asked the Secretary of State for Energy (1) how many empty houses are owned by the Central Electricity Generating Board in the following areas: Greater London, Avon, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Warwickshire, Sussex, Kent, Hampshire and the West Midlands, respectively; which have been empty for up to six months, one year, two years, and more than two years; and which are surplus to requirements;(2) how many empty houses are owned by the National Coal Board in the following areas: Greater London, Avon, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Warwickshire, Sussex, Kent, Hampshire and the West Midlands, respectively; which have been empty for up to six months, one year, two years, and more than two years; and which are surplus to requirements.

I am asking the Chairmen of the Electricity Council and the National Coal Board to write to the hon. Member.