HC Deb 17 April 1989 vol 151 cc35-6W
Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what safeguards exist to ensure that London ratepayers receive the best possible price for public assets disposed of by the London residuary body.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomleyy

Paragraph 7 (2) of schedule 13 to the Local Government Act 1985 subjects the London residuary body to section 123 (2) of the Local Government Act 1972, which requires the LRB to obtain the Secretary of State's consent to any disposal of land not required for carrying out its functions for less than the best consideration reasonably obtainable. Section 79 of the 1985 Act provides that the LRB is audited in accordance with the provisions of part III of the Local Government Finance Act 1982.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment which properties have been the subject of discussion between his Department and the London residuary body prior to their disposal.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

The disposal of a wide range of the LRB's property portfolio has been the subject of discussion as the need has arisen.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will ensure that records are made publicly available in respect of the price paid and the names of the new owners of former publicly-owned assets sold by the London residuary body; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

No.