HC Deb 29 June 1977 vol 934 cc261-2W
20. Mr. Hicks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will issue advice to local authorities on the adequate fulfilment of their functions of

to enable full use to be made of the provision which we have made for housebuilding by local authorities.

The level of the private sector building programme depends upon decision by builders and developers. There are indications that they are expanding their activities to match improving prospects, and our proposals for Government help for first-time purchasers should further assist the industry.

35. Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the level of housing starts made in 1977.

Mr. Armstrong

No. My right hon. Friend indicated in the debate on 20th June—[Vol. 933, c. 921–4]—that the figures so far this year have been disappointing; and he outlined the steps we are taking about the allocations to local authorities. In the private sector there are encouraging indications of growing confidence, and our proposals in the Green Paper for Government aid to first-time purchasers should further assist the industry.

42. Mr. Moonman

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the number of private to public housing completions in new towns for the years 1972 to 1977 to the latest available date.

Mr. Guy Barnett

Following are the figures:

providing correct information in respect of property search inquiries; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Guy Barnett

No. We are not aware of any general need to give local authorities guidance on this subject.