§ Mr. Peter Walkerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what effects the rateable value limits are having on the improvement of property in the housing action areas.
§ Mr. ArmstrongI have no evidence that the rateable value limits are causing difficulties generally in housing action areas. I have, however, received representations that in some particular areas the limits are inhibiting improvement works, and I am prepared to consider the case for increases in areas where rateable values are particularly high. But I should expect many of the higher-rated houses in housing action areas to be more suitable for conversion and already eligible for grant for this purpose.