HC Deb 10 March 1977 vol 927 cc651-2W
Mr. Welsh

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what specific studies of Scottish housing fiance he has instituted over the past year.

Mr. Hugh D. Brown

Arising out of the Government's review of housing policies and finance, working parties of local authority and Scottish Office officials have been examining proposals for a new system of policy and programme planning for housing and for reforming the system of public sector housing subsidies. Research on the operation of the lower price end of the housing market for owner occupation has been commissioned from Glasgow and Aberdeen Universities. A review of the operation of the Rent Acts in Scotland is being instituted.

Mr. Welsh

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he intends to issue a review of Scottish housing finance methods; what studies he has undertaken with reference to such a review; and what consultations he has had on this matter.

Mr. Hugh D. Brown

A wide-ranging review of housing policies and finance in Scotland is being carried out in parallel with a review for England and Wales. Its findings are being considered and will be published as soon as possible in a Green Paper. The Scottish review has been carried out with the advice of a subcommittee of the Scottish Housing Advisory Committee. I would also refer the hon. Member to my answer to his Question today on studies on housing finance.