§ Mr. Denis MurphyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what plans he has to introduce a licensing scheme for private landlords. [19939]
§ Ms KeebleMy right hon. Friend published on 20 October a consultation paper on selective licensing of private landlords. This seeks views on proposals to introduce powers for local authorities to license all private landlords in all, or part of, their area, subject to the Secretary of State's consent. This would normally be granted only for areas of low housing demand facing severe problems, though consideration would also be given to any special cases outside such areas if compelling reasons were advanced. New primary legislation would be required to introduce such powers. The proposals are in addition to the Government's proposals to introduce mandatory licensing for houses in multiple occupation.