§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans the Government have to encourage local authorities to increase house building programmes in the inner areas of large cities.
§ Mr. FreesonWe have just concluded a series of regional consultations with local authorities and house builders with the object of increasing the housing programme. The financial and legislative framework of the Housing Act 1974, the Housing Rents and Subsidies Act 1975 and other measures taken on the cost yardstick and various policy circulars provide the basis for increased house building, municipalisation and renovation of old properties in inner city areas. I am always ready to consider particular problems in stepping up such programmes, if my hon. Friend will give me 267W details. Meanwhile, he will also have noted that the savings in capital expenditure announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer involve no reduction in the building of new council houses.