CLG minister Eric Pickles yesterday attacked Labour’s plans for rent controls.
Using a quote from economist Assar Lindbeck, he tweeted: “Rent control appears to be the most efficient technique presently known to destroy a city except for bombing.”
Which brings us nicely to our picture of the week.
Thankfully, there were no babies around for him to kiss, but it does seem that estate agency offices should be on their guard for vote-seeking politicians to pop in – as Mr Pickles did here.
His unmistakeable presence made itself felt in the offices of 2-move estate agents in Strood, Kent.
He even brought along his campaign team.
Here he is, obligingly posing for a photo with, from left, Kelly Tolhurst, Victoria Baker and Debbie Petley.
The picture was taken by managing partner Tony Szabo.
With respect Mr Pickles whilst you are correct about rent controls you are the very last person who should be making comment about the negative effects of government policy. (apologies to Ian Wilson for the harsh tone) For 5 years you have presided over a department that is simply woeful in its understanding of the industry it presides over. I appreciate ministerial responsibility for a department is effectively no more than a permanent temporary contract caretaker role but realistically a chap of your intelligence and influence should have used the past 5 years to influence positive change in the one department that should not be subject to the disruption of actual or threatened policy change every 5 years. Colour politic policy should not even be a factor in housing the nation but this story alone says it is and that in my opinion is shameful
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