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

(a) relating to the professional conduct and ethics of registered nurses and registered midwives, or

(b) relating to fitness to practise.

(2) Nothing in directions given under subsection (1) is to be construed as preventing the Board from, or limiting the Board in, performing its functions.

(3) The Board shall comply with a direction given by the Minister under this section.