HC Deb 07 May 1968 vol 764 cc204-5
24. Mr. Longden

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will now make an order, under Section 11 of the Rent, Act, 1965, bringing all controlled tenancies within the rent regulation system.

33. Mr. Hunt

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government when he intends to implement Section 11 of the Rent Act, 1965.

Mr. MacColl

My right hon. Friend has no proposals for making an order under Section 11 of the Rent Act, 1965.

Mr. Longden

The hon. Gentleman must be aware by now that there is great injustice to people who have invested small savings in real property rather than stocks and shares, and that the rents that they are receiving make it quite impossible for them to keep their properties in decent repair? When will he do something about it?

Mr. MacColl

My right hon. Friend has explained on many occasions that he wishes to see more of the working of the Rent Act before he introduces Section 11.

Mr. Hunt

Is it not a fact that in some parts of the country rent officers are becoming redundant through lack of work? Is there not a case in those special areas, for bringing more rent-controlled properties within the scope of the 1965 Act, thus helping those small landlords, who may not be able to muster many votes in the country, but who deserve to be treated with equity and justice by this House?

Mr. MacColl

My right hon. Friend has often said that he is very anxious to see more use made of the Rent Act by the tenants and the landlords, who would both benefit from it. There will be very great difficulties and anomalies in bringing Section 11 in force in certain areas and not others.

Mr. Frank Allaun

Is my hon. Friend aware that to do as the hon. Member has suggested would mean trebling the rents in London, Birmingham, and some other areas? Is that not a very odd way of keeping down the cost of living?

Mr. Longden

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.