State rent rise worry

Press, Volume CXVI, Issue 34099, 11 March 1976, Page 7

State rent rise worry

The Association of Social Workers is wor- ’ rietl about the effect of the possible steep rises in Slate house rentals) which might be brought about by the new methods of determining rent charges announced in the mini-Budget. The association’s president (Mr M. O’Brien) said in [Christchurch that increases; in rentals would stretch the budgets of many families beyond breaking point and create considerable hardship and distress. “Similarly, we deplore the, ■change in policy winch again permits the sale of State; houses. This will force manyfamilies on low incomes tot look for accommodation on 'the open market, and reduce!

the pool of housing available’ to those most in need,” he! said. “In a year which has been designated by the United! Nations as being concerned with the human! habitat, the association had hoped that the Government; would show a special concern for those whose housing needs are greatest. "The decisions on State housing announced in the! mini-Budget do not show that ) concern.” said Mr O'Brien ■ The association shared thej Government’s concern that; 'there should be adequate housing. Social workers were in regular contact with people who lived in inadequate housing and had [hoped that the measures announced would deal with seme of the pressing needs (of the community.