STORY
Members of the House of Lords have debated the Social Housing Bill at second reading, with peers considering measures intended to protect existing social housing stock and strengthen protections for victims of domestic abuse. The Bill also seeks to reduce bureaucracy and repeal unimplemented provisions from previous housing legislation.
Baroness Taylor of Stevenage opened the debate and responded for the Government. The House of Lords said members were expected to raise concerns and identify areas where amendments may be needed as the legislation moves through Parliament.
The Bill forms part of the Government’s wider housing agenda, which includes attempts to increase security for tenants and address shortages in affordable housing. Its progress will be watched by housing associations, councils, domestic abuse charities and opposition parties as ministers try to show momentum on one of Labour’s central domestic policy areas.