King’s speech highlights new plans to finally ban no fault evictions – Crisis response

Today, in the King’s speech, the government has unveiled a raft of legislative measures for the next parliamentary year which include: 

• The Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which will deliver more high-quality housing. 
• The Renters’ Rights Bill, which will improve the rights of tenants who are renting in the private rented sector. This includes ending no fault evictions. 

Responding to the King’s speech, Matt Downie, Crisis Chief Executive, said: “This King’s Speech signals that housing is a clear priority and gives renters lots to be hopeful for with the announcement of the Renters’ Rights Bill. With no fault evictions one of the leading causes of homelessness, this legislation is a critical first step towards ensuring everyone has a safe home. Private renters have had to wait for reform for far too long and thousands have lost their homes because of it. It’s vital that the new government brings forward this legislation immediately, so that no one else must go through the trauma of being forced into homelessness.  

​“In addition to rental reform, there’s now a huge opportunity for the government to finally end the criminalisation of homelessness after 200 years. We need to see the Vagrancy Act finally repealed in the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill promised. This will be a clear signal that the government will focus on what works to end homelessness, not punitive action that pushes people further from support.   

 “The focus on planning reform is also hugely positive – we look forward to seeing the detail on how these reforms will help deliver the social homes we desperately need.   

 “The new government has said the country needs change, and we look forward to working with them to deliver the bold action needed to ensure everyone has a safe and stable home.” 

-Ends-