§ Mr. Hobdenasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will now issue a circular to local authorities to encourage them to use their powers under the 1961 Act to acquire compulsorily premises vacant over six months, for the purpose of housing people on the housing waiting lists.
§ Mr. MellishMy right hon. Friend does not think a circular is necessary. A recent decision by the courts has drawn attention to the powers of local authorities to acquire compulsorily houses which have been vacant for an unreasonable time and he is sure that local authorities will be prepared to use these powers where their housing circumstances warrant it.