Commentary Part 6: Economic Prosperity Boards and Combined Authorities Section 113 – Requirements in connection with changes to existing combined arrangements
253.This section sets out the requirements applying to the Secretary of State’s power to make orders under sections 104, 105, 106 and 107 (relating to the constitutional arrangements, functions, funding, boundaries and dissolution of the combined authority) in relation to an existing combined authority.
254.The Secretary of State may make an order if the Secretary of State considers that the making of the order is likely to improve the exercise of statutory functions relating to transport or economic development and regeneration, the effectiveness and efficiency of transport or the economic conditions in the combined authority’s area. Before making the order the Secretary of State must consult such of the bodies specified in section 111(2) and such other persons as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.
255.The Secretary of State must also have regard to the need to reflect the identities and interests of local communities and to secure effective and convenient local government.