HC Deb 31 January 1972 vol 830 cc8-9
8. Mr. McBride

asked the Secretary of State for Wales to what extent he has examined the financial position created for Welsh local authorities who have special house construction problems.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Where Welsh local authorities have special housing construction problems the proposals contained in the Housing Finance Bill will alleviate their burden since subsidies will be directed to the authorities which have the greatest need.

Mr. McBride

I do not believe a word of that. Nor do the Welsh people. Is the Minister aware that I was dealing with a specific project? I draw his attention to the lower Swansea valley. Will he make Government finance available to the local authority for regional development in the derelict areas of the Swansea valley? Is he aware that the cost of rehabilitation to development standards will result in too high a burden to be borne by Swansea City Council? Lastly, is he aware that this project would also provide employment for the unemployed in Swansea?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

If the hon. Member will write to me about the details I will answer him. I cannot be expected to know the details of a particular housing problem unless the hon. Gentleman has given me notice. I will answer him if he writes to me. The housing cost yardstick which is used as the main basis for the payment of subsidies for new house building is designed to take into account any special house construction problems known to the local authorities, and it is kept continuously under review.