HC Deb 20 June 1973 vol 858 c119W
45. Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the aspects of property speculation where large blocks of offices are left empty, depriving the community of large sums in rates.

Mr. Rippon

As already announced in the White Paper "Better Homes: The Next Priorities", the Government propose to introduce legislation enabling local authorities to charge 100 per cent. rates on empty property.