§ Mr. Arthur Pearsonasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is aware of the lapse of time involved in completing the acquisition formalities of house property being purchased through the offices of the district valuer in connection with the Cardiff to Merthyr trunk road; and, in view of the policy of Her Majesty's Government to let such houses until required for road works, if he will expedite the procedure so as to avoid the dilapidation that ensues when houses are unoccupied for a lengthy period.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesI am not aware of undue delay. While conveyancing is in progress, responsibility for maintenance rests with the vendor. Subsequent letting is generally possible only where houses are bought in advance of need under blighting provisions and everything possible is then done to arrange a quick letting.
I shall be glad to look into any specific cases which my hon. Friend may have in mind.