§ 14. Dr. Millerasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to increase the number of houses available in the private sector.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonThe option mortgage scheme, which is being improved, and the guarantee schemes are helping those of moderate means to buy houses; and we are continuing, in consultation with the private sector, to do everything we can to remove hindrances to private house building. In the 12 months to 30th September this year over 9,000 private houses were completed and over 10,000 were started: these are higher figures than have ever been achieved before.
§ Dr. MillerDoes my hon. Friend not appreciate that this falls considerably below the number which the Government felt ought to be built in this sector, and that while it is not reasonable or practical to expect local authorities to build houses for everyone who requires housing, it does mean an increase of building in this sector to rehouse everybody who needs a house?
§ Dr. MabonYes. I agree absolutely. I think that that is perfectly fair. Certainly the representations of the industry itself are welcomed by the Government, and we have had new suggestions put to us by the National House Builders Registration Council and the Scottish Association of Registered House Builders and we are considering them very seriously.
§ Mr. Bruce-GardyneWill the Minister of State not agree that withdrawal of the Measure which the House was discussing yesterday, designed to increase the burden on rates of the housing deficits in Scotland, would be a substantial step in assistance in the direction which his hon. Friend desires?
§ Dr. MabonNo. I do not agree. I think I made a very good speech last night—at least, so I have been told. I really do feel that the hon. Gentleman has got this the wrong way round. We ought to extend the fair rent system into the private sector even more.