15Duty to publish and take account of research
(1)It shall be the duty of OFCOM—
(a)to publish the results of any research carried out by them or on their behalf under section 14; and
(b)to consider and, to such extent as they think fit, to take account of the results of such research in the carrying out of their functions.
(2)OFCOM are not required under this section—
(a)to publish any matter that is confidential in accordance with subsection (3) or (4); or
(b)to publish anything that it would not be reasonably practicable to publish without disclosing such a matter.
(3)A matter is confidential under this subsection if—
(a)it relates specifically to the affairs of a particular body; and
(b)publication of that matter would or might, in OFCOM’s opinion, seriously and prejudicially affect the interests of that body.
(4)A matter is confidential under this subsection if—
(a)it relates to the private affairs of an individual; and
(b)publication of that matter would or might, in OFCOM’s opinion, seriously and prejudicially affect the interests of that individual.
(5)The publication of research under this section must be in such manner as OFCOM consider appropriate.