Two-year contract plan for council house tenants
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.New council house tenants could be kicked out of their homes after as little as two years under Government plans.
In a move that will anger some Liberal Democrat MPs, coalition moves to put an end to lifetime tenancies will go even further than previously indicated.
Prime Minister David Cameron has already said he wants an end to council tenancies for life and the introduction of fixed-term contracts of "five or 10 years".
But, under reforms to be announced on Monday, councils and housing associations will be able to offer contracts of just two years.
Tenants whose financial circumstances have improved could then be evicted, although they would be entitled to at least six months' notice.
Councils and housing associations will also be able to charge rent of up to 80% of the market rate so that they can raise money to buy new properties.
The changes will only apply to new tenants - those already on lifetime tenancies and social rents will keep their current contracts.
Ministers will insist the moves will make the system fairer, by giving social housing landlords more flexibility in trying to accommodate people with the greatest need. There are five million people on waiting lists for social housing.
But the plans are likely to inflame coalition tensions. Lib Dem deputy leader Simon Hughes insisted the move to introduce fixed term tenancies was the policy of neither the coalition nor his party when it was raised by Mr Cameron in August.
It is thought that the Government wants to implement the changes - which apply to England only - as early as next year.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments