§ 32. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether, in view of the difficulties caused by and resultant upon the Ronan Point disaster, which are making the Newham Council curtail and reduce their housing programme, he will now state what action he proposes to take to ensure that the Council's housing programme does not suffer as a result of this disaster.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. James MacColl)The Newham Council has suggested a future housing programme of 1,234, 1,502 and 1,506 units for the years 1969, 1970, and 1971, respectively. These figures show an increase on the council's past performance and officers of the Department are co-operating fully with the local authority to help deal with any problems which may affect the programme as they arise. I warmly commend the way in which the council is pushing ahead with their programme.
§ Mr. LewisI, too, should like to congratulate this progressive council. Is the Minister aware that if it were not for the 980 hold-up incurred because of Ronan Point, there could be even further houses if the council could have financial help and were not expending time, energy and money doing the necessary strengthening of the structures? Will the Minister do something to help the council in this connection?
§ Mr. MacCollThe Government have accepted the principle that the cost of strengthening existing buildings should rank for special assistance.