§ 37. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is yet in a position to state the results of his discussions with the Scottish local authority associations about the revision of housing subsidies.
§ Mr. J. StuartI would refer the hon. and learned Member to my reply of 28th February to the hon. Lady the Member for Aberdeen, South (Lady Tweedsmuir).
§ Mr. HughesIs the Secretary of State aware that this is a very urgent matter and that it is not merely replies in Parliament we want but something actively done to solve the problem?
§ Mr. StuartThe result of the discussions with the local authorities was announced in reply to the noble Lady to which I have just referred. It is in HANSARD.
§ Mr. A. WoodburnWill the right hon. Gentleman take the opportunity of getting an analysis of the figures because, in documents circulated, local authorities seem to be at variance with the suggestions made in his statement and it would be useful to hon. Members if these differences could be cleared up?
§ Mr. StuartIf the right hon. Gentleman is in need of further information, I will of course supply it, but if he will refer to the OFFICIAL REPORT of 28th February he will find the Exchequer contribution and the rates contribution under the new subsidy arrangements.
§ Mr. William RossHave not the local authorities asked for further discussions on this matter?
§ Mr. StuartYes, I believe they have; that is the case.
§ Mr. HoyIf these local authorities have already expressed great dissatisfaction about the announcement made, that could not be as a result of agreement as announced in the right hon. Gentleman's original answer?
§ Mr. StuartIt is very difficult to give satisfaction in all quarters. I notice from criticisms that some people say it is too much and some say it is too little, but we will do our best to strike a balance.