HC Deb 12 May 1959 vol 605 c1035
35. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what new legislation he intends to introduce to encourage further the private ownership of home property.

Mr. J. N. Browne

Provisions to give effect to the Government's new house purchase scheme are contained in the House Purchase and Housing Bill, which is expected shortly to become law. These provisions will be widely publicised, and should bring about a large increase in home ownership.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that the Scottish Tory Party Conference passed unanimously a resolution calling for the abolition of the Schedule A property tax? Is he aware that the conference demanded a fair deal for property owners? Does he intend to circularise this body to show it exactly what the Government have done for property owners?

Mr. Browne

I was wondering what the hon. Member's supplementary question would be—whether he had come over to our side. Unfortunately he has asked a question which should be addressed to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.