Comprehensive Spending Review

Wednesday, 20 October 2010 19:08

Don't Demolish Housing Budget, say associations

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) is calling on the Scottish Government to continue to invest in housing following the news that the English social housing budget will be demolished by 50% in today's Comprehensive Spending Review (Wednesday 20th October).
The £8.4bn English housing budget will be cut in half over the next four years.

SFHA Chief Executive Mary Taylor said:

"While the housing sector understands the need for budget reductions at UK and Scottish level, we would urge Scotland not to repeat the mistakes of the UK Government in demolishing the social housing budget. In axing it by 50% the Coalition Government has made housing one of the CSR's biggest losers.

"There is widespread agreement in Scotland of the crucial economic and social importance of affordable house building, to meet huge need and create badly-needed jobs. The money brought forward by the Scottish Government during the recession to date (1) has resulted in record output by housing associations and thousands of constructions jobs saved (2). Not only are those jobs at risk, but the life chances of the 250,000 families on waiting lists in Scotland are also in the balance.

"It is crucial that affordable housing does not take any undue share of a hit in spending decisions. Scotland needs homes and jobs. Associations are ready to work with Government, local authorities and communities to ensure as many of both are delivered as possible, providing the best possible value and benefit to the public purse."

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