Keir Starmer has promised that his Labour Government will ensure all military veterans will have a roof over their heads.
Speaking to GB News’s Political Editor Christopher Hope in New York, the Prime Minister says his Government has “unlocked a real step forward” and can now “guarantee” the issue of homelessness amongst veterans will be tackled.
“This is a very important commitment that we have made”, he said.
“Too many veterans who have given so much to their country find themselves without a roof over their head.
Sir Keir Starmer has promised homes for veterans
GB NEWS
“Because we’ve taken the difficult decisions on planning decisions that were not taken for years, we can guarantee that they will have a roof over their heads.
“Homes for Heroes becomes a reality and not just a slogan.”
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Chopper then quizzed the PM on whether veterans will have priority for housing ahead of asylum seekers.
“That will require legislation to be passed to make that a priority”, he responded.
“This is not ahead of all other groups, this is unlocking a real step forward on homelessness for many people who are homeless, including care leaves who are very, very vulnerable and of course, victims of domestic abuse who find themselves without a roof over their head.
“So yes, it’s a very important announcement for veterans, but actually by unlocking and turbocharging housing, that allows us to take a big step forward in relation to homelessness.”
Starmer spoke to Christopher Hope on GB News
GB NEWS
Military veterans, young care leavers and victims of domestic abuse are set to be exempt from local connection tests, which most councils use to decide who can qualify for social housing.
Currently armed forces veterans are only exempt from the rules for five years.
Housing charity Shelter have expressed concern on the matter, saying changing the rules would not address the shortage of homes.
In a speech to the Labour Party Conference, Sir Keir said homelessness amongst veterans was an “injustice hiding in plain sight”.
Many veterans have found themselves homeless
GETTY"In every town and city in this country. People who were prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, who put their lives on the line to protect us all, but who will not have a safe place to sleep tonight," he said.
“We cannot stand by and let this happen anymore."
He added: "We will repay those who served us and house all veterans in housing need. Homes will be there for heroes."