§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if he is aware of the large number of houses which become both derelict and dangerous shortly after becoming vacant; and if he will consider introducing legislation to give local authorities powers to brick up empty properties before this happens to them and more quickly than they are permitted at present;
(2) if he will take steps to give local authorities power to brick-up empty property subject to closing order under Part II of the Housing Act, 1957, as soon as that order takes effect.
§ Mr. ChannonA number of authorities have thought it right to take powers in local Acts to deal with local problems of this kind. My right hon. Friend has, however, in mind the possible provision of a general power when a suitable opportunity for legislation arises.