A/HRC/WG.7/2/3 21. Regarding article 10 (inquiry procedure), the Committee suggests that the competence of the Committee to initiate inquiries concern situations of “grave and repeated violations” rather than of “grave or systematic violations” of the Convention. The Committee considers the term “systematic” to be too restrictive, as it suggests the existence of a deliberate policy of the State aiming at violating children’s rights. Furthermore, a provision should be added to this article indicating that the Committee would develop rules defining criteria on “grave and repeated violations”. 22. The Committee notes the inclusion in article 10, paragraph 7 (inquiry procedure for grave or systematic violations) and article 12, paragraph 1 (inter-State communications) of clauses giving States parties the possibility of limiting the competence of the Committee in the exercise of its functions under the protocol. The Committee would encourage the removal of these clauses in order to ensure that it can provide the same protection to all children, irrespective of the country under whose jurisdiction they find themselves. 23. The draft should include a provision to the effect that the Committee will adopt rules of procedure and methods of work for the exercise of its functions under the optional protocol. III. Final remarks 24. The Committee would like the Open-ended Working Group to take into consideration the above comments, and remains available for further consultations at all stages of the negotiation process. It hopes that the Working Group will fulfil its mandate expeditiously and that the drafting process and approval of the final text by the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly will be completed in 2011. GE.10-16956 5