HC Deb 08 March 2004 vol 418 cc1375-6W
Ms Walley

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to publish data on rodent infestations in domestic premises based on the rolling annual English House Condition Survey. [158098]

Mr. Bradshaw

I have been asked to reply.

The English house Condition Survey was re-organised as a continuous survey from financial year 2002–03. First results from the survey will be available for analysis from end 2004 with a view to reporting in mid 2005 and based on data from the period 2002–03 to 2003–04. In future years, annual results will be available based on rolling combinations of two year data sets (ie next results will be available for analysis by end 2005 based on the period 2003–04 and 2004–05). This approach will provide a robust base for analysis and monitoring of change.

ODPM expect to publish a core set of national results, not covering rodent information but focussed on decent homes, using the combined two-year data set (2002–03 to 2003–04) by early next year. These results will report the condition of the housing stock as a mid-point average over the two year period (ie as at 1 April 2003) as well as change over time (ie since 2001). For subsequent years, core results will be released annually based on overlapping data sets.

Ms Walley

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when he expects to publish the results of the 2001 English Home Conditions Survey relating to rodent infestations in domestic properties; and if he will make a statement. [158100]

Mr. Bradshaw

I have been asked to reply.

Central Science Laboratory's analyses of the 2001 English House Condition Survey data are nearing completion and Defra are expected to have the report by the end of March.

The report will subsequently be placed in the public domain following further consideration by the Department.