(1)Subject to section 31, every local authority must—
(a)draw up proposals for the operation of executive arrangements, and
(b)send a copy of the proposals to the Secretary of State.
(2)Before drawing up proposals under this section, a local authority must take reasonable steps to consult the local government electors for, and other interested persons in, the authority’s area.
(3)In drawing up proposals under this section, a local authority must decide—
(a)which form the executive is to take, and
(b)the extent to which the functions specified in regulations under section 13(3)(b) are to be the responsibility of the executive.
(4)In drawing up proposals under this section, a local authority must consider the extent to which the proposals, if implemented, are likely to assist in securing continuous improvement in the way in which the authority’s functions are exercised, having regard to a combination of economy, efficiency and effectiveness.
(5)A local authority must comply with any directions given by the Secretary of State for the purposes of this section.
(6)Proposals under this section must include—
(a)such details of the executive arrangements as the Secretary of State may direct,
(b)a timetable with respect to the implementation of the proposals, and
(c)details of any transitional arrangements which are necessary for the implementation of the proposals.
(7)A copy of proposals under this section which is sent to the Secretary of State must be accompanied by a statement which describes—
(a)the steps which the authority took to consult the local government electors for, and other interested persons in, the authority’s area, and
(b)the outcome of that consultation and the extent to which that outcome is reflected in the proposals.
(8)The Secretary of State may by order specify a date by which every local authority, or every local authority falling within any description of authority specified in the order, must comply with this section.