Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

First-time Buyers 2024-01-22

2024-01-22

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
David Evennett
▸ Context
The question arises from the issue of affordability and accessibility for first-time homebuyers, who face significant challenges in entering the property market.
What steps he is taking to help first-time buyers. Getting on the property ladder is important, but many first-time buyers struggle due to high prices and limited availability of affordable homes.
Lee Rowley
The Government have a range of schemes available for first-time buyers, including the first homes scheme, shared ownership and right to buy. Nearly 900,000 people have been helped on to the property ladder by these initiatives.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
David Evennett
▸ Context
Labour Members are accused of blocking the construction of new homes for first-time buyers, while the Conservative Government claims to have achieved a 20-year high in the number of households helped through government-backed schemes.
Does the Minister agree that Labour Members actively block the building of new homes for first-time buyers, whereas the Conservatives have increased housing numbers and supported nearly 1 million households? The questioner highlights specific actions taken by both parties regarding affordable housing for first-time buyers.
Lee Rowley
I agree with my right hon. Friend that Labour Members block 100,000 houses that could be used for first-time buyers and vulnerable individuals when they had the chance.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Jim Shannon DUP
Strangford
▸ Context
There are discussions ongoing about ensuring mortgages are accessible and encouraging home ownership over renting among those who can afford it. The help-to-buy ISA is also under consideration.
What discussions has he had with UK banks, such as Danske Bank in Northern Ireland, to ensure mortgages are accessible for first-time buyers? Are there plans to reintroduce the help-to-buy ISA?
Lee Rowley
I am grateful for the question. Getting people on the housing ladder is vital, which is why we introduced the mortgage guarantee scheme to extend mortgage availability for first-time buyers. I am happy to discuss other ideas with the hon Gentleman separately.
▸ Assessment & feedback
discussing plans to reintroduce help-to-buy ISA
I Am Happy To Talk Separately
Response accuracy