MAY I ask Hugh Bayley and James Alexander to spare us their crocodile tears over the unacceptably high property rent levels in York?

If they were sincere in their wish to reduce local rent levels, they would abandon the socialist policies that have made affordable property scarce and pushed up rent prices. To alleviate the rent problem, we need more affordable homes and we need to send a clear message to landlords that there is no blank cheque on rent support.

Coun Alexander needs to try and sit round the table with the local building industry and agree a realistic percentage for affordable homes on new developments. Also, he needs to get real on the multitude of other disincentives to building that have all but halted new developments in York. Only then will there be hope for those struggling to find a home.

As a further matter of urgency, James should review his policy on the number of apartments to be built in York – he needs to demonstrate that he is serious about providing homes for those in need in York.

Coun Joe Watt, Conservative shadow member for city strategy and member for Skelton, Rawcliffe & Clifton Without Ward.