§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his estimate of the likely expenditure by local authorities on mandatory home renovation grants in 1990–91 in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GristIn view of the uncertainties of forecasting demand and the likely take-up of the new scheme, we have set no limit on the amount which local authorities can spend on mandatory home renovation grants next year.
Expenditure plans for local authority capital spending in 1990–91 currently include £75 million to cover expenditure on mandatory home renovation grants, together with any improvement grants remaining to be paid under the existing grant system. If in the event demand exceeds that level, additional resources will be made available.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his estimate of the number of jobs created by the use of mandatory home renovation grants in Wales in 1989–90 and 1990–91; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerNo firm estimates have been made although I am sure that the benefits to the private sector will be considerable.