HC Deb 06 May 1981 vol 4 cc139-40
6. Mr. Campbell-Savours

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will undertake a review of the housing investment programme allocations for Allerdale district council.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg)

No, Sir. Allerdale district council was given a fair share of the housing resources available for 1981–82.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Is the Minister aware that the HIP allocations to Allerdale have been cut since 1979, when they were £5.6 million, to just over £3 million this year? Is he further aware that that has destroyed the new start of the Allerdale district council's construction programme, cut to shreds its improvement programme and greatly damaged the possibility of Allerdale being able to provide for the 2,170 people who desperately need accommodation?

Mr. Finsberg

We understand what the hon. Gentleman is saying. Allerdale's allocation for 1981–82 is generous in the difficult circumstances of the year. Its percentage share of the regional total has increased significantly, and it could be topped up with right-to-buy receipts.