Member

The amendment from the noble Baroness, Lady Pinnock, would require the Secretary of State to determine whether authorities have “sufficient” resources, which would be difficult given the locally determined nature of council housing finances. It would also create an expectation of further central intervention where constraints are identified. The Government are instead strengthening the existing framework, including by extending the right of first refusal in perpetuity, to give councils more opportunity to buy back homes. For these reasons, I respectfully ask the noble Baronesses not to press the stand part notice or amendment, and I commend this clause to the Committee.