In the Gazette’s general election year feature, this week we ask the main contenders in East Thurrock to give their views on a local hot topic. This week, social housing and help for first-time buyers.

Stephen Metcalfe, Conservative MP

WE have to do something, as this will not go away.

We need all types of housing –social, rented, private and sheltered–so those who have grown up in the area can continue to live here.

We need to work together–council, Government and the community to agree our need and how we meet it. We also need to stop using development as a political football.

We must all compromise, but that does not mean building on every available green space.

We can identify acceptable sites while protecting the green belt.

Ian Luder, Ukip candidate

THERE is a direct correlation between population growth, changing family size, and housing demand.

Office for National Statistics projections show the UK will continue to grow, with average net migration of 173,000 a year. This is not sustainable.

Housing pressure is intense in Basildon, because so much net immigration is concentrated in the south-east. Immigrants occupy more than 40 per cent of new housing.

Only Ukip is prepared to recognise we need to leave the EU and regain control of our borders to prevent the situation worsening.

Mike Le-Surf, Labour candidate

RIGHT TO- BUY has given many a chance to own their own homes, but this has not been matched by new council and social housing.

A lack of affordable and social housing is forcing too many out, or into the private sector where costs are higher. We have to build more affordable homes for sale and rent.

Labour will build 200,000 homes a year and unblock land which already has planning permission by giving councils “use it or lose it”powers.

We will also support councils’ house-building. Local people should decide the best places in their area for housing.

Kerry Smith, Independent candidate

COUNCIL house building and the right to buy is the answer.

Westminster must allow councils to borrow enough to build new council housing on brownfield sites.

This will allow low-income families to enjoy affordable rents.Right-to-buy allowed my parents to buy their council house.

Uncontrolled immigration has created huge strains and prevented young adults getting a foothold on the housing ladder. Social and affordable housing should only be available to British citizens.