HC Deb 23 April 1986 vol 96 c166W
23. Mr. Squire

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has further proposals to increase the provision of assured tenancies.

Mr. John Patten

I tabled amendments to the Housing and Planning Bill on 18 March to extend the assured tenancy scheme. These will allow approved landlords to let existing property on assured tenancy terms provided the property has first been substantially improved or repaired or has been converted.

25. Mr. Nicholls

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will take steps to seek to relax the operation of the Rent Acts in relation to private tenancies; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

The Government have no proposals for any major reform of the Rent Acts in this Parliament. However, it remains our wish to encourage the supply for more homes to let in the private rented sector. In order to provide greater scope for responsible landlords approved by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State to invest in rented accommodation, I tabled on 18 March amendments to the Housing and Planning Bill to extend the assured tenancy scheme to improved property.