HC Deb 09 July 1980 vol 988 cc175-6W
25. Mr. Russell Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the district authorities within the Highland region which have made representations to him, either directly or through hon. Members, against the unrestricted sale of council houses in rural areas; and whether he is yet in a position to announce that the Government will introduce amendments to the Tenants' Rights, Etc. (Scotland) Bill in another place.

Mr. Rifkind

Two of the eight district councils in the Highland region, Skye and Lochalsh and Ross and Cromarty, have made such representations. My right hon. Friend and I have consistently explained that the Government have no intention of denying to tenants in rural areas the right to buy their homes which is being given to tenants elsewhere. Having already introduced the safeguard of a pre-emption right in certain specified circumstances, my right hon. Friend has no further proposals to amend the Bill in the way the hon. Member is suggesting.