02 March 2005
Local authorities would be given extra powers to tackle housing problems under a policy launched by the Liberal Democrats last week.
The party promised to give councils the ability to limit the growth of second homes and encourage the re-use of existing buildings.
The right to buy would be retained, but councils would be able to vary the discount. In addition, all social housing tenants would get a flexible 'right to invest' in their homes.
LibDem leader Charles Kennedy said: 'Many people simply cannot afford a home in the area where they were brought up, or near their jobs.
'Our innovation is to create a completely new housing market to help people make the transition from renting to buying. Mutual homes will offer people the opportunity to build up an equity stake in a home gradually.'
Richard Kemp, vice-chair of the LibDems at the Local Government Association, said: 'The Liberal Democrats are the only major party committed to giving councils and their tenants equal opportunity to invest in their stock.'
PFmar2005
