New criteria for the allocation of public sector housing could make the process fairer, an MHK believes.

The changes would see greater emphasis laid on health, welfare and safety, if approved by Tynwald later this month.

Julie Edge MHK, member with responsibility for public estates and housing, said: ’The proposed changes will ensure the criteria correctly reflect today’s society and prioritise the people most in need.

’The views of the public have been collected and considered during this process, along with the views of the local authorities, and I’m confident the proposals will succeed in ensuring greater fairness.’

Applications are assessed in two stages. The first sets out eligibility requirements to join a waiting list.

The second determines how applications are prioritised once a person is accepted onto the list, and this is achieved through a points system.

While the island residency qualification remains at 10 years, the requirement to have lived in one housing authority area for at least five years in order to apply for housing has been reduced to three years.

This proposal reflects the wider regional nature of shared lists between different authorities.

Financial and other circumstances are still assessed to determine priority for housing but health, welfare and safety needs will be given the greatest weighting, if the proposals are approved.

The results of a public consultation earlier this year showed more than 70 per cent of respondents agreed with the proposals.

Access to public sector housing is subject to an all-island policy which was last assessed in 2002.

The new criteria are designed to modernise the rules currently in place and promote greater fairness, a government statement said, adding: ’This will enable housing providers to target resources more accurately at applicants with the greatest housing need.’