Clause 3 - Local housing authorities to review housing conditions in their districts
Housing Bill
5:15 pm
Mr Edward Davey (Kingston and Surbiton, Liberal Democrat)
I am slightly disappointed by the Minister's response. He spent much of it saying how much he agreed, and that the Government were seized of the issue and wanted to take action. He then said that the Government would respond to the consultation in due course, but with no timetable for the response or the publication of draft legislation—and no timetable for action. I recognise that difficult issues are involved, which is why they were dealt with in the consultation paper. That is why there has been so much debate on the matter over such a long time. It is not a new policy proposal; it has been around for some time. The Empty Homes Agency has been punting it around. The Minister pointed out that the Select Committee first looked into the matter two years ago, when it took evidence and made proposals. We have already had plenty of debate.
One point that the Minister suggested might weigh against the adoption of my proposal was that it might cost local authorities money. That is a safeguard. The local authority would have to make a budget before deciding to use the power. The fact that it would have
to make such an investment would be a safeguard for property owners. Local authorities would not be able to use the power willy-nilly or without thinking whether they had a case that would stand up in court. The Minister should not be so worried about that aspect.
I shall not press the amendment to a Division. I can see that the Committee is restless and that the Whip will shortly want to jump to his feet. However, I hope that the Minister will think again. I am sure that, on Report or in another place, we will return to the issue.
I believe that some Labour Members are not happy about having to wait much longer; they, too, are looking to him and his colleagues to move quickly. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.
Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.
Clause 3 ordered to stand part of the Bill.
Further consideration adjourned.—[Paul Clark.]
Adjourned accordingly at twenty-two minutes past Five o'clock till Thursday 22 January at ten minutes past Nine o'clock.