The Secretary of State shall constitute a Council to be called the Central Fire Brigade Advisory Council, for the purpose of advising him on any matters as to which he is required by this Act to consult the Council or any other matter arising, otherwise than under section seventeen of this Act, in connection with the operation of this Act which the Council have taken into consideration, whether on a reference from the Secretary of State or otherwise.

Subject to the provisions of the next following subsection, the Council shall consist of a chairman appointed by the Secretary of State and of such number of other persons so appointed as the Secretary of State may determine, being persons appointed as representing the interests of fire authorities and of persons employed as members of fire brigades maintained in pursuance of this Act.

In addition to the persons mentioned in the last foregoing subsection the Secretary of State may, if he thinks fit, appoint as members of the Council, either generally or for the consideration of any particular matter, such other persons appearing to him to have special qualifications as he may determine.

The procedure (including the quorum) of the Council shall, subject to any directions of the Secretary of State, be such as the Council may determine.

The Secretary of State may defray any expenses authorised by him with the consent of the Treasury to be incurred by the Council.