45(1B). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(1C)Where an independent provider has made an arrangement with a health service body or a family health service provider to provide a service (of whatever kind) and a complaint is duly made to [F46the Commissioner] by or on behalf of a person that he has sustained injustice or hardship in consequence of—
(a)a failure in the service provided by the independent provider,
(b)a failure of the independent provider to provide the service, or
(c)maladministration connected with any other action taken in relation to the service,
the Commissioner may, subject to the provisions of this Act, investigate the alleged failure or other action.
(1D)Any failure or maladministration mentioned in subsection (1C) may arise from action of—
(a)the independent provider,
(b)a person employed by the provider,
(c)a person acting on behalf of the provider, or
(d)a person to whom the provider has delegated any functions.]
[F47(1E)Where a complaint is duly made to [F48the Commissioner] by or on behalf of a person that the person has sustained injustice or hardship in consequence of maladministration by any person or body in the exercise of any function under section 113 of the Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (complaints about health care), the Commissioner may, subject to the provisions of this Act, investigate the alleged maladministration.]
(2)In determining whether to initiate, continue or discontinue an investigation under this Act, [F49the Commissioner] shall act in accordance with his own discretion.
(3)Any question whether a complaint is duly made to [F50the Commissioner] shall be determined by him.
(4)Nothing in this Act authorises or requires [F51the Commissioner] to question the merits of a decision taken without maladministration by a health service body in the exercise of a discretion vested in that body.
[F52(5)Nothing in this Act authorises or requires [F53the Commissioner] to question the merits of a decision taken without maladministration by—
(a)a family health service provider,
(b)a person employed by a family health service provider,
(c)a person acting on behalf of a family health service provider, or
(d)a person to whom a family health service provider has delegated any functions.
(6)Nothing in this Act authorises or requires [F54the Commissioner] to question the merits of a decision taken without maladministration by—
(a)an independent provider,
(b)a person employed by an independent provider,
(c)a person acting on behalf of an independent provider, or
(d)a person to whom an independent provider has delegated any functions.]
[F55(7)Subsections (4) to (6) do not apply to the merits of a decision to the extent that it was taken in consequence of the exercise of clinical judgment.]
Textual Amendments
F39Word in s. 3 heading substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 34 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F40Words in s. 3(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F41S. 3(1YA) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(3), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F42S. 3(1ZA) inserted (1.4.1998 with effect as mentioned in art. 3(3) of S.I. 1998/631) by 1997 c. 46, s. 41(10), Sch. 2 Pt. I para. 68(5); S.I. 1998/631, art. 2(1)(b), Sch. 2
F43S. 3(1A)-(1D) inserted (1.4.1996 with effect as mentioned in art. 2(2) of S.I. 1996/970) by 1996 c. 5, s. 2(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)(2)
F44Words in s. 3(1A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F45S. 3(1B) repealed (1.10.1999 for E. and S. and 1.4.2000 for W.) by 1999 c. 8, s. 65, Sch. 4 para. 85(3), Sch. 5; S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2, Sch. 1; S.I. 1999/90, art. 2(b), Sch. 2; S.I. 2000/1041, art. 2(d), Sch.
F46Words in s. 3(1C) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F47S. 3(1E) inserted (1.6.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), ss. 118, 199(1)(4); S.I. 2004/759, art. 8
F48Words in s. 3(1E) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F49Words in s. 3(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F50Words in s. 3(3) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F51Words in s. 3(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F52S. 3(5)(6) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 2(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F53Words in s. 3(5) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F54Words in s. 3(6) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 35(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F55S. 3(7) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 6(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
Matters excluded from investigationE+W+S
4 Availability of other remedy.E+W+S
(1)[F56The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action in relation to which the person aggrieved has or had—
(a)a right of appeal, reference or review to or before a tribunal constituted by or under any enactment or by virtue of Her Majesty’s prerogative, or
(b)a remedy by way of proceedings in any court of law,
unless the Commissioner is satisfied that in the particular circumstances it is not reasonable to expect that person to resort or have resorted to it.
(2)[F56The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action which has been, or is, the subject of an inquiry under section 84 of the M1National Health Service Act 1977 or section 76 of the M2National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 (general powers to hold inquiries).
(3)A Commissioner shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action [F57by a health service body other than the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland if it is action] in relation to which the protective functions of the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland have been, are being or may be exercised under the M3Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984.
[F58(4)Subsection (5) applies where—
(a)action by reference to which a complaint is made under section 3(1), (1A) or (1C) is action by reference to which a complaint can be made [F59under section 113(1) or (2) of the Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 or] under a procedure operated by a health service body, a family health service provider or an independent provider, and
(b)subsection (1), (2) or (3) does not apply as regards the action.
(5)In such a case [F60the Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of the action unless he is satisfied that—
(a)the other procedure has been invoked and exhausted, or
(b)in the particular circumstances it is not reasonable to expect that procedure to be invoked or (as the case may be) exhausted.
(6)Section 1(2) of the M4Hospital Complaints Procedure Act 1985 (which provides that no right of appeal etc. conferred under section 1 of that Act is to preclude an investigation under this Act) shall have effect subject to subsection (5) above.]
Textual Amendments
F56Words in s. 4(1)(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 36(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F57Words in S. 4(3) inserted (1.4.1996 with application as mentioned in art. 2(2) of S.I. 1996/970) by 1996 c. 5, s. 4(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F58S. 4(4)-(6) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 5; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F59Words in s. 4(4)(a) inserted (1.6.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 9 para. 11(2); S.I. 2004/759, art. 7
F60Words in s. 4(5) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 36(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Marginal Citations
F615. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W+S
Textual Amendments
F61S. 5 repealed (1.4.1996 with application as mentioned in art. 2(2) of S.I. 1996/970) by 1996 c. 5, ss. 6(1), 13, Sch. 2; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
6 General health services and service committees.E+W+S
F62(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F62(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(3)[F63The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken by a Primary Care Trust F64... in the exercise of its functions under the M5National Health Service (Service Committees and Tribunal) Regulations 1992, or any instrument amending or replacing those regulations.
(4)A Commissioner shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken by a Health Board in the exercise of its functions under the M6National Health Service (Service Committees and Tribunal) (Scotland) Regulations 1992, or any instrument amending or replacing those regulations.
[F65(5)[F63The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken by a Primary Care Trust F64... in the exercise of its functions under regulations made under section F66... [F6738, 39, 41 or 42] of the M7National Health Service Act 1977 by virtue of section 17 of the M8Health and Medicines Act 1988 (investigations of matters relating to services).
(6)A Commissioner shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken by a Health Board in the exercise of its functions under regulations made under section 19, 25(2), 26(2) or 27(2) of the M9National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 by virtue of section 17 of the M10Health and Medicines Act 1988.]
Textual Amendments
F63Words in s. 6(3)(5) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 37(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F64Words in s. 6(3)(5) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 37(b), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F65S. 6(5)(6) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 7(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F66Words in s. 6(5) repealed (1.4.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 11 para. 63(a), Sch. 14 Pt. 4; S.I. 2004/288, arts. 5(2)(w), 6(2)(l) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, arts. 4(2)(aa), 5(2)(l) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345); S.I. 2004/288, arts. 5(2)(w), 6(2)(l) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, arts. 4(2)(aa), 5(2)(l) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345)
F67Words in s. 6(5) substituted (1.4.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 11 para. 63(b); S.I. 2004/288, art. 5(2)(w) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345); S.I. 2004/288, art. 5(2)(w) (with art. 7) (as amended by S.I. 2004/866 and S.I. 2005/2925); S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C5S. 6(5) savings for effects of 2003 c. 43, Sch. 11 para. 62-68 (E.S.) (1.4.2004) by The General Medical Services and Personal Medical Services Transitional and Consequential Provisions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/865), arts. 1(1), 113 (with art. 1(3))
Marginal Citations
7 Personnel, contracts etc.E+W+S
(1)[F68The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken in respect of appointments or removals, pay, discipline, superannuation or other personnel matters in relation to service under the M11National Health Service Act 1977 or the M12National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 [F69or the M13National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990]F70....
(2)[F71The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken in matters relating to contractual or other commercial transactions, except for—
(a)matters relating to NHS contracts (as defined by section 4 of the M14National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990 F72..., F73. . .
