Vol. 436 No. 7
132 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment his views on whether the tenant purchase scheme is militating against the chances of tenants, who have been in their houses for a long period, of being fairly treated; and if he will adapt the scheme to take into account the contribution that they have made in rent over the years.
I consider that the terms of the scheme are fair and reasonable to all tenants, including those of long standing. Generous discounts are available for each year of tenancy up to a maximum of 30 per cent of the market value of the dwellings. In addition, purchases under the scheme are exempt from stamp duty and valuation and legal costs associated with sales are borne by the local authorities. I do not propose any changes in the terms of the scheme already announced.
