Central Housing Advisory Committee

HC Deb 12 May 1971 vol 817 cc367-8

42. Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what meetings the Central Housing Advisory Committee held during April, 1971, and what decisions were taken concerning the Committee's future programme.

Mr. Channon

The Committee met on 26th April under the Chairmanship of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Construction. It was agreed that for the future meetings should be called as necessary to deal with specific housing matters. A further meeting was fixed for July.

Mr. Finsberg

Will my hon. Friend consider asking the Committee to prepare a report on closer involvement of council tenants in the management of their estates, thus following the excellent example of the Conservative-controlled G.L.C. and the London Borough of Camden?

Mr. Channon

I certainly take note of what my hon. Friend says, and I shall take the Committee's view on the matter when we have the opportunity of meeting in July.

Mr. Freeson

Reverting to the original Question and answer, will the hon. Gentleman tell us whether there will be a reduction in the number of meetings of this very important and helpful Committee?

Mr. Channon

The timing and agenda of further meetings will be discussed in July. The intention at the moment is that meetings should be called to discuss specific topics. For example, on the next occasion the Committee will discuss the report of the Francis Committee.

Mr. Freeson

Will there be a reduction in the number of meetings?

Mr. Channon

As I said, the timing and agenda is to be settled in July.