BLACKBURN homeowners faced with the loss of their homes in a slum clearance drive were sent extraordinary 'improve your homes' advice by a government minister.

Housing Minister John Patten even suggested they seek grants from the council to help them.

Government hopes of a third successive General Election victory were given a massive boost by a poll, which showed a 10-point Conservative lead over Labour.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.