HC Deb 12 March 1957 vol 566 c966
24. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many cases were submitted to rent tribunals for decision in respect of the rents charged for furnished lettings and for dwelling-houses first let after 1939, respectively, in respect of which the Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest Restrictions Act, 1939, applied; and in how many cases in each of these classes was the rent reduced by the tribunal.

Mr. Bevins

As the Answer contains a number of figures I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Janner

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there are large numbers of such cases, and that the rents which are allowed must, according to the Act, be reasonable rents in all the circumstances? If there are these large numbers of cases submitted at present, why is he introducing legislation in order entirely to do away with control of furnished dwellings?

Mr. Bevins

I think that that is a matter which the hon. Member might raise on the Third Reading of the Rent Bill.

Mr. Janner

I do not know about that—it is urgent.

Following is the answer:

—— Furnished Houses (Rent Control) Act, 1946 Section 1 Landlord and Tenant (Rent Control) Act, 1949
Decisions … … 80,259 16,744
Rent reduced … … 49,024 9,604

The figures in each case run from the coming into operation of the Act to 31st December, 1956.