Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004

Discharge of functions by others

16 Arrangements for discharge of functions by others

(1) A fire and rescue authority (the first authority) may enter into arrangements with—

(a) another fire and rescue authority, or

(b) any other person,

for the discharge to any extent by that other authority or person of a function conferred on the first authority under any of sections 6 to 9 and 11.

(2) But a fire and rescue authority may enter into arrangements with a person under subsection (1) in relation to its function of extinguishing fires only if the person employs fire-fighters.

(3) Arrangements under this section may include provision as to the terms on which any function is to be discharged (including provision as to payment).

17 Directions as to arrangements under section 16

(1) The Secretary of State may direct two fire and rescue authorities—

(a) to enter into arrangements under section 16 in the terms specified in the direction;

(b) to make one or more specified variations to any such arrangements;

(c) to cancel any such arrangements.

(2) The Secretary of State may give a direction under subsection (1) on his own initiative or at the request of one of the authorities.

(3) Before giving a direction under subsection (1) the Secretary of State—

(a) must give the authorities concerned an opportunity to make representations to him;

(b) may cause an inquiry to be held.

(4) The Secretary of State may give a direction under subsection (1) only if, after considering—

(a) any representations made under subsection (3)(a), and

(b) if an inquiry is held under subsection (3)(b), the report of the person by whom it is held,

he considers it expedient to do so with a view to securing greater economy, efficiency and effectiveness.