The campaign to woo voters across the country has already started following the UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s surprise announcement that she wants to hold a general election, but to be successful, the Residential Landlords Association (RLA) is urging all political parties to ‘put housing first’.

As voters prepare to go to the polls on 8 June they face the prospect of a campaign dominated by a single issue – Brexit.

But like never before, housing will also be a primary issue that may determine who wins the election, given the lack of affordable housing across many parts of the country, according to the RLA.

David Smith, policy director at the RLA, said: “Over recent years, the private rental market has been hit by tax hikes, benefit cuts and growing regulations all of which are making it more difficult for tenants to access and afford a place to live. The same changes have made it harder for good landlords to provide the quality accommodation that tenants have a right to expect and have discouraged further investment in new homes.

“We need a housing market that works for all. The majority of landlords provide good quality housing and a good service to their tenants. The political parties need to recognise this and deliver for tenants and good landlords alike.”