HC Deb 31 March 1969 vol 781 cc34-5W
89. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is the approximate cost of rectifying, or of making safe, system-built blocks of flats; whether, before agreeing to give compensation in the matter, he will ascertain the average cost per flat of making it safe, the profits of the building firms concerned and the average profit per flat; and if he will take steps to require that the firms concerned make full financial compensation.

92. Mr. Orme

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is the approximate cost of making safe the system-built blocks of flats; whether before agreeing to give compensation in this matter, he will ascertain the average cost per flat of making it safe, the profits of the building firms concerned and the average profit per flat; and if he will take steps to require that the firms concerned make full financial compensation.

Mr. MacColl

The cost varies widely depending on the system used, the design of the particular block and the stage of construction or design which it has reached. Local authorities have been asked to supply cost estimates in each case. Whether a contractor is liable for any part of the cost of strengthening depends on the terms of his contract.

90. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is the approximate cost of rectifying or making safe the system-built blocks of flats in Salford; and, in view of the inconvenience to which tenants will be put when they have to change homes, what financial assistance the Government will offer.

91. Mr. Orme

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is the approximate cost of rectifying or making safe the system-built flats in Salford; and, in view of the inconvenience to which tenants will be put when they have to move, what financial assistance the Government will offer.

Mr. MacColl

The local authority estimate the total cost at £1¾ million. My right hon. Friend has already said that Government assistance will be given and the Ministry are engaged in discussion with the local authority associations on that assistance and the basis on which it should be distributed.