HC Deb 10 March 1971 vol 813 c416
61. Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will seek to hold discussions with the Association of Municipal Corporations in an effort to ensure that more efficient systems of house repairs and maintenance are used by local authorities.

Mr. Channon

I doubt whether such discussions are necessary.

Mr. Cox

Is the Minister aware that residents are greatly concerned at the "couldn't care less" attitude of local authorities to repairs and maintenance? That certainly applies to the attitude of the G.L.C., which shows no lack of interest in increasing the rents. Is it not time that the Minister gave encouragement to that authority to see that repairs and maintenance are properly carried out?

Mr. Channon

Without going into the merits of the rent system, which is another matter, I have no evidence that there is need for such action. Local authorities have statutory responsibility for certain repairs, but if there is any general evidence on this, perhaps the hon. Gentleman will write to me, and I will deal with it.