Second Reading

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, emphasized that the bill aims to end the "cruel practice of no-fault evictions" and ensure that all private tenants can aspire to a "decent, affordable and safe home." She highlighted measures to empower tenants to challenge unfair rent increases, ban discrimination against tenants with children or on benefits, and apply the decent homes standard to the private rented sector for the first time. 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 warned that the Government's "good intentions" would have "unintended consequences" and claimed the previous Conservative government's approach was more balanced. However, Badenoch's arguments were criticized by several Labour members, who accused the Conservatives of failing to deliver on their past promises of rental reform. The wide-ranging debate that followed saw members from across the House share personal experiences and concerns of their constituents. Many Labour speakers recounted harrowing stories of families facing no-fault evictions, living in substandard conditions, and struggling with unaffordable rents. They welcomed the bill's measures to enhance tenants' rights and security. Conservative members struck a more cautious tone, warning of potential unintended consequences, such as a reduction in rental supply, and calling for a careful balance between the interests of landlords and tenants. Some highlighted the need for appropriate provisions for the student rental market and those with past financial difficulties. There were also discussions around the importance of resourcing local authorities to effectively enforce the new regulations. Several members, including the Chair-elect of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, raised specific issues such as the role of the new ombudsman service, the use of the rental database, and the need to address discrimination faced by benefit claimants and single parents. The Minister for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook, acknowledged these concerns and indicated the Government's openness to further engagement as the bill progresses. Overall, the debate reflected the significance of the proposed reforms and the range of perspectives on how to balance the interests of renters, landlords, and wider housing supply. While the Government's amendment to the reasoned opposition motion was ultimately approved, the constructive tone suggested a willingness to work across the House to refine the legislation and deliver meaningful change for private renters.