Welsh Government sets out legislative priorities for year ahead

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, has today set out his government’s legislative priorities for the year ahead. The legislative programme includes bringing forward legislation in the next 12 months to reform the regulatory controls for registered social landlords in Wales following the decision by the ONS last year to reclassify housing associations as public bodies.

Stuart Ropke, Chief Executive of Community Housing Cymru, said: 'We have worked closely with Welsh Government since the ONS’ decision to reclassify Welsh housing associations as public bodies last September. We welcome the news that legislation will be brought forward in the next 12 months to reverse this decision. The reclassification of housing associations into the public sector could ultimately restrict the development of new affordable homes, jeopardising the 20,000 affordable homes target in the Housing Supply Pact announced by Welsh Government last year in conjunction with CHC and WLGA. We will continue to work with members and Welsh Government while the legislation is brought forward to ensure that the regulation of Welsh housing associations continues to be robust, transparent and fit for purpose, with tenants at its heart.'

Read Welsh Government's press release here.