HC Deb 28 October 2002 vol 391 cc516-7W
Mr. Love

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what evaluation he has made of the introduction of a compulsory leasing scheme for derelict empty properties; and if he will make a statement. [77104]

Mr. McNulty

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is currently evaluating the recommendation to allow local authorities to compulsorily lease empty homes put forward in the report by the Transport, Local Government and the Regions Select Committee on Empty Homes. A statement will be made in due course.

Mr. Andrew Love

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to strengthen the powers of(a) local authorities and (b) registered social landlords compulsorily to purchase empty properties; and if he will make a statement. [77105]

Mr. McNulty

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has no plans to strengthen existing powers to compulsorily purchase empty properties.

Mr. Love

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to enhance the power of local authorities to deal with derelict empty properties; and if he will make a statement. [77394]

Mr. McNulty

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is considering a range of measures to assist local authorities in dealing with empty homes. A statement will be made in due course.