§ 44. Mr. Hannamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to raise the rateable value limits for disabled persons' home improvement grants.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergMy right hon. Friend has at present no power to do so, but the recently published consultation paper on changes to the renovation grant system includes a proposal to give local authorities discretion to waive rateable value limits in hardship cases where works are for the specific benefit of a disabled person.
§ 45. Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what study he has made of the recently published National Home Improvement Council's survey stating that private 690W sector improvement grants go primarily to wealthier areas; if he will take steps to ensure a wider take-up of such grants; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergWe are studying the results of this survey with interest. The more flexible powers outlined in our recently published consultation paper on improvement and repair are specifically designed to give greater opportunity to match needs and resources.