(b)matters arising from arrangements between a health service body and [F74an independent provider for the provision of services by the provider][F75and.
(c)matters arising from arrangements between a family health service provider and an independent provider for the provision of services by the independent provider.]
(3)In determining what matters arise from arrangements mentioned in subsection (2)(b) [F76the Commissioner] shall disregard any arrangements for the provision of services at an establishment maintained by a Minister of the Crown mainly for patients who are members of the armed forces of the Crown.
[F77(3A)[F78The Commissioner] shall not conduct an investigation in pursuance of a complaint if—
(a)the complaint is in respect of action taken in any matter relating to arrangements made by a health service body and a family health service provider for the provision of family health services,
(b)the action is taken by or on behalf of the body or by the provider, and
(c)the complaint is made by the provider or the body.]
[F79(3B)Nothing in the preceding provisions of this section prevents [F80the Commissioner] conducting an investigation in respect of action taken by a health service body in operating a procedure established to examine complaints.]
(4)Her Majesty may by Order in Council amend this section so as to permit the investigation by [F81the Commissioner] of any of the matters mentioned in subsection (1) or (2).
(5)A statutory instrument containing an Order in Council made by virtue of subsection (4) shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.
Textual Amendments
F68Words in s. 7(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(2)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F69Words in s. 7(1) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 8(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F70Words in s. 7(1) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(2)(b), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F71Words in s. 7(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F72Words in s. 7(2)(a) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(6)
F73Word in s. 7(2)(a) repealed (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, ss. 3, 13, Sch. 1 para. 2(2), Sch. 2; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F74Words in s. 7(2)(b) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 2(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F75S. 7(2)(c) and preceding word “and” inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 2(4); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F76Words in s. 7(3) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(4) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F77S. 7(3A) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 2(5); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F78Words in s. 7(3A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(5) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F79S. 7(3B) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 8(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F80Words in s. 7(3B) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(6) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F81Words in s. 7(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 38(6) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Marginal Citations
[F827A Certain functions of Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland.E+W+S
A Commissioner shall not conduct an investigation in respect of action taken by the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland under section 33 (orders for discharge of hospital patients) [F83or], 35I (revocation of community care orders) [F84or 50 (orders discharging patients from guardianship)] of the M15Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984 [F83or section 73 of the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000].]
Textual Amendments
F82S. 7A and sidenote inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 4(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F83Words in s. 7A inserted (S.)(1.4.2002) by 2000 asp 4, s. 88(2), Sch. 5 para. 24; S.S.I. 2001/81, art. 3, Sch. 2
F84Words in s. 7A repealed (S.)(1.4.2002) by 2000 asp 4, s. 88(2), Sch. 5 para. 24; S.S.I. 2001/81, art. 3 Sch. 2
Marginal Citations
ComplaintsE+W+S
8 Individuals and bodies entitled to complain.E+W+S
(1)A complaint under this Act may be made by an individual or a body of persons, whether incorporated or not, other than a public authority.
(2)In subsection (1), “public authority” means—
(a)a local authority or other authority or body constituted for the purposes of the public service or of local government [F85(including the Assembly)],
(b)an authority or body constituted for the purposes of carrying on under national ownership any industry or undertaking or part of an industry or undertaking, and
(c)any other authority or body—
(i)whose members are appointed by Her Majesty or any Minister of the Crown or government department [F86or by the Assembly], or
(ii)whose revenues consist wholly or mainly of money provided by Parliament [F87or out of the Scottish Consolidated Fund][F86or the Assembly].
Textual Amendments
F85Words in s. 8(2)(a) inserted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 7(a) (with ss. 139(2), 14314.(2)); S.I. 1999/782, art. 2
F86Words in s. 8(2)(c)(i)(ii) inserted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 7(b) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/782, art. 2
F87Words in s. 8(2)(c) inserted (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1820, art. 4, Sch. 2 Pt. I para. 112(2); S.I. 1998/3178, art. 3
9 Requirements to be complied with.E+W+S
(1)The following requirements apply in relation to a complaint made to [F88the Commissioner].
(2)A complaint must be made in writing.
(3)The complaint shall not be entertained unless it is made—
(a)by the person aggrieved, or
(b)where the person by whom a complaint might have been made has died or is for any reason unable to act for himself, by—
(i)his personal representative,
(ii)a member of his family, or
(iii)some body or individual suitable to represent him.
(4)The Commissioner shall not entertain the complaint if it is made more than a year after the day on which the person aggrieved first had notice of the matters alleged in the complaint, unless he considers it reasonable to do so.
[F89(4A)In the case of a complaint against a person who is no longer of a description set out in [F90section 2A(1)], but was of such a description at the time of the action complained of, the Commissioner shall not entertain the complaint if it is made more than three years after the last day on which the person was a family health service provider.
(4B)In the case of a complaint against a person falling within [F91section 2B(1)] in relation to whom there are no longer any such arrangements as are mentioned there, the Commissioner shall not entertain the complaint if it is made more than three years after the last day on which the person was an independent provider.]
F92(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F93(6). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F88Words in s. 9(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 39(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F89S. 9(4A)(4B) inserted (23.2.2001) by 2000 c. 28, ss. 2, 4(2) (with s. 3)
F90Words in s. 9(4A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 39(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F91Words in s. 9(4B) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 39(4) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
10 Referral of complaint by health service body.E+W+S
(1)A health service body may itself refer to [F94the Commissioner] a complaint made to that body that a person has, in consequence of a failure or maladministration for which the body is responsible, sustained such injustice or hardship as is mentioned in section 3(1).
(2)A complaint may not be so referred unless it was made—
(a)in writing,
(b)by the person aggrieved or by a person authorised by section 9(3)(b) to complain to the Commissioner on his behalf, and
(c)not more than a year after the person aggrieved first had notice of the matters alleged in the complaint, or such later date as the Commissioner considers appropriate in any particular case.
F95(2A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(3)A health service body may not refer a complaint under this section after the period of one year beginning with the day on which the body received the complaint.
(4)Any question whether a complaint has been duly referred to [F94the Commissioner] under this section shall be determined by him.
(5)A complaint referred to [F94the Commissioner] under this section shall be deemed to be duly made to him.
Textual Amendments
F94Words in s. 10(1)(4)(5) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 40(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F95S. 10(2A) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 40(3), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
InvestigationsU.K.
11 Procedure in respect of investigations.U.K.
(1)Where [F96the Commissioner] proposes to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under [F97section 3(1)], he shall afford—
(a)to the health service body concerned, and
(b)to any other person who is alleged in the complaint to have taken or authorised the action complained of,
an opportunity to comment on any allegations contained in the complaint.
[F98(1A)Where [F99the Commissioner] proposes to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1A), he shall afford—
(a)to the family health service provider, and
(b)to any person by reference to whose action the complaint is made (if different from the family health service provider),
an opportunity to comment on any allegations contained in the complaint.
(1B)Where [F100the Commissioner] proposes to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1C), he shall afford—
(a)to the independent provider concerned, and
(b)to any other person who is alleged in the complaint to have taken or authorised the action complained of,
an opportunity to comment on any allegations contained in the complaint.]
[F101(1C)Where [F102the Commissioner] proposes to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1E), he shall afford to the person or body whose maladministration is complained of an opportunity to comment on any allegations contained in the complaint.]
(2)An investigation shall be conducted in private.
(3)In other respects, the procedure for conducting an investigation shall be such as the Commissioner considers appropriate in the circumstances of the case, and in particular—
(a)he may obtain information from such persons and in such manner, and make such inquiries, as he thinks fit, and
(b)he may determine whether any person may be represented, by counsel or solicitor or otherwise, in the investigation.
(4)[F103The Commissioner] may, if he thinks fit, pay to the person by whom the complaint was made and to any other person who attends or supplies information for the purposes of an investigation—
(a)sums in respect of expenses properly incurred by them, and
(b)allowances by way of compensation for the loss of their time.
Payments [F104made by [F105the Commissioner] F106...] under this subsection shall be in accordance with such scales and subject to such conditions as may be determined by the Treasury F107....
(5)The conduct of an investigation [F108pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1)] shall not affect any action taken by the health service body concerned, or any power or duty of that body to take further action with respect to any matters subject to the investigation.
[F109(5A)The conduct of an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1A) or (1C) shall not affect any action taken by the family health service provider or independent provider concerned, or any power or duty of that provider to take further action with respect to any matters subject to the investigation.]
