§ 13. Mr. Wainwrightasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will estimate the number of houses that will be built under Her Majesty's Government's plans in 1962, 1963, and 1964.
§ Sir K. JosephI estimate that 300,000 houses will be built in Great Britain this year and that about 273,000 of these will be in England and Wales. Next year I would expect to see an increase of the order of 5,000–6,000 on these figures. I am unwilling to forecast as far ahead as 1964, but I am hopeful that a steady increase will be maintained. I am sure the output will remain high.
§ Mr. WainwrightDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that these figures are not good enough? Is it not true that experts are saying that we want about 400,000 houses built each year, for the next 15 to 20 years? When will he do more to ensure that these old houses are demolished; that young couples can have houses to live in, and that the housing situation generally is what it should be?
§ Sir K. JosephI agree that we need more houses. As I promised, I shall be making a statement on the whole subject as soon as I can.
§ Mr. M. StewartOf the 280,000 houses to be built in England and Wales next year, how many will be council houses?
§ Sir K. JosephMore than this year.