Local Authority Social Services Act 1970

[F17DDefault powers of Secretary of State as respects social services functions of local authorities.E+W

(1)If the Secretary of State is satisfied that any local authority have failed, without reasonable excuse to comply with any of their duties which are social services functions (other than a duty imposed by or under the Children Act M11989 [F2section 1 or 2(4) of the Adoption (Intercountry Aspects) Act 1999 or the Adoption and Children Act 2002]), he may make an order declaring that authority to be in default with respect to the duty in question.

(2)An order under subsection (1) may contain such directions for the purpose of ensuring that the duty is complied with within such period as may be specified in the order as appear to the Secretary of State to be necessary.

(3)Any such direction shall, on the application of the Secretary of State, be enforceable by mandamus.]