This morning I visited the Ledbury Estate to talk to residents after the council was advised to turn off the gas supply in the four blocks. Along with Cllr Michael Situ, Ledbury Housing Officer Peter Bailey, Ledbury TRA Chair Jeanette Mason and caring council staff, I spoke to residents who are worried sick about what is going to happen. They are facing complete disruption to their lives and everyone is uncertain about whether they'll have to move, where to, for how long and how they'll cope.

It's an awful situation but the council are working hard to ensure that every individual resident is helped. They are sorting temporary accommodation, permanent accommodation and even hotels and compensation for the costs people are facing.

The council are doing their best but it's time the government stepped up and gave Southwark Council the money it needs to ensure the Ledbury costs do not take money away from other important major works projects for tenants in the borough.

I'd like to pay tribute to the work of Jeanette Mason and the Ledbury Tenants Association as well as council staff and local councillors who are all working hard for the local community.

You can read my full statement here.