HC Deb 19 July 1966 vol 732 cc354-5
10. Mr. Arnold Shaw

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what new plans he has for encouraging local authorities to build more houses, especially in the Greater London area.

Mr. Mellish

The Government have already announced a target of 250,000 houses to be built by public authorities in 1970 and proposals for greatly increased subsidies. Continuing discussions will take place within that framework on the best methods of achieving that target. For London, in particular, approval for larger programmes has recently been given to all housing authorities who have submitted plans to increase their house-building.

Mr. Shaw

While I thank my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware of the diffidence displayed by Redbridge in building council houses in areas they regard as being highly desirable?

Mr. Mellish

I know about Redbridge. Tenders for 86 dwellings were sent as against the programme of 620. As a consequence, Redbridge has put its programme up this year. I intend to increase the programme from 375 to 720, and it is one of the boroughs I shall visit to find out what it is all about.

Mr. Rippon

Whatever may happen tomorrow, will the hon. Gentleman retract the statement made on 1st March that this year more than 400,000 houses will be built?

Mr. Mellish

I was asked a Question about public authorities and their targets, and I give the right hon. Gentleman the assurance—I hope that he will be pleased —that 250,000 houses a year—probably more—will be built by public authorities by 1970.