Overview

The Crown Tenancies Bill aims to clarify the tenancy rights of individuals renting properties owned by the Crown (government) in England and Wales. It seeks to bring many Crown tenancies under the existing assured tenancy framework of the Housing Act 1988, while also providing exceptions for certain circumstances, particularly relating to the needs of Her Majesty's Forces.

Description

This Bill primarily amends the Housing Act 1988. Key changes include:

• Most Crown tenancies become assured tenancies: The bill changes the definition of Crown tenancies that are excluded from being considered assured tenancies under the 1988 Act, mostly to include those within High Speed Rail (London-West Midlands) Act 2017 boundaries.
• Secretary of State's power to exempt Crown tenancies: The Secretary of State gains the power to add or remove types of Crown tenancies from the assured tenancy regime through regulations, subject to parliamentary approval and consultation with the Welsh Ministers.
• New grounds for possession: The bill introduces two new grounds for possession for Crown tenancies: (a) when the Secretary of State certifies that possession is needed for operational reasons connected with Her Majesty's forces (including providing accommodation for forces members or their families); and (b) when the Welsh Ministers certify that possession is needed for the exercise of their functions under specified Acts.
• Rent procedures for HM forces: Exceptions are created to standard rent increase and excessive rent procedures within the Housing Act 1988 for Crown tenancies held for purposes connected with Her Majesty's forces.
• Definition of Crown tenancies: The bill provides a clear definition of what constitutes a "Crown tenancy" within the context of the Housing Act 1988.

Government Spending

The Bill's direct impact on government spending is not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, the changes could indirectly affect spending depending on how many Crown tenancies are affected, and the resulting legal challenges or compensation potentially required.

Groups Affected

• Individuals renting Crown properties: Many will gain increased tenant rights and protections under assured tenancy legislation. Exceptions exist for those whose tenancies relate to Her Majesty's forces.
• Her Majesty's Forces: The bill allows for quicker repossession of properties where this is deemed necessary for operational reasons.
• Welsh Ministers: They are given the power to certify the need for possession of certain Crown tenancies in connection with their specific functions.
• The Secretary of State: Has significant power to determine which Crown tenancies fall under the assured tenancy regime and can certify the need for possession in certain situations relating to Her Majesty's Forces.

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