Why Does Britain Have a Housing Crisis? - A Historical Analysis from Victorian Era to Present

Explore the roots and evolution of Britain's housing crisis in this 55-minute lecture delivered by Economic History Professor Martin Daunton at Barnard's Inn Hall. Examine how the average age of first-time homebuyers has increased by over a decade since 1960, alongside rising income requirements for purchases. Understand the decline of social housing since the late 1970s and its impact on the current rental market conditions. Journey through British housing history from the Victorian era through the post-World War I shift toward owner-occupation and council housing. Consider potential solutions to the current crisis while drawing comparisons with housing situations in other cities. Learn from Daunton's expertise as the former Master of Trinity Hall, Cambridge, and Emeritus Professor of Economic History at the University of Cambridge as he analyzes this pressing social and economic issue.