LEADER of the Liberal Democrats Sir Vince Cable supported the housing policy of the party’s “flagship” council on a visit to Eastleigh over the weekend.

Lending his backing to Keith House and Eastleigh Borough Council as a whole, the veteran politician said the authority had been sensitive with their decision making. Speaking at a rally after the council had secured 32 of the 39 available seats in last week’s local election, Sir Vince said: “They have been brave with their decision making, but also sensitive in protecting the green belt.

“What we have seen is that people round here are desperate for affordable homes. I really think their rent-to-buy scheme could be rolled out across the entire country.”

Borough council leader Keith House praised the support for the party, and also Sir Vince’s leadership across the country, targeting Test Valley and Gosport as next steps, as the party also recorded a strong result in Winchester.

Cllr House said: “We were very pleased with our result and Sir Vince has been an excellent leader. It makes me proud for him to be here and supporting our council, which he is obviously pleased with. Next we want to target Test Valley and flip Andover. Gosport is next on our list.”

The council lost seats in Bishopstoke, where controversial housing plans are in place. Councillors are targeting land near Bishopstoke and Fair Oak to build 5,000 homes.

Cllr House added: “It’s very easy to seduce the electorate once, but we are the only party with housing and infrastructure plans that work permanently. Losing there wasn’t a coincidence.”