(1)The Secretary of State may give LBRO—
(a)guidance, or
(b)directions,
as to the exercise of any of its functions.
(2)Before giving any guidance or directions under this section the Secretary of State must consult—
(a)LBRO, and
(b)such other persons as the Secretary of State considers likely to be affected by the guidance or directions, or persons representative of such persons.
(3)The Secretary of State must—
(a)publish (in such manner as the Secretary of State considers appropriate) any guidance or directions given under this section, and
(b)lay a copy of any such guidance or directions before Parliament.
(4)LBRO must have regard to any guidance, and comply with any directions, given under this section.
(5)The Secretary of State may vary or revoke any guidance or directions given under this section by further guidance or directions under this section.
(6)The Secretary of State may not under subsection (1)(b) give LBRO directions relating to the exercise of its functions under section 7 in relation to two or more local authorities in England and Wales.
(7)The Secretary of State may by order require LBRO to exercise its functions under section 7 in relation to two or more local authorities in England and Wales in such manner as may be specified in the order.