HC Deb 11 July 2000 vol 353 cc783-93 '.—(1) The Secretary of State may appoint a Commissioner to discharge the general function mentioned in subsection (3). (2) A person for the time being holding the office of Commissioner under subsection (1) is referred to in this Act as "the Commissioner". (3) The Commissioner's general function is to oversee the implementation of changes in the policing of Northern Ireland described in his terms of reference. (4) Schedule (The Commissioner), which makes further provision about the Commissioner, shall have effect. (5) The office of Commissioner shall cease to exist on 31st May 2003, unless before that date an order is made under subsection (6). (6) The Secretary of State may by order provide that the office of Commissioner (whether or not it then exists as a result of a previous order under this subsection) shall continue to exist for a period not exceeding three years from the date on which the order comes into operation.'.—[Mr. George Howarth.]

Brought up, and read the First time.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr. George Howarth)

I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time.

Mr. Deputy Speaker (Mr. Michael J. Martin)

With this it will be convenient to discuss the following: Amendment (a) to the proposed new clause, in subsection (3), leave out from second "the" to end and insert— 'process of police reform in Northern Ireland'. Government new clause 5—Reports by the Commissioner.

Amendment No. 23, in clause 27, page 12, line 29, at end insert— '(1A) Before making an order the Secretary of State must consult the Oversight Commissioner.'. Government new schedule 1—'The Commissioner

    c783
  1. Appointment etc. of the Commissioner 203 words
  2. c784
  3. Terms of reference 46 words
  4. c784
  5. Remuneration, pensions, allowances, etc. 102 words
  6. c784
  7. Staff 146 words
  8. c784
  9. Exercise of functions 59 words
  10. c784
  11. Evidence 32 words
  12. cc784-93
  13. Finance 4,342 words