§ Mr. SoleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is planning to issue any guidance to local authorities concerning the sale of accommodation for homeless people to developers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Trippier[holding answer 27 July 1988]: Local authorities are well aware of the rules governing sale or disposal of housing land and property. The general consents of 2 June 1981 gave local authorities powers to make certain disposals without reference to this Department; and other disposals require special consent under sections 32 to 34 of the Housing Act 1985. Whether a particular sale of accommodation used for homeless people needs the Secretary of State's consent would depend upon the terms of disposal.