Local Authorities (Housing Revenue Accounts)

HC Deb 26 March 1968 vol 761 c1153

25. Mr. Ogden

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will now introduce legislation to relieve local authorities of the responsibility of balancing their housing revenue account over a fixed period of time.

Mr. MacColl

No, Sir. This would increase the eventual rent burden, whereas at present authorities are obliged to make a rate land contribution to offset a deficit on the account in any financial year.

Mr. Ogden

Is it correct that the Government have no legal powers to intervene in the decision of an authority on rents or rates? Would he assure us that such a provision will be included in the White Paper and that we shall speedily have legislation to make this intervention possible?

Mr. MacColl

My hon. Friend should wait for the White Paper.

Mr. Ogden

On a point of order. In view of the completely unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.