§ Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the Government's proposals as to the action they intend to take about squatters who have occupied premises belonging to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
§ Mr. David HowellIn the present conditions in Northern Ireland squatting, which is closely associated with intimidation, presents a most difficult problem. Eviction is neither a practicable nor a desirable solution. The general granting of tenancies to squatters could create problems for legitimate applicants and encourage a continuation of squatting. The Housing Executive at present charges squatters a fee for use and occupation, only granting tenancies where squatters are considered to be emergency cases.
The Ministry of Development and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive are keeping the situation under close observation so that they may immediately take advantage of any opportunity to alleviate the squatting problem which the changing 328W situation in Northern Ireland may bring about. It is hoped that the recently announced public protection agency will help to counter the problem at its source.