§ Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what guidance he gives to local authorities regarding information in publicity material about stock transfer of local authority homes; and what advice he gives to tenants questioning the accuracy of such information. [36600]
§ Ms KeebleGuidance on publicity material is contained in the Department's "Housing Transfer Guidance—2002 Programme" which includes a Good Practice Guide on consultation material. A copy of this document is in the Library of the House. If tenants have any concerns they should raise them with the local authority or the Independent Tenants Adviser.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions how much was spent in 2001 and what budget is allocated for(a) 2002 and (b) 2003 for early debt redemption costs of housing stock transfers in England and Wales. [37645]
§ Ms KeebleThe Department currently has no budget for this purpose because local authorities in England are required to meet the early debt redemption premiums that may be incurred when authorities repay housing debt at the time of a housing stock transfer. Responsibility for housing in Wales is a devolved issue and is now a matter for the National Assembly for Wales.