§ Dr. Godmanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to bring about improvements in the housing stock in Scotland occupied by elderly people; if, in particular, he has any plans to improve the insulation of houses occupied by elderly people; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramIn determining the allocations for capital expenditure by local authorities, the Government give priority to the provision of special needs housing, including housing for the elderly, although within the block allocation system individual local authorities are free to determine how they use the resources allocated to them to improve the level and quality of housing for the elderly. In addition, the Government have approved investment programmes for the SSHA, new towns and the housing association movement which ensure that they play a special part in the provision of housing for the elderly. Since 1979, the number of sheltered and amenity houses for the elderly has risen from 10,400 to over 25,000.
300WIn regard to the insulation of houses occupied by elderly people, the homes insulation scheme 1984 already provides an enhanced rate of grant towards the cost of insulating lofts, including hot and cold water tanks, and pipes where an occupant of the house is in receipt of supplementary pension or allowance, or housing benefit.
It is hoped that the proposals for agency services outlined in the Green Paper. "Home Improvements in Scotland — A New Approach", will be of particular assistance to elderly owner-occupiers wishing to carry out improvements to their homes.