§ 44. Mr. David Williamsasked the Minister of Health the number of houses now needed in Wales; and what steps he is taking to enable Welsh local authorities to commence their building programmes.
§ Mr. WillinkWhile no accurate estimate can be given of the total housing need in Wales, the short-term programmes of Welsh housing authorities cover 20,979 dwellings. Sites for approximately 8,000 have already been acquired. The local authorities are being authorised to invite tenders for the erection of houses as and when sites become available. In addition, 8,000 temporary houses have been allocated to Wales, for which 6,179 house sites have been approved.
§ Mr. WilliamsIn view of the number of houses needed in Wales, would the Minister tell us when local authorities there can commence operation?
§ Mr. WillinkAs sites become available, I am authorising them to obtain tenders for houses.
§ Mr. WilliamsAre there any difficulties in obtaining sites in most of these local authorities' areas?
§ Mr. WillinkI know of no difficulty in obtaining sites.