§ Mr. Winnickasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will state the Government's policy towards the privately rented housing sector and the Rent Act.
§ Mr. John PattenOur policy continues to be to encourage a healthy and responsible private rented sector which can play a greater role in meeting housing needs. We want to improve the quality of accommodation available to those seeking rented homes, while allowing landlords reasonable returns on their investments. As my right hon. Friend, the Member for Wanstead and Woodford told the House on 12 June 1985, at column 890, when he was Secretary of State for the Environment, we hope to188W introduce legislation to encourage the supply of more homes for renting in the private sector, but probably not during the lifetime of this Parliament.