HC Deb 04 February 1981 vol 998 cc149-50W
Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his estimate of the number of empty dwellings in England and Wales at the latest date for which figures are available.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

The housing investment strategies and plans—HIP—bids from local authorities for 1981–82 indicate around 650,000 empty dwellings.

The situation regarding Wales is a matter for my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Wales.