Evidence Act also introduced the informal resolution procedure for dealing with minor complaints (e.g. incivility), whereby complainants, if they chose, could have their complaints dealt with by more informal means, which did not involve either the Authority or a formal investigation. 84. The Police Complaints Authority is required to report annually to the Secretary of State on the discharge of its functions during the year. Such annual reports typically include explanations and comments on the Authority's responsibilities, summaries of cases of particular interest, and any matters which may have arisen during the year which in its view deserve attention. The Authority is also required to report to the Secretary of State every three years on the workings of the complaints procedures. The Secretary of State is required to lay before Parliament a copy of every annual report and triennial review report received by him and cause them to be published. 85. Although the numbers of complaints made in recent years have been generally rising (a total of 17,393 complaints cases were received in 1986 and 18,828 in 1987; no corresponding figure is available for 1988), the number of complaints substantiated has been falling (1,129 in 1986, 924 in 1987 and 853 in 1988). Detailed figures are published each year in the annual reports of Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary and of the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis. 86. The 1984 Act requires the chief officer to refer to the Authority any complaint alleging that the conduct complained of resulted in the death of or serious injury to some other person. Regulations also require reference to the Authority of any complaint alleging conduct which, if shown to have occurred, would constitute assault occasioning actual bodily harm; or an offence under section 1 of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1904; or a serious 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the administration and procedures of the Police Complaints Authority in the UK, including the reporting of complaints and investigations. The language used is formal and technical, suggesting that the text is related to the governance and regulation of law enforcement agencies.

**Category**
Law Enforcement, Government