Crisis reacts to publication of Homelessness Reduction Bill
21.10.2016
Today (21 Oct) sees the publication of the final draft of the Homelessness Reduction Bill' - a private member's bill put forward by Bob Blackman MP.
Responding, Crisis Chief Executive Jon Sparkes said: “The Homelessness Reduction Bill is a historic opportunity to transform the help available to homeless people. For 40 years we’ve had a system that fails too many people and turns them away at their time of need. This bill could help put an end to that injustice once and for all.
“It’s crucial we get this right, and a huge amount of work has already been done to make sure that happens, including an in-depth inquiry from the CLG Committee. Never before has a private member’s bill been subjected to such close, expert scrutiny, and there can be little doubt that we have a credible and much-needed piece of legislation. It is a major opportunity to improve the rights of people currently shut out of the system, whist continuing to protect families with children.
“In light of this, we urge the Government to offer its support. Ministers have already recognised the lack of help available to many homeless people, and pledged to consider “options including legislation”. We hope they will seize this opportunity.
“Now we have the bill, the challenge will be getting it through parliament. The second reading on October 28 will be critical, but unless we can get more than 100 MPs along on the day, the bill could easily be blocked. The cross-party consensus is there, and we hope to see as many MPs as possible attending the debate and backing the bill.”
Also responding, bill sponsor Bob Blackman MP said: 'I am grateful for the support of Crisis and the work they have put in to help ensure this bill will really make a tangible difference in tackling homelessness in this country. The additional scrutiny of the Select Committee for Communities and Local Government on the draft text has also really made a real difference in crafting an achievable and well considered piece of legislation. I hope that Members from all sides of the House will therefore feel able to show their support and help it over this first big hurdle on 28th October.'
ENDS
For further information or for spokesperson interviews call 020 7426 3853 or email thomas.phillips@crisis.org.uk For out of hours media enquiries please call: 07973 372587