Subject to sub-section (1A) below the functions expressed to be conferred by this Part of this Act on the judge shall be exercisable . . . by any nominated judge, and shall also be exercisable by the Master of the Court of Protection ,by the Public Trustee or by any nominated officer, but—
and references in this Part of this Act to the judge shall be construed accordingly.
In such cases or circumstances as may be prescribed by any rules under this Part of this Act or (subject to any such rules) by directions of the Master, the functions of the judge under this Part of this Act shall be exercised by the Public Trustee (but subject to any directions of the Master as to their exercise)
The functions of the judge under this Part of this Act shall be exercisable where, after considering medical evidence, he is satisfied that a person is incapable, by reason of mental disorder, of managing and administering his property and affairs; and a person as to whom the judge is so satisfied is referred to in this Part of this Act as a patient.