§ 8.42 p.m.
§ Lord MELCHETT rose to move, That the draft Rent (Northern Ireland) Order 1978, laid before the House on 27th June, be approved. The noble Lord said: My Lords, this draft Order deals with Northern Ireland's private rented sector. Although only 12 per cent. of the housing stock in Northern Ireland is owned by private landlords, these houses present some of the most serious and difficult problems because of their condition and the very low rent levels. The Government's objective is a limited one: to try to keep as many of these houses as possible in the stock and in a reasonable state for as long as possible. The worst houses would have to be demolished and replaced and the better houses repaired and modernised. If the better houses are to be maintained, rents must increase. My Lords, the Order contains a number of very valuable provisions which will enable us to fulfil the objectives that I have outlined, and I hope the House will welcome it. I beg to move.
§ Moved, That the draft Rent (Northern Ireland) Order 1978, laid before the House on 27th June, be approved.—(Lord Melchett.)