Cornwall’s housing emergency to be debated in the Commons

St Ives Liberal Democrat MP Andrew George will lead a Commons debate on the housing emergency in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly on Monday (9th September). 

Andrew, who led successful affordable housing charity – Cornwall Community Land Trust – during his nine-year-absence from Parliament, will describe the multiple challenges faced by those trying to “do the right thing”. 

Andrew said: “Lessons must be learned from those who have been working on the frontline, attempting to address the serious housing problems in places like Cornwall, which are facing extreme crisis. 

“The Labour government believes that setting high housing targets is central to addressing this serious housing need. But Cornwall is one of the best examples of where that policy has failed.  

“Ministers must listen and understand that places like Cornwall need more bespoke policies, if we are to seriously address the desperate need.” 

Andrew added: “Housing injustices also need to be addressed. It’s unjustifiable that over £500 million of taxpayers’ money has gone into the pockets of holiday homeowners in Cornwall alone during the last decade, when less than half that amount has been invested in permanent first homes for local people.  

“The tax loopholes and grants available for holiday homes marginalises local people in the housing market; with local families often evicted to make way for yet more holiday lets.” 

Andrew will set out a series of policy proposals to housing minister Matthew Pennycook. It is expected that Cornwall‘s other MP’s will contribute to the debate.