HC Deb 28 April 1971 vol 816 cc405-6
13. Mr. Loveridge

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment in view of the large proportion of local authority dwellings in Havering, what steps he proposes to take to help the borough to increase owner occupation in order to provide a better balance in the area.

Mr. Channon

Private enterprise building in Havering has increased considerably during the last 12 months, and the Government's measures to stimulate growth and control inflation, together with the relaxation of restrictions on local authority mortgage lending, the abolition of the betterment levy, the easing of bank credit, and the halving of S.E.T. should all further help to increase owner-occupation both in the borough and elsewhere.

Mr. Loveridge

In view of the great success that Havering has had in bringing in people from other areas, will my hon. Friend give every encouragement to ensure that what little building land remains there is used for home ownership?

Mr. Channon

As my right hon. Friend has made clear on many occasions in the House and elsewhere, we believe that every possible agency in London, both public and private, should be used in the conditions of London housing.

Mr. Wellbeloved

Is the Under Secretary yet able to tell the House by how much he expects builders will be reducing the price of houses as a result of the reduction in S.E.T.?

Mr. Channon

I have already seen a number of reports of people who are doing this. If the hon. Gentleman has a specific question, I shall be glad to answer it.