0852 GMT - Steve Reed, the U.K.'s new housing secretary, has much to do if the government is to reach its targets of building 1.5 million homes, Jefferies analysts say in a note. Reed recommitted to the target and plans for an "acceleration package" to get planning approved faster, Jefferies says. But the government is behind target in its first year, while the benefits of planning changes are yet to be seen, the analysts say. "The possibly most acute issue, however, is if there is sufficient demand to reach government's housebuilding target without some sort of government support for open market sales," Jefferies says. Vistry shares are up 3.7% followed by Bellway, up 2.2% and Persimmon, up 1.7%. (anthony.orunagoriainoff@dowjones.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

September 15, 2025 04:53 ET (08:53 GMT)

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