(6)Where the person aggrieved has been removed from the United Kingdom under any order in force under the M16Immigration Act 1971 he shall, if the Commissioner so directs, be permitted to re-enter and remain in the United Kingdom, subject to such conditions as the Secretary of State may direct, for the purposes of the investigation.
Textual Amendments
F96Words in s. 11(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F97Words in s. 11(1) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 3(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F98S. 11(1A)(1B) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 3(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F99Words in s. 11(1A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F100Words in s. 11(1B) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F101S. 11(1C) inserted (1.6.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 9 para. 11(3); S.I. 2004/759, art. 7
F102Words in s. 11(1C) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F103Words in s. 11(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(3)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F104Words in s. 11(4) inserted (1.7.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 9(a) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/1290, art. 4
F105Words in s. 11(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(3)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F106Words in s. 11(4) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(7)
F107Words in s. 11(4) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 41(3)(c), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F108Words in s. 11(5) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 3(4); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F109S. 11(5A) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 3(5); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C6S. 11(1)(a)(5) modified (1.4.1996) by 1996/709, art. 9(3)(a)(i)(ii)
Marginal Citations
12 Evidence.U.K.
(1)For the purposes of an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1) [F110the Commissioner] may require any officer or member of the health service body concerned or any other person who in his opinion is able to supply information or produce documents relevant to the investigation to supply any such information or produce any such document.
[F111(1A)For the purposes of an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1A) (1C) or (1E) [F112the Commissioner] may require any person who in his opinion is able to supply information or produce documents relevant to the investigation to supply any such information or produce any such document.]
(2)For the purposes of an investigation [F113the Commissioner] shall have the same powers as the Court in respect of—
(a)the attendance and examination of witnesses (including the administration of oaths and affirmations and the examination of witnesses abroad), and
(b)the production of documents.
(3)No obligation to maintain secrecy or other restriction on the disclosure of information obtained by or supplied to persons in Her Majesty’s service, whether imposed by any enactment or by any rule of law, shall apply to the disclosure of information for the purposes of an investigation.
(4)The Crown shall not be entitled in relation to an investigation to any such privilege in respect of the production of documents or the giving of evidence as is allowed by law in legal proceedings.
(5)No person shall be required or authorised by this Act—
(a)to supply any information or answer any question relating to proceedings of the Cabinet or of any Committee of the Cabinet, or
(b)to produce so much of any document as relates to such proceedings;
and for the purposes of this subsection a certificate issued by the Secretary of the Cabinet with the approval of the Prime Minister and certifying that any information, question, document or part of a document relates to such proceedings shall be conclusive.
(6)Subject to subsections (3) and (4), no person shall be compelled for the purposes of an investigation to give any evidence or produce any document which he could not be compelled to give or produce in civil proceedings before the Court.
Textual Amendments
F110Words in s. 12(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 42 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F111S. 12(1A) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 4(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F112Words in s. 12(1A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 42 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F113Words in s. 12(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 42 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C7S. 12(1) applied with modifications (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/709, art. 9(3)(b)
13 Obstruction and contempt.U.K.
(1)[F114The Commissioner] may certify an offence to the Court where—
(a)a person without lawful excuse obstructs him or any of his officers in the performance of his functions, or
(b)a person is guilty of any act or omission in relation to an investigation which, if that investigation were a proceeding in the Court, would constitute contempt of court.
(2)Where an offence is so certified the Court may inquire into the matter and after hearing—
(a)any witnesses who may be produced against or on behalf of the person charged with the offence, and
(b)any statement that may be offered in defence,
the Court may deal with the person charged with the offence in any manner in which it could deal with him if he had committed the like offence in relation to the Court.
(3)Nothing in this section shall be construed as applying to the taking of any such action as is mentioned in section 11(5).
Textual Amendments
F114Words in s. 13(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 43 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
ReportsU.K.
14 [F115Reports by the Commissioner].U.K.
(1)[F116In any case where [F117the Commissioner] F118... conducts an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1) he shall send a report of the results of the investigation]—
(a)to the person who made the complaint,
(b)to any member of the House of Commons F119... who to the Commissioner’s knowledge assisted in the making of the complaint (or if he is no longer a member to such other member as the Commissioner thinks appropriate),
[F120(c)to the health service body who at the time the report is made provides the service, or has the function, in relation to which the complaint was made,]
(d)to any person who is alleged in the complaint to have taken or authorised the action complained of, [F121and]
[F122(e)to the Secretary of State.]
(2)In any case where [F123the Commissioner] F124... decides not to conduct an investigation [F125pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1)] he shall send a statement of his reasons—
(a)to the person who made the complaint, [F126and]
(b)to any such member of the House of Commons F127... as is mentioned in subsection (1)(b), F128. . .
F129(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
[F130(2A)In any case where [F131the Commissioner] F132... conducts an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1A) he shall send a report of the results of the investigation—
(a)to the person who made the complaint,
(b)to any member of the House of Commons F133... who to the Commissioner’s knowledge assisted in the making of the complaint (or if he is no longer a member to such other member as the Commissioner thinks appropriate),
(c)to any person by reference to whose action the complaint is made,
(d)to the family health service provider (if he does not fall within paragraph (c)),
(e)to any health service body with whom the family health service provider is subject to an undertaking to provide family health services, and
(f)to the Secretary of State.
(2B)In any case where [F134the Commissioner] F135... decides not to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1A) he shall send a statement of his reasons—
(a)to the person who made the complaint, and
(b)to any such member of the House of Commons F136... as is mentioned in subsection (2A)(b).
(2C)In any case where [F137the Commissioner] F138... conducts an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1C) he shall send a report of the results of the investigation—
(a)to the person who made the complaint,
(b)to any member of the House of Commons F139... who to the Commissioner’s knowledge assisted in the making of the complaint (or if he is no longer a member to such other member as the Commissioner thinks appropriate),
(c)to any person who is alleged in the complaint to have taken or authorised the action complained of,
(d)to the independent provider,
(e)to the health service body or family health service provider with whom the independent provider made the arrangement to provide the service concerned, and
(f)to the Secretary of State.
(2D)In any case where [F140the Commissioner] F141... decides not to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1C) he shall send a statement of his reasons—
(a)to the person who made the complaint, and
(b)to any such member of the House of Commons F142...as is mentioned in subsection (2C)(b).]
[F143(2E)In any case where [F144the Commissioner] conducts an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1E) he shall send a report of the results of the investigation—
(a)to the person who made the complaint;
(b)to any member of the House of Commons who to the Commissioner’s knowledge assisted in the making of the complaint (or if he is no longer a member to such other member as the Commissioner thinks appropriate);
(c)to the person or body whose maladministration is complained of;
(d)to any person or body whose action was complained of in the complaint made to the person or body whose maladministration is complained of;
(e)to the Secretary of State.
(2F)In any case where [F145the Commissioner] decides not to conduct an investigation pursuant to a complaint under section 3(1E) he shall send a statement of his reasons—
(a)to the person who made the complaint; or
(b)to any such member of the House of Commons as is mentioned in subsection (2E)(b).]
(3)If after conducting an investigation it appears to [F146the Commissioner] F147... that—
(a)the person aggrieved has sustained such injustice or hardship as is mentioned in section 3(1) [F148, (1A) or (1C)], and
(b)the injustice or hardship has not been and will not be remedied,
he may if he thinks fit [F149lay before each House of Parliament a special report on the case.]
[F150(4)[F151The Commissioner] F152...—
(a)shall F153...annually lay before each House of Parliament a general report on the performance of his functions under this Act, and
(b)may F154... from time to time lay before each House of Parliament such other reports with respect to those functions as he thinks fit.]
(5)For the purposes of the law of defamation, the publication of any matter by [F155the Commissioner] F156... in sending or making a report or statement in pursuance of this section shall be absolutely privileged.
Extent Information
E1S. 14(5) extends to Northern Ireland see s. 22(2)(a).
