§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consideration his Department is giving to the question of central Government subsidy to local authorities for the demo- 906W lition of pre-war tenement blocks of flats.
§ Mr. ShoreThe question of subsidy on the cost of demolition turns on the future use of the site. As to continuation of existing subsidy in respect of blocks which are demolished, individual applications are considered on their merits. The main factor influencing my decision in such cases is whether demolition can be accepted as the most appropriate course of action.
§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the Government's attitude to helping the Liverpool City Council demolish pre-war tenements like Caryl Gardens and other tenements in poor environmental areas, details of which have been sent to him by the hon. Member for Liverpool, Scotland Exchange.
§ Mr. ShoreEssentially the decision whether or not to demolish is a matter for the city council. I am prepared to examine on merits any application in such a case for continued payment of any existing subsidy. In certain such cases I have already given the consent to continuance sought by the council.