So, it is about time that we made progress in this area, and we do need the investment, too. I agree with what David Melding has said—we do need that investment also, which will bring forward a new wave of social housing. This legislation alone won’t solve the problem of a shortage of supply of social housing, but unlike the Conservatives we do believe that it is part of the jigsaw. It’s not a peripheral issue; it’s part of the solution, and one that should lead to an increase in investment and more social housing being available.

Having passed this Bill, there will be some people in social housing who would still want to purchase their own homes, and I have some sympathy with that, of course. So along with this legislation we need to develop shared equity options and rent-to-buy schemes—schemes that housing associations have made use of in the past. We should also seek alternative ways of helping people to move towards owning their own homes, if that is their desire.

Finally, there is a risk as the deadline approaches—a risk that we will see some organisations offering funds to people to buy their homes with a view to making a quick profit. Some people have described this as something that needs to be avoided specifically. It was discussed in committee and we did receive some evidence to that end. I do think that this deserves further consideration and further research, and we should consider providing independent financial advice to those who need it.

I’m also concerned that there could be a sudden increase in the number of people wanting to purchase their homes before this Bill is enacted, reducing the stock further—this spike that some have mentioned. I would like to see the Government giving greater consideration to that aspect, too. Thank you.