Rogue landlords in England are set to face restrictions on the amount of housing benefit they can receive if their properties fail to meet acceptable standards, as outlined by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.

This announcement accompanies a commitment of an additional £350 million for affordable housing, contributing to a broader government initiative aimed at constructing 1.5 million homes.

The funding increase was revealed by Rayner, alongside an earlier allocation of £500 million announced in the recent budget, reflecting the government’s ongoing response to the housing crisis affecting many families across the country.

The measures aim to address issues related to substandard housing conditions, where vulnerable individuals are placed in inadequate living situations, such as overcrowded properties managed by criminal groups.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government highlighted serious concerns regarding housing arrangements, noting instances where vulnerable individuals, including victims of sexual violence, have been placed in dangerous environments alongside offenders.

Additionally, areas in cities like Blackpool, Birmingham, Blackburn, and Hull have been reported as suffering from prevalent drug use and anti-social behaviour, which has exacerbated the housing crisis.

Rayner stated that the new funding is critical at a time when local councils are under pressure to provide housing, particularly for those in temporary accommodations.

Current statistics reveal that over 123,000 households are living in temporary accommodations, including nearly 160,000 children and approximately 6,000 families placed in bed and breakfast establishments.

As part of the funding, approximately 2,800 homes are expected to be developed through the affordable homes program, with half designated for social rent.

An additional £50 million will be allocated to the local authority housing fund to enhance the quality of available accommodation.

The initial £500 million designated for affordable homes is aimed at delivering 5,000 new builds.

The comprehensive affordable housing program is valued at £11.5 billion and is anticipated to yield up to 130,000 new homes by 2026.

In response to questions regarding the feasibility of the 1.5 million target, Rayner expressed confidence in the government's capability to fulfill this goal, citing the pressing need faced by 1.3 million individuals currently on housing waiting lists.

The call for action was underscored by statistics indicating widespread recognition of the housing crisis affecting numerous families.

The charity Shelter reported last year that at least 90,000 social rent homes need to be constructed annually over the next decade to adequately address social housing demands and homelessness.

Earlier this week, Rayner and Labour leader Keir Starmer participated in a rare joint engagement with King Charles, visiting a housing development in Cornwall that the monarch inspired.

Downing Street has since clarified that the king is not involved in political matters, emphasizing the visit was initiated at the king's invitation following Starmer's interest in the project.