HC Deb 07 May 1973 vol 856 cc5-6
4. Mr. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what response he has had to his appeal to Welsh local authorities to expedite the release of suitable land for house building; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Returns to date show that about 11,500 acres of land mostly in South Wales have been identified as likely to be available for housing over the next five years.

Mr. Gower

Can my hon. Friend say whether the response is satisfactory? Is it possible that there may be some improvement over and above the figures he has mentioned?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I think that it is satisfactory. I think that in Glamorgan alone 3,900 acres have been identified, and already £2.8 million has been committed in loan consents to four local authorities for the purchase of about 262 acres. I think that the position is encouraging.