The Prime Minister has written to housing professionals to re-iterate his commitment to housing as one of his top priorities.

Gordon Brown issued a personal letter to Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) members in the UK explaining his decision to commit an additional £1.5 billion to build an extra 20,000 affordable new homes over the next two years.

The Prime Minister said: "Some argue that this is not the time to take such actions. But I am convinced that by making the tough decisions, such as reallocating departmental budgets, we can meet our obligations to a fairer, stronger and more prosperous society."

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Mr Brown also explained the need for a "radical new approach" through bringing forward new rules on councils using rental income to build houses and giving them greater flexibility on how they allot properties. The Prime Minister stated that he was looking forward to working with CIH and its members to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to rent or buy a decent home at a price they can afford.

CIH Chief Executive Sarah Webb said: "We are delighted that the Prime Minister has chosen to issue such a positive message to the housing sector. Our members are fundamental to delivering the proposed reforms and the significant boost in affordable homes that has been promised. Our job is now to support all our members to deliver."

(CD/JM)