§ Mr. GregoryTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the most recent figure for empty local authority housing; how many of these properties have been vacant for periods over six, 12 and 24 months, respectively; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamProvision of public sector housing in Northern Ireland is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I am informed by its chief executive that at 31 December 1988 the information requested is:
Number Total number of vacant properties 2,525 Vacant 6–12 months 335 Vacant over 12 months 1,072 Vacant over 24 months n/a 344W
Type Eastern per cent. Northern per cent. Southern per cent. Western per cent. NI average Statutory1 55.6 70.5 73.9 74.5 64.1 Voluntary 28.9 11.1 16.0 24.0 22.4 Private 15.5 18.4 10.2 1.5 13.6 1 In Northern Ireland local authorities have no responsibility for statutory residential homes: these are provided by the four health and social services boards. The figures include properties which are not available for letting—properties awaiting demolition, those used for decanting purposes and those awaiting improvement or repairs.