§ 82. Mr. Rostasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many local authorities have so far replied to his circular urging the sale of council houses; and how many such replies indicate that his requests will be implemented.
§ Mr. AmeryThe circular was issued on 13th June. I shall assess its impact by reference to the numbers of council houses sold.
§ Sir Gilbert Longdenasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether 137W he intends to require local housing authorities to impose conditions as to the re-sale of houses which he recommends they should sell to sitting tenants.
§ Mr. AmeryLocal authorities are free to sell their houses within the terms of the general consent given in Circular 54/70. Under that consent they can sell either at unrestricted market price without pre-emption conditions or at a reduced price if they attach such conditions. I trust that local authorities will enable their tenants to take advantage of the opportunity to buy at reduced prices. This is advantageous to the tenants and helps to reduce the pressure on the private sector housing market.