HC Deb 04 July 1963 vol 680 cc576-7
22. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs to what extent the policy stated in paragraph 75 of Command Paper No. 2050 represents a change in Government policy.

The Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Sir Keith Joseph)

The statements in paragraph 75 of the White Paper are fully in accord with the Government's frequently declared policy on housing subsidies and the cost of housing.

Mr. Spriggs

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in paragraph 75 of that Command Paper he says that people are prepared to meet the cost of owning a house of their own? Will he remember that hundreds of thousands of people who cannot afford to pay for a home are having to do so, and are in great difficulty, because it is the only way in which they can get a house? As the Minister responsible for local government, will he set up an inquiry to go into the costs of building and to report to the House?

Sir K. Joseph

I am glad to say that the numbers of houses are in general rising and that the Government are increasing the programme, both public and private, because of the need.

23. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether, in his discussions with local authorities, mentioned in paragraph 76 of Command Paper No. 2050, he will give an assurance that he will take into account all proposals made by local authorities in England and Wales for housing subsidies.

Sir K. Joseph

Yes, Sir. But I hope that any local authority with a suggestion to make will, as a matter of convenience, put it forward through the appropriate local authority association.

Mr. Spriggs

In the meantime, when discussing local government finance would the right hon. Gentleman consider the fact that interest repayments form a great proportion of the cost of building houses and schools?

Sir K. Joseph

Interest will, of course, be one of the costs which will be taken into account.

Mr. M. Stewart

Have not local authorities already laid great stress on that aspect of the matter in their communications to the right hon. Gentleman?

Sir K. Joseph

Some local authorities have, but this is to be a thorough overhaul of all housing subsidies, all the costs and all the incomes.

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