HC Deb 19 January 1998 vol 304 cc369-70W
Miss Widdecombe

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what level of grant support is envisaged for the Staying Put scheme; and if he will make a statement. [23100]

Mr. Raynsford

Government funding for home improvement agencies, also known as "Staying Put" or "Care and Repair" schemes, has been increased by £¾ million (17 per cent.) to £5.214 million for 1998–99. Bids for funding for individual agencies are currently being assessed and we expect to announce the outcome next month.