§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, following their requests for better management of the existing housing stock, they will make available a proportion of the 23,000 vacant military married quarters, for the accommodation of homeless families and individuals.
§ Lord TrefgarneThe number of vacant military married quarters is some 8,000 less than suggested by my noble friend. Where circumstances permit, it is Ministry of Defence policy to offer houses which are likely to be vacant for periods of at least six months to local authorities and housing associations, on the condition that an undertaking is given to return the properties with vacant possession at the end of the term of letting. Married quarters identified as permanently surplus to requirements are sold, thus increasing the overall housing stock.