HC Deb 26 July 1984 vol 64 cc789-90W
Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he is satisfied with the working of the district boards in Hong Kong and the system of surveying people living in squatter areas concerning their entitlement for public housing.

Mr. Luce

Yes. Squatter clearance is governed by a well-established rehousing policy and generally works well. The Hong Kong Government have recognised, however, that there is a problem associated with clearance of huts in rear lanes in urban areas, which district boards consider to be a vital part of their efforts to improve local environments. Steps are being taken to revise the rehousing policy to enable the occupants of such huts to become eligible for rehousing in certain circumstances.

Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he is satisfied with the system of demolition of squatters' huts in Hong Kong and the rehousing policy.

Mr. Luce

Yes. A full survey of illegal structures in squatter areas was conducted in 1982. When surveyed structures are demolished in a clearance, occupants are rehoused either in permanent pubic housing or temporary housing areas. A pre-clearance survey is undertaken to identify the occupants of the huts involved and to inform them of their eligibility for rehousing and removal allowances. This system is operating satisfactorily.

Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the Minister of State's recent visit to Hong Kong.

Mr. Luce

I refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Christchurch (Mr. Adley) on 25 July.