A "phenomenal" house-building programme has been unveiled by the government.

Deputy prime minister John Prescott told MPs that there was a need for a "step change in the housing supply" but insisted that the green belt would be preserved.

Powers to take over empty homes will be given to local councils and the right to buy laws will be reviewed to boost social housing.

David Davis, shadow deputy prime minister, accused Prescott of "nationalising people's homes".

He told the Commons: "This announcement smacks of an old socialist state. There are plenty of other ways to encourage the letting of empty properties than heavy-handed centralism."