7.—(1) The following provisions of this article apply to the Ombudsman in relation to the financial year ending 31 March 2007.
(2) The Ombudsman must prepare an estimate of the income and expenses of that office for that financial year and submit it to the Assembly Cabinet not later than one month before the beginning of that financial year.
(3) The Assembly Cabinet must examine the estimate and then lay it before the Assembly with any modifications it thinks appropriate.
(4) If the Assembly Cabinet proposes to lay the estimate before the Assembly with modifications, it must first consult the Secretary of State.