I note Councillor Nick Draper's claims that adopting the Government's initiative of an empty homes premium to penalise householders who leave property vacant for more than two years was "not a viable thing to do politically" when Labour ran only a minority administration.
There is widespread consensus, between and beyond political parties, that more housing is needed to meet insatiable demand. It may not be popular with the homeowners concerned, bus such a premium would contribute as an incentive, as well as a penalty. It cannot be right for perfectly good properties to remain unused in the face of wider need.
To suggest that lack of a majority is an acceptable excuse for inaction when Labour could and should have sought to introduce the premium by consensus beggars belief. Post 22nd of May, with a majority, what on earth are they waiting for?
Iain Dysart
Grand Drive
Raynes Park
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