Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by David Lepper (Labour). It was answered on Tuesday, 20 January 2009 on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Community Land Trusts

Question: My right hon. Friend referred to community land trusts in the context of a co-operative and mutual approach to housing. She will know of the Commission on Mutual and Co-operative Housing, which was launched at last year's Co-operative Congress. Will she examine the findings of the commission's report when it is published, with a view to establishing what further support the Government can give the co-operative and mutual sector in the provision of affordable housing?

Answer: My hon. Friend raises an important point. There is now a call for evidence and an inquiry into the roles that co-operatives can play in this respect. It is interesting that when people become involved in housing co-operatives, they often go on to set up social and business enterprises in other areas. I am told that in one co-operative in Redditch, around 15 per cent. of the tenants who have been involved in managing their properties are now school governors, and are trying to improve the education system in their area. There are many spin-offs and benefits to mutual ownership.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 486 c614-5
Session: 2008-09
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Cooperatives Housing Low incomes Community development Public consultation
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk