§ Mr. EvennettTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to help local authorities to tackle anti-social behaviour on council estates; and whether he will make a statement. [18837]
§ Mr. CurryMy Department has issued today a consultation paper on proposals to introduce a system of probationary tenancies for new tenants on council estates. Copies have been placed in the Library and the Vote Office.
Under these proposals, local authorities will be able, if they wish, to put new tenants on probation for a year. Authorities exercising this discretion will have to give probationary tenancies to all their new tenants. If tenants complete their probation satisfactorily, their tenancies will be converted into secure tenancies. If, however, tenants do not behave responsibly their authority will be able to 1299W terminate their tenancy at any time during the probationary period by serving a notice to quit.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales is consulting separately on these proposals.