London tenants and workers protest against social housing auction, photo Helen Pattison

London tenants and workers protest against social housing auction, photo Helen Pattison   (Click to enlarge: opens in new window)

Outside the upmarket Marriott hotel, council tenants, private renters and residents of Notting Hill Genesis housing association protested against an auction by estate agent Savills – including Notting Hill Genesis homes.

One tenant said over the megaphone that his house has no market value “because I’m living in it!” A Socialist Party member spoke about how difficult it is to be young and renting in London, and how council and social homes need to be saved and built for the next generation, not sold off.

Housing workers organised in Unite the Union’s LE/1111 branch also protested. Branch chair and Socialist Party member Paul Kershaw said “the same housing associations that derecognise unions and cut staffing are also alienating residents and anyone concerned at the deepening housing crisis.”

Helen Pattison, East London Socialist Party