New bid on 'right-to-buy' powers

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/wales/wales_politics/8386360.stm

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A new attempt to gain powers over the right to buy council houses in Wales is being made by the assembly government.

The first attempt was withdrawn after a row between Cardiff Bay and Westminster with Welsh MPs worried it would be used to scrap the right to buy.

The proposals are more widely drawn and include powers over homelessness, more sustainable housing and second homes.

The proposed legislative competence order (LCO) has been agreed by UK cabinet members.

Introducing the proposed LCO to the assembly, Housing Minister Jocelyn Davies said: "Housing is an area which is largely devolved to Wales, but one where the national assembly has no powers to legislate.

"The Welsh Assembly Government should have a role in deciding what legislation is needed to address the housing needs of Wales.

"We want to be able to propose legislation for Wales in relation to two themes: social housing and meeting the housing needs of vulnerable people.

"These are areas where the Welsh ministers have extensive powers but the National Assembly has no powers to legislate at present."

The LCO also covers housing-related support, social housing tenancies and the provision of Gypsy and traveller sites.

It will now go before scrutiny committees at both the assembly and Westminster.