Housing Minister Brandon Lewis' Speech To The RESI Housing Conference In Newport.

It’s a pleasure to join you again for my second RESI conference.

We’re back at Celtic Manor, but one small difference from last year is that there is no longer a general election looming on the horizon.

It will come as no surprise that I believe the election result was the best outcome for the housing market and the country.

It removed the threat of rent controls and blanket regulations that would have seriously damaged the private rented sector, and undermined the potential for investment.

For me personally it meant another opportunity to serve as Minister of State for Housing and Planning.

I was delighted when I got the call from the Prime Minister confirming my reappointment, because I believe housing is one of the most important jobs in government.

In the election campaign we made it clear that improving the housing market would be a top priority.

That goal is only possible because we cut the deficit by half and laid the foundations for economic recovery.

For the second year in a row we are growing faster than any other major advanced economy, and our job creation is the envy of the developed world.

Our country is rising again, and that includes the performance of the housing market.

Housing starts and the number of first time buyers have doubled since 2009.

Last year alone the number of first time buyers rose by 20%.

But we all know the job is far from complete.

A better housing market will be vital for meeting the aspirations of working people, and raising the productivity of our country.

On 7 May the British public recognised that fact. They asked us to finish the job, and we are determined to repay their trust.

That’s why this government is committed to encouraging homeownership, building homes people can afford to buy, and investing in all areas of the housing market – including the private rented sector.

We will serve as a one nation government.

One nation – so whoever you are, and wherever you live, you can benefit from a home of your own, whether you buy or rent.

One nation – because for Britain to prosper every part of the country must contribute to its success

Source/Read more:-https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/brandon-lewis-speech-to-the-resi-housing-conference