§ Mr. Rowlandsasked the Secretary of State for Wales what has been the average increase in house prices since June, 1970; and what measures he proposes to take to reduce house prices in Wales.
§ Mr. Peter ThomasIt is estimated that the average price of new private houses in Wales mortgaged with building societies increased by 9 per cent. from 1970 to 1971 and second-hand houses mortgaged with building societies by 8 per cent. The best way of keeping prices down is to increase supply, and the Government's policies are achieving this result. 21 per cent. more houses in the private sector were started in Wales in 1971 than in 1970 and 6 per cent. more completed. There is every reason to hope for a continuation of this rising trend.