48.—(1) Where a local authority fails to perform a function of a local authority under this Act, the Minister may direct the manager of that local authority to perform the function which the local authority has failed to perform.

(2) The F21[chief executive] of a local authority shall comply with a direction under subsection (1).

(3) All expenses incurred in relation to the performance of a function to which subsection (1) refers shall, unless a direction under that subsection provides otherwise, be paid out of moneys at the disposal of the local authority.