HC Deb 16 July 1974 vol 877 c122W
Mr. Cyril Smith

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on steps being taken by his Department to speed up the time taken between the inquiry and decision period in compulsory purchase orders relating to housing.

Mr. Kaufman

Additional inspectors have been recruited and the administrative staff strengthened. Delayed orders are being dealt with as quickly as possible, but it may take a few months to clear the arrears left by the previous administration.

Mr. Cyril Smith

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the average time taken by his Department between a public inquiry and the confirmation or otherwise of compulsory purchase orders relating to housing.

Mr. Kaufman

Twenty-eight weeks, divided fairly equally between the preparation and submission of the inspector's report, and its administrative consideration.

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