§ 12. Mr. StreeterTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps he is taking to provide sufficient affordable housing in the south-west. [86330]
§ Mr. McNultyThe Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has increased investment. The south-west will receive £74.3million for affordable housing through the Housing Corporation's ADP in 2003–04, up £12.5million on this year. And reforms to the planning process will make the system more responsive to the need for affordable housing. Housing market imbalances are a key consideration as my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister develops a long-term programme of action for thriving communities—my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister has promised to report back to the House on this in the new year.