MPs accused of housing u-turn

12.00.00am GMT Fri 11th Apr 2008

Three Leeds MPs have been accused of hypocrisy on housing issues by Leeds Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Richard Brett.

A recent vote in the Commons could have given local councils greater powers to build new houses in their areas. The proposal came from Labour backbenchers but was opposed by the government.

MPs Fabian Hamilton (Leeds North East), John Battle (Leeds West) and George Mudie (Leeds East) supported recent Early Day Motions that called for these powers to be given to councils. But come the vote in Parliament, all three voted with the government.

Cllr Brett (Lib Dem, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill) said:

"One of the main reasons it is so difficult for local councils to build new houses is the way the government strait-jackets us with inflexible rules on our housing budget.

"If we are serious about meeting the demand for new housing, this is one area where reform is absolutely necessary.

"It is very disappointing that a number of Leeds MPs who have supported this policy in the past should change their minds as soon as it comes to a vote before Parliament.

"I think we are owed an explanation for this apparent u-turn."