HC Deb 02 July 1982 vol 26 cc415-6W
Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the percentage increase in the United Kingdom in council house rents from April 1979 to the latest date (a) nationally and (b) in the West Midlands; and how this compares with the increase in the retail price index in the same period.

Sir George Young

For England and Wales unrebated council house rents are provisionally estimated to have increased on average by some 112 per cent. between April 1979 and April 1982. In the West Midlands region the increase is provisionally estimated at some 113 per cent.

Over the same period the retail prices index increased by 49 per cent. For rents in Scotland and Northern Ireland, I refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Scotland and Northern Ireland respectively.

Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the percentage increase in council house rents which local authorities are expected to raise in council house rents in 1982–83.

Sir George Young

Rents in April 1982 are provisionally estimated to be 19 per cent. higher than a year previously. Increases in council rents during the remainder of 1982–83 will be dependent on the decisions of individual authorities.