HC Deb 28 October 1976 vol 918 cc384-5W
Mr. D. E. Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what proportion of council house costs in Wales were met by unrebated rent in 1972–73, 1973–74, 1974–75 and 1975–76.

Mr. Alec Jones

It is estimated that in the financial years 1972–73, 1973–74, 1974–75 and 1975–76, unrebated rents offset 78 per cent., 74 per cent., 56 per cent and 57 per cent. respectively of the total expenditure in the housing revenue account.

Mr. D. E. Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what percentage margin he considers to be necessary in housing starts in Wales to allow for mobility, redevelopment and improvement.

Mr. Alec Jones

Studies of housing situations in England and Wales over a number of years suggest that a minimum vacancy rate of 4 per cent. of the total housing stock is necessary for the market to operate effectively, and to allow for mobility, redevelopment and improvement.