Michael Gove’s renters’ reforms which could end no-fault evictions and strengthen tenants’ rights survive Tory discontent in Parliament

Housing Secretary Michael Gove’s signature reforms cleared another hurdle in Parliament with Labor’s help last night, despite resistance from some of his own MPs.

Conservative MPs said the Tenants Reform Bill, which will end no-fault evictions and strengthen tenants’ rights, will prompt landlords to take properties off the market.

Between 30 and 80 Conservative MPs are believed to privately oppose the legislation, a promise in the 2019 manifesto.

Currently, landlords can evict tenants who are not on fixed-term contracts without giving a reason, under legislation known as Section 21. Gove last night reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to abolish this, despite the backlash from his own parliamentarians.

Conservative MPs said the Tenants Reform Bill, which will end no-fault evictions and strengthen tenants’ rights, will prompt landlords to take properties off the market.

Marcus Fysh MP said: “This is a disastrous bill for every renter in the country who wants to see a well-supplied housing market.”

Mr Gove said: ‘There is no evidence that the abolition of Section 21 will lead to a reduction in the number of homes in the private rented sector. Getting rid of Section 21 means that a weapon used by unscrupulous landowners can no longer be in their hands.’

The bill passed its second reading yesterday, but Labor accuses the Government of trying to appease wavering MPs by delaying the ban on Section 21 by insisting on judicial reforms so they are prepared for landlords who will need them to claim possession of their properties.

Mr Gove, under pressure to commit to implementing the ban on “no-fault” evictions without delay, told the Commons last night: “Absolutely.” The sooner this bill is included, the sooner we can proceed.’

But he acknowledged there could be a delay due to required judicial reforms.