The Welsh Assembly Government has confirmed that it is ready to introduce the draft Affordable Housing Legislative Competence Order with the support of the Westminster Government.

The new powers that would be provided by the Order could enable local authorities to preserve their social housing stock, thereby increasing the availability of affordable housing for rent.

The Deputy Minister for Housing, Jocelyn Davies, has written to the Assembly committee that scrutinised the Affordable Housing Legislative Competence Order informing them that it will be tabled this afternoon.

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The next step will be for the new powers order to be put to the National Assembly for Wales for approval.

Ms Davies said: "Both Local Government and housing associations have welcomed the fact that these powers will lead to legislation that will eventually provide them with greater flexibility in the effort to secure an adequate supply of affordable housing in Wales.

"The Assembly Government is acutely aware of the shortage of affordable housing and how the lack of homes for rent is having an impact on Welsh communities.

"Housing need is also on the increase as a result of the difficulties facing first time buyers, the slow down in new build as well as the increase in mortgage repossession orders."

(CD/JM)