(1)This section applies if the Secretary of State asks—
(a)a local authority,
(b)a registered social landlord,
(c)a registered housing association in Scotland or Northern Ireland, or
(d)the Executive,
to assist him to exercise his power under section 95 to provide accommodation.
(2)The person to whom the request is made must co-operate in giving the Secretary of State such assistance in the exercise of that power as is reasonable in the circumstances.
(3)Subsection (2) does not require a registered social landlord to act beyond its powers.
(4)A local authority must supply to the Secretary of State such information about their housing accommodation (whether or not occupied) as he may from time to time request.
(5)The information must be provided in such form and manner as the Secretary of State may direct.
(6)“Registered social landlord” has the same meaning as in Part I of the [1996 c. 52.] Housing Act 1996.
(7)“Registered housing association” has the same meaning—
(a)in relation to Scotland, as in the [1985 c. 69.] Housing Associations Act 1985; and
(b)in relation to Northern Ireland, as in Part II of the [S.I. 1992/1725 (N.I. 15).] Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.