HC Deb 19 January 1972 vol 829 cc451-2
24. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how he proposes to exercise his discretion regarding seeing delegations from landlords' associations and property companies dealing in rented accommodation accompanied by Members of Parliament.

Mr. Channon

In relation to any such requests concerning the Housing Finance Bill the associations would be asked to put their views in writing.

Mr. Allaun

But as nearly 8 million families are affected by the Government's rent proposals, is it not flouting democracy not to see their accredited representatives? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these leaders are becoming infuriated by his cowardice and that of his colleague in refusing to meet them on such a vital and unprecedented Measure, because it did not happen under previous Ministers of either side?

Mr. Channon

The hon. Gentleman's Question relates to landlords' associations and property companies. I am interested to know that that is the representation he would wish us to see.

Mr. Leonard

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that we on this side of the House would have no objection to his meeting representatives of landlords, because birds of a feather do flock together? Is he also aware that representatives of council tenants, who have repeatedly requested meetings with himself and his colleagues, do not find the letter which he sent in reply to them, however long and elegantly penned it may be, an adequate substitute for the face-to-face confrontation for which they have repeatedly asked?

Mr. Channon

The practice of not seeing tenants' associations is one on which both sides of the House are in accord. Previous Governments have taken precisely the same line. If hon. Members wish to see my right hon. Friend or myself, we shall always be delighted to see them.