Topic 1: Does increasing travels between countries enable people to learn different cultures or to

Topic 16: Only government action can solve housing shortages in big cities. To what extent 
do you agree or disagree? 
(commercialization of housing) (unaffordable to low income families), (economical housing), 
 
(government intervention) ;
(the housing affordability gap widens), ( rental rates ) (low-income families )( me unable to buy houses)
 (the direct result of overcrowding and overpopulation), (zoning policies), ( urban development
(housing allowance )
(house allocation system ) (dampen the enthusiasm of individuals in housing investment), (a grave 
shortage in the investment in house construction), (ease the housing pressure);
(the fundamental role) (construction quality), (functionality), (housing quality ) ( monotonous cityscape, 
uniformity of house design), (comprehensive requirements on living conditions)
Housing shortage has become a serious urban social issue in many parts of the world. It has been 
argued that only when the government has taken actions, can demand for homes be fulfilled. Yet 
to the best of my know ledge, the government alone cannot cope well with housing shortages.
One of the main objections to government intervention is that it would hamper the private 
sector and simultaneously pose a huge burden upon the state. In countries where the government 
is on a tight budget and the homeless population is large, the involvement of private property 
developers is required and recommended. Not only does it release the government from the 
burden of funding large-sized construction programs but it also fosters the housing industry. 
Given its role in attracting public consumption and accelerating economic development, the 
housing industry should be at the mercy of the market, rather than the government.
Another drawback of state control over the housing market is that it could result in the 
stagnancy of construction quality, functionality, facilities and other aspects of housing. 
Apartment blocks or other residential constructions would be built in a similar pattern and the 
cityscape would be monotonous. Excessive uniformity, especially in the size and number of 
rooms, will fail to meet comprehensive requirements raised by citizens on properties.
Despite these objections, government intervention is essential in some segments of the 
market and can render more resistance to citizens. Single parents, the people with disabilities and 
other disadvantaged people are among those who are not ready to afford commercial housing. 
The government can provide them either with housing allowance to purchase their private 
properties or directly with economical houses.
As indicated above, in addressing homelessness and inadequate housing, the joint effort of 
both government and private sector is required. While government intervention would impede 
the property market and negatively influence the supply and demand relationship, government 
assistance is essential for low-income families and vulnerable individuals in need of housing.
1. Objection=opposition=argument against 
2. At the mercy of=reliant on
3. Monotonous=repetitive
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4. Uniformity=sameness
5. Comprehensive=wide-ranging=ample
6. Intervention=interference=involvement
7. Segment=sector=section
8. Allowance=subsidy=payment
9. Joint=combined=shared=united
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