HOUSING is one of a council's most important functions, yet in Fareham responsibility for it is split between several members of the ruling executive.

Liberal Democrats challenged the council at its annual meeting to appoint an executive member to champion the issues of affordable housing for our young people, eradication of homelessness, and a atrategy that matches provision of homes to sustainable infra-structure.

The ruling Tory group voted against the proposal, but Liberal Democrats have gone ahead and appointed their own housing champion, Councillor Katrina Trott (pictured). Katrina's high profile in the borough, earned during an outstanding year as Mayor, will ensure that housing needs are fought for strongly by the Liberal Democrats.