§ Mr. David Watkinsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what resources have been made available to Derwentside District Council, County Durham, for modernisation of council houses for 1974–75 and are proposed for 517W 1975–76; and if he will increase the amount in view of the extensive number of old properties.
§ Mr. FreesonThe expenditure on existing dwellings and estates in Derwentside District Council's ownership in 1974–75 was approximately £2,500,000. The council's allocation for house improvement in 1975–76 under Section 105 of the Housing Act 1974 is £1,500,000. It is for the local authority itself to determine how its allocation should be used but it is hoped the council will give some priority to that part of its housing stock comprising older dwellings lacking standard amenities. An application by the council for a supplementary allocation under Section 105 to improve to a high standard certain houses acquired from the National Coal Board is currently under consideration.