§ Mr. Clifton-BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement about the chairmanship and deputy chairmanship of the Housing Corporation. [15599]
§ Mr. GummerI am delighted to announce that Peter Cooke, who is currently deputy chairman of the Housing Corporation, has agreed to take over as chairman of the corporation for six months from 1 April. This will provide proper continuity for the corporation at time of change. Mr. Cooke has a fund of relevant experience in banking and public administration, including nine years on the board of the corporation.
At the same time, George Cracknell, who is already a board member, will become deputy chairman. He is currently chairman of the corporation's finance and audit committee. In his capacity as deputy chairman, Mr. Cracknell will take over from Mr. Cooke as chairman of the registration and supervision committee.
Sir Brian Pearse, the current chairman of the corporation, has indicated that he wishes to stand down when his term of office ends on 31 March 1997. He has led the Housing Corporation very effectively, gaining the respect of everyone in the housing world.