§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the conclusions of the Building Societies Association report, "Mortgage Repayment Difficulties," a copy of which has been sent to him, in so far as they relate to his responsibilities.
§ Mr. GowThe report from the Building Societies Association puts the issue of mortgage repayment difficulties into proportion. It shows that over 99 per cent. of building societies' borrowers are able to maintain their mortgage payments, and that the single most important cause of arrears is matrimonial problems. For those who are in difficulties, the report suggests how societies can help. I am grateful to the association for publishing its findings.