HC Deb 04 April 1979 vol 965 cc859-60W
Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list in the Official Report the powers under which local authorities are enabled to purchase land.

Mr. Guy Barnett

I refer my hon. Friend to my answer on 29 March. Local authorities have powers to acquire land

Mr. Marks

Inner London boroughs are not subject to the statutory requirement to provide allotments. They nevertheless have the necessary powers to do so if they are satisfied there is a need.

Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will assist local authorities in the provision of allotments by taking steps to make available for use by short-term letting and temporary usage of derelict, unused land, and land planned for a particular use but awaiting development.

Mr. Marks

Local authorities already have sufficient powers to enable them to enter unoccupied land and to reach agreements with landowners for the use of derelict, unused or vacant land for allotment purposes.

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