Housing Secretary Angela Rayner has firmly ruled out introducing rent controls in England, pointing to the impact of the Renters' Rights Act. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, she said rent control measures have not necessarily brought down rents in other parts of the UK. This stance marks a clear departure from Prime Minister Andy Burnham's earlier position when he advocated for private sector rent freezes.
Ms Rayner acknowledged Mr Burnham's call for rent freezes was made three years ago, during the cost of living crisis, but now believes the Renters' Rights Act is empowering renters. She told the BBC, "I don't think that rent freezes, rent controls, is a way forward at the moment." The act provides greater stability and security for the estimated 11 million individuals renting from private landlords in England, including banning fixed-term tenancies and restricting annual rent increases to the property's "open market rent".
The debate around rent controls remains contentious, with some arguing it could worsen the housing crisis by deterring landlords. In Scotland, temporary rent controls have expired but new legislation will enable ministers to designate specific areas as rent control zones by 2027. Meanwhile, Ms Rayner has highlighted the government's challenge in meeting its target of constructing 1.5 million new homes by 2029, due to increased construction costs.
She acknowledged the difficulties on BBC Radio 4's Today programme but reaffirmed her commitment to the target. Prime Minister Burnham has also spoken about delivering a significant programme of council house building and reforming property taxes, though specific details remain unconfirmed.