asked the Minister for the Environment the current position regarding his discussions with NATO on local authority rents; and if he will make a statement of the matter.
77.
Written Answers. - Local Authority Rents.
23.
asked the Minister for the Environment if following his recent discussions with the National Association of Tenant Organisations, the Government have restored recognition to NATO as the national negotiating body for local authority tenants; if it is now intended to negotiate a new rents scheme for local authority tenants with NATO; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 77 together.
The Government recognise NATO as an organisation representing local authority tenants and I have had discussions with them on local authority rents. In the context of these discussions, a review of all aspects of the determination of local authority rents is being undertaken by my Department with a view to implementing equitable arrangements which will ensure that the rents charged are reasonable in relation to the incomes of tenants, that those tenants who can afford to do so will pay realistic rents, and that overall rental income will accrue which will make an adequate contribution to the cost of management and maintenance of the housing stock. The new proposals when finalised will be discussed with NATO.