HC Deb 12 June 1956 vol 554 cc240-1
55. Mr. Moss

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what local authorities in north Warwickshire have ceased to build houses for general purposes as a result of the reduction and proposed abolition of Government housing subsidies and increased loan charges; and what local authorities continue to build such houses.

The Minister of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Duncan Sandys)

I am not aware that any of these local authorities have decided to cease building for general needs.

Mr. Moss

Will the right hon. Gentleman consent now to be made aware that some local authorities have ceased to build for general purposes, and that this decision appears to bear no relationship whatever to housing needs?

Mr. Sandys

The hon. Member still has not given me any information.

Mr. Mitchison

Ought not the right hon. Gentleman to find out and publish which local authorities throughout the country have ceased to build council houses? We all know that there are a great many of them, except that the right hon. Gentleman does not seem to have official knowledge of it.

Mr. Sandys

As the hon. and learned Member knows, now that the allocation system has been abolished local authorities have no obligation to inform me how many houses they intend in future to build until they submit tenders for approval. Since, however, it is of interest and importance to know how things are proceeding, it is my intention to send a circular to local authorities asking them what are their plans for the next year.

Mr. Mitchison

Will the Minister take steps to publish the results of his circular?

Mr. Sandys

I have no doubt that the hon. and learned Gentleman will be able to ask me, and I shall no doubt be able to give him the information which he requires. There are no secrets about this matter.

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