(1)The Secretary of State may determine, and from time to time revise, objectives for the policing of Northern Ireland.
(2)Before determining or revising any objectives under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult—
(a)the Police Authority;
(b)the Chief Constable; and
(c)such other persons as he thinks appropriate.
(3)Objectives shall be determined under this section by reference to a period (not being less than 3 years nor more than 5 years) specified therein.
(4)The Secretary of State shall lay before both Houses of Parliament a copy of any objectives determined or revised by him under this section.
(5)References in other provisions of this Act to objectives determined under this section shall, where objectives so determined have been revised, be read as references to such objectives as revised .