HC Deb 26 January 1966 vol 723 cc188-9
7. Mr. Brewis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many houses for the agricultural population received an Exchequer subsidy last year.

Mr. Ross

In 1964–65, under powers specifically related to houses for the agricultural population, subsidy was paid in respect of 3,098 owned by local authorities and 5,921 privately owned. During the year new proposals by private owners relating to 116 houses were approved: none was received from local authorities.

Mr. Brewis

Is it not disappointing that none was built by local authorities? Will the Secretary of State review the whether it can be made easier for local authorities to obtain the subsidy?

Mr. Ross

This is not a new phenomenon, because none has been received by local authorities since 1961, and we have to take this into account in relation to the review. That is why we think that the situation will be adequately covered by the new subsidy position under the Act.