HC Deb 19 February 1976 vol 905 c1480
20. Mr. Carson

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he intends implementing the main proposals of the Porter Report on the Rent Restriction Act in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Concannon

I explained in my reply of 4th December 1975 to a Question by the hon. Member for Belfast, South (Mr. Bradford)—[Vol. 901, c. 682.]—that the content and timing of legislation on those recommendations in the Report on which action had not already been announced were being considered by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State in the light of the views expressed by interested parties. As I told the Northern Ireland Committee on 21st January, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State hopes to publish proposals for discussion later this year.

Mr. Carson

Is the Minister aware that most of the 10,000 houses bricked up in Belfast are privately-owned? Does he agree that this causes extreme hardship to working-class people in Belfast, and will he give a guarantee that the Report will be implemented as soon as possible, so that these houses may become viable?

Mr. Concannon

In regard to redevelopment, there are 18,000 privately-rented houses to be taken into public ownership in Belfast by 1980. As for rehabilitation, some privately-rented houses in the twilight areas of Belfast will be purchased. A total of 13 areas are being examined and action is being initiated in five areas this year.