§ Mr. Bestasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will consider introducing legislation that will permit local authorities to pay capital grants instead of offering rehousing to persons displaced by their operations, so as to enable such persons to buy their own accommodation.
§ Mr. KingAn owner-occupier displaced by a public authority is entitled to the market value of his dwelling, and he can also get an advance from the authority towards the cost of securing a replacement. If suitable alternative accommodation on reasonable terms is not otherwise available, they and others similarly displaced are entitled to be rehoused by the relevant authority. If this is the background to my hon. Friend's suggestion perhaps he will send me the details.