§ 23. Mrs. Mannasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many local authorities have sent him protests since 4th March against the Scottish Special Housing Association's proposals to raise rents and introduce a differential rent scheme; and what reply he has sent to these complaints.
§ Mr. J. N. BrowneTwo local authorities—the Councils of Airdrie and Midlothian. My right hon. Friend informed Airdrie Town Council that the point about which it was mainly concerned—the possibility of hardship to tenants—was fully considered before he approved the Association's proposals, and that the rebate scheme, which forms part of the proposals, was designed specifically to meet cases of hardship. The representations from Midlothian County Council have only recently been received and are still under consideration.
§ Mrs. MannCan the hon. Gentleman say how many councils did so before 4th March, and from 4th March until now? Is not it the case that a standardised reply, based on a doctrinaire policy, can be sent to any local authority?
§ Mr. BrowneSubject to correction, the figure is thirteen local authorities before 4th March and two afterwards. I should like to investigate the hon. Lady's supplementary question about a standardised reply.