HC Deb 01 November 1990 vol 178 c724W
Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will outline the programme he intends to follow in providing additional finance to housing associations(a) in the current financial year and (b) in the 1991–92 financial year in order to ensure adequate availability of appropriate housing to match the requirements of his programme for the implementation of care in the community.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

Responsibility for identifying and planning for community care needs lies with social work authorities. As part of that process, social work authorities will be consulting housing associations and other voluntary housing agencies to ensure these needs are met.

My right hon. and learned Friend, through Scottish Homes, funds the overall provision for housing associations. In 1990–91 the total housing association programme is expected to be £208 million. The total for 1991–92 has not yet been determined.

It is for the housing associations themselves, in consultation with local authorities and Scottish Homes, to determine what proportion of their programme is devoted to community care.