HC Deb 04 July 1975 vol 894 c568W
Mr. Moate

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if it is the policy of the Government to issue guidance to local authorities as to whether possessory title to a property represents adequate security to enable local authorities to make improvement grants.

Mr. Armstrong

Under Section 57(3) of the Housing Act 1974 it is the duty of a local authority to satisfy itself that an applicant has the specified interest in the land before it can entertain an application for a house renovation grant. Any interpretation of this provision is ultimately a matter for the courts; it is not a matter on which the Department has felt it necessary to offer guidance to local authorities.