A New Deal for Renting

The CLA has responded to the Government consultation: "A New Deal for Renting - Resetting the balance of rights and responsibilities between landlords and tenants" which proposes the abolition of section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 and Assured Shorthold Tenancies.

We have argued strongly against these proposals, given multiple reasons why they would not work in practice and highlighted the serious unforeseen consequences of pursuing such a policy.

In order to be constructive, if reforms are to be made, we have suggested alternative approaches that we believe would work in practice and be fairer to landlords and tenants.

We have emphasised the vital importance of flexibility when it comes to providing accommodation for employees and argued in the strongest terms that the efficiency of the rural economy and the very sustainability of rural communities will be adversely affected by these proposals.

We are very grateful to the many members who shared their thoughts and views with us and to those who have responded individually to this consultation. Whilst the consultation deadline has now passed, the fight carries on and we would still encourage members to lobby their MPs on this issue so that the voice of rural landlords continues to be heard.