12 November 2009
160.This section provides for participating authorities to set up “Leaders’ Boards” for the purposes of this Part of the Act. The Leaders’ Board is a means to enable local authorities to act collectively at regional level. District and county councils and (where relevant) National Park authorities and the Broads Authority must make and consult on a scheme for establishing and operating a Leaders’ Board. The participating authorities must submit the scheme to the Secretary of State for approval before establishing the body in accordance with the approved scheme.
161.The section gives the Secretary of State the power to fund the Leaders’ Board or a participating authority in respect of that Board. It also gives the Secretary of State power to withdraw approval for the Leaders’ Board where this is not operating effectively. The section also requires the Secretary of State to make regulations covering access to information requirements in relation to Leaders’ Boards.