; (6) obtain services as authorized by section 3109 of title 5 at daily rates not to exceed the equivalent rate for a position at level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of such title; and (7) the extent and in such amounts as may be provided in advance by appropriations Acts, to enter into contracts and other arrangements for audits, studies, analyses, and other services with public agencies and with private persons, and to make such payments as may be necessary to carry out the duties of the Office. (b) Chapter 16 matters The Inspector General shall not commence an investigation under section 1023(1) until the denial of a petition for review by the judicial council of the circuit under section 352(c) of this title or upon referral or certification to the Judicial Conference of the United States of any matter under section 354(b) of this title. (c) Limitation The Inspector General shall not have the authority to— (1) investigate or review any matter that is directly related to the merits of a decision or procedural ruling by any judge, justice, or court; or (2) punish or discipline any judge, justice, or court. 1025. Reports (a) When To Be Made The Inspector General shall— (1) make an annual report to the Chief Justice and to Congress relating to the activities of the Office