§ Mr. McLoughlinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has considered bringing forward legislation to compel local authorities to sell to housing associations properties which have remained empty for more than six months without good cause; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RoeFollowing discussions during the Committee stage of the Housing Bill, we are considering what practical measures might be introduced to reduce the number of empty local authority properties. My hon. Friend the Minister for Housing and Planning hopes to make a statement on Report.