HC Deb 17 June 1952 vol 502 c980
42. Mr. Sparks

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of the high premiums being demanded for furniture and fittings as a condition of letting vacant accommodation to prospective tenants; and if he will take steps to protect tenants from such extortion.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Clapham (Mr. Gibson) on 22nd April last.

Mr. Sparks

Is the Minister aware of the growing practice whereby one or two bits of old junk are put in a couple of rooms, a fantastic price is charged and, as soon as the new tenant has taken possession, the landlord begins to make himself unbearable by quarrels until he drives the tenant out and regains possession, when he repeats the process again and again? Will the Minister look into the matter, because it is a growing practice in some parts of London?

Mr. Macmillan

It is illegal.

Mr. Gibson

Cannot the Minister do anything to encourage the prosecution of people who carry out this illegal action? It is not sufficient to say that it is illegal. We ought to make sure that prosecution takes place in proved cases.