§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he has any proposals to release empty property belonging to his Department for use by homeless people; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GristThe Welsh Office currently holds some 150 dwellings. Where practical, they are used for letting or sale to those in need.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on homelessness in Wales.
§ Mr. Grist1 am concerned as long as there are any families in Wales without permanent homes. That is why the Government have made such a substantial investment in recent years in measures to increase the supply of housing available. We have also encouraged local authorities to make better use of their stock and reduce the number of families in bed-and-breakfast accommodation.