79.—(1) In relation to the offshore marine area, the functions of sending to the Commission—
(a)a report pursuant to Article 16(2) of the Habitats Directive (reports on derogations applied under Article 16(1) of the Habitats Directive), and
(b)a report pursuant to Article 17(1) of the Habitats Directive (reports on the implementation of measures taken under the Habitats Directive),
are functions of the Secretary of State.
(2) A report of the kind mentioned in paragraph (1)(a) must be prepared—
(a)for the period beginning with 1st January 2017 and ending with 31st December 2018; and
(b)for every two-year period thereafter.
(3) A report of the kind mentioned in paragraph (1)(b) must be prepared—
(a)for the period beginning with 1st January 2013 and ending on 31st December 2018; and
(b)for every six-year period thereafter.
(4) The Secretary of State must make such arrangements as the Secretary of State considers appropriate for a copy of any report provided to the Commission under paragraph (1)(b) to be made available for inspection by members of the public.