HC Deb 29 January 1963 vol 670 cc744-5
11. Mr. MacColl

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is aware that the proposals for the reorganisation of local government involving the creation of larger housing authorities out of smaller ones will in many cases lead to a considerable increase in the number of houses under one control; and whether he will accordingly issue a circular emphasizing again the importance of skilled housing management under trained managers.

Sir K. Joseph

Such advice was given by circular to all housing authorities in March, 1959. That advice is still valid. I would expect that it will be taken into account by reorganised authorities when making arrangements for the management of their houses. But I do not think I should single out this particular aspect of good administration for special mention following reorganisation.

Mr. MacColl

As the right hon. Gentleman has just said, it is four years since the publication of "Councils and their Houses", which was a very good report of the Central Advisory Committee. Does he not think that, in view of the dramatic increase in the responsibilities of a number of councils as a result of reorganisation, he ought either to reissue that pamphlet or reissue his circular to draw attention to the need for properly staffed housing departments?

Sir K. Joseph

I will consider that suggestion, but I must leave it to the discretion of responsible local authorities.