(1)The Secretary of State must invite local authorities to make proposals which they consider would contribute to promoting the sustainability of local communities.
(2)Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), a proposal may include a request for a transfer of functions from one person to another.
(3)A local authority may not include a request under subsection (2) unless it has consulted—
(a)the person whose functions it relates to, and
(b)the person to whom the local authority considers the functions should be transferred.
(4)A local authority must have regard to the matters specified in the Schedule before making a proposal.
(5)The Secretary of State must issue the first invitation under this section within the period of one year beginning with the day on which this Act is passed.