13-12-2007
CML presses Conservative leadership over "mistake"
The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has pressed the leadership of the Conservative party to address a "mistake" implemented in 1995.
Under the leadership of the Conservative party, the government restricted levels of Income Support for Mortgage Interest, which the CML believes impacts upon those unable to absorb any forthcoming mortgage payment increases.
In 1995 - when the measure was implemented - the government was led by prime minister John Major. "We were pleased to have an opportunity to brief the Conservative leaders in person at their request," said Michael Coogan, director general of the CML. "The main missing link at present is an appropriate benefits system targeted at those whose circumstances have changed, which has lagged behind what is needed," he added.
However, the CML stressed that, of those who will be leaving fixed-rate mortgage deals next year, the majority will be able to afford rises in mortgage repayment levels.