§ Ms. HarmanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will establish special funds for councils undertaking removal of asbestos from housing estates where the health of tenants is threatened; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveNo. Local authorities have the opportunity to draw any special needs to the attention of the Department in their annual housing investment programme submissions and meetings. Funds are not made available specifically for asbestos removal programmes, but rate support grant is paid in support of local authorities revenue expenditure generally, including expenditure on asbestos. It is for local authorities themselves to determine their own priorities for expenditure within the resources available.