§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what consideration is being given to the abolition of licence controls over houses in multiple occupation.
§ Mr. BaldryCommon lodging houses are the only houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) which are subject to mandatory licensing, under provisions contained in part XII of the Housing Act 1985.
The Department has issued a consultation paper on the repeal of part XII. The comments of those who responded are being considered. No decision has yet been taken as to whether to proceed with the repeal.
Other HMOs may be subject to registration under schemes set up by some local authorities under section 346 of the Housing Act 1985. We are considering whether we should review the need for such registration schemes.