HC Deb 28 February 1961 vol 635 cc111-2W
Mr. W. Yates

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what were the circumstances which gave rise to the demolition with his sanction of the house in which Mrs. Mary Foster was tenant at 4 New Works, Wellington, Shropshire.

Mr. Brooke

I understand that the Wellington Rural District Council made a demolition order on this house in 1956 because they considered it to be unfit for human habitation. Such an order does not require my approval, and any appeal lies to the courts. No appeal was in fact made.

Mr. W. Yates

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what conditions he imposed before agreeing to the request of the Wellington Rural District Council for slum clearance orders in respeot of 3 and 4, New Works, Wellington, Shropshire; whether these included the rehousing of the tenant; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brooke

I have received no such request. Clearance action has been taken by the Council in respect of only one of these two houses (4, New Works) and this was done by means of a demolition order. Such an order does not require my approval, and I have therefore no power to impose conditions.

I understand that the Wellington Rural District Council were prepared to rehouse Mrs. Foster from 4, New Works, when suitable accommodation became available, although there was no obligation on them to do so; but that unknown to them she removed to the house in the Shifnal Rural District where she is now living. I hope that she will be rehoused in the near future, but the decision rests with the local authorities concerned.

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