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Labour Conference - Housing

Labour Conference - Housing Minister John Healey speaks

There can be no doubt the Labour Conference delivered many thought provoking speeches and plans for the party, and housing minister Healey's speech is included in this.

He confirmed to Conference that the party were tightening rules to help ensure those struggling to pay mortgages were not ousted from their homes.  This involves the new rule that lenders will have to inform local councils when they file for repossession actions in court.  From this, the councils then have a number of special rescue schemes they can implement to support the homeowners, as well as have the opportunity to offer advice.

He further reiterated the party's commitment to its Housing Pledge within the Backing Britain's Future policy - ensuring investment of an extra £1.5 billion to encourage developers to restart building plans halted by the recession.

He reconfirmed support to councils in building council homes, intending for more council homes to be built than has been in any one year for nearly two decades.  But going one step further, Healey announced a second phase of funding to councils ready to build these homes now, invited bidding before the end of October, and aimed to give the go ahead for 1200 new homes by Christmas.

The housing minister also tied his policies to others in the Labour party, stating his intention to inform councils, housing associations and private developers that public funding can be acquired, on the condition that apprenticeships and local jobs are on offer.  This would aim for 3000 apprenticeships over the next two years as part of the Labour Party's pledge to provide jobs and skills.

For further information on Conference, or on housing matters, please contact Stephanie

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