§ Miss HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many homes have been sold by his Department since the beginning of 1989 and in the last three months; and what criteria are used in deciding to whom the properties will be disposed.
§ Mr. ChopeSince the beginning of 1989 159 residential properties have been sold, including 23 in the last three months. Where appropriate, a property is offered first to the tenant if the terms of the tenancy so require, then to the former owner depending on the circumstances under which it was acquired.
§ Miss HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps are taken to make available properties disposed of by his Department to housing associations or local authorities.
§ Mr. ChopeLocal authorities and housing associations are able to bid for the properties when they are offered for sale on the open market.