HC Deb 22 February 1967 vol 741 cc278-9W
Sir J. Gilmour

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is satisfied that Fife County Council are fulfilling their obligations in the charging of rents for their council houses at an average rent per week, after allowing for rebates and surcharges, of 14s. 6d. per week when the county town of Cupar is charging 22s. 10d. per week; what economic circumstances warrant this difference of payment; what action he will take; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ross

Fife County Council decided last July to increase rents by about 25 per cent., but it has subsequently twice decided to postpone the increase, in response to the Government's two White Papers on the Prices and Incomes Standstill. Under the Housing Acts each local authority must decide for itself what rents it is reasonable to charge, and I am sure that the county council will keep the matter under review in the light of changing circumstances.