In a debate this morning at Westminster Hall, Conservative MP for Harrow East, Bob Blackman stated that “we have a moral duty to end homelessness”, labelling it an “affront to society.”
The debate was headed by Blackman alongside Labour MP Paula Barker. Unstable and low standard temporary housing is a particular issue for Blackman. He raised concerns that despite climbing costs, good quality housing options are unavailable.
Bob Blackman speaks in Westminster Hall. Image credit: parliamentlive.tv
MP for Cities of London and Westminster Rachel Blake stated that “our capital is the centre of homelessness.”
The current legislative agenda to tackle homelessness focuses on support for local authorities, building more homes and abolishing no-fault evictions.
Labour representatives argued that the legacy of the Conservatives looms large over Britain’s housing predicament. MP for Nottingham East, Nadia Whittome, cited Margaret Thatcher’s selling of council properties and the decreasing numbers of social housing for causing long-term problems in the housing market.
Liberal Democrat and Conservative MPs called for greater clarity on how the government was tackling homelessness.
Gareth Bacon, MP for Orpington, urged for a comprehensive strategy to be published. He also blamed high rent prices for “making it harder for people to find a rented home.”
Differences in economic policy underline how each party looks to solve the homeless crisis, muddying the waters as to how effective a three-party solution could be.
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
What is clear is that bold political intervention is needed. Jo Carter, CEO of Glass Door Homeless Charity in London, released a statement earlier this year suggesting that whilst “there have been some promising signs from both the mayor and national government” the “only way that they will achieve a meaningful impact is through drastic action…”
The overall mood of today’s debate was apparent. A cross-party strategy must fight homelessness not just in London, but across the country.
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HeadlineParliament Debate Shows Cross-Party Support for Ending Homelessness
Short HeadlineParliament debate shows cross-party support for ending homelessness
StandfirstAmid record levels of rough sleeping in London, MPs upheld the consensus that combating homelessness is a top priority.
In a debate this morning at Westminster Hall, Conservative MP for Harrow East, Bob Blackman stated that “we have a moral duty to end homelessness”, labelling it an “affront to society.”
The debate was headed by Blackman alongside Labour MP Paula Barker. Unstable and low standard temporary housing is a particular issue for Blackman. He raised concerns that despite climbing costs, good quality housing options are unavailable.
Bob Blackman speaks in Westminster Hall. Image credit: parliamentlive.tv
MP for Cities of London and Westminster Rachel Blake stated that “our capital is the centre of homelessness.”
The current legislative agenda to tackle homelessness focuses on support for local authorities, building more homes and abolishing no-fault evictions.
Labour representatives argued that the legacy of the Conservatives looms large over Britain’s housing predicament. MP for Nottingham East, Nadia Whittome, cited Margaret Thatcher’s selling of council properties and the decreasing numbers of social housing for causing long-term problems in the housing market.
Liberal Democrat and Conservative MPs called for greater clarity on how the government was tackling homelessness.
Gareth Bacon, MP for Orpington, urged for a comprehensive strategy to be published. He also blamed high rent prices for “making it harder for people to find a rented home.”
Differences in economic policy underline how each party looks to solve the homeless crisis, muddying the waters as to how effective a three-party solution could be.
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
What is clear is that bold political intervention is needed. Jo Carter, CEO of Glass Door Homeless Charity in London, released a statement earlier this year suggesting that whilst “there have been some promising signs from both the mayor and national government” the “only way that they will achieve a meaningful impact is through drastic action…”
The overall mood of today’s debate was apparent. A cross-party strategy must fight homelessness not just in London, but across the country.
