Although not included in the Queen's speech, this bill emerged within days of the opening of Parliament. The bill is essentially a reworking of the Homes bill that ran out of time in the last parliament. It is unlikely to include the controversial sellers pack, but only the second part of the bill, to reform local council provision for the homeless. The bill gives greater protection to those with a priority need for housing, such as families, and gives people more choice in the housing they receive. It extends the priority list to include 16 and 17 years olds, and 18 to 21 year old leaving care, as well as those who are fleeing violence. Local authorities would also have a duty to review homelessness and take steps toward prevention.

Charities for the homeless are supporting the bill and Shelter described it as "a more compassionate and common sense approach".

House of Commons

First reading: June 21 2001 (HC Bill 2)

Second reading: July 2 2001

Committee (Standing Committee A)

• 1st sitting: July 10 2001 (am)
• 2nd sitting: July 10 2001 (pm)
• 3rd sitting: July 12 2001 (am)
• The bill was not amended in committee

Remaining stages: October 22 2001

House of Lords

First reading: October 23 2001 (HL Bill 16)

Second reading: Nov 12 2001

Grand Committee: December 10 2001

Report: January 15 2002 (The bill as amended on report - HL Bill 43

Third reading: January 24 2002

House of Commons

Consideration of Lords amendments: February 25 2002

Royal Assent: February 26 2002