Angela Rayner faced criticism last night for scrapping plans to prioritise long-term British citizens over migrants for limited council housing.
The Labour Housing Secretary quietly abandoned a Conservative proposal to implement a ‘UK connection test’ for social housing applicants.
Her department confirmed the decision to drop the reform, which would have required individuals to reside in Britain for at least ten years to join the 1.3 million-strong waiting list.
Ms Rayner, who was investigated and cleared this year regarding the sale of her own council house, has been criticised by opponents for this move.
Lee Anderson from Reform, who has opposed her plans in the Commons, remarked, ‘Labour will not only take away your winter fuel payment but also push your family down the housing list in favour of new arrivals. Why?’
Cllr Ricky Jones who has now been arrested after he called for far-left activists to “cut the throats” of people he claims are ‘fascist’, has previously been pictured with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.
Are his vile views widespread in the Labour Party?#TwoTier pic.twitter.com/ZY3TwrPp5H
— Turning Point UK 🇬🇧 (@TPointUK) August 10, 2024
Former Tory minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns commented, ‘This is wrong. Many of my former constituents waited for years to get a house.’
A spokesman for the Ministry of Housing stated, ‘Most councils have already adopted local connection tests, and 90 per cent of social homes go to UK nationals. Those without the right to stay in the UK are already ineligible for social housing.’
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was Angela Rayner criticised over council housing plans?
For abandoning plans to prioritise long-term British citizens over migrants for council houses.
What was the ‘UK connection test’ proposal?
It required living in Britain for at least ten years to qualify for social housing.
Did Angela Rayner face any investigation related to council housing?
Yes, she was investigated but cleared over the sale of her own council house.
What percentage of social homes go to UK nationals?
Do people without a right to stay in the UK qualify for social housing?
No, they are not eligible for social housing.