Labour is projected to build fewer than one million homes during the current parliamentary term, potentially falling 500,000 short of its pledge to deliver 1.5 million by 2029. The analysis suggests the target is increasingly unlikely to be met, with Housing Secretary Angela Rayner acknowledging only a “slim chance” of success.

Official estimates for homes added last year were revised down to 196,900, while 437,900 homes have reportedly been built since the election, compared with around 660,000 needed to remain on course. Current construction is about 539 homes a day, but meeting the pledge would require 1,041 daily; planning permissions have fallen 30% in four years, although the Government says housing starts are rising as planning reforms take effect.