HC Deb 16 February 1999 vol 325 cc641-2W
Mrs. Laing

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what the budget is for the New Housing Partnership scheme in 1998–99,1999–2000,2000–01 and 2001–02. [70309]

Mr. Macdonald

Following is the information requested:

£ million
New Housing Partnerships selected for funding in May and October 1998 New Housing Partnership bids currently under consideration
1998–99 35 —
1999–2000 30 23
2000–01 20 95
2001–02 5 160

I will be making an announcement shortly about the selection of bids currently under consideration for funding.

From 1 July 1999 this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.

Mrs. Laing

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what the process is by which bids for funding for the New Housing Partnership scheme are scrutinised. [70312]

Mr. Macdonald

Bids for funding are being assessed by the New Housing Partnership Advisory Group against the criteria set out in the Department's letters of invitation. The Group has sought clarification, from some local authorities, on aspects of their bids. The Group will shortly be making recommendations to me on the merits of the bids, and I will make an announcement shortly. From 1 July 1999 this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.

Mrs. Laing

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland who sits on the panel that scrutinises bids for the New Housing Partnership scheme; and how and for what reason they were chosen. [70313]

Mr. Macdonald

The members of the New Housing Partnerships Advisory Group are:M

Scottish office

  • David Belfall (chair)
  • John Breslin
  • Rod Merrall

Convention of Scottish Local Authorities

  • Albert Tait
  • Kenny Simpson

Scottish Federation of Housing Associations

  • David Orr

Chartered Institute of housing

  • John Perry
  • Alan Ferguson

Scottish Homes

  • Stuart Nichol

Chief Executive, Broomleigh Housing Association

  • Keith Exford

The Group provides advice to Ministers on bids received from local authorities for New Housing Partnerships funding.

From 1 July 1999 this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.

Mrs. Laing

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what the criteria are that local authorities have to meet to be entitled to funding from the New Housing Partnership scheme. [70311]

Mr. Macdonald

The criteria for New Housing Partnership funding have been set out in letters issued by the Scottish Office Development Department. A copy of the Department's letter of 24 August 1998, which invites bids for the period 1999–2000, has been placed in the House of Commons Library.

From 1 July 1999 this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.