Minutes:
The Mayor invited Councillor Engert to introduce the topic for the Haringey Debate.
Councillor Engert set out that there would be no external speaker, given the time expected to reach this item – and she hoped the handling of the debate would be considered as part of the governance review. She set out that the Renters’ Bill had passed the Lords since tabling the motion on the same issue (the following item), and how it would improve the treatment of renters financially and in terms of their safety.
Councillor Wright set out that rented accommodation was prevalent in the borough though not preferable, and that poor treatment of renters in the private sector led to an increased demand on the social rented sector. He set out how the Housing Strategy, agreed earlier in the meeting, would help improve matters, and that the Council should press the Government to allow it to provide more homes.
Councillor J Mann welcomed the debate, which was of great importance to residents, but felt the Renters’ Bill did not go far enough and hoped the Commons would strengthen the Bill. She further welcomed action taken by the Council in relation to housing.
Councillor Morris noted the rise in the number of renters, and how that increased the potential for rogue landlords. She was particularly concerned at the impact of poor housing on children and young people, particularly their health and learning. While the Renters’ Bill would not solve all issues, it would be a helpful step forward.
Councillor Sahota expressed his concern at the Government’s Housing Bill, and regretted that previous attempts to provide similar improvements seen in the Renters’ Bill, in amendments to the Consumer Rights Bill, were not successful.
Councillor Blake set out concerns of local residents in relation to renting, and the lack of rights they have, particularly given the high costs paid. She stressed that the quality of building by the Council was as important as the quantity.
Councillor Carter believed there was cross-party support for ending letting fees, and for many of the proposals in the Bill, which should also be welcomed by reputable landlords. He was also keen on a London-wide landlord registration scheme to help ensure their quality.
Responding on behalf of the Cabinet, Councillor Strickland welcomed the debate on housing and renting in particular. He had visited very poor quality properties with the enforcement team. He also regretted that the earlier efforts to provide renters’ rights were not successful, and set out where the Renters’ Bill fell short of what was required. He outlined that there would be a renting policy in the near future following the agreement of the Housing Strategy, which would build on the wider agenda of providing more housing.
Responding, Councillor Engert set out the Renters’ Bill would provide key improvements, and would tackle some of the worst practices, as observed by Councillors. She then proposed that the business be amended to allow the motion on the renters’ bill be moved forward to allow a vote immediately. This was seconded by Councillor Morris.
On a vote, the motion to amend the order of business was not agreed, and the agenda proceeded as circulated.