HC Deb 07 February 1967 vol 740 cc1335-6
3. Mr. Winnick

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what action he plans to take about those owners and agents who offer leases over 21 years to tenants in order to avoid the Rent Act, 1965, regulations.

Mr. Greenwood

I have given publicity to the need for prospective tenants to take expert, independent advice before signing leases of more than 21 years; and, as my hon. Friend said in answer to the Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Woolwich, West (Mr. Hamling) on 20th January, provision to bring long leases of dwellings at full market rents within the Rent Act, 1965, will be included in the forthcoming Bill on leasehold reform.

Mr. Winnick

While I am grateful for that Answer—I am sure that all my hon. Friends are grateful for it—may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that a number of bright boys in the property world are exploiting the loophole in the Rent Act, 1965? Would he ensure that there is the maximum amount of publicity in order to warn off these property sharks?

Mr. Greenwood

I am well aware of that, and I have already taken steps through the issue of Press notices and guidance to local authorities and citizens advice bureaux. We hope that any existing loophole will be filled by the forthcoming legislation.

Mr. Graham Page

Is there any justification for depriving a tenant of the security of a 21-year lease and the right to sell something—because he has a property right—and perhaps the right to enfranchise if the Government's legisla- tion is introduced? Is there any justification for depriving the tenant of all that?

Mr. Greenwood

The hon. Gentleman must await the Bill to see how wrong he is.