Textual Amendments
F115Words in s. 14 heading substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 44 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F116Words in s. 14(1) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 5(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F117Words in s. 14(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F118Words in s. 14(1) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F119Words in s. 14(1)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(b)
F120S. 14(1)(c) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 10(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F121Word in s. 14(1)(d) inserted (28.6.1995 for specified purposes and otherwise 1.4.1996) by 1995 c. 17, ss. 2(1)(3), 8, Sch. 1 Pt. III para. 126(4)(a) (with Sch. 2 paras. 6, 16)
F122S. 14(e) substituted for s. 14(e)(f) (28.6.1995 for specified purposes and otherwise 1.4.1996) by 1995 c. 17, ss. 2(1)(3), 8, Sch. 1 Pt. III para. 126(4)(b) (with Sch. 2 paras. 6, 16)
F123Words in s. 14(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F124Words in s. 14(2) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F125Words in s. 14(2) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 5(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F126Word in s. 14(2)(a) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 10(3)(a); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F127Words in s. 14(2)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(b)
F128Word in s. 14(2)(b) repealed (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, ss. 10(3)(b), 13, Sch. 2; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F129S. 14(2)(c) repealed (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, ss. 10(3)(b), 13, Sch. 2; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F130S. 14(2A)-(2D) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 5(4); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F131Words in s. 14(2A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F132Words in s. 14(2A) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F133Words in s. 14(2A)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(b)
F134Words in s. 14(2B) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F135Words in s. 14(2B) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F136Words in s. 14(2B)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(b)
F137Words in s. 14(2C) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F138Words in s. 14(2C) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F139Words in s. 14(2C)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(b)
F140Words in s. 14(2D) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F141Words in s. 14(2D) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F142Words in s. 14(2D)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(b)
F143S. 14(2E)(2F) inserted (1.6.2004) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 9 para. 11(5); S.I. 2004/759, art. 7
F144Words in s. 14(2E) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F145Words in s. 14(2F) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F146Words in s. 14(3) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F147Words in s. 14(3) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
F148Words in s. 14(3)(a) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 5(5); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F149Words in s. 14(3) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 10(4); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F150S. 14(4) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 10(5); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F151Words in s. 14(4) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F152Words in s. 14(4) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(c)(i)
F153Word in s. 14(4)(a) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(c)(ii)
F154Word in s. 14(4)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(c)(ii)
F155Words in s. 14(5) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 45(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F156Words in s. 14(5) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(8)(a)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C8S. 14(1)(c) applied with modifications (1.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/709, art. 9(3)(c)
F15714A Reports by Welsh Commissioner.E+W+S
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F157Ss. 14A-14C repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 46, Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F15714B Action in response to reports by Welsh Commissioner.E+W+S
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F157Ss. 14A-14C repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 46, Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F15714C Reports: supplementary.E+W+S
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F157Ss. 14A-14C repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 46, Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Information and consultationU.K.
15 Confidentiality of information.U.K.
(1)Information obtained by [F158the Commissioner] or his officers in the course of or for the purposes of an investigation shall not be disclosed except—
(a)for the purposes of the investigation and any report to be made in respect of it,
(b)for the purposes of any proceedings for—
(i)an offence under the Official Secrets Acts 1911 to 1989 alleged to have been committed in respect of information obtained by virtue of this Act by [F158the Commissioner] or any of his officers, or
(ii)an offence of perjury alleged to have been committed in the course of the investigation,
(c)for the purposes of an inquiry with a view to the taking of such proceedings as are mentioned in paragraph (b), F159. . .
(d)for the purposes of any proceedings under section 13 (offences of obstruction and contempt) [F160or
(e)[F161where the information is to the effect that any person is likely to constitute a threat to the health or safety of patients] as permitted by subsection (1B).]
[F162[F163(1A)Subsection (1B) applies where, in the course of an investigation, [F164the Commissioner] or any of his officers obtains information which—
(a)does not fall to be disclosed for the purposes of the investigation or any report to be made in respect of it, and
(b)is to the effect that a person is likely to constitute a threat to the health or safety of patients.]
(1B)In [F165a case within subsection (1)(e)] the Commissioner may disclose the information to any persons to whom he thinks it should be disclosed in the interests of the health and safety of patients [F166; and a person to whom disclosure may be made may, for instance, be a body which regulates the profession to which the person mentioned in subsection (1A)(b) belongs or his employer or any person with whom he has made arrangements to provide services.]
(1C)If [F167the Commissioner] discloses information as permitted by subsection (1B) he shall—
[F168(a)where he knows the identity of the person mentioned in subsection (1)(e), inform that person that he has disclosed the information and of the identity of any person to whom he has disclosed it, and
(b)inform the person from whom the information was obtained that he has disclosed it.]]
(2)Neither [F169the Commissioner] nor his officers [F170nor his advisers] shall be called on to give evidence in any proceedings, other than proceedings mentioned in subsection (1), of matters coming to his or their knowledge in the course of an investigation under this Act.
[F171(3)The reference in subsection (2) to [F172the Commissioner's] advisers is a reference to persons from whom the Commissioner obtains advice under paragraph 13 of Schedule 1 F173....]
[F174(4)Information obtained from the Information Commissioner by virtue of section 76 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 shall be treated for the purposes of subsection (1) as obtained for the purposes of an investigation and, in relation to such information, the reference in paragraph (a) of that subsection to the investigation shall have effect as a reference to any investigation.]
Textual Amendments
F158Words in s. 15(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 47(2) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F159Word in s. 15(1)(c) repealed (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, ss. 11(2), 13, Sch. 2; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F160S. 15(1)(e) and preceding word “or” inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 11(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F161Words in s. 15(1)(e) inserted (1.10.1999 for E.W., 1.3.2000 for S.) by 1999 c. 8, s. 43(2); S.S.I. 2000/38, art. 2
F162S. 15(1A)-(1C) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 11(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F163S. 15(1A) repealed (1.10.1999 for E.W., 1.3.2000 for S.) by 1999 c. 8, ss. 43(3), 65, Sch. 5; S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2(1)(b); S.S.I. 2000/38, art. 2
F164Words in s. 15(1A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 47(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F165Words in s. 15(1B) substituted (1.10.1999 for E.W., 1.3.2000 for S. otherwiseprosp.) by 1999 c. 8, s. 43(4)(a); S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2(1)(b); S.S.I. 2000/38, art. 2
F166Words in s. 15(1B) repealed (1.10.1999 for E.W., 1.3.2000 for S. otherwiseprosp.) by 1999 c. 8, ss. 43(4)(b), 65, Sch. 5; S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2(1)(b); S.S.I. 2000/38, art. 2
F167Words in s. 15(1C) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 47(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F168S. 15(1C)(a)(b) substituted (1.10.1999 for E.W., 1.3.2000 for S. otherwiseprosp.) by 1999 c. 8, s. 43(5); S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2(1)(b); S.S.I. 2000/38, art. 2
F169Words in s. 15(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 47(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F170Words in s. 15(2) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 11(4); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F171S. 15(3) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 11(5); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F172Words in s. 15(3) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 47(4)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F173Words in s. 15(3) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 47(4)(b), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F174S. 15(4) inserted (30.1.2001) by 2000 c. 36, ss. 76(2), 87(2)(b), Sch. 7 para. 5 (with ss. 56, 78)
16 Information prejudicial to the safety of the State.U.K.
(1)A Minister of the Crown may give notice in writing to [F175the Commissioner] with respect to any document or information specified in the notice that in the Minister’s opinion the disclosure of the document or information would be prejudicial to the safety of the State or otherwise contrary to the public interest.
(2)Where such a notice is given to [F175the Commissioner], nothing in this Act shall be construed as authorising or requiring him or any of his officers to communicate to any person or for any purpose any document or information specified in the notice.
(3)References above to a document or information include references to a class of document or a class of information.
Textual Amendments
F175Words in s. 16(1)(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 48 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
17 Use of information by Commissioner in other capacity.E+W+S
(1)This section applies where [F176the Commissioner] also holds F177... the office of Parliamentary Commissioner (an “additional office”).
(2)Where—
(a)a person initiates a complaint to the Commissioner as the holder of the additional office, and
(b)the complaint relates partly to a matter with respect to which that person has previously initiated, or subsequently initiates, a complaint to the Commissioner in his capacity as such,
information obtained by the Commissioner or his officers in the course of or for the purposes of the investigation of that other complaint may be disclosed for the purposes of carrying out his functions in relation to the complaint initiated to him as the holder of the additional office.
