§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with building societies' representatives about schemes to prevent the increase in repossessions and help for people falling behind with mortgage payments; and if he will make a statement.
222W
§ Mr. YeoAs part of our continuing discussions with banks and building societies, my right hon. Friend met the Council of Mortgage Lenders earlier this month. In addition to the help already available to some borrowers through income support and through shared ownership schemes, discussion included steps to see that reductions in base rates were passed promptly to borrowers and that links between lenders, local authorities and local DSS offices are improved to ensure that no property is needlessly repossessed.