HC Deb 19 January 1977 vol 924 cc199-200W
29. Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has to bring the increasing number of empty houses into beneficial use.

Mr. Freeson

A wide range of powers is already available to local authorities, and my right hon. Friend intends shortly to issue further guidance and to announce a speed up in departmental procedures on compulsory purchase orders aimed at bringing empty houses into proper use.