The government has dropped its plans to means test public sector housing rents from next April.

Today's announcement comes the day after backbench MHK Alf Cannan resigned from his role as MHK for responsibility for housing, stating major housing policy decisions were being managed through the Cabinet Office, and not the department with the political responsibility.

Health and Social Care Minister Howard Quayle said 'extensive research' had been carried out and it had become clear that additional legislative powers would be required to introduce means testing, making what he calls 'a deferment' necessary.

Mr Quayle said: 'Assessing people’s ability to pay for services will undoubtedly play a significant role in ensuring that essential services are targeted at those most in need and are sustainable in the long term.

'It remains the Department’s intention to support the cross Government approach to means testing services which undoubtedly will involve ensuring that rents are equitable and reflect both the property and the tenant’s ability to pay.

'It is important that any policy we introduce is understood by the public, is robust enough to prevent fraud or loopholes and does not have unforeseen consequences for the vulnerable. Means testing extends far beyond the DHSC, with work ongoing to determine the overall policy across Government, to which the Department’s officers are contributing.'


Got a story? Contact Joanne on 340000 or email newsdesk@manx.net
twitter @jonewsiom