F178(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F176Words in s. 17(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 49(2)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F177Words in s. 17(1) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 49(2)(b), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F178S. 17(3) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 49(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C9S. 17 extended (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1351, art. 17(5)(a); S.I. 1998/3178, art. 3
18 Consultation during investigations.E+W+S
(1)Where [F179the Commissioner], at any stage in the course of conducting an investigation, forms the opinion that the complaint relates partly [F180or wholly] to a matter which could be the subject of an investigation—
F181(a). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(b)by the Parliamentary Commissioner under the M17Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967,
[F182(ba)by the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales under the Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005,]
(c)by a Local Commissioner under Part III of the M18Local Government Act 1974, [F183or]
(d)[F184by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman under the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002], F185...
F185(e). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
he shall consult about the complaint with the appropriate Commissioner [F186or F187... Ombudsman] and, if he considers it necessary, he shall inform the person initiating the complaint of the steps necessary to initiate a complaint to that Commissioner [F186or F187... Ombudsman].
(2)Where [F188the Commissioner] consults with another Commissioner [F189, the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman] or F190... [F191the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales] in accordance with this section, the consultations may extend to any matter relating to the complaint, including—
(a)the conduct of any investigation into the complaint, and
(b)the form, content and publication of any report of the results of such an investigation.
(3)Nothing in section 15 (confidentiality of information) applies in relation to the disclosure of information F192... in the course of consultations held in accordance with this section.
Textual Amendments
F179Words in s. 18(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 50(2)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F180Words in s. 18(1) inserted (1.4.2004 for W., 1.4.2006 for E.) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), s. 199(1)(4), Sch. 11 para. 64; S.I. 2004/480, art. 4(2)(aa) (with art. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2004/1019 and S.I. 2006/345), S.I. 2005/2925, art. 10(2)(j)
F181S. 18(1)(a) repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 50(2)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F182S. 18(1)(ba) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 50(2)(c) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F183Word in s. 18(1)(c) repealed (14.7.2005 for W.) by Housing Act 2004 (c. 34), s. 270(4)(5)(f), Sch. 15 para. 37(2)(a), Sch. 16; S.I. 2005/1814, arts. 1(2), 2(f)(iv)
F184Words in s. 18(1)(d) substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(9)(a)(ii)
F185S. 18(1)(e) and word repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 50(2)(d), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F186Words in s. 18(1) inserted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 14(2) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/782, art. 2
F187Word in s. 18(1) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(9)(a)(iii)
F188Words in s. 18(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 50(3)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F189Words in s. 18(2) inserted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(9)(b)
F190Words in s. 18(2) repealed (14.7.2005 for W.) by Housing Act 2004 (c. 34), s. 270(4)(5)(f), Sch. 15 para. 37(3), Sch. 16; S.I. 2005/1814, arts. 1(2), 2(f)(iv)
F191Words in s. 18(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 50(3)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F192Words in s. 18(3) repealed (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 38, ss. 112, 152, Sch. 10 para. 14(4), Sch. 18 Pt. I (with ss. 137(1), 139(2), 141(1), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/782, art. 2
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C10S. 18 extended (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1351, art. 17(5)(a); S.I. 1998/3178, art. 3
C11S. 18(1)(b) extended (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1351, art. 17(5)(b); S.I. 1998/3178, art. 3
Marginal Citations
[F19318A Disclosure of information to Information Commissioner.E+W+S
(1)[F194The Health Service Commissioner] may disclose to the Information Commissioner any information obtained by, or furnished to, the Health Service Commissioner under or for the purposes of this Act if the information appears to the Health Service Commissioner to relate to—
(a)a matter in respect of which the Information Commissioner could exercise any power conferred by—
(i)Part V of the Data Protection Act 1998 (enforcement),
(ii)section 48 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (practice recommendations), or
(iii)Part IV of that Act (enforcement), or
(b)the commission of an offence under—
(i)any provision of the Data Protection Act 1998 other than paragraph 12 of Schedule 9 (obstruction of execution of warrant), or
(ii)section 77 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (offence of altering etc. records with intent to prevent disclosure).
(3)Nothing in section 15 (confidentiality of information) applies in relation to the disclosure of information in accordance with this section.]
Textual Amendments
F193S. 18A and sidenote inserted (30.1.2001) by 2000 c. 36, ss. 76(2), 87(2)(b), Sch. 7 para. 6 (with ss. 56, 78)
F194Words in s. 18A(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 51 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
SupplementaryU.K.
19 Interpretation.U.K.
In this Act—
“action” includes failure to act, and related expressions shall be construed accordingly;
[F195[F196“allotted sum” shall be construed in accordance with section 15 of the M19National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990 or, in Scotland, section 87B of the M20National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978;]]
[F197“the Assembly” means the National Assembly for Wales;]
“the Court” means, in relation to England and Wales, the High Court, F198...and in relation to Northern Ireland, the High Court in Northern Ireland;
[F199“family health services” has the meaning given by section 2A;
“family health service provider” has the meaning given by section 2A;]
F200...
“functions” includes powers and duties;
“health service body” has the meaning given by section 2;
[F201“independent provider” has the meaning given by section 2B;]
“local authority” means—
(a)in relation to England F202. . ., a county, district or London borough council or the Common Council of the City of London,
[F203(aa)in relation to Wales, a county council or county borough council,]
(b)in relation to Scotland, a regional, district or islands council;
“officer” includes employee F204...;
“Parliamentary Commissioner” means Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration;
“patient” includes an expectant or nursing mother and a lying-in woman; F205. . .
“person aggrieved” means the person who claims or is alleged to have sustained such injustice or hardship as is mentioned in section 3(1) [F206, (1A) or (1C)].
[F207[F208“recognised fund-holding practice” shall be construed in accordance with section 14 of the National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990 or, in Scotland, section 87A of the National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978.]]
Textual Amendments
F195Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 6(2); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F196Words in s. 19 repealed (1.10.1999 for E.S., 1.4.2000 for W.) by 1999 c. 8, s. 65, Sch. 4 para. 85(4), Sch. 5; S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2, Sch. 1; S.I. 1999/90, art. 2, Sch. 2; S.I. 2000/1026, art. 2(1), Sch.
F197Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 15(2) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/782, art. 2
F198Words in s. 19 omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(10)
F199Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 6(3); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F200Words in s. 19 repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 52(2), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F201Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 6(4); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F202Words in s. 19 repealed (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 66(6)(8), Sch. 16 para. 108, Sch. 18 (with ss. 54(5)(7), 55(5), Sch. 17 para. 22(1), 23(2)); S.I. 1996/396, art. 4, Sch. 2
F203Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 66(6), Sch. 16 para. 108 (with ss. 54(5)(7), 55(5), Sch. 17 para. 22(1), 23(2)); S.I. 1996/396, art. 4, Sch. 2
F204Words in s. 19 repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 52(3), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F205Word in s. 19 repealed (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, ss. 3, 13, Sch. 1 para. 6(5), Sch. 2; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F206Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 6(6); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F207Words in s. 19 inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 6(7); S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F208Words in s. 19 repealed (1.10.1999 for E.S., 1.4.2000 for W.) by 1999 c. 8, s. 65, Sch. 4 para. 85(4), Sch. 5; S.I. 1999/2540, art. 2, Sch. 1; S.I. 1999/90, art. 2, Sch. 2; S.I. 2000/1026, art. 2(1), Sch.
Marginal Citations
20 Consequential amendments and repeals.E+W+S
(1)Schedule 2 to this Act (which contains amendments consequential on this Act) has effect.
(2)The enactments set out in Schedule 3 are repealed to the extent specified.
21 Transitional provisions.E+W+S
(1)The repeal and re-enactment of provisions in this Act does not affect the continuity of the law.
(2)Anything done, or having effect as if done, under a provision reproduced in this Act has effect as if done under the corresponding provision of this Act.
(3)Any reference (express or implied) in this Act or any other enactment, or in any instrument or document, to a provision of this Act shall (so far as the context permits) be construed as (according to the context) being or including in relation to times, circumstances or purposes before the commencement of this Act a reference to the corresponding provision repealed in this Act.
(4)Any reference (express or implied) in this Act or any other enactment, or in any instrument or document, to a provision repealed in this Act shall (so far as the context permits) be construed as (according to the context) being or including in relation to times, circumstances or purposes after the commencement of this Act a reference to the corresponding provision of this Act.
(5)Subsection (4) is subject to Schedule 2.
