48. Colonel NEWMANasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the grave dissatisfaction felt by both owners of house property and tenants at the unsatisfactory working of and needless litigation caused by the Rent Restrictions Act; and whether, in view of the fact that the Act lapses in the first half of the next year and that owners are already giving their tenants notice to quit, he will definitely say that a Commission will be appointed to review the working of the Act and report before Parliament meets for the next Session?
The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir Alfred Mond)I have been asked to reply to this question. Considering the complexity of the matter, the Act to which the hon. and gallant Member refers has, on the whole, I think, worked well. The question whether a further inquiry shall be instituted, particularly as to the renewal of the Act, with any necessary modifications, is now being considered.
Colonel NEWMANI have asked this question several times before and I have been unable to get information. When, as a matter of fact, will a decision be reached? Will it be reached before the House adjourns, say, in the middle of August?
Sir J. BUTCHERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the County Court-judges, before whom the administration of this Act has had to be conducted, have expressed the gravest dissatisfaction with the terms of the Act, which have caused great difficulty and litigation?