London (Punjab Outlook Bureau) UK Labour MP Preet Kaur Gill has hailed a major step forward in addressing the national housing crisis, following the Government’s announcement to build 500,000 homes through a newly established National Housing Bank, backed by £16 billion in investment power.
Calling it a “trailblazing approach”, Gill highlighted that the publicly-owned National Housing Bank will work through Homes England, the national housing and regeneration agency, which will now be empowered to issue government guarantees directly. The move is expected to give Homes England greater autonomy and flexibility, enabling long-term investment in housing projects that promise both social impact and strong economic returns.
“This marks a transformative moment in how we tackle the housing crisis in our country,” said Gill. “By giving Homes England the tools and freedom it needs, we’re setting the foundation for a housing system that works for the many, not just the few.”
Meanwhile, the MP for Birmingham Edgbaston also addressed Parliament following the tragic Air India crash in Gujarat, which has claimed multiple lives, including reports of British nationals among the casualties.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened by this tragedy. My thoughts are with all the victims and their families,” Gill stated.
In the House of Commons, Gill pressed the Minister for assurances that the UK government is fully supporting efforts to determine the cause of the crash. In response, the Minister confirmed that Foreign Office staff and expert investigation teams have been deployed to Ahmedabad, where they are providing assistance and guidance to affected British citizens and their families.
A UK reception centre has been established at the Ummed Hotel, near Ahmedabad airport, to help coordinate on-ground support for those impacted by the crash.
“This is a time for compassion and coordinated international support,” Gill emphasized, vowing to continue monitoring the situation and advocate for those affected in her constituency and beyond.