Although the L.C.C. have powers of compulsory purchase under their
General Powers Act of 1921, there is no perceptible sign of their using them. Indeed, the leaseholders in this block have received a letter from the L.C.C. informing them that Parliament is to be asked to extend the period during which the L.C.C.'s compulsory powers of purchase are effective. The inference is that the L.C.C. do not intend to do anything for some time. It seems that there are definite reasons why this block, which has become a definite public nuisance, should not be removed. Possibly these reasons arc good ones, possibly not ; but it seems difficult to conceive of considerations strong enough to override the obvious and urgent public interest. We cannot help feeling that the public, which is being so gravely inconvenienced, has a right to know exactly why these houses cannot immediately be demolished.
* * * *
Previous page
