asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with existing arrangements to deal with temporary removal costs incurred by PRC owners and local authorities; and if he will make a statement.

It is for the local authority to decide, in any particular case, whether costs of temporary accommodation during repair might be eligible for assistance, in accordance with the provisions of the housing defects legislation. The Department has given guidance on this to the local authority associations and will continue to monitor the position.