Compulsory Purchase Orders

HC Deb 09 June 1964 vol 696 cc214-5

18. Mr. MacColl

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs how many applications he received during the month of May, 1964, for confirmation of compulsory purchase orders to protect occupants of houses, subject to action under the Housing Act, 1961, from intimidation or eviction; and what decisions he has reached.

Sir K. Joseph

During May my Department received two compulsory purchase orders covering houses in respect of which, according to the information submitted, notices had previously been served under Part II of the Act of 1961. Since the authority have not yet given a formal statement of their reasons, I cannot say whether they were made for the precise reason given by the hon. Member. No decision has yet been reached on either order.

Mr. MacColl

Is it not rather a pity that decisions have not been made, if these are vital questions? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in the case about which I corresponded with him, about 42 Sutherland Avenue, Padding-ton, the only results of my correspondence with him were that the services of heat and light were cut off? This is a case in which there is a management order. Is it not monstrous that this kind of barbarous warfare should still be taking place at the expense of young children who are trying to exist in these conditions?

Sir K. Joseph

The compulsory purchase order reached me only ten days ago and the period for objections has not yet expired. I understand that the local authority has been in touch with the landlord. Water was also cut off, but I gather that that has now been reinstated.

Mr. Brockway

Is it not clear that the procedure of the compulsory purchase order is not now adequate for dealing with the problem of evictions? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Slough, where the average in recent years has been 20 evictions a year, there have been 24 evictions in the first six months of this year? Will he look at this problem and do something to meet it?

Sir K. Joseph

The Government have done something by introducing Clause 68 of the Housing Bill, at present before another place, which will protect tenants during the procedural process of the making of a compulsory purchase order.