HC Deb 28 May 1963 vol 678 cc99-100W
58. Mr. Box

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he has now completed his study of problems in Wales relating to the purchase and sale of leasehold houses with short terms to run, and the position of improvement grants on such houses; and whether he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

Yes. I accept that it may he difficult to sell a leasehold house with only a short term to run, but I do not believe this problem is widespread in practice, because most leaseholders succeed in obtaining the freehold or an extension of their lease by agreement.

I have considered whether the difficulty could be overcome by giving the leaseholder a right to surrender his lease, but this presents considerable technical difficulties, and I have come to the conclusion that the scale of the problem does not justify the complex legislation which would be necessary.

As to improvements, I would refer my hon. Friend to the White Paper on Housing which was presented today. This indicates that the Government intend in due course to make the provision of improvements compulsory in certain circumstances. The necessary legislation will contain provisions to deal with the special difficulties which arise in connection with leasehold houses.