HC Deb 02 July 1980 vol 987 cc1520-2
17. Mr. Shersby

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from the hon. Member for Uxbridge concerning the repair of flats constructed under the Bison wallframe system; and if he will announce his policy for assisting local authorities to remedy the defects that have now emerged as a result of using this type of building for their housing programmes.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

My hon. Friend has made representations both through parliamentary question and correspondence. We have concluded that we cannot offer special Government assistance under the existing subsidy system. It remains for decision whether the costs of such remedial works should count under the new subsidy system which we propose bringing into effect on 1 April next. We expect to make our view on this point known in the near future.

Mr. Shersby

Does my hon. Friend agree that in the light of the defects which have now come to light in the Bison wall frame system, it is reasonable to cast doubt on the validity of the National Building Agency certificate? When will his Department make available to Hillingdon council its appraisal of the remedial work required? Will it give guidance on carrying out such work?

Mr. Finsberg

The situation on industrialised building is that successive Governments have recognised the contribution which the use of industrialised building methods can make towards meeting housing need at reasonable cost. Concerning the NBA situation, I shall need to have further consultations, but I hope that it will not be too long before the requisite information is available.

Mr. Allan Roberts

Will the Minister give a rough estimate of how many of these Bison wallframe system flats are likely to be purchased under the right-to-buy provisions? If the people living in that kind of accommodation do not purchase what chance will they have of getting a transfer out of this catastrophic accommodation into other houses, if they are all sold off?

Mr. Finsberg

Bearing in mind your injunction, Mr. Speaker, I shall answer the first of those two questions. The properties would have a reduced value, and I am certain that a large number of tenants would be delighted to have the chance to buy, which is denied by authorities such as those of Manchester and Birmingham.