Housing Military Personnel and Families 2025-01-06
2025-01-06
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The sale of service family accommodation in 1996 and the recent Annington homes deal have been criticized for poor conditions.
I am concerned about the record-low morale among military personnel under the previous government. I welcome the largest pay rise for forces in over two decades from this Government, but what steps will the housing deal take to improve service lives practically?
I agree with my hon. Friend's point about morale. The Annington deal, supported by both sides of the House, saves £230 million annually and allows us to renovate or rebuild accommodation over five to ten years, significantly improving living conditions for military personnel and their families.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Military accommodation conditions have been a long-standing issue, with poor conditions discussed frequently over the past two decades.
In my service experience from the late '80s to early 2000s, I faced substandard housing conditions regularly. Now, after another 20 years, we are revisiting this issue. Can the Minister assure that a strategic defence review will provide clear timelines for improving military accommodation?
Yes, as part of the SDR, we will set out a new defence housing strategy that includes how we can improve Annington's management to deliver better housing conditions for our armed forces over time.
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Assessment & feedback
specific timelines and programme delivery dates
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government has recently decided to renationalise service housing, ending a long period where families lived in substandard accommodation.
I support the government’s decision to renationalise service housing. How will this investment lead to tangible improvements for military families? What timescales can we expect these changes?
We are buying back properties from Annington to refurbish or rebuild them. Our comprehensive plan aims to deliver fit-for-purpose housing over a period of 5-10 years across the country, addressing longstanding issues.
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Assessment & feedback
specific timelines and immediate improvements
Response accuracy