HC Deb 13 February 1984 vol 54 c81W
Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will publish the Building Research Establishment's assessment on the Blackburn Orlit houses as soon as it becomes available.

Mr. Ancram

The form of publication is a matter for the Building Research Establishment, but the findings will be made publicly available, probably in the spring.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a further statement on possible compensation for owners of Blackburn Orlit houses as soon as the Building Research Establishment's assessment on them becomes available.

Mr. Ancram

I shall make a further statement on Blackburn Orlit houses as soon as it is practicable to do so.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if deterioration to Blackburn Orlit houses is established, whether the Bill to be introduced shortly will deal with that matter, giving compensation to owners.

Mr. Ancram

A Bill to give effect to the scheme of assistance announced by my hon. Friend the Minister for Housing and Construction on 10 November will be introduced as soon as possible. Whether the Blackburn Orlit house type should be included in the scheme will be considered in the light of the findings of the Building Research Establishment.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether district councils will receive additional assistance in respect of Orlit houses or Orlit variants where there is deterioration.

Mr. Ancram

I refer my hon. Friend to my reply to the hon. Member for Hamilton (Mr. Robertson) on 6 February. [Vol. 53, c.497.]