Commentary on Sections Part 1.The Commission for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland: the Public Standards Commissioner for Scotland and the Public Appointments Commissioner for Scotland Section 12: General powers
65.Section 12 gives the CESPLS wide powers to do anything which appears necessary or expedient for the purpose of, or in connection with or conducive to, the exercise of its functions or efficiency of its administration. These powers include for example the power to enter into contracts. The exercise of the powers in relation to the acquisition or disposal of land are, however, subject to Parliamentary corporation approval under subsection (3).
66.Subsections (4) and (5) allow the CESPLS to charge reasonable sums for services it provides, or which are provided on its behalf. For example, this section would allow the CESPLS to organise training events or seminars and charge attendance fees. Any sums received must be retained by the CESPLS and used to meet the costs of the services provided and charged for, for example the training event.