“Hearing Officer” is appointed by:

The term "Hearing Officer" refers to an individual appointed to conduct hearings and make recommendations or decisions within an administrative framework. The foundational concept here is the delegation of authority within an organization.

• A. Authority: This is the correct answer. Typically, the "Authority" itself, being the primary body established by the relevant Act, is responsible for appointing its own administrative officers, including Hearing Officers. This ensures that the officer operates under the Authority's mandate and within its operational structure.
• B. Court of Session: This is incorrect. Courts are judicial bodies and do not typically appoint administrative officers for independent authorities.
• C. Home Department: This is incorrect. While a government department, it usually deals with broader policy and law enforcement, not specific internal appointments of an independent Authority.
• D. District Board: This is incorrect. A District Board is a local government entity and would not have the jurisdiction to appoint officers for a higher-level "Authority."