HC Deb 03 March 1959 vol 601 cc192-3
20. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he has yet replied to the request of the Newcastle housing authority for an increased allocation of houses to be built in the city.

Mr. H. Brooke

I told the council three weeks ago that it could expect to get approval for an increase in its 1959 house-building programme, and asked it for information about sites and projected contracts to show that it is likely to be able to fulfil an enlarged programme during the year. I am awaiting the council's reply.

Mr. Blenkinsop

As I understand that the reply that the Minister has requested is in course of being sent to him, could he say that, provided he is satisfied with the reply, he will allow the city council to build 2,000 houses instead of the 900 he has allocated?

Mr. Brooke

As I have asked for certain information and have not yet received it. I think that it would be unreasonable for me to reach a decision now—before the information is available.

Mr. Blenkinsop

But all I ask is whether the right hon. Gentleman is willing, provided that he is satisfied with the information he receives, to agree to the allocation of the 2,000 houses that are urgently needed in the city?

Mr. Brooke

I will say that, once I receive the reply, I will let the council know my decision as soon as I possibly can.