18. To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what steps he has taken to allow local authorities more discretion over criteria for allocation of social housing. (284357)

We will bring forward proposals within the next few weeks.

19. To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what further steps his Department is taking to ensure that a greater proportion of social housing meets the Decent Homes standard; and if he will make a statement. (284358)

The day to day management of the Decent Homes Programme transferred to the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) on 1 December 2008. The HCA is working with the Tenant Services Authority and with local authorities and other social landlords through the Single Conversation process and other contact, in order to develop and support strategies for delivery.