The key functions are: o to prepare, publish and, as necessary, revise a Code of Practice for Ministerial Appointments to Public Bodies in Scotland (the Code) 1 o to issue guidance on the Code and to promote compliance with its provisions o to examine the methods and practices employed by the Scottish Ministers when making appointments o to report to the Scottish Parliament instances of material non- compliance with the Code of Practice; and o to ensure that, as far as possible, appointments are made fairly and openly and allow everyone, where reasonably practicable, the opportunity to be considered for an appointment.