HC Deb 14 December 1998 vol 322 cc322-3W
Mr. Beggs

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if the assessment of the responses to the housing policy review consultative document, Building on Success, has been completed; what further provision will be made relating to the safety and quality of houses in multiple occupancy in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement. [63238]

Mr. Paul Murphy

The assessment of the responses to the Housing Policy Review conducted under the previous Government, was completed in early 1996. Decisions based on that assessment were published in July]996, in a document 'Building on Success—the Way Ahead'. With one exception, the decisions were subsequently endorsed by the present Government.

With specific reference to Houses in Multiple Occupation, it was proposed to monitor the introduction of the proposals in England and Wales, before considering the implications for Northern Ireland. That remains the case, in order to inform decision making by the Assembly, which will have responsibility for housing matters in future.