| 释义 |
inquiry panels
Formal independent panels set up under the Inquiries Act 2005 to look into matters of public concern (e.g. a national disaster or alleged corruption in government). The 2005 Act, which applies throughout the UK, repeals the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act 1921, under which tribunals of inquiry were previously established. The Act also makes provision for ministers to set the terms of reference, to appoint a chairman to conduct the inquiry, and to appoint additional panel members and assessors where appropriate. An important feature of such inquiries is that under the 2005 Act they can compel witnesses to give evidence. A notable recent example is the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse. |