HC Deb 18 February 1976 vol 905 cc708-9W
Mr. Michael Marshall

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has issued any guidance to local authorities concerning the purchase of private residences for use as council houses.

Mr. Freeson

Yes. In Circular 654/75.

Mr. Michael Marshall

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has been informed by local authorities of the number of privately owned houses which have been purchased by local authorities for use as council houses during the last year.

Mr. Freeson

Local authorities are required to submit regular returns to the Department, but some authorities have not yet done so for 1975.