HC Deb 30 November 1967 vol 755 cc618-9
10. Mr. Probert

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what action is being taken by his Department to make available suitable forms to enable leaseholders who are eligible under the Leasehold Reform Act to acquire their freeholds, and whose leases have expired after 8th December, 1964; and what further action is being taken to draw the attention of all leaseholders to the regulations intended to be prescribed by the Lord Chancellor giving effect to the notices.

Mrs. White

Regulations prescribing forms for this purpose will be laid before Parliament and published on 4th December. They will be brought to the attention of the legal profession in the usual way.

Notices served before 1st January, 1968, by eligible leaseholders whose leases have already expired need not be made on a prescribed form; however, all notices submitted after that date must be on a prescribed form, although there is nothing to prevent the form being used once it is published on 4th December next.

Mr. Probert

I thank my hon. Friend for that useful information. In view of the urgency of this matter to the people of Wales, and particularly in other parts of the United Kingdom for those whose leases have expired, will she ensure that the information which she has given is more widely disseminated?

Mrs. White

As I said, it will be placed before the legal profession, and I hope that anyone considering enfranchisement will consult a solicitor.

Mr. E. Rowlands

Will my hon. Friend make it publicly clear when such an application from such tenants is made, for example for a 50-year extension, such tenants should receive nothing more nor less? One or two cases have come to my attention where they have been offered alternatives, including a premium?

Mrs. White

I think that the legislation is clear on this point, but anyone considering action should take legal advice.