§ Mr. HawkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many homes have been provided in the private rented sector as a result of the assured tenancy initiative, both in total for the United Kingdom and by region; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeIt is too early to assess the overall impact of deregulation on the supply of rented accommodation, but there are clear signs of increased interest in residential lettings. In particular, over £370 million has been invested in business expansion scheme companies letting on assured tenancies, which will provide some 7,000 new homes to let in Great Britain. In addition, some 18,000 homes will be completed by housing associations in England in the current financial year, for letting on assured tenancies.