HC Deb 13 December 1962 vol 669 c550
7. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he has given further consideration to the possibility of restoring the Government assistance to building societies in connection with the purchase of houses built before 1919.

12. Mr. Farr

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will reintroduce Exchequer advances to building societies for the purpose of facilitating the purchase of pre-1919 houses.

Sir K. Joseph

The Government wish to see the growth of home-ownership maintained, whether by the purchase of existing or of newly-built houses. I am in consultation with the Building Societies' Association about the prospects of further expansion but I am not in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Shepherd

Can my right hon. Friend now say whether or not he intends to include the provisions which previously obtained in respect of 1919 houses?

Sir K. Joseph

That would need fresh legislation but I am in full consultation with the Association at the moment and intend to make a statement as soon as I can.

Mr. Farr

May I remind my right hon. Friend that there are over 4 million houses which were built prior to 1914, and that the continuation of this scheme, which was inaugurated with great success, would be of considerable help in maintaining the condition of the properties?

Sir K. Joseph

I have this sort of consideration in the forefront of my mind.