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The future of housing under the Labour Government
Following the UK General Election, Labour has taken leadership of the UK Government, bringing new key positions, including the Secretary of State and Minister for the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Letting agents should stay informed about the party’s immediate and future housing priorities.
Who is the new Secretary of State for Housing?
On 5 July, Angela Rayner was announced as the new Secretary of State for the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. She also holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister.
Rayner, who became shadow Housing Secretary in September 2023, has spent the last 10 months overseeing the department under the previous Secretary of State, Michael Gove. Emphasising the importance of social and council housing, Rayner has shared personal experiences of how a council home provided her with security and opportunities. At last year’s Labour Party Conference, she promised a significant increase in affordable and social housing.
Rayner has also vowed to ban Section 21 no-fault evictions for private landlords immediately, although specific details on how this will be implemented are yet to be provided.
Who is the new Housing Minister?
On 7 July, Matthew Pennycook was appointed as Housing Minister, supporting Angela Rayner in the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Pennycook, MP for Greenwich and Woolwich, brings experience from his work with the Renters (Reform) Bill, including amendments to prevent landlords from selling a property within two years of a tenancy. He has expressed a desire to see the Regulation of Property Agents (RoPA) enacted and emphasised the need for quicker court processes before abolishing no-fault evictions.
Additionally, Jim McMahon has been appointed Minister in the department, focusing on homelessness.
What are the first actions for housing?
At a press conference on 8 July, newly appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced Labour’s commitment to build 14,000 new homes across England. Reeves emphasised the importance of unlocking private sector investments and implementing new housing measures through planning reforms within 72 hours. Angela Rayner will be instructing planning authorities to prioritise brownfield and greybelt land to meet housing targets, with a review of greenbelt boundaries to follow.
The King’s Speech on 17 July will outline the new government’s priorities in the coming months.
The information in this post is valid to the best of our knowledge on the date of posting. It is advised that you seek independent advice based on your individual circumstances.
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