HC Deb 19 July 1995 vol 263 cc1506-7W
Sir Hector Monro

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the framework which is being proposed for the transfer of property on 1 April 1996 from existing councils to their successors. [36603]

Mr. Kynoch

The Scottish Office is today issuing for consultation a draft order which sets out the arrangements by which it is proposed that existing local authority property should transfer on 1 April 1996 to the new councils, joint boards and the Scottish Children's Reporter Administration. I am placing copies of the draft order in the Library. Views on the draft property transfer order have been invited by 14 August 1995. The finalised order will be laid before Parliament as soon as possible thereafter.

It is proposed that, wherever possible, new councils should come together to agree on the allocation of property. I hope that most property will be allocated in this way but I acknowledge that this may not always be possible. Accordingly my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will be setting up a small independent property commission which will be charged with determining the authority to which disputed property should be transferred. The draft order contains proposals for the principles to which the commission should adhere in making its determinations. It is intended that the property commission will be set up from September 1995. Consideration is currently being given to its membership and precise remit.