§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what account he takes of householders' mortgage debts in the compulsory purchase of property required for road schemes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleMortgage debts are not a factor. Compensation is assessed at full market value and may be used to release an outstanding mortgage debt. My hon. Friend the Minister for Housing and Planning is actively reviewing what action might be necessary in the event of compensation for properties acquired by compulsory purchase orders falling short of the mortgage debt. We have no evidence of such cases at present.