§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he intends to amend section 33 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 in order that local authorities can recover costs of reconnection of supplies of gas and electricity incurred in paying arrears from landlords who then sell the house to evade debts; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierYes. I refer the hon. Member to amendment No. 158, passed at Report stage of the Local Government and Housing Bill on 14 June at column 1090.