(1)The Scottish Ministers may—
(a)direct two relevant authorities to enter into arrangements under section 36; or
(b)direct two relevant authorities who have entered into such arrangements—
(i)to vary the arrangements in the terms specified in the direction; or
(ii)to terminate the arrangements.
(2)Before giving a direction under this section, the Scottish Ministers—
(a)shall give the authorities concerned an opportunity to make representations; and
(b)may cause an inquiry to be held.
(3)The Scottish Ministers may give a direction under this section only where, after considering—
(a)any representations made under subsection (2)(a); and
(b)the report of any person by whom any inquiry under subsection (2)(b) is held,
they consider it expedient to do so with a view to securing greater economy, efficiency and effectiveness.
(4)A direction given under this section may be varied or revoked by a further such direction.