17KOmbudsman may conduct own investigation

17K Ombudsman may conduct own investigation (1) The ombudsman may, on the ombudsman’s own initiative or in response to a complaint, conduct an investigation into— (a) any reportable allegation or reportable conviction involving an employee of a designated entity; or (b) the response of the designated entity to the reportable allegation or reportable conviction. (2) If the ombudsman decides to conduct an investigation under this section, the ombudsman must give the head of the designated entity written notice stating— (a) that the ombudsman intends carrying out an investigation under this section; and (b) particulars of the investigation; and

(c) whether the ombudsman requires the entity not to commence, or to suspend, an investigation by the entity into a matter the ombudsman has decided to investigate. (3) As soon as practicable after the ombudsman’s investigation has ended, the ombudsman— (a) must— (i) give the head of the entity written notice that the investigation has ended; and (ii) prepare a report setting out the ombudsman’s findings; and (b) may make recommendations to any person or body; and (c) if an investigation by the entity was suspended by the ombudsman— may require the head of the entity to continue the investigation. (4) An entity must, as far as practicable, comply with a requirement of the ombudsman under this section.