HC Deb 17 February 1977 vol 926 cc315-6W
Mr. Richard Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what factors he takes into account when reviewing his Department's housing cost yardstick.

Mr. Armstrong

The quarterly reviews announced in Circular 61/75 are based primarily on movements in tender prices, which themselves reflect movements in such factors as labour costs, materials costs and the competitive state of the market as well as future trends.

Mr. Richard Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment Vol. 926 what representations he has received from local authorities and their organisations, following his Department's decision in December 1976 to keep the housing cost yardstick at its previous level.

Mr. Armstrong

My right hon. Friend has not received any formal representations.

Mr. Richard Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he is next due to review his Department's housing cost yardstick; and on what date any revised yardstick will become effective.

Mr. Armstrong

The next quarterly review falls to be completed on 23rd March; any change to the level of the yardstick would be effective on that date.

Mr. Richard Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make arrangements to review his Department's housing cost yardstick in advance of the next scheduled review.

Mr. Armstrong

No.