Context
The MP inquires about the adequacy of funding for repairing council housing stock, highlighting the strain on housing revenue accounts due to rent policy changes and inflationary pressures.
Question
If she will make an assessment of the adequacy of the funding model for the repair of council housing stock. The MP notes that Swindon borough council is investing significantly in fixing council stock, contrasting this with the previous Conservative administration's lack of investment over 20 years.
Answer from The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)
The Government recognise the strain placed on housing revenue accounts due to changes in rent policy, inflationary pressures, and increased costs associated with investing in existing stock. The principle of self-financing remains the right one, but we are committed to working with councils to overcome the pressures on their HRAs so that they can invest in new and existing stock. My hon. Friend is a fantastic champion for council housing, and Swindon borough council is putting significant investment into its housing stock over the next five years. The Government recognise that councils, like other registered providers, need support to build their capacity; we have consulted on a new five-year social housing rent settlement and allowed councils to keep 100% of receipts generated by right-to-buy sales.
Not addressed: The Minister did not provide specific details about the adequacy or inadequacy of the current funding model for repairs.
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