To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on housing conditions in (a) Cynon Valley and (b) Wales as a whole.

The findings of our 1986 Welsh house condition survey show that significant improvements have been made in the condition of the Welsh housing stock but in a few areas much remains to be done. The Cynon Valley stands out as having a large proportion of unfit dwellings, many of which are in need of major repairs. I am disappointed that the significant improvements made in some other areas have not been mirrored in the Cynon Valley. I am, however, pleased that the borough council has now accepted the need for a strategic approach and has published a housing strategy. My officials are to meet the authority shortly and will discuss the approach they propose.