I applaud the swift reaction of the deputy Chief Executive and the Housing Commissioner for arranging to meet Council housing maintenance and repairs contractors in the week beginning 7 February 2005 thus ensuring that this year when budgeted money is available for repairs and improvements to Council homes it will be spent promptly and efficiently for the benefit of Council tenants.

I despair such commendable actions were not done in previous years which caused December underspends of 31%, 41% and 46%.

Has the Chief Executive discussed the budget underspends at any of the Corporate Management Team meetings in the preceding 4 years?