§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many local authorities have imposed half-rates on houses empty for more than three months; how many have given notice of their intention to do so next April; and approximately how many houses have so far been affected.
§ Mr. K. Robinson91 local authorities, which account for about 25 per cent. of total rateable value. One other authority has already resolved to do so from April, 1969, and more may resolve similarly between now and 31st March. There is no way of establishing the total number of dwellings affected, since the effect of actual or potential liability for rates cannot be isolated from the other factors which cause dwellings to become occupied.
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§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will circularise all local authorities which have not used their powers to levy half-rates on houses empty for more than three months asking them to do so.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonMy right hon. Friend expects local authorities, who have not yet adopted the provisions for rating empty property, to do so without prompting from him if they are satisfied that the local housing circumstances would justify it.
§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if, in order to prevent houses remaining empty with consequent damage and deterioration, he will introduce legislation permitting or compelling the levying of full rates on all houses empty for more than three months; or if, in such cases, he will seek powers to encourage compulsory purchase by local authorities for letting to those on their waiting lists.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonI am not satisfied that there is a case for amending the Local Government Act, 1966 in this way. Local authorities already have adequate powers of compulsory purchase to fulfil their housing duties.