Renters' Rights Bill

The Government opened the debate by outlining the key provisions of the Renters' Rights Bill. The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner, argued that the bill would end the "cruel practice" of no-fault evictions, empower tenants to challenge unfair rent increases, and apply the decent homes standard to the private rented sector for the first time. She contended that this legislation was critical to ensuring everyone can aspire to a decent, affordable and safe home. In response, the shadow Secretary of State, Kemi Badenoch, tabled a reasoned amendment arguing that the bill would "reduce the supply of housing in the private rented sector." She claimed the Government was ignoring the risk of unintended consequences and warned that the legislation could make life more difficult for private renters. Badenoch defended the previous government's approach, stating that they had recognised flaws in their own Renters (Reform) Bill. The wide-ranging debate that followed saw members from across the House share personal experiences and constituency stories highlighting the challenges faced by private renters. Many welcomed the bill's provisions to ban no-fault evictions, introduce a decent homes standard, and prevent discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children. However, some Conservative members expressed concerns about the potential impact on the rental market, arguing the bill could reduce housing supply. Several speakers, including the Chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, called for stronger measures to tackle affordability, such as rent controls. The need to ensure local authorities are properly resourced to enforce the new regulations was also emphasised. Members also discussed the unique circumstances of the student rental market and the importance of protecting the rights of care leavers and vulnerable groups. In closing, the Minister for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook, defended the bill, stating it would "overhaul the private rented sector and level decisively the playing field between landlord and tenant." He acknowledged concerns around the impact on the courts and enforcement, but argued the Government was committed to providing the necessary resources and support. Pennycook insisted the legislation would deliver greater security, rights and protections for the 11 million private renters in England.