I AM writing to clarify a number of issues in the media in recent weeks as part of the debate on the future of council housing. Right to Buy – Existing tenants will retain the right to buy and receive the same level of discount. The technical differences

I AM writing to clarify a number of issues in the media in recent weeks as part of the debate on the future of council housing.

Right to Buy - Existing tenants will retain the right to buy and receive the same level of discount. The technical differences which have been alluded to in recent letters have no effect in Fenland because house prices in our district are now so high.

Rents - Rent increases will be the same whether or not tenants transfer. In recent years, Government policy has been to steadily eliminate the differences between council and housing association rents. This policy does not end in 2012 - it is simply that then rents will have to be the same.

The Fenland housing association will be a charitable organisation. Such organisations have to be not for profit. They do not give profits to shareholders and any surpluses are for the good of the people they are established for. They are also regulated by the Government through the Housing Corporation and inspected by the Audit Commission like the council.

There will be five councillors or council representatives on the board of the new association. Board members will not be paid.

The price the council expects to receive for the stock is still being worked on which is why it has not been released. Once it has been finalised for this stage of the process it will be made public.

If you have queries please contact Adrian Waite, independent tenants adviser, free on 0800 0283 365 or the council's 0800 1690655.

TIM MILLS, Director of housing and development, Fenland District Council