§ Mr. Andersonasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy towards the role of local housing authorities in providing new accommodation for categories other than special needs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TraceyI have been asked to reply.
The main priority for local authorities must be the renovation and repair of their existing housing. For new accommodation to rent, our main aim is to diversify the supply and increase the choice available to tenants by creating opportunities for private sector organisations to become involved in meeting a wider range of housing needs. Local authorities are ideally placed to co-ordinate and encourage participation in this task by a variety of agencies, including building societies, other financial institutions, private developers, and housing associations.