§ Lord Cocks of Hartcliffeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they consider that the statutory provisions for leasehold enfranchisement are sufficiently widely known, given that Bristol City Council is currently charging £520 for purchase of freeholds worth £4.50 annual ground rent.
The Minister of State, Department of the Environment (Earl Ferrers):The Department of the Environment has published two booklets, Leasehold Houses and Leasehold Flats, which explain the main provisions of the leasehold reform legislation. These are available from the department, and advice organisations can obtain bulk supplies free of charge. Approximately 35,000 copies of Leasehold Houses and 175,000 copies of Leasehold Flats have already been distributed. The Leasehold Enfranchisement Advisory Service at 6/8 Maddox Street, London W1R 9PN, telephone 0171–493 3116, provides initial free advice on the provisions of the legislation, and on how to undertake the process of enfranchisement.
Leaseholders who are offered their freeholds and believe that the price demanded is excessive, may exercise their right to enfranchise. If they cannot agree the terms, either party may apply to the local leasehold valuation tribunal for a determination.