Right to Buy

HC Deb 09 March 1989 vol 148 cc671-2W

Mr. Bowis

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will increase the maximum discount allowed to tenants exercising the right to buy their homes.

Mr. Trippier

My hon. Friend and many other hon. Members have pointed out that the present limits work unfairly for tenants living in areas where property values are high. My right hon. Friend therefore proposes to lay before the House an order under section 131 of the Housing Act 1985, and regulations under section 171C, raising the limit to £50,000. The present limit of £35,000 was set in January 1987. I am sure the increase will be welcomed by the many tenants in London and the south-east who have not been able to exercise their right to buy with the present limit on discount.