Commentary Part 6: Economic Prosperity Boards and Combined Authorities Section 102 – Requirements in connection with changes to existing EPB arrangements
217.This section sets out the requirements applying to the Secretary of State’s power to make orders under sections 89, 91, 92, 95 and 96 (relating to the constitutional arrangements, functions, funding, boundaries and dissolution of the EPB) in relation to an existing EPB.
218.Specifically, an order can be made in relation to an area if the Secretary of State considers that it is likely to improve statutory functions relating to economic development and regeneration in the area, or the economic conditions in that area. Before making the order the Secretary of State must consult such of the bodies specified in section 100(2) and such other persons as the Secretary of State considers appropriate. 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.