§ Mr. Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the future programme of work and staffing levels of his Housing Development Directorate.
§ Mr. HeseltineIn May 1979 the staff in post in the Housing Development Directorate was 82; it is now 77. Its current responsibilities are to collect basic data and monitor policies on housing conditions; to provide advice and to carry out research on housing needs of the elderly, disabled and other special groups; to formulate technical policy and advice, and to carry out research and development on heating and energy conservation in new and existing housing; to monitor, develop and provide advice on project control systems; to direct the priority estates project and provide research and advice on housing management issues; to provide advice and research on home ownership108W and to promote the provision of homes for sale; to collect and disseminate information on good practice in housing design, including management of the good design awards in housing scheme; to formulate policy and advice on local authority works contracts; and to advise on and promote reliability and quality in housing construction.