asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the difficulties facing many companies arising from the delays in bringing into effect the new home improvement scheme grants; and the action he proposes to take in the matter.

I presume that the Deputy has in mind the new grant introduced relating to the replacement of seriously defective external windows and doors. The Government have decided in order to facilitate the operations of the various companies involved to bring forward the operative date for the commencement of the grant to 18 November 1985.

The operative date of 1 December 1985 continues to apply to all other categories of grants, details of which were announced by the Government on 23 October 1985.

Questions down for oral answer today which have not been reached will be sent for written answer unless otherwise requested.