HC Deb 27 February 2003 vol 400 cc727-8W
Ms Oona King

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many new affordable homes for(a) key workers and (b) other groups in housing need he expects the funding announced in Sustainable Communities: Building for the Future, to deliver in each Government Office region in 2003–04. [98515]

Mr. McNulty

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister expects to deliver around 21,000 units via the Housing Corporation's Approved Development Programme in 2003/04. This includes units to be delivered under the Challenge Fund, a significant proportion of which will be allocated to key workers in London, the South East and East of England regions.

Ms Oona King

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister whether the other relevant organisations identified in paragraph 6.9 of Sustainable Communities: Building for the Future, that may be invited to be involved in the proposed regional housing boards, include representatives of(a) tenants and residents associations and (b) voluntary sector organisations working with those who are homeless or in housing need. [98529]

Mr. McNulty

Decisions on the precise composition of the board are a matter for agreement within the region. However, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister does not expect the membership to be much wider than the organisations listed. The board will need to work with any existing regional housing forum, tenants and residents representatives and other housing groups, which will need to be closely involved in the development of the Regional Housing Strategy. The involvement of the Regional Assembly in the board will provide a direct link to a wide range of stakeholders, including voluntary and community groups.