HC Deb 25 April 1967 vol 745 cc1311-2
14. Mr. Winnick

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will circularise local authorities to encourage them to purchase multi-occupied dwellings in overcrowded areas such as Notting Hill.

16. Mr. Molloy

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what plans he has to assist those local authorities that have problems of multi-occupation.

Mr. Mellish

Problems of multi-occupation are among those being studied in the general review of legislation on the older housing stock but most local authorities find that the present powers, if resolutely used, can do a great deal. My right hon. Friend is ready to consider proposals to purchase in the light of particular circumstances.

Mr. Winnick

Is my hon. Friend aware that many people feel that the local council in the Notting Hill area has seriously fallen down on the job? Would he consider investigating the record of this borough council to try to improve its shocking housing record?

Mr. Mellish

These old houses in Notting Hill are, I believe, in the hands of companies which are in liquidation, and some serious problems have arisen. I am advised that necessary repairs are still being carried out. Of course, the decision to acquire older properties is for the local authorities themselves, which can then promote them to us for endorsement. It is not for me, at this Box, to tell a local authority what to do.

Mr. Molloy

Would my hon. Friend consider granting to those local authorities which have this special problem—Ealing Borough Council, for example—similar powers to those conferred on the Birmingham Corporation to help them control this problem of multiple occupation, which could be a very dangerous menace?

Mr. Mellish

The Birmingham scheme is an experiment. We are watching it closely and shall certainly wish later to consider giving these powers to local authorities generally. This is all part of our review. In fact, even within the existing powers today, a local authority which has the will can quickly find a way.

Mr. Allason

Are not housing associations a better way of dealing with this problem than piecemeal acquisition by local authorities?

Mr. Mellish

The hon. Gentleman will know that we have done a great deal for housing associations, particularly by way of financial encouragement in our Housing Subsidies Bill. They can make an important contribution to this problem, but I would generally agree with my hon. Friend that this is primarily the responsibility of local authorities.