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Housing and Regeneration Bill

No, I disagree. All local authorities can choose models that are appropriate to their circumstances, whether it be stock transfer, retention of council housing stock or an arm's length management organisation. We have provided the flexibility to allow authorities to decide locally what is needed in the area. I have ministerial responsibility for ALMOs, which are a fantastic model. The hon. Gentleman will be aware of the tremendous work of ALMOs in Newcastle upon Tyne, for example. Various models are in place for various circumstances, and that is appropriate. On remedying the incompatibility of homelessness legislation, I understand the comments of some Members, particularly my hon. Friend the Member for Edmonton (Mr. Love). Time and again, however, I return to the balance—there is one—between remedying that incompatibility, providing fairness but firmness in immigration policy, and ensuring value for money for the UK taxpayer. We have been discussing social housing—particularly council housing—which is a valuable asset for the country. We need a lot more of it, and we need to ensure that the remedy provides the appropriate balance between the various competing and often conflicting concerns.