Reform UK proposes evictions for unkempt gardens, prioritizes British-born for social housing

Reform UK has announced a policy that would lead to the eviction of social housing tenants if they fail to maintain their gardens and properties. The party also proposes prioritizing British-born citizens, young married couples with children, and veterans for social housing, potentially delaying access for foreign-born residents. Richard Tice, the party's deputy leader, stated that while some foreign-born Britons would be exempt, the policy aims to promote marriage and prioritize those born in the UK.

The party claims this policy is part of a broader plan to boost social housebuilding, aiming for 50,000 affordable homes annually. Reform UK suggests allowing housing associations to increase their borrowing capacity by revaluing their assets to fund new construction. However, industry insiders have cautioned that this approach could lead to significant financial instability for housing associations, potentially violating banking agreements and causing defaults.

Concerns have been raised by charities and other political parties. Sarah Elliott, CEO of Shelter, warned that such policies could disrupt families, divide communities, and exacerbate homelessness by prioritizing nationality over urgent housing needs. A Labour spokesperson criticized the proposal, arguing it would target long-term UK residents and essential workers, while noting that many foreign nationals are already ineligible for social housing.