(1) This section makes provision about how the Secretary of State authorises R to assist O for the purposes of section 319(1)(c).

(2) The Secretary of State may authorise R to assist O either -

(a) in relation to one or more specific requests for assistance, or

(b) generally in respect of requests for assistance of a particular description (including in respect of requests from particular overseas regulators).

(3) The Secretary of State may withdraw any general authorisation given under subsection (2)(b).

(4) The Secretary of State must publish -

(a) any general authorisation given under subsection (2)(b);

(b) notice of any withdrawal of a general authorisation under subsection (3).

(5) In considering whether to authorise R to assist O (whether specifically or generally), the Secretary of State must have regard to whether -