§ 27. Mr. Edelmanasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is satisfied that the means available under the Rent Act, 1965, are adequate for registered clubs to recover the use of premises occupied by stewards in cases where such stewards are dismissed from their employment on the grounds of inefficiency or misconduct; and what amendments he intends to introduce to the Act in order to ensure that the legitimate interests of such clubs and their members are protected.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. James MacColl)My right hon. Friend has no reason to think the existing arrangements are inadequate. If my hon. Friend knows of difficulty in a particular case perhaps he will send me the details.
§ Mr. EdelmanIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that in a defended action it is possible for hearings to be postponed for as long as four months, with an unsatisfactory steward in possession, having access both to money and to supplies? Will he not take steps to help clubs, like those of the Club and Institute Union, which are particularly affected by cases of this kind?
§ Mr. MacCollAs I said, I know of no particular case where this has happened. If parties apply for an expedited hearing, the difficulties to which my hon. Friend referred do not take place.