HC Deb 13 March 2002 vol 381 c1110W
Mr. Kidney

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer which of his Ministers has the lead responsibility for policy on housing equity release. [41305]

Ms Keeble

I have been asked to reply.

It is primarily the responsibility of the financial lenders to ensure that good quality equity release products are available. As Housing Minister, I am particularly interested in how local authorities will use their proposed new powers, contained in draft legislation currently before Parliament, to provide financial assistance to improve housing conditions. I also take a close interest in monitoring the impact of the developing equity release products on our overall policy to promote sustainable home ownership.