HC Deb 22 February 1994 vol 238 cc186-7W
Mr. Dunnachie

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will release dedicated funding to enable Scottish local authorities to eradicate dampness in their housing stock; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

Substantial resources totalling some £405 million were made available to local authorities for capital investment in public sector housing in 1993–94. These allocations are generally not earmarked for specific purposes and it is for local authorities themselves to determine their own policies and priorities for meeting local housing needs including projects to deal with dampness. However, as part of the new housing plan system all local housing authorities have been asked to develop a strategy for tackling damp housing in their areas.

I will announce the allocations for 1994–95 shortly.