(1)The regulator may direct the HCA not to give financial assistance to a specified registered provider—
(a)under section 19, and
(b)in connection with social housing.
(2)A direction may be given if—
(a)the regulator has decided to hold an inquiry into affairs of the registered provider under section 206 (and the inquiry is not concluded),
(b)the regulator has received notice in respect of the registered provider under section 145, or
(c)the regulator has appointed an officer of the registered provider under section 269 (and the person appointed has not vacated office).
(3)A direction may prohibit the HCA from giving assistance of a specified kind (whether or not in pursuance of a decision already taken and communicated to the registered provider).
(4)A direction may not prohibit grants to a registered provider in respect of discounts given by the provider on disposals of dwellings to tenants.
(5)A direction shall have effect until withdrawn.