HC Deb 30 October 1980 vol 991 cc339-40W
Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he now intends to transfer back to social services authorities the central Government grant for adaptations to council housing for disabled tenants, following his decision to impose a moratorium on housing authorities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stanley

Authorities have been asked, in view of possible overspend this year, not to enter into further commitments in housing investment except where statutory obligations are involved, until further notice. They have also been asked to provide revised estimates of expenditure by the end of this week. My right hon. Friend will then consider what further action might be necessary.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how much Government grant was transferred from social services authorities to housing authorities under the terms of paragraph 19 of circular 59/78 in 1979–80 and 1980–81, respectively.

Mr. Stanley

An increase of £1.0 million—at 1979 survey prices—was made in the Department of the Environment's PESC provision for this purpose for each of the years in question and that for the Department of Health and Social Services was correspondingly reduced. These amounts were included in the total of housing investment programme allocations made to local authorities, as foreshadowed in circular 59/78. Expenditure under the terms of paragraph 19 of that circular attracts housing subsidy.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from the director of the Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation on the consequences for disabled people of his announcement of a moratorium on housing expenditure; what reply he is sending; what action he is taking to protect disabled people; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stanley

A letter from the Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation has recently been received and is being considered.

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