§ 34. Mr. Hugh Jenkinsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment, now that Wandsworth Borough Council has made compulsory purchase orders in respect of a number of privately-owned properties in the borough which have been unoccupied for more than a year, if he will confirm these forthwith so that similar orders may be issued in respect of more than 1,000 empty properties in the borough for occupation by the homeless and those on the council's housing list ; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChannonI understand that Wandsworth Borough Council has recently resolved to make three such orders, the first of which will be submitted to the Department shortly. While all proposals for compulsory purchase must be considered on their individual merits, my right hon. and learned Friend will consider very carefully any cases where owners refuse to bring much needed empty housing accommodation into use.