§ Mr. Harry Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will introduce legislation to make it illegal for councils to evict tenants solely on the basis of allegations of racist behaviour; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveLocal authorities do not have powers to evict tenants solely on the basis of allegations of racist behaviour. Councils which have been concerned about cases of racial harassment have sought possession orders on grounds laid down in the Housing Act 1985: Ground 1 (breach of tenancy obligations) and Ground 2 (nuisance and annoyance to neighbours). Before granting possession orders, the courts need to be satisfied that the requirements of either ground have been met.