The housing crisis in the UK continues to intensify, with millions of people struggling to find affordable and adequate housing. Whilst certain parties would have you believe that the housing crisis has been caused by immigration, the reality is that a staggering 1.4 million properties remain vacant across the country, held by owners waiting for a potential rise in market value. This exacerbates the housing shortage, inflating property prices and making it difficult for first-time buyers and renters to secure homes.

Imposing a tax on these vacant properties would encourage owners to sell or rent them rather than letting them sit empty. This measure has proven effective in various regions worldwide, such as Vancouver, Canada, where a vacancy tax successfully increased the housing supply, leading to a decrease in rents and more availability of homes.

Taxing vacant properties would not only incentivize owners to make better use of their properties but also release much-needed housing back into the market, alleviating pressure on the housing supply, and helping to stabilize property prices.

We urge the Government to implement this tax policy immediately as part of a broader strategy to address the housing crisis. By doing so, the UK can ensure more sustainable housing availability for its citizens, while also deterring speculative practices that harm the community.

Sign this petition to demand action from the Government. Together, we can push for a fairer, more equitable housing market that serves the needs of all citizens, not just the interests of a few.