We want local authorities to play a bigger role in the delivery of affordable housing where this can be done cost-effectively. My Department is currently consulting on new freedoms that would help councils build more council homes. Under the proposals, councils would keep all the rental income from new homes they build, and the full capital receipts if those homes were sold in future under the right to buy. This extra revenue and capital could be used by councils to help build more council housing. We are also inviting councils to bid for Social Housing Grant. Previously local authorities have not been able to get this funding.