§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will be taking into account the research his Department has commissioned from the university of Wales on housing allocations in the drafting of the new code of guidance on allocation which will accompany part UI of the Housing Bill, allocation of housing accommodation. [39622]
§ Mr. ClappisonYes.
§ Mr. SykesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he proposes to commence the provisions on housing allocations and homelessness contained in the Housing Bill; and if he will make a statement. [39913]
§ Mr. CurryWe intend that the new legislation should have full effect from early January 1997. During the summer and autumn of this year my officials will be preparing the draft secondary legislation and preliminary guidance associated with these provisions, in liaison with the local authority associations, other housing providers, the housing profession and the voluntary sector. We intend to have all the essential provisions in place well before full commencement, so that local authorities will have the proper opportunity to establish the arrangements necessary to ensure the smooth implementation of this important new legislation.