Commentary on Sections Chapter 3: Civil Nuclear Constabulary Section 58: Government, administration and conditions of service
192.The Home Secretary has powers under section 50 of the Police Act 1996 (c.16) to make regulations regarding the government, administration and conditions of service of Home Office police forces. These regulations will not apply to the Civil Nuclear Constabulary although the relevant provisions are currently adopted for the UKAEA Constabulary as a matter of practice. Section 58 places a statutory obligation on the Police Authority to ensure that, where it makes provision about conditions of service of the Constabulary, these only differ from Police Act regulations which contain provision about such matters in so far as is necessary to reflect the circumstances and structure of the Constabulary. This will ensure close alignment of common conditions and standards with other police forces, whilst enabling recognition of the distinct circumstances of the Constabulary. Before making provision about such matters, the Police Authority will have to consult the Chief Constable, the Police Federation and any approved rank-related associations.
193.Paragraph 3 of Schedule 13 provides the Secretary of State with a power to give directions to the Police Authority on matters covered by section 50 of the Police Act 1996 (c.16). This is a fallback power, intended for use in circumstances where the Secretary of State believes the Police Authority has failed to implement any relevant regulations correctly.