§ Mr. James Hillasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will take steps to expedite the procedure for determining fair rents, in view of the prospective increase in applications.
§ Mr. ChannonI share my hon. Friend's anxiety that the procedures for determining fair rents should be as expeditious as possible, consistent with the requirements of natural justice. These procedures are laid down in the Rent Act, 1968. The system of rent regulation under the Act is under examination by a committee under the chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Francis, Q.C. My right hon. Friend will consider what, if any, procedural improvements can be made when he has received and studied the committee's report.