51.—(1) For the purpose of the execution of their powers and duties under this Part of this Act a health authority may provide and maintain premises, apparatus, materials or any other facilities or may make arrangements with any person for the provision of such facilities.

(2) The Minister may by order direct a health authority as to the manner in which and the extent to which they are to exercise their powers under subsection (1) of this section and such health authority shall comply with such direction.

(3) Where a person uses a facility provided under this section, the authority concerned may either—

(a) at their discretion, but subject to the provisions of section 50 of this Act and to any relevant regulation under section 31 of this Act, make a charge for the use of the facility, or

(b) make no charge therefor.