HC Deb 28 April 1971 vol 816 c421
40. Mr. Arthur Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he considers that, in areas of high property values, rent levels following conversion are adequate to encourage schemes of conversion and improvement.

Mr. Amery

Conversion and improvement of rented property would be encouraged if the procedures were simpler and the phasing of rent increases less prolonged; I am considering changes in the legislation to bring this about.

Mr. Jones

While I recognise that there are varying levels in different parts of the country, is it possible to prepare a schedule showing similar types of accommodation with the differing rent levels in various parts of the country?

Mr. Amery

We have to await the progression towards fair rents which will be a part of the housing finance reform which we shall introduce in the autumn.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Will the Minister ensure that in conversion schemes existing tenants are not simply forced out of their accommodation by new rents which are too high?

Mr. Amery

Existing tenants will always be able to fall back on the rent allowances in the private sector and the rebates in the public sector which are an integral part of our scheme.