Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Renton (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 29 March 2006.

Housing: Market Renewal Pathfinder Programmes

Question: My Lords, although I have been in Parliament for more than 60 years, I have never before seen the expression "transformational agenda". Does the noble Baroness know what it means? If so, could she tell us?

Answer: My Lords, I take the point that the noble Lord is always anxious that clarity of language should be the business of the Government. I have visited areas and walked the streets to see nothing but boarded-up houses and then, in the next street, I have seen nice, Victorian houses that have been refurbished and are now warmer, more comfortable and better able to cope with families in those areas. I have spoken to the people who have been rehoused and witnessed their pleasure at having a garden for the first time or separate bedrooms for their children. That is what we mean by "transformation".

Secondary information