22 Short title, extent and commencement.U.K.
(1)This Act may be cited as the Health Service Commissioners Act 1993.
(2)The following provisions of this Act extend to Northern Ireland—
(a)sections 11, 12, 13, 14(5), 15, 16 and this section;
(b)section 19 so far as it relates to provisions mentioned in this subsection;
(c)Schedule 2 so far as it amends any enactment which extends to Northern Ireland; and
(d)Schedule 3 so far as it repeals any enactment which extends to Northern Ireland.
(3)The Secretary of State may by order provide that this Act shall apply to the Isles of Scilly with such modifications, if any, as are specified in the order.
Any such order shall be made by statutory instrument which shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.
(4)This Act shall come into force at the end of the period of three months beginning with the day on which it is passed.
SCHEDULES
Section 1(3).
SCHEDULE 1E+W+S The [F209English F210...] [F211Commissioner]
Textual Amendments
F209Sch. 1: words in heading inserted (1.7.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 16(2) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/1290, art. 4
F210Words in Sch. 1 heading omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(a)
F211Word in Sch. 1 heading substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(a)
[F212 Introductory]E+W+S
Textual Amendments
F212Sch. 1 para A1 and crossheading inserted (1.7.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 16(3) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/1290, art. 4
F213A1E+W+S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F213Sch. 1 para. A1 repealed (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(2), Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Appointment of [F214Commissioner] E+W+S
Textual Amendments
F214Word in Sch. 1 para. 1 cross-heading substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(3) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
[F2151E+W+SHer Majesty may by Letters Patent appoint a person to be the Commissioner.
Textual Amendments
F215Sch. 1 paras. 1-1E substituted for Sch. 1 para. 1 (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(2) (with regs. 44-46)
1AE+W+SSubject to paragraphs 1C and 1D a person appointed to be the Commissioner shall hold office until the end of the period for which he is appointed.
Textual Amendments
F215Sch. 1 paras. 1-1E substituted for Sch. 1 para. 1 (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(2) (with regs. 44-46)
1BE+W+SThat period must be not more than seven years.
Textual Amendments
F215Sch. 1 paras. 1-1E substituted for Sch. 1 para. 1 (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(2) (with regs. 44-46)
1CE+W+SA person appointed to be the Commissioner may be relieved of office by Her Majesty at his own request.
Textual Amendments
F215Sch. 1 paras. 1-1E substituted for Sch. 1 para. 1 (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(2) (with regs. 44-46)
1DE+W+SA person appointed to be the Commissioner may be removed from office by Her Majesty, on the ground of misbehaviour, in consequence of Addresses from both Houses of Parliament.
Textual Amendments
F215Sch. 1 paras. 1-1E substituted for Sch. 1 para. 1 (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(2) (with regs. 44-46)
1EE+W+SA person appointed to be the Commissioner is not eligible for re-appointment.]
Textual Amendments
F215Sch. 1 paras. 1-1E substituted for Sch. 1 para. 1 (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(2) (with regs. 44-46)
Appointment of acting [F216Commissioner] E+W+S
Textual Amendments
F216Word in Sch. 1 para. 2 heading substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(d)
2(1)[F217Where [F218the office]] of Commissioner becomes vacant, Her Majesty may, pending the appointment of the new Commissioner, appoint a person under this paragraph to act as [F219the] Commissioner at any time during the period of twelve months beginning with the date on which the vacancy arose.E+W+S
[F220(1A)A person appointed to act as the Commissioner (“an acting Commissioner”) may have held office as the Commissioner.
(1B)A person appointed as an acting Commissioner is eligible for appointment as the Commissioner unless he has already held office as the Commissioner.]
(2)A person appointed [F221as acting Commissioner,] shall hold office during Her Majesty’s pleasure and, subject to that, shall hold office—
(a)until the appointment of the new Commissioner or the expiry of the period of twelve months beginning with the date on which the vacancy arose, whichever occurs first, and
(b)in other respects, in accordance with the terms and conditions of his appointment which shall be such as the Secretary of State may, with the approval of the Treasury, determine.
[F222(3)A person appointed as an acting Commissioner shall, while he holds office, be treated for all purposes, except for the purposes of paragraphs 1, 4 to 10 and this paragraph, as the Commissioner.]
Textual Amendments
F217Words in Sch. 1 para. 2(1) substituted (1.7.1999) by 1998 c. 38, s. 112, Sch. 10 para. 16(4) (with ss. 139(2), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/1290, art. 4
F218Words in Sch. 1 para. 2(1) substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(e)(i)
F219Word in Sch. 1 para. 2(1) substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(e)(ii)
F220Sch. 1 para. 2(1A)(1B) inserted (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(3)(a) (with regs. 44-46)
F221Words in Sch. 1 para. 2(2) substituted (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(3)(b) (with regs. 44-46)
F222Sch. 1 para. 2(3) substituted (with application in accordance with Sch. 8 para. 16 of the amending S.I.) by The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/1031), reg. 1(1), Sch. 8 para. 15(3)(c) (with regs. 44-46)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C12Sch 1. para. 2: transfer of certain functions (1.4.1995) by S.I. 1995/269, art. 3, Sch. para. 24
Ineligibility of certain persons for appointmentE+W+S
3(1)A person who is a member of a relevant health service body shall not be appointed [F223the Commissioner] or acting Commissioner; and a person so appointed shall not, during his appointment, become a member of such a body.E+W+S
(2)For this purpose a “relevant health service body” means—
(a)F224... a body mentioned in [F225section 2(1)] F226...
F227(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F223Words in Sch. 1 para. 3(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(5)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F224Words in Sch. 1 para. 3(2) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(f)(i)
F225Words in Sch. 1 para. 3(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(5)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F226Word in Sch. 1 para. 3(2) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(f)(ii)
F227Sch. 1 para. 3(2)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(f)(iii)
[F2283A(1)A person who is a relevant family health service provider shall not be appointed [F229the Commissioner] or acting Commissioner; and a person so appointed shall not, during his appointment, become a relevant family health service provider.E+W+S
(2)For this purpose a “relevant family health service provider” means—
(a)F230... a person mentioned in [F231section 2A(1)] F232...
F233(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]
Textual Amendments
F228Sch. 1 para. 3A inserted (1.4.1996) by 1996 c. 5, s. 3, Sch. 1 para. 7; S.I. 1996/970, art. 2(1)
F229Words in Sch. 1 para. 3A(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(6)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F230Words in Sch. 1 para. 3A(2) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(g)(i)
F231Words in Sch. 1 para. 3A(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(6)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F232Word in Sch. 1 para. 3A(2) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(g)(ii)
F233Sch. 1 para. 3A(2)(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(g)(iii)
SalariesE+W+S
4E+W+S[F234(a)] There shall be paid to the holder of the office of [F235the Commissioner] the same salary as if he were employed in the civil service of the State in such appointment as the House of Commons may by resolution from time to time determine; and any such resolution may take effect from the date on which it is passed or from such other date as may be specified in it.
F236(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F234Sch. 1 para. 4: “(a)” inserted (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1820, art. 4, Sch. 2 Pt. I para. 112(4)(c)(i); S.I. 1998/3178, art. 3
F235Words in Sch. 1 para. 4 substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(7) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F236 Sch. 1 para. 4(b) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(h)
5E+W+SThe salary payable to a holder of the office of [F237the Commissioner] shall be abated by the amount of any pension payable to him in respect of any public office in the United Kingdom or elsewhere to which he has previously been appointed or elected.
Textual Amendments
F237Words in Sch. 1 para. 5 substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(7) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
6(1)Where a person holds—E+W+S
(a)the office of Parliamentary Commissioner, and
(b)[F238the office] of Health Service Commissioner,
he shall, so long as he does so, be entitled only to the salary pertaining to the office of Parliamentary Commissioner.
F239(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F238Words in Sch. 1 para. 6(1)(b) substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(i)(i)
F239Sch. 1 para. 6(2) omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(i)(ii)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C13Sch. 1 para. 6 extended (1.7.1999) by S.I. 1999/1351, art. 17(5)(a); S.I. 1998/3178, art. 3
Pensions and other benefitsE+W+S
7E+W+SSchedule 1 to the M21Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (which relates to pensions and other benefits) has effect with respect to persons who hold or have held office as [F240the Commissioner] as it has effect with respect to persons who hold or have held office as the Parliamentary Commissioner.
