Pressing the Chancellor on housebuilding 

Housing is the single biggest issue in my post bag. I receive more than 50 emails a week from constituents with housing related issues covering a wide variety of issues. It’s clear that not only do we not have enough housing here in Woking, but the housing stock we do have is not up to standard. 

During the election campaign last year, the Labour party committed to building 1.5 million new homes over the course of this parliament – an often-repeated mantra by members of their cabinet since taking office. 

Unfortunately, it seems there is a disconnect between the Chancellor’s economic policies and those Ministers who seek to actually deliver on this housebuilding target.  

Despite her flaws, the former Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner, worked hard to deliver on this promise. She was hamstrung by poor decisions from the Chancellor that have dramatically restricted the ability of our housebuilders to do so. 

First came the budget in November, and with it the 8.7% increase in Employers National Insurance contributions, making it far more expensive for firms to hire the staff they need to build these houses. 

At no point in any of the Chancellors' policies has she set out measures to support the industry. In fact, she is reportedly considering a dramatic increase in the landfill tax that will add £24,000 to the average house price. In an industry where margins are tight, this self-defeating tax would further disincentive house building.  

I questioned the Chancellor on how this will help Woking residents to get a home and was extremely disappointed by the less than constructive response that “there is a consultation going on.” 

Passing the buck to a consultation does nothing to deliver the homes our communities desperately need. We need action that supports builders, protects affordability, and ensures families in Woking can find a place to call home. That is what I am working to deliver. 

Watch me question the Chancellor below.