(1)  If the Minister receives from a person an application under section 53 , the Minister must –

(a) grant to the person a poppy research licence; or

(b) refuse to grant to the person a poppy research licence.

(2)  A poppy research licence authorises the holder of the licence to possess and grow alkaloid poppies for scientific or research purposes in accordance with this Act and the conditions and restrictions specified in the licence.