Textual Amendments
F240Words in Sch. 1 para. 7 substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(7) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Marginal Citations
8E+W+SIn computing the salary of a former holder of the office of Commissioner for the purposes of Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act, there shall be disregarded—
(a)any abatement of that salary under paragraph 5,
(b)any temporary abatement of that salary in the national interest, and
(c)any voluntary surrender of that salary in whole or in part.
9(1)In this paragraph, “relevant office” means the office of Parliamentary Commissioner or [F241the office] of Health Service Commissioner.E+W+S
(2)The Treasury may by regulations provide that Schedule 1 to the Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 shall have effect, in relation to persons who have held more than one relevant office, with such modifications as it considers necessary in consequence of those persons having held more than one such office; and different regulations may be made in pursuance of paragraph 4 of Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act in relation to different relevant offices.
(3)A person shall not be entitled to make simultaneously different elections in pursuance of paragraph 1 or 2 of Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act in respect of different relevant offices.
(4)Where a person has made or is treated as having made an election in pursuance of paragraph 1 or 2 of Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act in respect of any relevant office, he shall be deemed to have made the same election in respect of all such other offices to which he is, or is subsequently, appointed.
(5)No account shall be taken for the purposes of Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act of a period of service in a relevant office if salary in respect of the office was not paid for that period.
(6)Regulations under this paragraph may make such incidental or supplementary provision as the Treasury considers necessary.
(7)Regulations under this paragraph shall be made by statutory instrument which shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.
Textual Amendments
F241Words in Sch. 1 para. 9(1) substituted (14.7.2004) by The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(j)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C14Sch. 1 para. 9: transfer of certain functions (1.4.1995) by S.I. 1995/269, art. 3, Sch. para. 24
10E+W+SIn any case where a person makes an election under paragraph 2(1)(a) of Schedule 1 to the M22Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (as substituted by Part II of Schedule 4 to the M23Judicial Pensions and Retirement Act 1993) so that Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act continues to have effect in relation to him as it did before the coming into force of Part II of Schedule 4 to the 1993 Act, this Schedule shall have effect—
(a)as if in paragraph 7 the words “hold or” (in both places) and in paragraph 9(3) and (4) the words “or 2” (in both places) were omitted, and
(b)as if for the reference in paragraph 9(2) to paragraph 4 of Schedule 1 to the 1967 Act there were substituted a reference to paragraph 8 of that Schedule.
Staff and advisersE+W+S
11(1)[F242The Commissioner] may appoint such officers as he may determine with the approval of the Treasury as to numbers and conditions of service.E+W+S
F243(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F242Words in Sch. 1 para. 11(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(8) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F243Sch. 1 para. 11(2) repealed (1.7.1999) by 1998 c. 38, ss. 112, 152, Sch. 10 para. 16(7), Sch. 18 Pt. I (with ss. 137(1), 139(2), 141(1), 143(2)); S.I. 1999/1290, art. 4
12E+W+SAny functions of [F244the Commissioner] under this Act may be performed by any officer of the Commissioner authorised by him for that purpose, or by any officer so authorised of F245... [F246the Parliamentary Commissioner or the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales].
Textual Amendments
F244Words in Sch. 1 para. 12 substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(9)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F245Words in Sch. 1 para. 12 omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(k)
F246Words in Sch. 1 para. 12 substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(9)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
13(1)To assist him in any investigation [F247the Commissioner] may obtain advice from any person who, in his opinion, is qualified to give it.E+W+S
(2)[F248The Commissioner] may pay to any such person from whom he obtains advice under this paragraph such fees or allowances as he may determine with the approval of the Treasury.
Textual Amendments
F247Words in Sch. 1 para. 13(1) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(10)(a) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F248Words in Sch. 1 para. 13(2) substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(10)(b) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
Financial provisionsE+W+S
14E+W+SThe expenses of [F249the Commissioner] F250... under this Act—
(a)shall be paid out of money provided by Parliament, and
(b)shall not exceed such amount as the Treasury may sanction.
Textual Amendments
F249Words in Sch. 1 para. 14 substituted (1.4.2006) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 53(11) (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, art. 5(1)(3)
F250Words in Sch. 1 para. 14 omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(11)(l)
15E+W+SAny salary, pension or other benefit payable by virtue of paragraph 2 and paragraphs 4 to 9 shall be charged on and issued out of the Consolidated Fund.
Section 1(3).
F251SCHEDULE 1AE+W+S The Welsh Commissioner
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F251Sch. 1A repealed (12.10.2005 for specified purposes, 1.4.2006 in so far as not already in force) by Public Services Ombudsman (Wales) Act 2005 (c. 10), s. 40, Sch. 6 para. 54, Sch. 7 (with s. 38); S.I. 2005/2800, arts. 3(b), 5(1)(3), Sch. 1 Pt. 2 (with art. 7, Sch. 2)
Section 20.
SCHEDULE 2U.K. Consequential amendments
The Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (c.13)U.K.
1U.K.In section 11A of the Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (consultations between Parliamentary Commissioner and Health Service Commissioners) in subsection (1)(b) for the words “Part V of the National Health Service Act 1977” to the end there shall be substituted “ the Health Service Commissioners Act 1993. ”
2U.K.In paragraph 8 of Schedule 3 to that Act (action taken by certain health service bodies not subject to investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner) after the words “Scottish Health Service” there shall be inserted “ by the Dental Practice Board or the Scottish Dental Practice Board ”.
The Local Government Act 1974 (c.7)E+W+S
3E+W+SIn section 29(5)(b) of the Local Government Act 1974 (restriction on disclosure of information by Health Service Commissioners in relation to investigations by Local Commissioners) for the words “paragraph 16 of Schedule 13 to the National Health Service Act 1977” there shall be substituted “ section 15 of the Health Service Commissioners Act 1993 ”.
4(1)Section 33 of that Act (consultation between Local Commissioners, Parliamentary Commissioner and Health Service Commissioners) shall be amended as follows.E+W+S
(2)In subsection (1) for the words “sections 109” to the end of paragraph (b) and for the words “Part V of the Act of 1977” there shall be substituted “ the Act of 1993, ”.
(3)In subsection (3)—
(a)for the words from the beginning to “Commissioner conducting the investigation” there shall be substituted—
“(3)If, at any stage in the course of conducting an investigation under the Act of 1967, the Parliamentary Commissioner”; and
(b)the words “under the Act of 1967 or Part V of the Act of 1977, as the case may be,” shall be omitted.
(4)In subsection (4) the words “or Part V of the Act of 1977” shall be omitted.
(5)In subsection (5) for the words “paragraph 16 of Schedule 13 to the National Health Service Act 1977” there shall be substituted “ section 15 of the Act of 1993 ”.
(6)In subsection (6) for the words “the Act of 1977” onwards there shall be substituted “ the “Act of 1993” means the Health Service Commissioners Act 1993. ”
The Local Government (Scotland) Act 1975 (c.30)E+W+S
F2805E+W+S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F280Sch. 2 para. 5 omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(13)
F2816E+W+S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F281Sch. 2 para. 6 omitted (14.7.2004) by virtue of The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Act 2002 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1823), arts. 1, 17(13)
The Hospital Complaints Procedure Act 1985 (c.42)E+W+S
7E+W+SIn section 1(2) of the Hospital Complaints Procedure Act 1985 for the words “under Part V” to “Commissioners)” there shall be substituted “ under the Health Service Commissioners Act 1993 ”.
The Parliamentary and Health Service Commissioners Act 1987 (c.39)U.K.
8U.K.In section 2(1) of the Parliamentary and Health Service Commissioners Act 1987 (removal of a Commissioner on medical grounds) for the words from the beginning to “for Scotland)” there shall be substituted “ Section 1 of the 1967 Act (which deals with the appointment and tenure of office by the Parliamentary Commissioner) ”.
Section 20.
