Section 99: Provision of support by local authorities
308.The specific functions of local authorities in relation to supporting asylum seekers under housing and social services legislation are removed by the provisions contained in sections 116 to 122. Section 99 empowers local authorities to provide accommodation and essential living needs for asylum seekers in accordance with the arrangements made by the Secretary of State under section 95; the support might be provided to the Secretary of State or someone with whom he has contracted. There is no power for authorities to make such provision in other circumstances.
309.It is planned to invite local authorities to bid for contracts to provide accommodation under Part VI, either individually or in consortium with other authorities or other bodies. Accordingly, section 99 gives local authorities the power to incur expenditure in preparing tenders, and to operate in collaboration with other bodies.