Press Release

Big Issue founder Lord John Bird joins in criticism of weakened Renters Reform Bill

Lord John Bird

Lord John Bird, founder of the Big Issue

In a new statement, the Renters’ Reform Coalition have criticised the “weakened” Renters (Reform) Bill ahead of its final report stage in the Commons today (Wednesday 23 April).

Lord John Bird, founder of the Big Issue and crossbench peer, and a Champion of the Renters’ Reform Coalition, supports their criticism, and has vowed to further scrutinise the Bill ahead of its reading in the House of Lords.

Lord Bird said: “The government benches have continuously weakened the Renters Reform Bill throughout its passage in the Commons. I agree with the Renters’ Reform Coalition’s statement today that, if passed in its current form, it will be a complete failure for renters across the country, who deserve secure, safe, and affordable housing. Unfortunately, this government is breaking its manifesto promise of a better deal for renters.

“I look forward to the Renters Reform Bill coming to the Lords, where I intend to do what I can to make the legislation deliver for the millions of renters that desperately need stronger protection from those landlords who are unethical.”

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