HC Deb 19 July 1962 vol 663 c622
30. Mr. M. Stewart

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what new steps he will take to assist people desiring to become owner-occupiers of their homes.

Sir K. Joseph

I have no proposals to put forward at present.

Mr. Stewart

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he will be in a position to make proposals? Is he aware that the rising prices of houses is progressivaly making it more and more difficult for people who wish to become owner-occupiers, and that some sort of policy is needed?

Sir K. Joseph

I think that my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary has said that my predecessor had turned his attention to the question of productivity in the building industry. I think this is a sphere to which we could look, together with standardisation, to secure lower costs.

Mr. MacDermot

Will the Minister undertake to look into the question of leasehold enfranchisement at an early date? Is he aware that this aspect of owner-occupation has become increasingly urgent as the leases fall in?

Sir K. Joseph

I am sure that in my capacity as Minister for Welsh Affairs I cannot possibly avoid this very important and urgent matter.