; and (2) study and make recommendations for assuring effective coordination of Federal programs, policies, and administrative practices affecting peace. (b) Membership The Secretary shall appoint the members of the Committee. 113. Staff The Secretary may appoint and fix the compensation of such employees as may be necessary to carry out the functions of the Secretary and the Department. Except as otherwise provided by law, such employees shall be appointed in accordance with applicable laws and the compensation of such employees fixed in accordance with title 5, United States Code. 114. Consultation required (a) Consultation in cases of conflict and violence prevention (1) In general In any case in which a conflict between the United States and any other government or entity is foreseeable, imminent, or occurring, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State shall consult with the Secretary of Peacebuilding concerning violence prevention, nonviolent means of conflict resolution, and peacebuilding. (2) Diplomatic initiatives In any case in which a conflict described in paragraph (1) is ongoing or recently concluded, the Secretary shall conduct an independent study of diplomatic initiatives undertaken by the United States and other parties to such conflict. (3) Initiative assessment In any case in which a conflict described in paragraph (1) has recently concluded, the Secretary shall assess the effectiveness of any initiatives in ending such conflict. (4) Consultation process The Secretary shall establish a formal process of consultation in a timely manner with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and the National Security Council— (A) prior to the initiation of any armed conflict between the United States and any other country