§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) how many applications there have been from local authorities for play space subsidy on new and existing estates under the terms of Circular 79/72;
(2) what is the total number of play spaces that have been made available through the subsidy offered in Circular 79/72;
(3) what is the total amount that has been allocated as a the latest available date for the provision of play spaces under the term of Circular 79/72.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThe first of a system of annual analyses recently instituted by my Department shows that new housing schemes in England receiving approval, at tender stage, between September 1974 and June 1975 included 87,924 child bed spaces. Those schemes included provision for play space for 46,239 bed spaces. It is estimated that this represents expenditure on play space, on which subsidy is payable at the normal rate of 66 per cent. of approximately £2 million. It is not practicable to give comparable figures for existing estates, or to give the information requested about applications. As my hon. Friend knows, the subsidy for play space is one which authorities are entitled to, and receive, provided the recommendations of the relevant circulars are observed: and they do not have to make a separate application for it.
§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what application from the Knowsley Borough Council for subsidy for play spaces under the terms of Circular 19/72 he has had; and what has been the result of this application;
(2) what application for a subsidy for play space under the term of Circular 907W 79/72 he has received from the West Lancashire District Council; and what was the result of this application.
§ Mr. ArmstrongBoth councils have included proposals for play space for children under Circular 79/72 in one new scheme. Both schemes have been approved for yardstick purposes. Details can be obtained from the authorities.
§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his current policy on families with young children living in flats.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThe Department's Circular 35/73 drew attention to the need for families with young children to be housed at low level wherever possible.