After an investigation of the facts in each case, and after consultation with the Secretary of Labor with respect to petitions to accord a status under section
1153
(b)(2) or
1153
(b)(3) of this title, the Attorney General shall, if he determines that the facts stated in the petition are true and that the alien in behalf of whom the petition is made is an immediate relative specified in section
1151
(b) of this title or is eligible for preference under subsection (a) or (b) of section
1153 of this title, approve the petition and forward one copy thereof to the Department of State. The Secretary of State shall then authorize the consular officer concerned to grant the preference status.