§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is currently the average length of time taken between application for a slum clearance compulsory purchase order and its being obtained; how this compares with each year since 1968; why the delay is so long; and if it is intended thereby to slow down capital expenditure.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThe average processing time for each of the last three years is estimated at about 10 months, though individual cases vary widely. Figures for earlier years are not available. Efforts are constantly being made to speed up the processing of orders, but these are limited by the need to observe the statutory requirements, particularly those designed to protect the rights and interests of owner-occupiers and other people affected by the orders, and by restrictions on manpower. I entirely refute any suggestion that compulsory purchase orders are deliberately held up in order to slow down capital expenditure.