A cross-party committee of MPs has been set up this week to launch a public inquiry into the reforms needed to deliver the three million homes promised by the government.

The group is made up of MPs and Peers from the three main parties and will be chaired by Urban Development Group Chair Clive Betts MP and former minister Nick Raynsford MP. The group will examine four key issues: housing challenges faced by northern and southern towns and cities; the most effective ways to deliver urban housing; options for improving housing quality and supply; what role the private sector must play.

The committee has asked for written submissions from the public and specifically to consider a number of areas such as: the powers city leaders need to meet housing needs in their areas; the best ways to deliver supporting infrastructure such as schools and healthcare; the most effective local delivery tools; and how to improve private sector involvement.

The deadline for written submission is on the 22 October. The committee will hold a public inquiry session in November and will make its final report and recommendations in early 2008.

Clive Betts MP, said: ‘The government has set out targets for new homes – but the current system will not deliver what’s needed. Our Inquiry will provide recommendations for ministers, who are right to have started a national debate on housing policy.

‘We must now find better ways to build new housing – and the solutions will involved both public and private sector players. And we need to help towns and cities across the country to delivery decent places to live.’