SCHEDULE 3U.K.Repeals
Chapter | Short title | Extent of repeal |
---|---|---|
1974 c. 7. | The Local Government Act 1974. | In section 33(3), the words “under the Act of 1967 or Part V of the Act of 1977 as the case may be”. |
In section 33(4), the words “or Part V of the Act of 1977”. | ||
1975 c. 30. | The Local Government (Scotland) Act 1975. | In section 31(3), the words “under the Act of 1967 or Part VI of the Act of 1978 as the case may be”. |
In section 31(4), the words “or Part VI of the Act of 1978”. | ||
1977 c. 49. | The National Health Service Act 1977. | Sections 106 to 120. |
Section 130(3)(c). | ||
Schedule 13. | ||
In Schedule 14, paragraph 17. | ||
In Schedule 15, paragraphs 60 and 61. | ||
1978 c. 29. | The National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978. | Sections 90 to 97. |
Schedule 14. | ||
In Schedule 15, paragraph 12. | ||
1980 c. 53. | The Health Services Act 1980. | In Schedule 1, paragraphs 72 to 74. |
In Schedule 2, paragraphs 7, 8 and 9 and sub-paragraphs (a) to (f) of paragraph 11. | ||
1984 c. 36. | The Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984. | In Schedule 3, paragraph 42. |
1987 c. 39. | The Parliamentary and Health Service Commissioners Act 1987. | Section 2(2). |
Section 4(3) to (5). | ||
Section 5. | ||
Section 6(2) and (3). | ||
Section 7. | ||
Section 8. | ||
1988 c. 49. | The Health and Medicines Act 1988. | Section 12(4) and (5). |
1989 c. 6. | The Official Secrets Act 1989. | In Schedule 1, paragraph 1(h). |
1990 c. 19. | The National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990. | In Schedule 9, paragraphs 18(10) and (11) and 19(18). |
1993 c. 8. | The Judicial Pensions and Retirement Act 1993. | Part III of Schedule 4. |
E+W+S TABLE OF DERIVATIONS
Notes:E+W+S
1This Table shows the derivation of the provisions of the Bill.
2E+W+SThe following abbreviations are used in this Table:
1967 | = The Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (c.13) |
1977 | = The National Health Service Act 1977 (c.49) |
1978 | = The National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 (c.29) |
1980 | = The Health Services Act 1980 (c.53) |
1987 | = The Parliamentary and Health Service Commissioners Act 1987 (c.39) |
1990 | = The National Health Service and Community Care Act 1990 (c.19) |
3E+W+SThe abbreviation “Law Comm R” followed by a number refers to the recommendation set out in the paragraph of that number in the Appendix to the Report of the Law Commission and the Scottish Law Commission (Cm. 2255).
4E+W+SCertain functions of the Minister for the Civil Service were transferred to the Treasury by the Transfer of Functions (Minister for the Civil Service and Treasury) Order 1981 (S.I. 1981/1670 Articles 2(1),(2) and 3(5)). References to the Minister for the Civil Service in the National Health Service Act 1977 and the National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 are therefore reproduced in the Bill as references to the Treasury.
Provision | Derivation |
---|---|
1(1) | 1977 s.106(1); 1978 s.90(1) |
(2),(3) | drafting |
2(1),(2) | 1977 s.109, s.110; 1980 Sch.1 paras.72,73, Sch.2 para.7; Health and Medicines Act 1988 (c.49) s.12(4); 1990 s.2(1), Sch.9 para.18(10),(11); Family Practitioner Committees (Consequential Modifications) Order 1985 (S.I. 1985/39) art.7(20) |
(3) | 1978 s.93(1); Health and Medicines Act 1988 (c.49) s.12(5); 1990 Sch.9 para.19(18) |
(4) | drafting |
(5) | 1977 s.109(c),(d) |
(6) | 1977 s.126(1) |
3(1) | 1977 s.115; 1978 s.93(2) |
(2) | 1977 s.113(1); 1978 s.93(6) |
(3) | 1977 s.113(2); 1978 s.93(6) |
(4) | 1977 s.120(2); 1978 s.97(2) |
4(1) | 1977 s.116(1); 1978 s.93(3) |
(2) | 1977 Sch.13 para.19(5); 1978 s.93(4), Sch.14 para.6 |
(3) | 1978 s.93(4), Sch.14 para 7; Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984 (c.36) Sch.3 para.42; Law Comm R2 |
5(1) | 1977 Sch.13 para.19(1); 1978 s.93(4), Sch.14 para.2 |
(2) | 1977 s.128(1); 1978 s.108(1); Mental Health Act 1983 (c.20) Sch.4 para.47(d); Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984 (c.36) Sch.3 para.41 |
6(1) | 1977 s.116(2)(b) |
(2) | 1978 s.93(4), Sch.14 para.1 |
(3) | 1977 Sch.13 para.19(2); 1990 s.2(1) |
(4) | 1978 s.93(4), Sch.14 para.3 |
7(1)—(3) | 1977 Sch.13 para.19(3),(4); 1978 s.93(4), Sch.14 paras.4,5 |
(4) | 1977 s.116(3); 1978 s.93(5) |
(5) | 1977 s.126(1); 1978 s.105(2) |
8 | 1977 s.111(1); 1978 s.94(1) |
9 | 1977 s.111(2), s.112, s.114(1); 1978 s.94(2)—(4) |
10 | 1977 s.113(2), s.117; 1978 s.93(6), s.94(5); 1987 s.7, s.8 |
11 | 1967 s.7; 1977 Sch.13 paras.1-6; 1978 s.95 |
12 | 1967 s.8; Civil Evidence Act 1968 (c.64) s.17(1)(b); 1977 Sch.13 paras.7-11; 1978 s.95 |
13 | 1967 s.9; 1977 Sch.13 paras.12-14; 1978 s.95 |
14(1) | 1977 s.119(1); 1978 s.96(1); 1987 s.5(1) |
(2) | 1977 s.119(2); 1978 s.96(3); 1987 s.5(2),(3) |
(3) | 1977 s.119(3); 1978 s.96(4); 1980 Sch.2 paras.9,11 |
(4) | 1977 s.119(4)(b); 1978 s.96(5); 1980 Sch.2 paras.9,11 |
(5) | 1977 s.119(5); 1978 s.96(7) |
15 | 1967 s.11(2); 1977 Sch.13 para.16; 1978 s.95; Official Secrets Act 1989 (c.6) Sch.1 para.1 |
16 | 1967 s.11(3); 1977 Sch.13 para.17,18; 1978 s.95 |
17 | 1977 Sch.13 para.16A; 1978 s. 95A(3); 1987 s.4(4),(5) |
18 | Local Government (Scotland) Act 1975 (c.30) s.31(3)–(4); 1977 s.118(1)–(3); 1978 s.95A(1),(2); 1987 s.4(3),(5); Law Comm R4 |
19 | 1977 s.120(1), s.128(1); 1978 s.97(1), s.108(1) |
20 | |
21 | |
22 | 1977 s.130(3),(4) |
Sch. 1 para.1 | 1977 s.106(2)–(3A); 1978 s.90(2)–(3A); 1987 s.2(1),(2) |
para.2 | 1977 s.108A(1)–(3); 1978 s.92A(1)–(3); 1987 s.6(2),(3) |
para.3 | 1977 s.106(4), s.108A(5); 1978 s.90(5), s.92A(5); 1987 s.6(2),(3) |
para.4 | 1977 s.107(1); 1978 s.91(1) |
para.5 | 1977 s.107(3); 1978 s.91(3) |
para.6 | 1977 s.107(5); 1978 s.91(5) |
para.7 | 1977 s.107(2); 1978 s.91(2) |
para.8 | 1977 s.107(4); 1978 s.91(4) |
para.9(1) | drafting |
(2) | 1977 s.107(7); 1978 s.91(7) |
(3)—(5) | 1977 s.107(6); 1978 s.91(6); Judicial Pensions and Retirement Act 1993 (c.8) Sch.4 Part III |
(6) | 1977 s.126(4); 1978 s.105(7) |
(7) | 1977 s.126(1); 1978 s.105(1),(2) |
para.10 | Judicial Pensions and Retirement Act 1993 (c.8) Sch.4 Part III |
para.11 | 1977 s.108(1); 1978 s.92(1) |
para.12 | 1977 s.108(2); 1978 s.92(2) |
para.13 | 1977 s.108(3); 1978 s.92(3) |
para.14 | 1977 s.108(4); 1978 s.92(4) |
para.15 | 1977 s.107(8), s.108A(4); 1978 s.91(8), s.92A(4); 1987 s.6(2),(3) |
Sch. 2 | Para 2, Law Comm R1 |
Sch. 3 |