HC Deb 22 March 1960 vol 620 c222
26. Mr. Fernyhough

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consider granting maintenance relief to tenants who carry out decorating and maintenance work at their own expense on their landlords' property.

Mr. Amory

I have noted the hon. Member's suggestion.

Mr. Fernyhough

In considering this matter, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that many landlords who have never spent a penny on repairs to the property that they own get the maintenance allowance, while many tenants who spend scores of pounds on their landlords' property never get a penny in reimbursement? Will he try to make a decision which will give a fair crack of the whip to tenants as well as to landlords?

Mr. Amory

I will certainly bear that is mind. These maintenance claims are to be made by the owner of the property. It is not intended, nor would it be appropriate, that they should be applicable to the tenants as tenants.

Mr. Fernyhough

Does not the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that some landlords have for years refused to spend a penny on their property and that in such cases it depends on the tenants whether the property is kept in reasonably habitable condition? Surely the statutory maintenance grant should be allowed to the tenant as distinct from the landlord who is not fulfilling his obligations?

Mr. Amory

I think that the hon. Gentleman will realise that it is extremely difficult for the Department of Inland Revenue to intervene in a contract between a landlord and his tenant.