Social housing means testing 'on cards'

DoI minister gives view on public sector rents

Means testing for those in public sector housing is still being seriously considered.

That's according to Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer.

He was responding to Douglas Councillor Claire Wells suggestion that public sector housing rents would need to be raised by nearly 9% if the service was to be self-funding. 

While not suggesting that this increase should be introduced, Mrs Wells said that sort of figure was needed to make public sector housing in the capital truly sustainable.

Mr Harmer says setting reasonable rent levels has long been problematic - and means testing remains on the cards as a practical way forward.