To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps he is taking to increase the number of houses and flats available to key workers. [93777]

Under the Starter Home Initiative, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister aims to help 10,000 key workers to buy homes in areas where the high cost of housing is undermining recruitment and retention. In addition, the Housing Corporation's Challenge Fund in 2003/04 will provide some 2,800 new homes for rent or home ownership for key workers in the South East of England.Next week's announcement by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister will outline our future approach to key workers housing.