§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he will take to encourage the provision of low-cost starter homes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GristWe have made record provision for housing associations in Wales, not least because they are in a good position to provide starter homes. The Housing for Wales programme for 1989–90 itself allows for significant investment in new low-cost home ownership schemes. I shall be in touch with local authorities and other interests very soon as regards planning considerations for houses in rural areas.
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§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he will take to provide low-cost rented accommodation in conjunction with (i) housing associations, (ii) local authorities and (iii) the private sector; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GristWe welcome the hon. Gentleman's interest in mixed funding. We have encouraged housing associations and local authorities to work together to provide homes for rent as well as for shared ownership. Some £15 million of private investment in social housing is expected to be attracted to Wales in 1989–90 on top of the publicly funded programme of over £70 million.