Overview

This bill modifies the Housing Act 1988 to clarify the status of Crown tenancies (tenancies where the landlord is the Crown or a government department). It aims to bring more Crown tenancies under the assured tenancies regime, while providing exceptions for specific circumstances, primarily relating to Her Majesty's Forces and operational needs.

Description

The bill makes several key changes:

• Assured Tenancies: Most Crown tenancies will become "assured tenancies" under the Housing Act 1988, offering tenants greater protection. However, the Secretary of State retains the power to add or remove Crown tenancy types from this classification through regulations approved by Parliament after consultation with the Welsh Ministers.
• Grounds for Possession: New grounds for possession are added for Crown tenancies: if the Secretary of State certifies possession is needed for operational reasons related to Her Majesty's Forces (e.g., providing accommodation for military personnel or their families), or if the Welsh Ministers certify possession is needed for reasons connected to their functions.
• Rent Procedures: Exceptions to standard rent increase procedures are made for Crown tenancies held for purposes connected with Her Majesty's Forces, preventing rent reference to a tribunal in these cases.
• Definition of Crown Tenancies: The bill explicitly defines "Crown tenancy" to include tenancies where the landlord's interest belongs to Her Majesty in right of the Crown or a government department, or is held in trust for these purposes.

Government Spending

The bill's direct impact on government spending is not explicitly stated. However, the changes related to rent procedures and grounds for possession may indirectly affect government expenditure related to housing and military operations, but no figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Tenants in Crown-owned properties: Many will gain greater security of tenure under assured tenancies, but some may face new grounds for eviction in cases related to military needs or Welsh government functions.
• Her Majesty's Forces: The bill provides the government with greater flexibility in managing accommodation for military personnel and their families.
• The Secretary of State and Welsh Ministers: They gain specific powers to manage Crown tenancies and determine grounds for possession in specific circumstances.
• Courts: The changes will alter the processes and grounds for possession cases involving Crown tenancies.

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