To ask the Scottish Executive what financial assistance is available to owner-occupier pensioners residing in blocks of flats owned by local authorities to participate in the installation of improved secure entry systems by the managing housing association.

To ask the Scottish Executive what financial assistance is available to owner occupiers with disabilities residing in blocks of flats owned by local authorities to participate in the installation of improved secure entry systems by the managing housing association.

Financial assistance to owner-occupiers in blocks of flats mainly owned by local authorities or registered social landlords is provided through Housing Improvement and Repairs grants, administered by the local authority. Most grants are paid at the discretion of local authorities, at rates of up to 50% or up to 75%, depending on circumstances. The amount of grant which may be made available makes no distinction between types of owners. At present, installation of secure entry systems would not normally be eligible for grant, although it might be included with a wider programme of improvement, or if required to make the property suitable for a disabled occupant.

The Scottish Executive intends to implement changes made in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, under which the installation of a main door entry-phone system in buildings in common ownership will be specifically identified as work eligible for grant. The amount of grant will depend on the income of the applicant.