23National minimum standards
(1)The appropriate Minister may prepare and publish statements of national minimum standards applicable to establishments or agencies.
(2)The appropriate Minister shall keep the standards set out in the statements under review and may publish amended statements whenever he considers it appropriate to do so.
(3)Before issuing a statement, or an amended statement which in the opinion of the appropriate Minister effects a substantial change in the standards, the appropriate Minister shall consult any persons he considers appropriate.
(4)The standards shall be taken into account—
(a)in the making of any decision by the registration authority under this Part;
(b)in any proceedings for the making of an order under section 20;
(c)in any proceedings on an appeal against such a decision or order; and
(d)in any proceedings for an offence under regulations under this Part.