Group 7: Changes to permitted payments under the Renting Homes (Fees) Act (Wales) 2019 (Amendments 5, 6, 7)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:14 pm on 10 February 2021.

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Photo of Laura Anne Jones Laura Anne Jones Conservative 2:14, 10 February 2021

Minister, I welcome these amendments, and in particular amendment 6. I understand that many in the social housing sector have made representations to you about the issue, and I'm pleased that a way forward has been found. Whilst I understand the action that the Government has taken, I do wonder about how the issue arose in the first place. In your explanatory notes, you acknowledge that the Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019 has resulted in some unintended consequences. This is a theme that has arisen during the passage of the Renting Homes (Amendment) (Wales) Bill. I understand that we cannot foresee all issues that may arise through legislation, but respectfully I question whether ambiguities within the drafting of the Welsh legislation is creating these avoidable issues in the first place. 

As you have outlined, RSLs are thought to have a total financial exposure of £3.5 million. This goes to emphasise how serious this so-called unintended consequence actually is. Most importantly, however, I would like to ask you about your assessment of the impact that this will have on tenants, many of whom are on lower incomes. Will any tenants receive a rebate for any costs incurred, and could you give some information on your discussions with the Department for Work and Pensions about mitigating any possible impacts on the benefits that those affected may be receiving? There will also be concerns as to whether all of the provisions of amendment 6 are within legislative competence. And so I'd be grateful for your clarity on this. Diolch.