HC Deb 14 March 1967 vol 743 cc212-3
27. Mr. Hordern

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will invite the New Towns Commission for Crawley to offer its houses for sale to its tenants, if they should wish to buy them.

Mr. Mellish

My right hon. Friend is considering ways of increasing owner-occupation in the new towns and he will shortly be discussing this with the Commission.

Mr. Hordern

Does the hon. Member appreciate that there is no question of subsidising the tenants and that therefore the examination which he is proposing will be welcomed by all residents and tenants of the new town of Crawley?

Mr. Mellish

The hon. Member will know that in the new towns which are under the control of development corporations we are aiming for 50 per cent. rented and 50 per cent. owner-occupied housing. As for the New Towns Commission, where it has taken over the existing stock of houses we shall discuss with it this important matter.

Mr. Allason

Will the Minister instruct the authorities to sell freehold, in view of the Leasehold Reform Bill?

Mr. Mellish

We shall be having discussions with the New Towns Commission. I can assure the hon. Member that the point has not been missed by my Department.