asked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the total sum of money which he has so far approved for loan sanction for the purchase of second-hand and new dwellings, respectively, by local authorities under Circular 111/74; and what is the total number of dwellings in each case.

Returns so far received from authorities in Wales indicate a total committed expenditure of £4,033,304 under the general consent contained in Circular 111/74 for specified categories. My right hon. and learned Friend approved the issue of loan sanction in the total sum of £983,027 for the acquisition of existing dwellings falling outside the categories and £7,728,525 for new dwellings. The number of dwellings involved is 698, 164 and 853 respectively.