HC Deb 15 November 1973 vol 864 c240W
Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of States for Northern Ireland if he will now review the Civil Disturbances House Purchase Scheme, in particular in relation to the valuation of premises, and in the light of talks with the Building Societies Association; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Howell

The scheme is at present being reviewed, and discussions with the Building Societies Association are taking place. I am not yet able to make a statement.

Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will set out in the OFFICIAL REPORT the following information about the purchase of houses under the Civil Disturbances Purchase Scheme: (a) the number of applications made for purchase under the scheme, (b) the number refused, and a breakdown as to the reasons, (c) the number of houses purchased, and (d) the number of applications pending, and a breakdown as to their composition.

Mr. David Howell

The information is as follows:

  1. (a) 1,114 applications from owner-occupiers have been made under the scheme for purchase of houses.
  2. (b) 113 applications have been refused for the following reasons:
    1. (i)104 of the applicants would not have qualified for inclusion on the emergency housing list,
    2. (ii)four had not vacated their houses,
    3. (iii)one house was occupied by a paying tenant,
    4. (iv)four were not owner-occupiers.
  3. (c) four purchases have been completed.
  4. (d) 10 applications were withdrawn and 987 are pending as follows:
1. Final purchase formalities 42
2. Awaiting outcome of discussions with Building Societies 20
3. Price offered but not yet accepted 119
4. With valuation office to determine price 214
5. With building inspector to assess damage 168
6. Decision deferred for further information 64
7. Still to be considered by advisory committee 360