§ Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what is the average estimated increase in tender prices since the last revision of the cost yardstick;
(2) if he will introduce an additional allowance for local authorities in order to encourage concentration on providing for smaller households as far as new building is concerned;
(3) what plans he has to institute a fundamental investigation into the cost yardstick system; and with whom he has consulted on this matter.
§ Mr. William RossI announced a substantial increase in indicative costs for public sector housing on 20th May. Tender prices may have risen by 2–2½ per cent. during the second quarter of 1975. I shall take into account this and other factors, including the possibility of an additional allowance for small houses, when I review the operation of indicative costs at their new levels.
320WI am instituting a more general review of the housing cost control arrangements and propose to consult the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities at the appropriate stage.