The Secretary of State may appoint from among Her Majesty’s Inspectors of Constabulary appointed under section 54 of the M1Police Act 1996 such number of inspectors of constabulary for Northern Ireland as he may determine.

The inspectors shall at least once in every year inspect and report to the Secretary of State on the efficiency and effectiveness of the Northern Ireland Police Service.

The inspectors may inspect and report to the Secretary of State on the efficiency and effectiveness of the National Criminal Intelligence Service.

The inspectors shall carry out such other duties for the purpose of furthering the efficiency and effectiveness of the Northern Ireland Police Service and make such other reports as the Secretary of State may from time to time direct.

Any expenditure incurred for the purposes of or in connection with an inspection under this section shall be defrayed by the Secretary of State.