§ 17. Mr. LivseyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the provision of affordable housing in rural Wales.
§ Mr. GristWe are taking a wide range of measures to stimulate the provision of additional affordable housing in rural Wales, including substantial spending by housing associations and consultations about planning guidance on the provision of land for low-cost housing.
§ Mr. LivseyIs the Minister really aware of the housing crisis in rural Wales? Many youngsters are having to sleep outside and even in cars, and it is estimated that there are 100 such youngsters in Newtown. Does the Minister agree that the Welsh Office should change its planning rules so that rented housing and starter homes can remain in the local housing market for local people?
§ Mr. GristThat is precisely why Housing in Wales has launched its rural initiative, with 31 on-site schemes in preparation at the moment. The hon. Gentleman will know that we have out for consultation proposals that would make the planning laws a little more amenable to the sort of proposals that he suggests.