§ Mr. George Rodgersasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will take steps to improve housing management services in the public sector; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CroslandYes. Local authorities and housing associations should adopt forward-looking management policies and practices which are sensitive to the changing pattern of housing needs. I have been reassured to learn that during recent discussions on this subject local authority associations and other interested bodies recognised this. They also expressed a strong desire for greater involvement by the Department in its advisory role. I am considering what can be done about this. In particular, I am examining proposals for a small housing management advisory group, within the Department, with the following main functions:
- i. to identify and foster the application of good professional practice in the field of housing management, and promote the exchange of ideas and the spread of information;
- ii. to advise the Department on the practical implications of existing housing policies and to assist in the formulation of new policies; and
- iii. to establish and preserve new links between all bodies who have a contribution to make to the development of a comprehensive and efficient housing management service.
As a first step I intend to appoint a housing management advisor, whose 289W initial task will be to make recommendations on the organisation needed to perform these functions.
One of the major problems facing housing authorities and housing associations is the scarcity of qualified professional staff, in this field. It is my intention to consider what positive help the Department can give in order to remedy this and to increase the opportunities for training and education for housing management. A fresh initiative on this front must embrace not only those who will reach the highest positions in the housing service, but all who work in it, at whatever level.