§ Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will extend the qualification period for improvement grants, in view of the fact that some decisions on appeals have not yet been given and there will be no time for the completion of such improvements within the existing permitted time.
§ Mr. FreesonI am aware of the difficulties that could arise because of the requirement of the Housing Act 1971 that improvements in the assisted areas must26W be completed before 23rd June next to qualify for the preferential rate of grant. This is among a number of housing problems which are now receiving urgent attention with a view to deciding which should be tackled as a matter of priority.