§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how he proposes to assist unitary authorities in Wales to increase their provision of social housing in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [6100]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsI have asked Tai Cymru to increase the provision of social housing this year. We will also assist unitary authorities through our capital receipts initiative. This will enable them to increase the provision of social housing which can include partnership arrangements with private and registered social landlords; reduce the number of local authority void properties and make more efficient use of the housing stock. I have issued a consultation paper which encourages Welsh housing authorities to determine the most effective and cost efficient ways of increasing the provision of social housing and improving existing housing stock.