(1) In order to deal
with a complaint the Commissioner may obtain information from such persons and
sources, and make such investigations and inquiries, as the Commissioner
thinks fit.
(2) Proceedings are to
be conducted with as little formality and technicality, and with as much
expedition, as the requirements of this Act and a proper consideration of the
matters before the Commissioner permit, and the Commissioner is not bound by
rules of evidence.
(3) The Commissioner
has to ensure that the parties to a complaint are given a reasonable
opportunity to make submissions to the Commissioner.
(4) The Commissioner
may determine the procedure for investigating and dealing with complaints and
give any necessary directions as to the conduct of the proceedings.
(5) For example, the
Commissioner may —
(a) deal
with the complaint without holding formal proceedings or hearings;
(b)
direct that all submissions are to be in writing;
(c)
require parties to attend compulsory conferences.
(6) If a party is
required or permitted to appear before the Commissioner the party may be
represented by a legal practitioner or by any other person.