§ 45. Mr. Molloyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations he has had with the London Borough of Ealing regarding their building programme, in view of that Council having over 5,000 families on its register needing re-housing.
§ Mr. ChannonI have had correspondence with the Council and hope that they will be proceeding energetically with a programme of improvement of properties which can be improved, and at the same time a substantial programme of new building, both by themselves and through charitable housing associations which they are assisting so as to enable the houses to be let to those in the greatest need. My right hon. Friend is writing to all London boroughs about their building programmes.
§ Mr. MolloyI am grateful that the Minister has been in touch with the borough council. However, he must be joking to give the House that kind of answer from the Ealing Borough Council. I would point out that this council received a black mention from the Estimates Committee because of its appalling housing record. Therefore, will the Minister, if he wishes to make a reality of some of the things that his right hon. Friend has been saying about solving the housing problem in London, visit the London Borough of Ealing and take on the herculean task of trying to instil some sense of urgency and compassion into that council regarding its housing problem?
§ Mr. ChannonI certainly do not accept what the hon. Gentleman said. The difficulties faced by many councils under 1084 the previous Administration are well known. They are being faced by councils of all political persuasions. As I pointed out, my right hon. Friend is in touch with all the London boroughs about their building programmes.