8Ministerial power of direction

8 Ministerial power of direction

(1)  The shareholding Ministers, by notice in writing to a State-owned electricity entity, may jointly issue a direction to the entity to ensure that –

(a) the electricity reform objectives are achieved; or

(b) the electricity reform measures are implemented.

(2)  Without limiting the generality of subsection (1) , a direction issued under that subsection to a State-owned electricity entity may require the entity to –

(a) take the action specified in the direction; or

(b) take all reasonable steps to comply with the direction.

(3)  Without limiting the generality of subsection (1) , a direction issued under that subsection to a State-owned electricity entity may require the entity to direct a subsidiary of the entity to take an action, or cease to take an action, that –

(a) is specified in the direction issued under subsection (1) ; or

(b) the entity, or the board of directors of the entity, thinks is necessary or convenient to assist in the carrying out of the direction issued under subsection (1) .

(4)  If a direction is issued to a State-owned electricity entityunder subsection (1)  –

(a) the State-owned electricity entity; and

(b) the board of directors and the chief executive officer of the State-owned electricity entity; and

(c) all officers of the State-owned electricity entity –

must comply with the direction and may do all things necessary or convenient to ensure the direction is complied with.

(5)  Without limiting the generality of subsection (4) , a State-owned electricity entity to which a direction is issued under subsection (1) , and the board of directors of the State-owned electricity entity, may direct a subsidiary of the entity to take an action, or to cease to take an action, specified in the direction to the subsidiary, that –