Covid-19: Housing

Debate between Lord McKenzie of Luton and Lord Greenhalgh

Monday 18th May 2020 Lords Chamber

[Lord Greenhalgh]

I thank my noble friend for his question. We are looking at providing guidance so that the scheme could be extended.

[Lord McKenzie of Luton (Lab)]

My Lords, the Statement describes the situation prior to the easing it contains. It states that life has been put on hold and that 450,000 sales have been unable to be progressed. Rentals are not going ahead and 300,000 tenants are waiting for their renewals. It says that the pressure on some people has,

“become acute with profound legal, financial and health implications.”

I understand that the changes proposed in the Statement do not apply to those who are shielded under the current arrangements. Can the Minister confirm whether that is right and can he say what might be done to give some sort of equivalence to those who are shielding who could otherwise miss out but who are facing the same challenges as others?

[Lord Greenhalgh]

I understand that the proposals do extend to the vulnerable, but it is their decision as to whether they go ahead. However, I will write to the noble Lord and place a copy of my specific answer in the Library.