Michael Gove rebukes Lambeth Council in second scathing letter

The Secretary of State, Michael Gove, wrote following an investigation into a case where a resident and her family, including a very young child who suffered from severe eczema, were left for six years in a damp and mouldy home caused by a leaking roof. The council also failed to respond appropriately to a safeguarding enquiry from the child’s school, Gove said.  

The letter comes just five months after Gove last wrote to the council citing “five severe maladministration judgements relating to three separate cases.” In his latest letter, Gove said the council has “failed residents yet again”.  

Last month, it was announced that Labour-led Lambeth would be the first council in the country to be inspected by the Housing Ombudsman because it is consistently failing to deal properly with complaints from residents.  

Commenting, Cllr Donna Harris, Leader of the Lambeth Liberal Democrat Group, said:  

“I am both appalled and horrified in equal amounts that Labour-run Lambeth continues to be admonished in regard to persistent negligence towards housing repairs. It is utterly damning that the Housing Ombudsman and the Secretary of State have had to intervene yet again.” 

“It’s totally unacceptable that residents can be let down in such a catastrophic manor. Residents of Lambeth deserve far better, and a basic prerequisite should be met ensuring homes are safe, habitable, and conducive to wellbeing. It is the Council’s responsibility to ensure that these standards are met without fail.” 

“The council must finally heed the concerns raised and immediately rectify the housing complaints and repairs process.”