§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what changes he has required or authorised in respect of disposal of surplus living accommodation by the Metropolitan police; and what consultations he undertook prior to any change in the procedures concerned.
§ Mr. Giles ShawNone. The Metropolitan police's practice on the sale of land and buildings identified as surplus to requirements is to offer it for sale on the open market, except where it was acquired by compulsory purchase and there is an obligation to offer it back to the original owner. This is consistent with the practice laid down for Government Departments and other public bodies by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment and referred to in reply to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Streatham (Mr. Shelton) on 13 June 1979, at column 255.