Speaking in a debate, Peter Bedford MP questioned whether the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will have the desired positive impact that the Government has pledged.
In the Second Reading of the debate, Peter raised his concerns that the 1.5 million new homes pledge from the Labour Government actually means very little due to the lack of action on reducing illegal immigration.
Peter asked the Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government:
“Does he agree with me that housing targets mean very little if the Government doesn’t get a grip of immigration which is causing massive demand on housing?
Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government responded:
“He is absolutely right to raise that point. The increase in population in this country is driving part of the reasons we are seeing the rising need for housing, but also in terms of temporary accommodation, all which impact on that system and he is right to bring that point up.
Whilst Peter understands the need to build more homes, he fundamentally believes that these homes should be prioritised for those born in the UK. Furthermore, if Government does not get to grips with immigration then it will be young Brits, aspiring to get onto the housing ladder, who will suffer.
