HC Deb 23 July 1968 vol 769 cc254-5
5. Mr. Allason

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many houses he estimates will be completed in the private sector in 1968 and 1969.

Mr. Greenwood

It is not possible to make precise predictions for the private sector for as far ahead as the hon. Member asks. In the current year, however, I expect that over 200,000 private houses will be built in Great Britain.

Mr. Allason

Is not it time the Minister encouraged private enterprise to get on with building houses? Does he recall that 218,000 houses were built in the private sector in 1964, and that in 1964 his party promised more building of private houses?

Mr. Greenwood

We have already done a great deal to encourage the building of private houses. I shall be only too happy to expatiate on this subject later if I have the good fortune to catch the eye of the Chair.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the great feeling of satisfaction on this side of the House at the considerable increase in total house building? That is what we are really concerned about.