Housing

The apparent inability to build more housing is the UK’s biggest policy failure. The system of land-use planning that largely explains what has happened generates indefensible economic distortions. Yet this is far more than just an economic policy failure. It is also a profoundly social one, since it thwarts family formation, the foundation of a fulfilled and purposive life. Kate Barker provides both a clear analysis of the problem and sensible, albeit modest, reforms. These represent the very least that needs to be done. Martin Wolf, Financial Times No one can speak to the housing supply issues facing the UK with the same authority as Kate Barker. This clear concise analysis of UK housing issues makes a series of policy recommendations that are both feasible and desirable. An excellent account of the state of UK housing - admirable in its coherence, clarity and precision. David Miles, Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee This succinct presentation of the housing challenge we have ourselves managed to create sets out clearly the inter- and intragenerational debate required. Politics is stuck between those for whom the current system works and those for whom it does not. This is the strongest description of this dilemma I have seen for a while. It must be read and debated - or read with despair. Bridget Rosewell, Senior Partner, Volterra Partners

Kate Barker CBE has led two major policy reviews for government: one on housing supply and one on land use planning. She is currently Senior Adviser to Credit Suisse and a non-executive director of Electra Private Equity plc, Taylor Wimpey plc and the Yorkshire Building Society. Kate Barker was previously a member of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England from 2001 until May 2010. Before joining the Monetary Policy Committee she was Chief Economic Adviser at the Confederation of British Industry.