With reference to the letter “One hefty profit”, (TMIS, 20 November) the Housing Authority would like to clarify a statement made.

In December 2003, the Board of the Housing Authority introduced changes in the Right to Buy scheme and the way subsidy is returned. When the transfer of property takes place before the lapse of 10 years from the date of deed, the owner has to refund all subsidies received as well as the difference between the value of the property as vacant and the value of the property as occupied. If the transfer of property takes place after the lapse of 10 years the owner has now got to refund all the subsidies recieved.

Audrey Ellul

Policy & Communications Unit

Housing Authority