HC Deb 27 February 1980 vol 979 cc1343-4
11. Mr. Peter Lloyd

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to announce those names of the local authorities which will be required to publish land registers.

Mr. Heseltine

I am now considering this matter and will make a statement as soon as possible.

Mr. Lloyd

When the information is published will my right hon. Friend be taking steps to make it clear that the local authorities in whose areas land is being left idle can be identified? Will any pressure, other than that springing naturally and spontaneously from local public opinion, be brought to bear upon them?

Mr. Heseltine

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his interest in this matter. I hope shortly to indicate where these registers are to be established in the first instance. I very much hope to establish a co-operative attitude with local government and to have consultations on the matter. However, at this moment I should be grateful if the House would bear with me since I am not yet in a position to publish details of the specific areas.

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