Meaningful change
Jocelyn Davies broadly supports many of the elements of the Bill but questions others
When the Housing Bill was introduced by the minister on the floor of the Assembly, I broadly supported many of its elements although I expressed the view – and reiterate now – that unless meaningful changes are made, the Bill would be a missed opportunity for this all-important sector. I’m particularly pleased that the Bill is being introduced in the context of the abolition of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) – this was unfinished business when I left office as deputy minister for housing.
There are items of common ground between the Party of Wales and the Government that are to be welcomed in the Bill. I welcome provisions to prevent homelessness but I have real concerns about the Government’s decision to retain the concept of intentionality and the system of priority need. In Scotland, both are being effectively abolished and this example of a progressive approach will result in thousands being helped in to accommodation. I am pleased to see the Welsh Housing Quality Standard securing statutory force and the additional flexibility for co-operative housing.
Perhaps one of the more contentious aspects of housing policy in general is the provision of suitable sites for Gypsy and Traveller communities. The problems that arise as a result of illegal sites are well publicised and let’s not forget that this is often as a result of there being no legal provision available. So the Government’s proposed duty on councils to meet assessed need is to be welcomed, although the successful implementation of this expectation will be crucial.
I am disappointed at the minister’s decision to remove the ‘priority of need’ status of ex-offenders. Of course, his decision has been applauded by right-wing politicians but it flies in the face of evidence that ex-offenders need more support – not less – especially if our aim is to reduce re-offending and secure safer communities. I feel this is a regressive step and is not supported by the 2008 research by Stirling and Humphries entitled ‘Necessary but not sufficient: housing and the reduction of re-offending,’ which the minister cites as his basis for the change.
The Bill contains a 150 per cent council tax level for empty homes. I would like to see more flexibility in this area, perhaps by allowing local authorities to set the rate so they can address this according to local needs and be accountable for their decisions directly with their local electorates.
I welcome attempts to raise standards in the private rented sector and would like to see a statutory minimum standard with mandatory written tenancy agreements and would welcome a default contract in the Bill. I have misgivings about the registration scheme of all landlords and am concerned that scarce resources may well be spread very thinly indeed instead of focussing energies on ousting the rogue landlords. I await the evidence from the minister that his scheme will achieve its aims.
As it stands, the Bill represents a very mixed bag and I look forward to playing my part in shaping it into law that the Assembly can be proud of.
Jocelyn Davies AM is Plaid Cymru spokesperson on women, young people and housing