Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Homelessness Guidance

Monday 24 November 2025 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • James McMurdock questioned the Homelessness Minister about improving guidance to prevent misclassification of temporary accommodation as self-contained units.
  • The Homelessness Minister stated responsibility to publish a homelessness strategy to address issues like those raised and to prioritize moving children out of temporary accommodation.
  • Chris Vince inquired about how the 1 billion funding increase would support local authorities and charities in securing long-term housing solutions for homeless individuals.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 James McMurdock Ind South Basildon and East Thurrock
Housing Local Government
Context

The hon. Gentleman is concerned about the misuse of temporary accommodation rules by local councils, particularly regarding vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and families.

Question

What steps are being taken to improve homelessness guidance for local government given that some councils, like Basildon council, misclassify one-room bed and breakfast properties as self-contained units through minor additions like microwaves or fridges, leading to unlawful periods of temporary accommodation beyond six weeks?

Answer from The Minister for Local Government and Homelessness (Alison McGovern)

As the Homelessness Minister, my responsibility is to publish the homelessness strategy so that we can examine issues such as those mentioned by the hon. Gentleman, ensure that the guidance is adequate, and prioritise getting children out of temporary accommodation and providing them with proper housing.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The Minister did not address specific actions to strengthen regulations against misclassification or exploitation of rules by local authorities.

How: Did Not Directly Address The Issue

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Q2 Chris Vince Labour (Co-op) Harlow
Housing
Context

The hon. Member has a background in working with Streets2Homes, a local homelessness charity.

Question

How will the £1 billion increase in funding to tackle homelessness support local authorities and charities such as Streets2Homes to ensure people are moved off the streets and into secure tenancies?

Answer from The Minister for Local Government and Homelessness (Alison McGovern)

The £1 billion investment can prevent homelessness before it starts through effective advice and support, ensuring individuals or families who become homeless are quickly placed into a stable living situation. The funding aims to secure long-term housing solutions.

Answered
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