§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what statutory and discretionary powers are available to local authorities to take action against owner-occupiers and private landlords who fail to keep their property in reasonable sanitary condition; what special powers are available when the condition of the586W property or grounds of the property deteriorate into a state which is likely to cause nuisance to neighbours, damage to adjacent property or is a potential threat to an otherwise safe and healthy environment; if he has any plans to bring forward measures to tighten control of such situations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonLocal authorities may take action under the Public Health (Scotland) Act 1897, the Building (Scotland) Act 1959, the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 and the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 to require the repair or up-grading of homes so that, for example, they have adequate sanitation. Powers relating to houses in multiple occupation are also contained in the 1987 Act. Specific powers are available for authorities to take action where neighbours are affected and there is provision to require the maintenance of private open spaces. There are no plans to amend those wide-ranging powers.