Member

The maximum penalties—again, I stress that these are maximums—of £7,000 for less serious breaches and £40,000 for more serious offences apply across the provisions in the Bill. Having a lower penalty regime for non-compliance with the database requirements would reduce the deterrent effect and send the wrong message. It would run counter to our aims for a consistent, robust and proportionate enforcement system for the whole private rented sector. That is not fair on tenants and it is not fair on good landlords either. So, for the reasons I have set out, I ask kindly that the noble and learned Lord, Lord Keen of Elie, considers withdrawing his amendment.