49Secretary to determine application for a voluntary assisted dying permit

49 Secretary to determine application for a voluntary assisted dying permit (1) The Secretary must determine an application for a voluntary assisted dying permit made under section 47 or 48 by the co-ordinating medical practitioner for a person within the prescribed period. (2) The Secretary— (a) may issue— (i) a self-administration permit; or (ii) a practitioner administration permit; or (b) may refuse to issue a voluntary assisted dying permit. (3) Without limiting subsection (2), the Secretary may refuse to issue a voluntary assisted dying permit if the Secretary is not satisfied the request and assessment process has been completed as required by this Act. (4) After determining the application the Secretary must— (a) as soon as practicable— (i) notify the co-ordinating medical practitioner in writing of the decision under subsection (2); and (ii) if the Secretary refuses an application under subsection (2)(b), provide reasons for the decision; and (b) within 7 days notify the Board in writing of the decision under subsection (2). (5) A voluntary assisted dying permit must be in the prescribed form.