§ 14. Mr. William Priceasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many rent rebate schemes have been introduced and improved by local authorities in England and Wales since he recommended rent rebate schemes to all authorities in Circular 46/67 issued on 29th June, 1967.
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Denis Howell)In the two-year period from March, 1967, to March, 1969, the number of housing authorities in England and Wales operating rent rebate schemes increased from about 46 per cent. to about 60 per cent. The number of council tenants covered by these schemes increased from about 64 per cent. to about 80 per cent. Since the circular was issued in June, 1967, many of the schemes then in operation have been improved.
§ Mr. PriceWould my hon. Friend object if I included those figures in my election address as an example of what a Labour Government endeavour to do for the least well off?
§ Mr. HowellMy hon. Friend has made a very perceptive observation.