HC Deb 24 May 1966 vol 729 cc45-6W
35. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of cases where multi-storey office blocks built as speculative enterprises for letting at high rents have been empty for many months; and if he will introduce legislation to enable him to acquire these compulsorily for use by local authorities.

Mr. MacColl

The answer to the first part is Yes; as to the second part, local authorities already have powers to acquire existing buildings compulsorily for use as offices and my right hon. Friend sees no need for further legislation.