The Secretary of State may direct two fire and rescue authorities—
to enter into arrangements under section 16 in the terms specified in the direction;
to make one or more specified variations to any such arrangements;
to cancel any such arrangements.
The Secretary of State may give a direction under subsection (1) on his own initiative or at the request of one of the authorities.
Before giving a direction under subsection (1) the Secretary of State—
must give the authorities concerned an opportunity to make representations to him;
may cause an inquiry to be held.
The Secretary of State may give a direction under subsection (1) only if, after considering—
any representations made under subsection (3)(a), and
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.