The Secretary of State may appoint the HCA to act as the agent of the Secretary of State in connection with such financial assistance functions as the Secretary of State may specify.
In subsection (1) "financial assistance functions" means, so far as exercisable in relation to England outside Greater London, functions under sections 126 to 128 of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 (c. 53) (financial assistance for regeneration and development).
An appointment under this section is to be on such terms as the Secretary of State may specify.
The HCA must, if appointed, act as agent in accordance with the terms of its appointment.