asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs how many local authorities have applied, under the terms of the Local Employment Act, for grants for the clearing of derelict sites; how many applications have been successful; and what has been the total cost involved.

At the end of January 23 local authorities in England and Wales had applied for grants. Ten applications had been approved subject to consideration of final estimates of cost. The estimated gross cost of the schemes approved amounts to £184,500.