§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his latest estimate of local authority rent arrears; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GowFigures collected by my Department indicate that on 31 March 1984 gross rent arrears due to local authorities in England and Wales totalled £188 million, of which £47 million were arrears of former tenants. The total represented 5.4 per cent. of the rent collectable and compares with arrears of £176 million or 5 per cent. of the rent collectable a year earlier.
Although the increase was less than in previous years, rent arrears remain far too high, particularly in London and in metropolitan areas.
Tenants who fail to pay their rent promptly place a heavy and unnecessary burden on other members of the community.
My Department and the Audit Commission have issued comprehensive advice on good management practice to reduce rent arrears. Landlords should study and take heed of that advice.