asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when the last review took place in respect of penalties for failure to comply with Housing Act notices; why there is no ability to seek a penalty for non-compliance with statutory notices served under the Housing Acts; and if he will make a statement.

Maximum penalties for offences relating to houses in multiple occupation were reviewed in 1980, and the Housing Act 1980 subsequently raised a number of penalties significantly. There is no penalty for non-compliance with notices served under part II of the Housing Act 1957, as amended, and part VIII of the Housing Act 1974, because authorities can use their powers under these provisions to carry out works in default and to recover their costs from defaulting owners.