Subsidized homes top priority of central gov't
Updated: 2007-08-14 09:50
Families to be included in the low-rent system will be decided by local governments with reference to per capita discretionary income and housing standards.
The circular also tightens management of the economically affordable housing system, a policy to provide fairly cheap houses with government subsidizes.
The circular also called for a speed up in the renovation of urban shanties to ensure shelter for the poor and floating population.
James Jao, chief executive officer of J.A.O. Design International Architects & Planners Ltd, said the circular was a "positive move" as it "actively resolves housing difficulties".
"Government intervention is imperative to provide housing, especially for the poor," he said.
He suggested the establishment of a special government organ to deal exclusively with housing problems.
Zhao Xiao, an economist with the University of Science and Technology Beijing, said construction of a large number of low-rent houses implies an "unbalanced income distribution system", which should also be addressed.
Agencies contributed to the story
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