LRG chief Executive Michael Cook (pictured) has outlined the housing reforms he wants Andy Burnham to prioritise if he becomes Prime Minister.

Cook believes housing should be central to any future economic programme, but warns against responding to every challenge with additional regulation.

He says: “Andy Burnham returns to Westminster with considerable experience of the gap between policies announced in Whitehall and delivery on the ground.

“If he contests the Labour leadership, I would urge him to make housing a central part of his economic programme – but to resist the temptation to answer every problem with another intervention.”

Mortgage affordability

On affordability, Cook argues Burnham should expand Government-backed mortgages, support key worker products and make better use of shared ownership.

“These routes will not solve the supply problem alone, but they can help creditworthy households whose incomes are sufficient to sustain a mortgage but whose savings cannot keep pace with house prices and rents.”

Mobility and investment

Cook is also calling for a review of policies he argues restrict housing mobility and investment.

“Stamp Duty discourages people from moving, contributes to under-occupation and reduces the supply of homes coming to market.”

Stamp Duty discourages people from moving, contributes to under-occupation and reduces the supply of homes coming to market.”

He adds that Section 24 has made private renting less attractive to many landlords, reducing rental supply.

In addition, he says planning reform should provide greater certainty and examine zonal and pre-approved development approaches.

Clear entry requirements and robust enforcement.”

He also backs mandatory training for sales and lettings agents, alongside “clear entry requirements and robust enforcement through a properly funded regulator”.

However, Cook warns against excessive intervention, saying: “Rent controls, repeatedly changing EPC and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards and proposals that reduce choice in deposit protection risk unintended consequences.”

“Once clear and workable rules are in place, it should allow responsible businesses, investors and households the stability to make long-term decisions.”