§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations were received on the possible effect of part VI of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 on council house rents during its passage through the House.
§ Mr. ChopeVarious representations were received, principally that council rents should be set at levels which the tenants can afford and should not be subject to unreasonable sudden increases. Both these objectives will be met if councils follow the guidelines set for them within the new system. The level of council rents remains a matter for individual councils.