The Welsh Ministers may direct local authorities to consider whether they (or any of them) would be able to carry out their special education functions, in respect of children with the special educational needs specified in the direction, more efficiently or effectively if regional provision were made.

The authorities to whom a direction is given must report their conclusions to the Welsh Ministers no later than the time specified in the direction.

A direction under this section may be given to local authorities generally or to one or more authorities specified in the direction.