§ Mr. HindTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his policy on allowing local authorities to opt out of direct housing provision; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierWe have made it clear that we support the idea of councils opting out of direct housing provision, if they do so on the right terms. I have today announced that we have given consent to Chiltern district council to transfer its housing to the Chiltern Hundreds housing association. This is the first such transfer to obtain consent.
Chiltern council has shown considerable vision and enterprise in preparing for this transfer. It has also demonstrated that the needs and aspirations of both the tenants and the Council can be met and furthered by such a scheme. I am sure that other councils who are considering following the same route will be encouraged.