HC Deb 08 May 1984 vol 59 cc293-4W
Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what guidance he issues to local authorities about their statutory duties to conduct regular maintenance surveys and repairs, such as repainting, of buildings under their administration;

(2) what guidance he issues to local authorities about their statutory duties to conduct regular maintenance surveys and repairs, such as repainting, of public sector housing stock under their administration.

Mr. Ancram

My right hon. Friend issues no guidance on regular maintenance as this is a matter for each local authority to determine in the light of local circumstances.

Mr. Kirwood

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will estimate the additional cost of imposing a statutory duty on local authorities obliging them to survey, repair and repaint all buildings under their control on a three-year cycle.

Mr. Ancram

The additional cost of such a duty could only be assessed by the local authorities themselves by comparison with their present maintenance procedures.