Ruth Kelly accused of 'breathtaking hypocrisy' over housing policy

The new communities minister Ruth Kelly has been accused of breathtaking hypocrisy after declaring war on "nimbyism" - while opposing the building of more than a thousand homes in her Bolton constituency.

Ms Kelly said householders being "protective of their own space" and opposing new council house building must be "rooted out".

But it emerged that the MP has helped to block a series of housing developments in her Bolton West constituency.

They are believed to have been applications to put up at least 1,600 homes.

Just last week she opposed the building of a new social housing development in Bolton for poor families.

Former Education Secretary Ms Kelly, appointed in the reshuffle to minister for communities and local government, said building more affordable social housing would be a personal priority in her new job.

She also indicated she wants to change planning laws to smooth the way for new developments.

But local councillor Alan Rushton, leader of Bolton Council's Conservative group, said: "I think her behaviour is a bit rich.

"She was representing her electorate's views but she will have to change that point of view now.

"I would like to see her reaction to a similar proposal now. If she makes the case and says, 'I got it all wrong. I want housing everywhere now', I think she would face a few fireworks in Bolton."

Copyright Press Association 2006.