The DCLG's permanent secretary has been grilled by MPs over the controversial pathfinders regeneration scheme. Peter Housden clashed with Commons public accounts committee chairman, Edward Leigh, over its impact on local communities. Mr Leigh claimed there had been a lack of leadership and there was uncertainty over funding. He also questioned why, after spending £2.2bn and demolishing 10,000 houses, the department was unable to measure the scheme's impact. Mr Housden hit back: ‘We are able to measure its impact. This is a long-term programme with a 15-year lifespan.' He also defended the scheme against accusations that it was based on policy rather than practice. ‘I don't believe what the programme has done is based on theoretical analysis,' he said. ‘From the start, we recognised that engaging with local communities was crucial.' Mr Leigh asked if the department was worried by the possible impact of the sub-prime lending crisis on the scheme. But his concern was dismissed by the DCLG chief. ‘We were careful to make sure individuals are being offered loan products they can afford on a long-term basis,' he said.
