7(1)The Secretary of State may from time to time direct a district planning authority to submit to him for his approval within a period specified in the direction the arrangements which the authority propose to make to obtain specialist advice in connection with their functions under sections 3, 4, 8, 10 to 26, 38, 42, 66(1), 69 to 72, 74 and 75.
(2)If the Secretary of State is not satisfied about any such arrangements he may direct the district planning authority and another local planning authority specified in the direction—
(a)to enter into an agreement under section 113 of the [1972 c. 70.] Local Government Act 1972 for the placing at the disposal of the district planning authority, for the purpose of giving them any such specialist advice, of the services of officers employed by that other authority who are qualified to give such advice; or
(b)to enter into arrangements, containing terms specified in the direction or terms on lines laid down by him, for the discharge by that other authority of any of those functions.
(3)Before giving a direction under sub-paragraph (2) the Secretary of State shall consult with the district planning authority and the other authority concerned.