HC Deb 12 March 1963 vol 673 cc1158-9
13. Mr. M. Stewart

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that tenants of property owned by his Department in Horseferry Road, S.W.1, who have been given notice to quit, will have difficulty in finding other suitable accommodation; and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. Bevins

The proposed building in Horseferry Road is intended to replace the old sorting office in Howick Place which is now seriously inadequate for its purpose. I regret that it will be necessary for the tenants to move to make way for this development, but they have known for some time that the site is required in December for the building of a large new sorting office. I propose to terminate the business tenancies under the Landlord and Tenant Act, 1954, and these tenants will qualify for the statutory compensation. My agents are in touch with the residential tenants and I will see that they are given all possible help.

Mr. Stewart

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the compensation being offered to the residential tenants is not such as will enable them to find anywhere else to live? Is there not other land in their neighbourhood belonging to the Post Office where the new post office could be built?

Mr. Bevins

I understand that the answer to the second part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question is "No". I have made inquiries on that point. In regard to the first and, perhaps, more substantial point, I should like to make it clear that, despite Crown exemption, we shall treat the residential tenants as controlled tenants under the Rent Act. They will not be evicted unless they are offered and refuse comparable accommodation. I am willing to consider any reasonable proposal to see that they do not suffer.