§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) how many houses for renting(a) Tai Cymru and (b) other housing associations in Wales have developed on mainly private estates in each year since 1991–92;
(2) what are the figures for underspending by housing associations in Wales for each year since 1991–92;
(3) how many houses from the private sector have been bought by housing associations in Wales for renting in each year since 1991–92 and 1993–94.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesThis is primarily a matter for Housing for Wales. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member and I shall place a copy of his reply in the Library of the House.
§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what are the guidelines to housing associations on buying houses from the private sector; what assessment he has280W made as to whether they are sufficiently flexible to ensure that there is a balance of rented accommodation and privately owned houses provided in communities.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesPurchases from the private sector need the approval of Housing for Wales. In determining a particular application Housing for Wales will take into account both the economic and the social implications
§ Mr. Jonathan EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received concerning the housing allocation policies of Welsh local housing authorities; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesI have received 31 responses to the Department's consultation exercise on allocation of council housing, policies and procedure. I have asked the housing management advisory panel for Wales to prepare a good practice guide for local authorities taking account of those responses. Responses to the Department's consultation paper, "Access to Local Authority and Housing Association Tenancies", have been invited by 18 March.