§ Mr. McElhoneasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to encourage greater provision of housing suitable for occupation by physically handicapped people.
§ Mr. William RossA circular was Issued on 29th May to housing and social work authorities providing general guidance on ways of effectively meeting the special housing needs of physically handicapped people and urging local authorities to give greater priority to these needs in allocating their housing resources. The contents of the circular will also be drawn to the attention of housing associations, the new town development corporations, the Scottish Special Housing Association and regional and district health boards. The circular recommends that housing for physically handicapped people should be integrated with general needs housing and provides other guidance on the considerations which housing authorities should take into account in determining locations for such housing. Comprehensive design standards for housing for physically handicapped people will be issued as soon as possible.