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Reform previously revealed plans to remove foreign nationals from social housing, a move that drew sharp criticism from the housing charity Shelter. The charity argued that the focus should instead be on constructing more homes, rather than altering the existing allocation system or fostering division. Reform has announced that its leader, Tice, will present details on funding the creation of 50,000 new affordable homes during an upcoming news conference on Monday.
Expressing his views on Sunday, Tice emphasized the importance of prioritizing young British workers. He stated, “It is time for us to prioritise young British workers, and that is what our policy is about.” Drawing on his background in property development, Tice highlighted his experience leading companies that delivered thousands of new homes. He pledged that if in government, he would remove obstacles preventing the younger generation of renters from entering the housing market. He concluded with a call to action to “get Britain building” and provide “our young people the homes they deserve.”
According to the English Housing Survey, in 2024/25, British or Irish nationals comprised 88.5% of main social home householders, the individuals in whose names social housing leases are held. This indicates that approximately 11.5% of these householders are non-UK or Irish nationals. Reform estimates that about 540,000 social homes are currently occupied by foreign nationals. However, Labour dismissed Reform’s plans, stressing that social housing is already tightly regulated. A Labour spokesperson clarified, “Illegal migrants, asylum seekers and migrants on student or work visas are not eligible for social housing.”
Labour further criticized the proposal by highlighting that it would unfairly affect long-term UK residents who contribute to the country but are not British citizens, such as NHS workers. They warned the plan could increase homelessness, add to the use of temporary accommodation funded by taxpayers, and result in prolonged negotiations with the EU. The Conservative Party, which has also proposed limiting social housing access for foreign nationals while allowing certain groups like Irish citizens and some EU nationals to remain, accused Reform of trying to “catch up” with their own policies. Tory claims suggest their approach could free up roughly 230,000 homes. Additionally, Sir James Cleverly, the shadow housing secretary, stated, “The Conservatives have already set out comprehensive plans to ensure British nationals are at the front of the queue for social housing. Now Reform are trying to catch up.” He underscored a belief in a society where hard-working individuals have the opportunity to own their homes without unnecessary barriers. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat spokesperson Gideon Amos condemned Reform’s plan as a “cruel gimmick.
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