[F188LDecision on variation or termination proposalE+W
(1)This section applies where—
(a)a variation or termination proposal is made,
(b)the Secretary of State is of the opinion that the arrangements which would result from implementing the proposal would be operable and efficient or (as the case may be) that it would be reasonably practicable to terminate the arrangements,
(c)in a case where the duty in section 88K(3) applies, the conditions prescribed under subsection (6)(b) of that section are satisfied, and
(d)the proposer wishes to take further steps in relation to the proposal.
(2)The proposer must comply with such requirements as may be prescribed in regulations made by the Secretary of State as to the steps to be taken for the purposes of consulting and ascertaining opinion in relation to the proposal.
(3)The duty in subsection (2) does not apply in relation to the proposal if the Secretary of State so directs by an instrument in writing.
(4)The Secretary of State may by regulations provide that the duty in subsection (2) does not apply in prescribed circumstances.
(5)The proposer of a variation proposal may (after any requirements imposed by regulations under subsection (2) have been complied with) modify the proposal.
(6)But, except in circumstances prescribed in regulations by the Secretary of State, the proposal may not be modified so as to propose the extension of the boundary of the area specified in the arrangements or, if the proposal is that the arrangements be varied so as to extend the boundary, may not be modified so as to propose a further extension of it.
(7)The proposer must (after any requirements imposed by regulations under subsection (2) have been complied with) decide whether to request the Secretary of State to request the water undertaker to vary the arrangements or (as the case may be) to give notice under section 87C(7) to the water undertaker to terminate the arrangements.
(8)The Secretary of State may by regulations may make provision—
(a)as to factors which the proposer must or may take into account in making the decision mentioned in subsection (7);
(b)as to the procedure to be followed by the proposer in exercising functions under or by virtue of subsection (2) or (7).]