Leasehold Reform

HC Deb 17 March 1980 vol 981 cc21-2

14. Mr. Coleman

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received concerning the working of the leasehold system in Wales.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

Leasehold reform has been the subject of six parliamentary questions and 84 letters.

Mr. Coleman

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the resentment among leaseholders in Wales who are finding themselves compelled by ground landlords to effect insurance on their homes? Will he seek an early opportunity to introduce legislation to make that practice of ground landlords illegal?

Mr. Roberts

It is clearly in the interests of both the leaseholder and the freeholder that the property should be insured with a reputable insurance com- pany. The most common form of conveyance of leases contains only a requirement to that effect. However, I understand that some landlords who own many leasehold properties require that cover be obtained from a particular company, possibly because that greatly facilitates the necessary checking by the landlord that cover is being continued by all his leaseholders. I shall discuss that aspect with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade.