HC Deb 17 December 1968 vol 775 cc1155-6
20. Mrs. René e Short

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what steps is he taking to ensure that the measures to be taken as a result of his advice to local authorities arising from the Ronan Point report do not hold back the housing programme.

Mr. Greenwood

The re-appraisal of designs for high blocks of flats and the carrying out of any necessary remedial work will inevitably mean delay in starting and completing some of these blocks and may have an adverse effect on other housebuilding aspects. It may be that some authorities will change the emphasis of their housing programmes, and such a change could involve delay.

Mrs. Short

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind, in resisting some of the rather potty engineers who have been very vociferous recently, that perfectly good and adequate international standards have been laid down by the C.E.B. and that these should not be exceeded? Will he also bear in mind that costs of new building could be considerably increased, which would be a matter of concern for all, if too stringent standards are adopted by his Department?

Mr. Greenwood

I appreciate the help that my hon. Friend has given throughout the Ronan Point discussions, which she has given from a well-informed point of view, and I will take into consideration the points that she has made.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

The Minister has admitted that this will adversely affect the building of flats and houses generally. Will he, concerning the area where this occurred, have discussions quickly to try to help the council regarding new building, rates and the costs involved in the disaster?

Mr. Greenwood

The Ministry is in close consultation with the London Borough of Newham on these subjects. We will bear in mind what my hon. Friend has just said.