42Studies on impact of statutory provisions etcE+W
(1)The Auditor General for Wales must undertake or promote studies designed to enable him to prepare reports as to the impact of —
(a)the operation of any statutory provisions, or
(b)any directions or guidance given by the Assembly (whether or not under a statutory provision),
on economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the discharge of the functions of localgovernment bodies in Wales.
(2)The Auditor General for Wales must from time to time lay before the Assembly a report of any matters which,in his opinion—
(a)arise out of studies under this section, and
(b)ought to be drawn to the attention of the Assembly.
(3)Before undertaking or promoting a study under this section, the Auditor General for Wales must consult—
(a)any associations of local government bodies in Wales which appear to him to be concerned, and
(b)any associations of employees which appear to him to be appropriate.
(4)The Auditor General for Wales and the Assembly must co-operate with each other with respect to the exercise of their respective functions under this section and section 95(2) of the Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43) (studies by Assembly on impact of statutory provisions).