§ Mr. GrayTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what his plans are for affordable housing in the South West region; and whether he plans to increase investment in the region in the next comprehensive spending review. [126933]
§ Keith HillThe Office of the Deputy Prime Minister plans for affordable housing in the South West region were set out in "Sustainable Communities in the South West" (February 2003).
Funding for the provision of affordable housing in the South West has increased to £81 million for 2003–04, compared to just under £62 million for 2002–03. The programme is expected to deliver around 2,000 new affordable homes for the region in 2003–04.
From 2004–05 the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is strengthening the role of the regions to ensure housing investment is targeted more effectively on local and regional investment priorities. Regional Housing Boards will advise on the best use of resources to support identified priorities in regional housing strategies.
Decisions on future investment plans cannot be taken in advance of the next spending review.