HC Deb 12 December 1994 vol 251 cc517-8W
Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what guidance he has given to district councils on the inspection of properties(a) prior to the award of housing benefit and (b) after it has been awarded.

Mr. Gwilym Jones

Housing benefit regulations do not require properties to be inspected.

Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what measures are in place to ensure that properties in multiple occupation do not present any safety or public health hazards.

Mr. Gwilym Jones

Houses in multiple occupation must meet standards of fitness for human habitation and fitness for the number of occupants. They must have adequate means of escape from fire and adequate fire precautions. Local authorities have powers to enforce these requirements.