Election panel: readers split on security of tenure

Other comments:

‘What the parties need to do is to commit to implementing the recommendations of the law commission to reform rented housing tenure in England and Wales. This would guarantee security for both council and housing association tenants. In fact, they should seek to go further than the commission recommended for the private rented sector by committing to increasing security for tenants in the private rented sector.’

‘I think it is imperative that the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties make and fulfil a commitment to both social housing and the security of tenure. How can the Conservatives claim respect for social housing tenants when they intend to dissolve the Tenant Services Authority which ensures tenants’ rights are being enshrined in service delivery. One contradicts the other.’

‘No. This becomes a question of social mobility for tenants. If they are secured and have tenancy for life they are not being encouraged to improve their prospects, even though if these prospects encourage transitory communities it may have a detrimental affect on the local area it should assist empowerment.’

‘I think Conservative plans to scrap the TSA show a real lack of respect for social tenants. Tenancy rights are enshrined in law so a pledge to “respect” these rights is pretty empty and doesn’t give me reassurance about future rights.’

‘Yes. An absolute guarantee that secure tenancies will be retained is essential from all parties.’

‘Yes - until such time as the occupants’ circumstances changed and they are able to access more mainstream housing options.  A secure tenancy may mean a tenancy for life or it may mean security of tenure, a high standard of maintenance and protection from unlawful eviction.’

‘No, the key issue is over guaranteeing existing secure tenants their rights and making sure that housing is affordable.’

‘No. Housing tenure needs a fundamental overhaul that gives people security when they need it but not at the expense of subsequent generations of people in need. Short hold private sector tenancies also need a revamp if the prospect of a good quality private rented sector is to fulfil its potential, particularly if it is to attract older people downsizing and stepping out of homeownership.’

‘No – but I think they need to commit to a review of tenure. The 1985 Housing Act is older than a lot of tenants – surely time for a review to see if secure tenancies meet modern needs and aspirations?’

‘To be honest this is a tricky one as social housing should really be stop-gap while suffering negative personal circumstances that require social assistance, for example, housing. On the other hand, security regarding that right should be protected. The challenge is to find a middle ground that upholds the first belief while ensuring the second, without ever increasing waiting lists putting pressure on supply. With security over time there will be a consistent lack of supply that far outweighs demand. Thus the self perpetuation of social housing need never being met continues.’

‘The issue is more provision – if people are forced out at a certain level of income we will a) have a merry go round, and b)estates will become full of the most vulnerable with no chance of regeneration/community development/economic well being.’