9.— (1) The Minister may give general policy directions in writing to the Council in relation to the performance by the Council of its functions except any such functions—

(a) relating to the professional conduct and ethics of registered medical practitioners, or

(b) under any of Parts 7, 8 and 9.

(2) Nothing in directions given under subsection (1) is to be construed to prevent the Council from, or to limit the Council in, performing its functions.