asked the Minister of Local Government and Planning if he is aware of the unsatisfactory operation of the five to one ratio in the issue of building licences in many districts; and if he will now either alter the ratio so as to allow of a greater number of private houses being built or preferably sanction an overall increase in the total number of licences which local authorities may issue.

No. My right hon. Friend is, however, ready to consider on their merits proposals submitted by particular local authorities.

asked the Minister of Local Government and Planning if he will now allow additional building licences for people who wish to erect houses in their spare time.

I am prepared in such circumstances to consider applications from individual authorities to increase the proportion of houses to be built under licence.