Matthew Taylor MP was today named the new chair of the National Housing Federation (NHF) – and immediately set out his vision for the trade body.

Mr Taylor, who will stand down from Parliament at the next election, was elected for a three-year term as NHF Chair at the organisation's annual general meeting (AGM) in Birmingham.

Mr Taylor was author of last year's landmark review on rural housing, commissioned by the Prime Minister – and earlier this year was the unanimous recommendation of a Federation nominations panel, which put forward his name to the AGM.

-- Advertisement --

Mr Taylor said:"Housing is the most pressing issue in the country, and I have a burning belief that solving housing problems can transform lives and neighbourhoods.

"It's because of the interest I have in the housing agenda that I leapt at the chance to chair the Federation – I want to make a difference in the national debate on housing.

"I also want to make sure that what is already an impressively effective campaigning organisation stays that way, and becomes still sharper to meet the changes we will face after the recession and general election."

Mr Taylor said that he is becoming Federation chair at a challenging time for the housing association sector.

He was elected as Liberal Democrat MP for Truro and St Austell, in Cornwall, at the age of just 24. He was also responsible for shaping two general election manifestos.

(CD/GK)