HC Deb 12 March 2003 vol 401 cc320-1W
Margaret Moran

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what measures he plans to take to increase the use of compulsory purchase orders in respect of empty properties. [97751]

Mr. McNulty

The use of compulsory purchase orders in respect of empty properties is a matter for local authorities to determine.

As announced by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister in "Sustainable Communities: Building for the Future", the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister will be consulting on proposals that would provide local authorities with the alternative option of taking on the temporary management of some empty homes.