((a)) ** Restriction** A Representative may not make a request or specification described in paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (b), respectively, unless the Representative has first—

((1)) consulted with the appropriate Regional Fishery Management Councils; and

((2)) received the consent of the Commissioners for that action.

((b)) ** Requests and terms of reference described** The requests and specifications referred to in subsection (a) are, respectively—

((1)) any request, under Article VII(10)(b) of the Convention, that the Scientific Council consider and report on a question pertaining to the scientific basis for the management and conservation of fishery resources in waters under the jurisdiction of the United States within the Convention Area; and

((2)) any specification, under Article VII(11) of the Convention, of the terms of reference for the consideration of a question referred to the Scientific Council pursuant to Article VII(10)(b) of the Convention.