HC Deb 30 March 2004 vol 419 cc1382-3W
Mr. Austin Mitchell

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what assessment he makes of the fulfilment by registered social landlords of promises made to tenants in large scale voluntary transfers. [162710]

Keith Hill

The published research is contained in a DETR Research Report entitled 'Views on the Large Scale Voluntary Transfer Process (May 2000)', which explored whether tenants believed that the registered social landlords (RSLs) had delivered on promises made to tenants at time of transfer. The majority of respondents in the case study areas said that their landlord had delivered on at least some of their promises, with only 9 per cent. saying that the RSL had failed to deliver.

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Corporation have commissioned a long term evaluation of the programme, which will record what promises have been made to tenants and track whether these are being met.

Mr. Hoban

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what account he has made of the proposals set out in the Lyons Report in assessing future demands for housing in(a) the south east and (b) Hampshire. [164584]

Keith Hill

The requirements for housing in the south east, including Hampshire are set out in Regional Planning Guidance issued in 2001.

The requirements are in the process of being reviewed by the South East Regional Assembly who will need to take account of any impact the proposals in the Lyons Report may have on future demands for housing in the south east and Hampshire. The Government expect to receive a draft strategy in 2005 which will then be subject to public examination.

Mr. Flook

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what guidance his Department has issued with respect to levels of new-house building in the south west region; which sites in that region are targeted for development; and if he will make a statement. [164590]

Keith Hill

Regional Planning Guidance for the South West (RPG10) published in September 2001 gives guidance on the levels of additional housing for which provision should be made in the region's structure plans over the period 1996–2016. It does not indicate specific sites. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has no plans to make a statement.