By Ben Kerrigan-
A group of Conservative MPs who are also landlords has issued a stern warning that they may vote against the government’s Renters (Reform) Bill, which seeks to ban Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions of tenants.
The rebels argue that the policy is ‘unconservative’ and could drive landlords out of the market, leading to a reduction in the supply of private rental accommodation.
The Renters (Reform) Bill, drafted by Housing Secretary Michael Gove, is set for its second reading in the House of Commons.
It aims to abolish Section 21 evictions, a legal provision that allows landlords to repossess their properties without having to demonstrate any wrongdoing by the tenants.
This proposed change, however, has faced strong opposition from many Tory backbenchers, who view it as anti-landlord and fear it could negatively impact their constituents.
The rebels claim that the unconservative and will drive landlords out of the market, reducing the supply of private rented accommodation.
The Bill, drafted by Michael Gove, the Housing Secretary, is due for its second reading in the Commons today (Monday 23 Oct).
According to research conducted earlier this year, 87 Members of Parliament (MPs) earn an income from residential property, with 68 of them being Conservative MPs, making up about one-fifth of the Tory party’s parliamentary representation.
Among these MPs, Marco Longhi, representing Dudley North, expressed his reservations about the bill in its current form. As a landlord himself, Longhi declared his interest but also emphasized his extensive knowledge of how the rental market functions.
Longhi’s concerns were twofold.
He highlighted the adverse effects on landlords, with many choosing to leave the market due to the proposed changes, and the potential harm to tenants. He argued that a reduction in housing supply would only further increase demand and subsequently drive up rents.
Longhi criticized the approach as “very unconservative” from a political perspective, echoing the sentiments of several colleagues who own rental properties.
Another Tory backbencher, not a landlord, echoed these concerns, revealing that numerous colleagues who own rental properties share the view that the bill could be highly damaging. Some may even consider exiting the market due to the potential repercussions.
The MP said that approximately “30, 40 people I’ve heard about” were deeply discontented with the proposed changes, highlighting the discontent among a significant portion of Tory MPs.
The looming rebellion underscores the challenge the government faces in securing the passage of the Renters (Reform) Bill.
Critics argue that the proposed legislation fails to strike the right balance between tenant protection and landlord interests and may have unintended consequences for the housing market.
As the bill progresses through the parliamentary process, it is likely to remain a contentious issue that raises questions about the government’s legislative agenda and its ability to navigate a divided Conservative party.