asked the Minister for the Environment if he proposes to increase the £1,000 grant for new houses.

I have no proposals at present for an increase in the new house grant of £1,000.

Would the Minister say that recent newspaper reports to that effect that the Government intended to increase the grant to £3,000 are totally without foundation?

That is a matter for the papers. I cannot control what the papers do. All I can say is that I have no proposal at present for increasing the new house grant of £1,000. The Deputy will understand that I am not responsible for the media and what they publish.

Is the Minister not aware that this rumour has had a very adverse effect on house sales because naturally potential purchasers are not anxious to enter into commitments when there is a rumour that the grant may be increased? Would the Minister make the situation abundantly clear for the benefit of potential purchasers and the housing industry generally?

I have stated that I have no proposals at present for an increase in the new house grant of £1,000. I cannot be held responsible for speculation. The Deputy will appreciate that there has been a lot of speculation in all my time in Dáil Éireann.

It would be helpful if the Minister would say whether he envisages there being any increase in the level of the grant during the remainder of 1981?

If the Deputy puts down that question I shall have it looked after.

You know there is no proposal now?

There is no proposal at present.

How far does "at present" extend?

Ceist 6.

I have answered the question put down. I said I have no proposals to increase the £1,000 grant at present.

It will not be in the manifesto?