The Renters' Reform Coalition, a body representing various renter groups, has released a statement regarding the Renters (Reform) Bill, scheduled for its Report Stage and Third Reading today.

The statement expresses concerns that the current form of the Bill fails to adequately address renter interests. It alleges that meetings with lobbyists for landlords and estate agents have taken precedence over those representing renters.

The Coalition asserts that concessions made to appease pro-landlord MPs have significantly weakened the Bill.

According to renter groups, the latest amendments are seen as the "final straw", with the Bill considered to abolish section 21 "in name only".

They argue that, rather than improving conditions for renters, the Bill perpetuates the "central power imbalance" in renting.

The Coalition is urging immediate pro-renter amendments, cautioning that without a change in government approach, meaningful change may be deferred to a future administration.

This response follows recent amendments to the Bill by Housing Secretary Michael Gove, aimed at "bolstering landlord protections", including a policy to lock renters in for the first six months of a tenancy and delay the abolition of section 21, contrary to previous assurances. These concessions were reportedly made to prevent a rebellion from pro-landlord MPs.

These government actions stand in contrast to a survey commissioned by 38 Degrees indicating that only 11% of renters feel landlords need more protections, with 82% expressing concerns about the influence of MP landlords on the legislation, seeing it as a conflict of interest.