§ 38. Mr. Callaghanasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware that the council house tenants of Penarth, Glamorgan, have voted against a differential rents scheme on a poll con ducted by the council by a majority of seven to one; and what policy is recommended in his circulars in such circum stances where the tenants express their preference for an alternative scheme.
§ Mr. PowellMy right hon. Friend is aware of the inquiry made by the council. It is for the local authority in each case to decide whether to introduce a differential rents scheme.
§ Mr. CallaghanAs this local authority has decided to ignore the result of its own poll, despite the overwhelming vote, is any remedy open to the tenants, except to turn out the council?
§ Mr. PowellThis is a matter rightly and entirely within the discretion of the local authority as a representative body.
§ Mr. McKayCan the Parliamentary Secretary say whether a local authority has power to withdraw all subsidies from council houses and refuse rebates of rent on any houses, or give very small rebates to a minority, while using the balance for the reduction of rates?
§ Mr. PowellLocal housing authorities have power by law to make such reasonable charges for the tenancy or occupation of their houses as they may determine.