The Renters’ Reform Coalition has issued a cautionary message to the Labour Party regarding potential deviations from prior commitments to reform the private rented sector. This concern follows remarks made by Angela Rayner MP, Labour’s Shadow Housing Secretary, which appeared to overlook previously discussed measures aimed at safeguarding renters.

Tom Darling, campaign manager of the Renters’ Reform Coalition, expressed dissatisfaction with Labour’s current position, particularly after the party had initiated a review aimed at strengthening renter protections. Darling emphasized the need for a steadfast commitment beyond mere adjustments to the Renters (Reform) Bill, citing proposals for rent increase caps and the elimination of “no-fault” evictions.

Darling stated: “We don’t just need commitments to fully implement and tinker with the Renters (Reform) Bill, we need a commitment to a fundamental rebalancing which the Government’s legislation will comprehensively fail to deliver.”

Rayner reiterated Labour’s pledge to abolish Section 21, end tenant bidding wars, and extend Awaab’s law to the private sector. She also promised to tackle the housing shortage with a plan to build 1.5 million new homes over five years.

However, Darling noted a notable absence in Rayner’s remarks regarding the Renters Charter, previously suggested to improve security and fairness for renters. He remarked: “Renters will not settle for yet more politicians walking away from commitments they’ve made. They need to set out clearly their plans about how they intend to deliver security of tenure for renters.”