PressTV - Britons protest against housing crisis

Britons protest against housing crisis

Thu Sep 15, 2011 4:48PM GMT

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British people have taken to the streets in London to protest against the government's housing policies creating a housing crisis in the country.

Protesters are concerned about several issues that they consider quite unjust. The eviction of Dale Farm residents is what has most angered protesters. Furthermore, the criminalization of squatting has been officially assessed to lead to an increase in the number of homeless people that has further contributed to British people's discontent with the government's housing policies.

Moreover, British people have become quite furious over the announcement by the government that councils could evict families of those involved in the recent unrest. Finally yet importantly, British people are fed up with the government's cuts to housing benefits.

The protesters gathered outside of British Justice Secretary Ken Clarke's house as they unfurled banners reading “housing is a human right” and posted mock eviction notices.

“Ken Clarke was targeted because by attempting to criminalise squatting he is essentially criminalising the homeless in the middle of a housing crisis and people are rightfully angry,” said Joseph Blake from Squatters' Action for Secure Homes who considered the housing protests as the beginning of upcoming protests that are to spread all over the country.

Furthermore, Blake asserted that the government's housing policies “will only serve the interests of property speculators and unscrupulous landlords whilst at the same time criminalising the last remaining option for many to put a roof over their heads.”

Protesters have also gathered outside the building of the Department for Communities and Local Government and are planning to build a mini cardboard city in order to express their sympathy with travelers who are to be evicted from Dale Farm and in solidarity with people who are being evicted due to their involvement in the recent unrest.

British people's protest against the government's housing policies come as public sector unions have announced plans for a nationwide “day of action” on November 30.

ISH/MGH

via presstv.com