To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what instructions will be issued to housing departments' building control and planning authorities by his Department to clarify their relationships and respective responsibilities with regard to the provision of accessible housing.

The Building Regulations Advisory Committee is currently studying the desirability and practicability of extending part M of the Building Regulations, covering access for disabled people, to cover dwellings. Once I have received that advice I will consider what further guidance is given to local authorities.