The update yesterday that another cabinet meeting has been called next week to discuss this proposed move is welcome. There are many concerns about this proposed move, not simply about the process and the lack of scrutiny, but about the future levels of service to residents. I have issued a joint statement with Ruth Smeeth MP:

“The Tory and Independent coalition running Stoke-on-Trent City council has effectively announced its intention to privatise its housing services. The Council has signalled its intention to reduce the level of service offered to council tenants and to put the profits of outside organisations ahead of the quality of service on offer to residents.

Housing development, growth and homelessness services should be at the heart of this council's agenda, not siphoned off to outside agencies. It's no surprise that instead of being open about this intended flawed proposition they've kept councillors and opposition members in the dark.

We will work with local councillors, stakeholders and tenants to fight this privatisation that will do nothing to benefit local people or the quality of services they receive”.

https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/260-more-council-jobs-set-1051718