§ 2. Mr. W. Hamiltonasked the Minister of Works how many grace and favour residences come within his control; and how much his Department has spent on them in each of the last ten years.
§ Lord John HopeI am responsible for repair and maintenance of the structure and services, and for modernisation on change of occupation, at 140 grace and favour residences. Over the last ten years, the total expenditure on them by my Department has averaged about £24,000 a year.
§ Mr. HamiltonCan the right hon. Gentleman say how many occupants of such residences pay rents, and can he provide information in the OFFICIAL REPORT giving such rents as are currently being paid?
§ Lord John HopeThat is a different Question, but, in fact, I think I can help the hon. Gentleman by telling him that occupants of these residences are responsible for costs of decoration during occupation and for running their services—hot water, heating, gas and so on—and also for a contribution in lieu of rates.
§ Mr. ShinwellWould it be of any use hon. Members applying for one of these grace and favour residences?
§ Lord John HopeThe right hon. Gentleman could always try and see what happens.
§ Mr. SpeakerNot on this Question.
§ Lord John HopeI must emphasise that this is not part of my responsibility, Mr. Speaker.