§ 16. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will circularise local authorities with a view to the removal of unnecessary restrictions imposed on council tenants.
§ Mr. PowellNo, Sir. My right hon. Friend does not consider that a general circular on this subject is called for.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that far too many local authorities impose fussy, niggling restrictions upon council tenants, such as in respect of domestic pets, television aerials and a lot of other things? Has not the time come for the Government to encourage a little more of the freedom about which they talk so much?
§ Mr. PowellIt would be wrong to issue a general circular to local authorities, a large number of which are administering their housing estates perfectly reasonably. Public opinion makes itself very swiftly and effectively felt where there is any unreasonable action.