I am sure your Lordships agree that they are the ones to be given priority. The noble Baroness, Lady Hamwee, referred to a family which had been moved 34 times. I agree that that is a distressing case and is unacceptable. Indeed, the homelessness code of guidance already states that and it is precisely to avoid such situations that we are giving the authorities a two-year duty to provide suitable housing. Clause 157 requires local authorities to adopt a broad set of allocation criteria which will ensure that everyone with long-term housing needs receives fair consideration for the available stock of housing.
Homelessness is of course regrettable.
However, it is a fact and not a cause. We want to address the causes which lead to people becoming homeless. When we have done that, we can right the situation. Those who are homeless will receive accommodation, but it should not be a short-cut to advancing in front of those already on the housing register. It is for that reason that I hope your Lordships will not agree to the amendment.