§ 32. Mr. Douglas-Mannasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he proposes to ensure that the 99,370 houses found to be empty in greater London at the time of the 1971 census are brought into occupation to relieve homelessness and housing stress.
§ Mr. ChannonMy right hon. and learned Friend will continue to urge local authorities in London to do everything possible to make the maximum use of empty dwellings in their ownership. In cases where private owners blatantly disregard requests to bring housing into use, authorities should consider making compulsory purchase orders. Applications for confirmation of such orders will be given most careful consideration.