War veterans are set to move up the priority list for social housing as part of the council’s new allocations policy.

Residents who are working or contributing to society in some other way - such as volunteering for a charity - will also be more likely to get a home.

Richmond Council said it was making the bold move to change the trend of providing houses for people who expected something for nothing.

The authority - which faces huge demands with more than 5,000 households on its register - said it would also reward foster carers and applicants with a strong connection to the borough, but will not give priority to anyone with a record of antisocial behaviour or not paying their rent.

Councillor Nicola Urquhart, cabinet member for adult services, health and housing at Richmond Council, said: “We think it is important for everyone to play their part in society, whether this is through helping others who are in need or playing an active part in the workforce.

“At the same time we remain fully committed to looking after the most vulnerable, housing the homeless, keeping people close to appropriate medical care and their friends and family.

“I am very pleased that the freedoms we have been given have enabled us to show our commitment to local ex-servicemen and women who from now on will get priority housing allocation.”