§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what 445W proportion of tenants have bought their homes through right to buy schemes in rural areas in the last 15 years; and if he will make a statement. [55332]
§ Ms Keeble[holding answer 10 May 2002]: In the 15 years to 31 March 2001, 23 per cent. of local authority dwellings in rural areas have been sold under the right to buy scheme.
When selling properties under the right to buy scheme, landlords may impose restrictions on their resale if they are located in national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty, or certain rural areas designated for this purpose. An owner may be required to offer the property back to the landlord (if they wish to resell within ten years) or to people who have lived or worked locally for three years. The intention is to try to ensure that more of the existing housing in rural areas is available to local people. There are currently 24 designated rural areas, and our November 2000 Rural White Paper "Our Countryside: The Future" encouraged other local authorities to consider seeking designation.