§ Mr. MurphyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if Welsh local authorities will continue to provide social housing in Wales.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettAlthough local authorities are no longer the principal providers of new social housing they will continue to play a vital enabling role, in partnership with housing associations and the private sector, and in ensuring that the housing requirements of their areas are appropriately tackled.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy concerning council housing; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettIt is that council housing should be managed and maintained effectively, economically, and in accordance with local housing authorities' statutory obligations; that council tenants should have the opportunity to purchase their homes under statute; that they should also have a genuine choice of landlord; and that housing associations should continue to be the main providers of new subsidised homes for rent, working in close partnership with local authorities.