To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what estimate has she made of the (a) highest, (b) lowest, (c) median and (d) mean fees to be charged by local authorities to landlords as part of the new licensing scheme for houses in multiple occupation. (103942)

No estimate has been made of the highest, lowest, median and mean fees to be charged by local authorities to landlords as part of the new licensing scheme for houses in multiple occupation. The Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) for licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation which was published in February 2006 estimated that the average one off fee for mandatory licensing would be approximately £500 for the five-year licence. The estimate was based on a sample survey of local housing authorities carried out in December 2005.

To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assessment the Government have made of the (a) merits and (b) enforceability of covenants on new homes banning cats and dogs as pets in special protection areas. (104039)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 8 November 2006, Official Report, column 1571W to the hon. Member for Hammersmith and Fulham (Mr. Hands).