COUNCIL tenants can look forward to a more stylish, more comfortable lifestyle in 2001. York's council houses are to benefit from a £6.8 million overhaul.

Hundreds of homes will be modernised and refitted thanks to what has been described as an "excellent" Whitehall grant. The generous settlement is due partly to City of York Council's reputation for running its housing stock efficiently. Last year, this was recognised by the award of Beacon Status. A survey shows nearly nine out of ten council tenants are happy with the service they receive.

If New Labour wishes to stay true to its roots, it should fund social housing properly. Decent homes for all should be this Government's priority. As private housing prices have rocketed the gulf between the property haves and have-nots has widened. This cash may help narrow that gap.

Seven million pounds' worth of home improvements, plus the council's creative housing policy, adds up to a good deal for York council tenants. This is the second example of Government largesse in a few days. On Thursday, York's transport plans were boosted by a £28 million grant, more than even the council dared hope for.

Although the General Election is just months away, ministers would strenuously deny any allegation that they were out to buy votes. To prove the cynics wrong, Labour merely needs to win the next election - then continue to be as generous with its cash after the poll as before it.