STRASBOURG (dpa-AFX) - The European Parliament is calling for measures such as reduced bureaucracy and tax incentives to tackle the housing shortage in Europe. In a non-binding resolution, a majority of MEPs in Strasbourg voted in favor of a plan to combat the housing crisis.
The resolution proposes simplifying building permits: they should be granted within 60 days, the parliamentarians suggested. Furthermore, they advocated for a significantly reduced VAT rate on the provision and construction of housing. According to the statement, the Parliament also condemned the illegal occupation of houses and called for stricter measures to protect property owners.
MEPs from the Union in favor - Left and Greens voice criticism
CSU MEP Markus Ferber emphasized: "Affordable housing can only be achieved if more is built again." He stated that the ball is now in the European Commission's court. In light of high housing costs, the European Commission presented a plan against the housing crisis in December. Housing is primarily a matter for EU member states. The Commission plans to provide local authorities with measures to regulate short-term rentals. The Brussels-based authority also intends to stimulate investment in housing construction and renovations.
The EU Parliament's decision drew criticism from the Left and the Greens. Martin Schirdewan, co-chair of the Left Group, criticized "deregulation in favor of real estate corporations and large investors" at the expense of tenants. He also spoke out against tax cuts without requirements for social and affordable housing./vni/DP/stw
