House of Commons · Adjournment Debate
20 May 2024 · 1 other contributor
Opened by Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Siobhain McDonagh raised concerns about families in temporary accommodation in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The MP spoke out of desperation on behalf of homeless families, children, and babies living in temporary accommodation. She highlighted the issue of long-term occupancy in temporary housing, with some families residing there for over five years. McDonagh emphasised the negative impact on pregnant women, infant safety, school attendance and attainment, and overall well-being of children. She called for more social housing units to be built as a solution.
Acknowledged the importance of the issue and pledged to work with McDonagh on matters related to temporary accommodation.
Government Response
The Minister thanked Siobhain McDonagh for raising important issues and acknowledged the need for more affordable homes. She highlighted the Conservative party's commitment to building 1 million homes in this Parliament, noting that over £11.5 billion has been allocated towards an affordable homes programme since 2010. Buchan also mentioned the local authority housing fund which has provided £1.2 billion to build and purchase housing for various needs including temporary accommodation. She discussed measures such as restoring the local housing allowance rate, tackling homelessness prevention through grants, improving quality of temporary accommodation, and addressing health and education impacts on those in temporary housing.